Exploring Nayak Heritage Tour, Thanjavur

A favoured capital of the Cholas, the rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, a treasure trove of art, craftsmanship and architecture – Thanjavur has portrayed various roles in history across its rulers. One such period belonged to the Nayaks, who were responsible for some eye-catching pieces of architecture that stand tall even today. They also propelled handicrafts and art during their times. On this guided tour of ten hours, you’ll visit a few temples with excellent representations of Lord Brahma, monumental sites, and get briefed on Nayak style of painting and the famous Thanjavur Pith Work handicraft.

Around 9am, you’ll start your trip by visiting Brahadeeswara Temple, Thanjavur’s most iconic representation. A 10th century monument, its an excellent example of Dravidian architecture. Over here you’ll find Lord Brahma as a subsidiary deity along the sanctum periphery. Move on to Kandeeswarar Temple to understand a tale of destruction from the Hindu mythology. Next steps will take you to Papanasamor a town called Destruction of Sins that hosts the Ramasamy or Vishnu Temple. You’ll be taken aback by the story that envelops around the temple’s origin. Last stop on the religious leg of the trip moves to Mahamaham Tank, in the heart of Kumbakonam. Refresh yourself with a dip in this holy pond.

The art angle of the trip comes as interactions with artisans involved in the world famous Tanjore paintings. Also visit workshops creating the traditional art form Shola Pith Work.

Duration: 10 hours