India, Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur
The city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu is a renowned center of religion, art, and architecture of South India. Located in the Cauvery delta, Thanjavur is often called the ‘Rice bowl of Tamil Nadu’. Its economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and silk weaving. Classical Carnatic music was codified, and some Bharatnatyam styles were developed in Thanjavur, also famous for its Tanjore paintings. Thanjavur is home to the Great Living Chola temples – a UNESCO World Heritage site. The principal Chola temple, the Brihadeeswara temple, situated in the heart of the city, attracts tourists from the world over. Some of the other finest Thanjavur temples to visit are covered ahead.