01 Jan 2025
Overall a very complete experience to Thanjavur. It’s a long drive (3 hours) from Madurai, so I’d recommend booking the earliest time slot. The temple is closed from 12:30-4pm.
Both our driver and guide were great. We got a decent history and religious lesson exploring the temple.
I would recommend maximizing your time at the temple. The Maratha museum was also informative but the real reason you are coming to Thanjavur is for the temple. The local crafts shop afterwards was also unique - we got to see how they make the Chola-style bronzes.
If you are staying in Madurai and want to do a day trip to Thanjavur, this is perfect.