3 day itinerary for Tanjore, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam

Itinerary

Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Tanjore, Chidambaram, and Kumbakonam. Each of these towns is steeped in history, art, and spirituality, so get ready for an enriching experience!

## Day 1: Tanjore (Thanjavur)

Morning:

• Brihadeeswarar Temple: Start your day with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is an architectural marvel, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Don’t forget to admire the massive Nandi statue and the intricate carvings.
• Royal Palace and Art Gallery: After the temple, head to the Royal Palace. The art gallery houses a collection of Tanjore paintings and artifacts that tell the story of the Chola dynasty.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at a local restaurant. Try the Thanjavur-style meals with rice, sambar, and a variety of side dishes.

Afternoon:

• Thanjavur Maratha Palace: Explore the palace and its museum, which showcases the history of the Maratha rulers. The view from the palace tower is quite stunning!
• Saraswathi Mahal Library: If you’re a book lover, this library is a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts and texts. It’s a quiet place to soak in the knowledge.

Evening:

• Shopping for Tanjore Art: Spend some time shopping for Tanjore paintings and handicrafts. The vibrant colors and gold foil work are simply mesmerizing.
• Dinner: Relish some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Don’t miss out on the filter coffee!

## Day 2: Chidambaram

Morning:

• Nataraja Temple: Head to Chidambaram early to visit the famous Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form. The temple’s architecture and the unique ‘Chidambara Rahasya’ (the secret of the sky) are fascinating.

Lunch:

• Enjoy a meal at a local eatery. Try the delicious idli and chutney or a thali meal.

Afternoon:

• Pichavaram Mangrove Forest: After lunch, take a short drive to Pichavaram. Rent a boat and explore the serene mangrove forests. It’s a great way to connect with nature and enjoy some tranquility.

Evening:

• Cultural Performance: If you’re lucky, you might catch a traditional dance performance in the temple town. The Bharatanatyam performances are a must-see!
• Dinner: Head back to Chidambaram and enjoy a simple yet delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 3: Kumbakonam

Morning:

• Adi Kumbeswarar Temple: Start your day in Kumbakonam with a visit to this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The architecture and the rituals here are captivating.

Lunch:

• Try the famous Kumbakonam degree coffee and a traditional meal at a local restaurant. The town is known for its delicious food!

Afternoon:

• Mahamaham Tank: Visit this sacred tank, especially if you’re there during the Mahamaham festival. It’s a beautiful spot for some photography and reflection.
• Visit Other Temples: Kumbakonam is known as the temple town, so you can explore a few more temples like the Kashi Vishwanathar Temple and the Sarangapani Temple.

Evening:

• Explore Local Markets: Spend your evening wandering through the local markets. You can find beautiful brassware, temple jewelry, and more.
• Dinner: Wrap up your trip with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Tamil Nadu one last time.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider hiring a local taxi or using auto-rickshaws for convenience.
• Dress Code: When visiting temples, dress modestly and respectfully.
• Stay Hydrated: The weather can be warm, so keep yourself hydrated!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and delicious food awaits you in Tanjore, Chidambaram, and Kumbakonam. Enjoy your trip! 🌟