All the weekend Gateways from Tanjore are worth a visit and are among the prime attractions while on a Tanjore Tour. One of the major cities in Tamil Nadu, Tanjore or Thanjavur is renowned as the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu. While on a tour to Tamil Nadu, come to Tanjore, which lies in the east of Trichy. Historically, Tanjore was the regal city of the Cholas, Nayaks and the Mahrattas.
The weekend Gateways from Tanjore take you for excursions away from the main city. You can enjoy a nice weekend at the following Gateways from Tanjore
- Naageswaran Temple: Situated 36 km from Tanjore, this temple at Kumbakonam was built around 1005 A.D. A stunning instance of Chola sculpture, the temple draws many foreigners eager to interpret the rock wall edicts and study the sculptures.
- Airavatheeswar Temple: This exquisitely built 12th century temple is located in Dharasuram, 34 km from Tanjore. The temple has now been recognized as a world heritage monument by UNESCO.
- Orattanad: A major weekend getaway from Tanjore, Orattanad is home to a Maratha chattram, named after Muktambal, one of the queens of Sarfoji II. The Maratha chattram is shaped like a chariot, displaying a number of religious sculptures in stucco and wood.
- Manora: The tallest and the most historic monument constructed by the Tanjore Marathas, this eight-storied miniature fortress is 65 km away from Tanjore. The monument was built by Sarfoji II in 1815 AD to mark Britain's victory over Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo. Controlled by the State archaeology Department, this hexagonal-shaped fortress is bordered by a moat.
