TANJORE – ARTS & ARCHITECTURE :
A heritage journey starting with an introduction to bronze sculpture making, Metal statues are made here using the technique of lost wax casting practiced in the southern region during the Chola period (From 8th to 13th). Then it is time for your next enlightenment, Peep into a small house and see the art of Tanjore Veena making. The entire instrument is carved on a single block of Jackwood. Carnatic music played on these Veenas has won the hearts of millions of music lovers. You can also find an amazing collection of New and Old Tanjore Paintings which are mindboggling. Continue your visits to the Thanjavur’s Royal Palace, which preserves memories of other powerful dynasties from later centuries. Here, if time permits, explore the Saraswati Mahal Library Museum housing over 30000 Indian and European manuscripts and the Art Gallery. Visit the world Heritage-listed Brigadeswara Temple, build in the 11th century by Raja Raja I (‘King of Kings’). Enter through the Nayak gate, followed by two original Gopurams with some elaborate stucco sculptures. Inside discover several shrines, including one of India’s largest statues of Nandi (Shiva’s sacred bull).
