Ancient Thanjavur’s best tours get right to what matters – its magnificent temples and rich Tamil culture. The standout experiences center around the UNESCO World Heritage Brihadeeswara Temple complex, where expert guides make the intricate carvings and history come alive. We especially love the private day tours that combine temple visits with stops at local bronze-casting workshops – they offer great value and avoid tourist crowds. The Navagraha temple circuit tours are another favorite, giving you meaningful access to sacred astronomical sites while keeping the pace relaxed. For serious culture enthusiasts, the multi-day tours with homestay options provide the deepest connection to daily life. Check out these top-rated Thanjavur tours that we’ve personally tested and recommend.
Key Points
- The ‘Private Day Tour of Ancient Thanjavur’ provides a comprehensive exploration of Thanjavur’s UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple and other cultural landmarks.
- The ‘Private Day Tour to Tanjore & Kumbakonam’ offers a 10-hour tour showcasing the UNESCO-listed Brihadeshwara Temple and other renowned temples in the region.
- The ‘Navagraham & Arupadai Veedu Temple Tour’ is a 9-night, 10-day tour focusing on the Navagraha temples and six abodes of Murugan in Tamil Nadu.
- The ‘Big Temples of Trichy and Tanjore Tour’ includes visits to the Rockfort Temple, Srirangam Temple, and Brihadishwara Temple in Tanjore, with an optional private transfer to Madurai.
- The ‘Ooty & Kodaikanal Tour’ offers a 5-night, 6-day package that includes visits to the Botanic Gardens in Ooty and the Pillar Rocks and Silver Cascade Falls in Kodaikanal.
Ooty & Kodaikanal Tour – 5n6d
This 5-night, 6-day Ooty and Kodaikanal tour from Thanjavur offers travelers a chance to explore two of South India’s premier hill stations. The tour, operated by ALL INDIA PACKAGES, has received 6 reviews with a 5.0 rating.
Priced from $322.70 per person, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, accommodations, airport transfers, and 5 breakfasts.
Highlights include visiting Kodaikanal’s Pillar Rocks, Silver Cascade Falls, and Silent Valley, as well as Ooty’s Botanic Gardens and a tea factory. Travelers can also enjoy a boat ride and shopping in Ooty.
The tour provides free cancellation up to 6 days in advance and offers 24/7 customer support. Pickup is available from Triruchirappalli International Airport or a designated meeting point, with the tour returning to the same location.
While lunch, dinner, and entrance fees are excluded, the tour provides a convenient way to experience the natural beauty of Ooty and Kodaikanal.
Read our full review: Ooty & Kodaikanal Tour – 5n6d Review
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Big Temples of Trichy, Tanjore From Kochi. 2 N and 3 D Tour
Travelers seeking to explore the grand temples of Trichy and Tanjore can embark on a 2-night, 3-day tour from Kochi. This private day tour takes visitors to the iconic Rockfort Temple, Srirangam Temple, and the renowned Brihadishwara Temple in Tanjore.
The 14-hour tour is priced at $208.16 per person and has an average rating of 4.5 from previous customers. Highlights include the impressive architecture and rich history of these ancient temples.
Travelers will also have the opportunity to visit Pondicherry, a former French colony, during the tour.
The private transfer option from Trichy to Madurai via Tanjore and Chettinad is another popular choice, taking 12 hours and costing $92.52 per person with a 4.5 rating.
For those seeking a more comprehensive Tamil Nadu experience, a 6-day or 14-day private tour is available, covering the best temples, beaches, and cultural sights in the region.
Read our full review: Big Temples of Trichy, Tanjore From Kochi. 2 N and 3 D Tour Review
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Private Day Tour of the Highlights of Ancient Thanjavur
Explore the captivating ancient landmarks of Thanjavur on a private day tour that showcases the city’s architectural wonders and rich cultural heritage.
Your journey begins with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Brihadeeswara Temple, an 11th-century marvel renowned for its impressive scale and ornate carvings.
Next, you’ll discover the Saraswati Library, a treasure trove of South Indian history and literature.
Finally, learn about the grandeur of the Royal Palace, where you’ll uncover the region’s royal past.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who’ll provide insightful commentary on the sites’ significance.
The experience includes comfortable transportation, entrance fees, and bottled water, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable day.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to explore Thanjavur’s cultural gems, this private tour offers a comprehensive and enriching experience.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour of the Highlights of Ancient Thanjavur Review
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From Trichy: Private Day Tour to Tanjore & Kumbakonam
Departing from Trichy, this private day tour transports visitors on a captivating journey to the historic cities of Tanjore and Kumbakonam.
Over 10 hours, the tour showcases the region’s architectural and cultural gems, including the UNESCO-listed Brihadeshwara Temple in Tanjore and the Airavateswara Temple in Darasuram.
Guests will explore Kumbakonam’s renowned temples like Adi Kumbeswarar and Sarangapani, as well as the renowned Mahamaham tank.
In Tanjore, the tour provides a comprehensive visit to the Brihadeshwara Temple and the Raja Museum and Art Gallery.
Included in the $129.66 per person price are an air-conditioned car, an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and bottled water.
Visitors should dress modestly and be prepared to remove shoes when entering temples.
This private tour offers a seamless way to discover the highlights of Thanjavur in a single day, as evidenced by its perfect 5/5 customer rating.
Read our full review: From Trichy: Private Day Tour to Tanjore & Kumbakonam Review
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Delving into the rich cultural and spiritual tapestry of Tamil Nadu, the Navagraham & Arupadai Veedu Temple Tour offers a comprehensive 9-night, 10-day journey.
Focusing on historic and religious understanding, the tour explores the Navagraha temples dedicated to nine celestial bodies and visits the six abodes of Murugan in South India, all while referencing sacred items from Tamil Sangam literature.
Accommodations are in comfortable three-star hotels, with breakfast included for 9 days and double sharing rooms.
Transportation is provided via air-conditioned private vehicle, with the tour starting and ending at Tiruchirappalli International Airport.
The package includes private transportation, breakfast, air ticket and visa, lunch and dinner, entrance fees, and GST, though personal expenses and unlisted activities are excluded.
With a 5-star rating from 3 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, this private tour is suitable for most travelers and boasts free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.
Priced from $487.21 per person, the tour’s cost varies based on group size.
Read our full review: Navagraham & Arupadai Veedu Temple Tour – 9n10d Review
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Timeless Treasures of Chettinad: Day Excursion From Trichy
Chettinad, a captivating region in Tamil Nadu, beckons travelers seeking to uncover its timeless treasures. The Timeless Treasures of Chettinad: Day Excursion from Trichy offers a private tour that allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.
The tour includes private transportation, with a comfortable air-conditioned car or van providing hotel pickup and drop-off. Entrance fees to monuments, if selected, are included, along with a delectable lunch. Bottled water and government taxes are also provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, allowing travelers to gain deeper insights into the local architecture and culture. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats and stroller accessibility are available upon request.
Priced from $67.00 per person, with the price varying based on group size, the Timeless Treasures of Chettinad tour offers excellent value. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, or opt for the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
Read our full review: Timeless Treasures of Chettinad: Day Excursion From Trichy Review
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Heritage Trail: Thanjore & Velankanni Excursion From Trichy
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
The price varies based on group size, starting from £83.10 per person.
This tour is suitable for most travelers, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Heritage Trail: Thanjore & Velankanni Excursion From Trichy Review
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The Sum Up
Thanjavur offers a variety of tours showcasing its rich cultural heritage. From exploring ancient temples and historical sites to experiencing the tranquil charm of nearby hill stations, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in a day trip or a multi-day itinerary, Thanjavur provides an opportunity to explore the region’s timeless traditions and architectural wonders.