Thanjavur

Thanjavur is a city of Chola rulers and it gained popularity during the Chola period between 11th and 14th centuries. Thanjavur is otherwise known as Tanjore and according to a local legend, Thanjavur derives its name from Tanjan, an asura ruler, who was killed by Lord Vishnu and Sri Anandavalli Amman for devastating the neighborhood and was granted his last request that the city be named after him.

The Cholas kings were instrumental in making this city a center for learning and culture. The city is well known worldwide for its antiques as well as exquisite handicrafts. Thanjavur is also known as the Rice Bowl of South India as it lies in the fertile Cauvery delta region and rice is the main cultivation crop here.

Thanjavur is also known for its handloom silk sarees, cotton sarees and the most famous of the items is the Tanjore paintings which are in great demand all over the world.

Since Thanjavur is a coastal district, fishing is also a major occupation of many people here and the city accounts for 5% of the total catches in the state of Tamil Nadu.

Tanjore is also the home of performing arts as well as Carnatic music and musical instruments made from jack-wood. Tanjore is also known as the city of temples as it has many famous temples in and around the city including the Navagraha temples.