Tanjore, also known as Thanjavur, is a culturally rich and historically significant town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, intricate bronze sculptures, vibrant Carnatic music, and classical art, Tanjore is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a deeper connection with India’s glorious past.
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, history buff, art lover, or casual tourist, knowing how to reach Tanjore is the first step in planning a hassle-free trip. This comprehensive travel guide outlines every possible way to reach Tanjore—by air, rail, road, or even as part of a scenic road trip—with insider travel tips, nearby airport options, major rail connections, and bus route information.
Tanjore Location and Accessibility
Tanjore is located in the Cauvery Delta region, around 350 kilometers from Chennai and about 60 kilometers from Tiruchirappalli (Trichy). Its location makes it a strategic cultural and pilgrimage hub in South India, connected well by road and rail networks.
- State: Tamil Nadu
- Coordinates: 10.7867° N, 79.1378° E
- Nearby Cities: Trichy, Madurai, Kumbakonam, Chidambaram
- Best Season to Visit: November to March (Pleasant winter weather)
How to Reach Tanjore by Air:
Though Tanjore doesn’t have a dedicated airport, it is easily accessible from nearby airports.
Nearest Airports to Tanjore
- Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ)
- Distance from Tanjore: 60 km
- Travel Time: 1.5 hours by road
- Connectivity: Regular flights from Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and international destinations like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Colombo
- Chennai International Airport (MAA)
- Distance from Tanjore: 350 km
- Travel Time: 7–8 hours by road/train
- Connectivity: Extensive domestic and international network
- Madurai Airport (IXM)
- Distance from Tanjore: 190 km
- Travel Time: 4.5–5 hours by road
- Connectivity: Flights from Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi
Travel Tips for Air Travelers
- Trichy Airport is the most convenient and time-saving option.
- Pre-book a cab or use intercity buses from Trichy to Tanjore for a smoother journey.
- For international travelers, flying into Chennai and taking a connecting train or bus can offer flexibility and better flight options.
How to Reach Tanjore by Train:
Tanjore Junction (station code: TJ) is a key railway station on the Southern Railway network. It’s well-connected to most cities in Tamil Nadu and major metros in South India.
Major Train Routes to Tanjore
| Origin City | Train Name | Travel Time | Frequency |
| Chennai | Uzhavan Express, Rameswaram Express | 7–8 hours | Daily |
| Madurai | Rameswaram Express, Madurai Express | 5 hours | Daily |
| Bengaluru | Mysuru – Mayiladuthurai Express | 10–11 hours | 3-4 times/week |
| Coimbatore | Jan Shatabdi Express | 8 hours | 5 times/week |
| Trichy | Passenger & Express Trains | 1 hour | Frequent |
Facilities at Tanjore Railway Station
- Waiting lounges
- Retiring rooms
- Easy availability of auto-rickshaws and taxis
- Local eateries and bookshops
Tips for Train Travelers
- Book train tickets well in advance, especially during festival seasons.
- Choose AC chair cars for daytime travel and sleeper/AC for overnight journeys.
- Always verify the exact station code and platform via IRCTC or RailYatri apps.
How to Reach Tanjore by Road:
If you enjoy road trips and scenic drives, reaching Tanjore by road is a fantastic option. It is accessible through National and State Highways, making it ideal for self-drive, bus, or private taxi travel.
Road Connectivity from Major Cities
| From | Distance | Travel Time | Route |
| Chennai | 350 km | 7–8 hours | NH38 via Trichy |
| Trichy | 60 km | 1.5 hours | NH83 |
| Madurai | 190 km | 4.5 hours | NH38 |
| Kumbakonam | 40 km | 1 hour | SH22 |
| Bengaluru | 410 km | 9 hours | NH44 via Salem and Trichy |
Bus Travel to Tanjore
- Operators: TNSTC, SETC, private Volvo and sleeper coaches
- Booking Platforms: RedBus, MakeMyTrip, TNSTC online
- Bus Types: Government buses, AC Sleeper, Non-AC Seaters
Self-Drive & Car Rental Tips
- Roads in Tamil Nadu are generally in good condition.
- Trichy to Tanjore highway is especially smooth and ideal for car travel.
- Ensure GPS is updated if taking inner routes or avoiding tolls.
How to Reach Tanjore from Nearby Tourist Hubs:
From Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)
- By Bus: Frequent local buses; fare INR 50–80
- By Train: Multiple passenger and express trains; 1-hour journey
- By Taxi: Around INR 1,200–1,500 one way
From Madurai
- By Road: Private cab or bus via NH38; takes approx. 4.5–5 hours
- By Train: Madurai–Rameswaram Express; direct train available
From Pondicherry
- By Road: 170 km via NH32; 4–5 hours by car or bus
- By Train: Via Villupuram; not direct, so road is preferred
From Kumbakonam
- Tanjore is just 40 km away; ideal for a short half-day trip
- Frequent buses and local trains connect both towns
How to Reach Tanjore from Other States:
From Karnataka (Bengaluru)
- By Train: Mysuru-Mayiladuthurai Express or via Chennai
- By Road: NH44 to Salem, then NH38 to Trichy and Tanjore
- By Flight: Bengaluru to Trichy + cab to Tanjore
From Kerala
- By Train: Via Coimbatore or Palakkad; change at Trichy
- By Road: Around 9 hours from Kochi; via Dindigul and Trichy
- Tip: Overnight trains or a scenic drive make this journey pleasant
Local Transport within Tanjore
Once you arrive in Tanjore, getting around is easy and affordable.
Transport Options
- Auto-rickshaws: Available at the station and bus stands
- Cycle Rickshaws: For short rides and temple visits
- Local Buses: Connect major landmarks and residential areas
- Car Rentals: Available with drivers for full/half-day sightseeing
Travel Tips
- Always negotiate auto fares before boarding or use metered ones
- Consider hiring a local guide if visiting temples or heritage museums
Best Time and Travel Tips for Visiting Tanjore
Best Time to Travel
- October to March: Best time to visit is October to March for good weather and festivals.
- Avoid: Peak summer (April–June) due to extreme heat
Essential Travel Tips
- Language: Tamil is spoken; English and Hindi are understood in tourist spots.
- Dress Modestly: Especially while visiting temples
- Stay Near the City Center: For better access to sites and transport
- Use Digital Maps: Local signage may be in Tamil
Suggested Tanjore Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanjore
- Check-in at hotel
- Evening visit to Brihadeeswarar Temple
Day 2: Sightseeing
- Royal Palace, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Art Gallery
- Sangeetha Mahal
- Explore local handicrafts
Day 3: Day Trip Options
- Visit Kumbakonam temples
- Explore Swamimalai or Darasuram (UNESCO temples)
Conclusion: A Smooth Journey to Tanjore Awaits
Tanjore is more than a destination—it’s a portal into Tamil Nadu’s artistic soul and royal legacy. With excellent connectivity through rail, road, and nearby airports, reaching Tanjore is easy and enjoyable for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a spiritual pilgrimage, cultural exploration, or a historical deep-dive, knowing your travel options makes the journey smoother and the experience more rewarding.
Additional Resources:
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Tanjore
- Tanjore Most Popular Temples
- Places to See in Tamil Nadu in April
- Tamil Nadu Places to Visit in May
- June Travel in Tamil Nadu for Best Places
- Best Time to Visit Tamil Nadu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the cheapest way to reach Tanjore from Chennai?
A: The cheapest way is by government bus (TNSTC), costing around INR 250–300.
Q2: Is there a direct train from Bengaluru to Tanjore?
A: No direct train daily, but the Mysuru-Mayiladuthurai Express runs a few times a week. Alternative is via Trichy.
Q3: Which is the closest airport to Tanjore?
A: Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) Airport is the nearest at just 60 km.
Q4: Can I travel to Tanjore by bike from Chennai?
A: Yes, it’s a scenic ride along NH38 but ensure good weather and protective gear.
Q5: Are there night buses to Tanjore from Chennai or Madurai?
A: Yes, several overnight sleeper coaches are available and are budget-friendly.
Q6: Is local transport easily available in Tanjore?
A: Yes, auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are widely available.
Q7: Is it safe to travel solo to Tanjore?
A: Yes, Tanjore is generally safe for solo travelers, especially within tourist areas.
