Thanjavur Art Gallery
Discover exquisite Tanjore paintings and ancient sculptures within the historic Thanjavur Palace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Thanjavur Art Gallery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover exquisite Tanjore paintings and ancient sculptures within the historic Thanjavur Palace.
"Mind-blowing collection of ancient bronze sculptures and monuments."
✨ Authentic Gold Foil
Look for paintings with genuine 22K gold foil and Jaipur gems for lasting beauty.
🖼️ Custom Framing Options
Many galleries offer custom framing, including rosewood and teakwood options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tanjore Paintings
Vibrant artworks adorned with 22K gold foil and precious gems, showcasing divine figures and epic tales.
Ancient Bronze Sculptures
Intricately detailed sculptures of Hindu deities, dating from the 9th to 19th centuries.
Historical Coin Collection
Rare coins from as early as 300 BC, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient economies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art of Tanjore
Palace Setting & Sculptures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Authentic Gold Foil
Look for paintings with genuine 22K gold foil and Jaipur gems for lasting beauty.
🖼️ Custom Framing Options
Many galleries offer custom framing, including rosewood and teakwood options.
📜 Authenticity Guaranteed
Inquire about lifetime guarantees and authenticity certificates for your purchase.
🏛️ Palace Exploration
The gallery is within Thanjavur Palace; allow time to explore the surrounding architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Authentic Gold Foil
Look for paintings with genuine 22K gold foil and Jaipur gems for lasting beauty.
🖼️ Custom Framing Options
Many galleries offer custom framing, including rosewood and teakwood options.
📜 Authenticity Guaranteed
Inquire about lifetime guarantees and authenticity certificates for your purchase.
🏛️ Palace Exploration
The gallery is within Thanjavur Palace; allow time to explore the surrounding architecture.
📸 Capture the Details
The intricate details of sculptures and paintings are stunning; bring your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Thanjavur Art Gallery for its beautiful collection of traditional Tanjore paintings and ancient bronze sculptures, all housed within the historic Thanjavur Palace. The intricate details and use of gold foil are frequently highlighted as breathtaking. However, some reviewers note that the gallery could benefit from better maintenance and cleanliness.
"The Thanjavur Art Gallery, officially known as the ‘Raja Raja Chola Art Gallery’ and locally referred to as ‘Thanjavur Kalaikoodam,’ is a museum that is housed within the Thanjavur Palace in Tamil Nadu. Boasting bronze structures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses that range from 9th century AD to the 19th century, the museum attracts visitors from all over India and abroad as well. The statues are famous for their intricate details that reflect the ancient lifestyle, clothing, ornaments and even hairstyles. Apart from the sculptures, the museum holds a collection of old coins from various centuries. Coins from as early as 300 BC can be spotted here along with paintings, statuettes and ornaments that once adorned the halls of palaces of kings and lords. Visit the museum to see the inspiration that Hindu mythology has on it. The walls, arches and the pillars reflect the very essence of Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata."
AJC
"No words extremely Beautiful experience the atmosphere is usually peaceful and thoughtfully arranged, encouraging visitors to take their time and engage with each piece.Very good art gallery. Lot of ancient bronze sculptures and other monuments mind blowing.The gallery is situated in the second part of the palace behind bell tower"
INDRAJITH UV
"art gallery is a wonderful place to experience creativity and imagination. Most galleries offer a diverse range of artwork — from traditional paintings and sculptures to modern and experimental installations. The atmosphere is usually peaceful and thoughtfully arranged, encouraging visitors to take their time and engage with each piece."
BiNeesh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thanjavur Art Gallery is located within the Thanjavur Palace complex. You can reach Thanjavur by train or bus from major cities like Chennai and Trichy. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available within Thanjavur to take you to the palace.
Limited parking is usually available near the Thanjavur Palace. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, or consider using local transport like auto-rickshaws.
Ride-sharing apps may have limited availability in Thanjavur compared to larger cities. Auto-rickshaws are a popular and convenient option for getting around locally.
Regular bus and train services connect Thanjavur with Trichy. Buses are frequent and affordable, while trains offer a more comfortable journey.
While official guided tours might not always be advertised, local guides may be available at the palace complex. It's also worth checking with the gallery administration upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The gallery is typically open from morning to evening, but it's best to confirm the exact timings as they can vary. Many art galleries in India are open daily, but it's wise to check for specific holidays or maintenance closures.
Admission fees are generally nominal for Indian nationals and slightly higher for foreign tourists. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire locally for the most current pricing.
Advance booking is usually not required for the Thanjavur Art Gallery. Tickets can typically be purchased at the venue upon arrival.
Discounts for students or seniors may be available. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check the gallery's official information for any concession policies.
The Thanjavur Art Gallery is officially known as the 'Raja Raja Chola Art Gallery' and is also locally referred to as 'Thanjavur Kalaikoodam'.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You'll find a rich collection of traditional Tanjore paintings, famous for their 22K gold foil and gem embellishments. The gallery also houses ancient bronze sculptures of Hindu deities and a collection of historical coins.
Photography rules can vary. Some galleries allow non-flash photography, while others may restrict it entirely. It's best to check the signage or ask a gallery attendant.
To fully appreciate the art and sculptures, allocate at least 1-2 hours. If you plan to explore the entire Thanjavur Palace complex, you'll need more time.
Accessibility can be a concern in older palace structures. While some areas might be accessible, it's advisable to contact the gallery in advance to inquire about specific facilities for visitors with mobility challenges.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and thoughtfully arranged, encouraging a slow and engaging experience with each artwork.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
While the gallery itself is a museum, many artists and galleries in Thanjavur specialize in selling authentic Tanjore paintings. Some galleries offer online shopping and custom orders.
Look for reputable art galleries in Thanjavur that specialize in Tanjore art. Many artists offer direct sales, and some online platforms also feature authentic pieces.
Prioritize paintings made with genuine 22K gold foil, authentic Jaipur gems, and quality framing. Ask for an authenticity certificate and lifetime guarantee.
Besides paintings, you might find other local handicrafts, miniature sculptures, and traditional art pieces in shops around Thanjavur.
Prices vary significantly based on size, complexity, materials used (gold foil, gems), and the artist's reputation. Smaller pieces can start from a few thousand rupees, while larger, intricate works can cost much more.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Tanjore Painting
What sets Tanjore paintings apart is their unique technique. A base of cloth is pasted on a wooden base, and then coated with chalk powder and a special adhesive. Intricate patterns are drawn, and then gold foil is applied to the desired areas. Finally, the paintings are embellished with semi-precious stones and glass beads to add depth and sparkle. Many artists offer lifetime guarantees on their work, ensuring the longevity of the gold foil and gems.
When purchasing a Tanjore painting, it's important to look for authenticity. Reputable artists and galleries will provide an authenticity certificate and often offer custom framing options, such as premium teakwood or rosewood frames, to complement the artwork. These paintings are not just decorative pieces but are considered valuable heirlooms, often passed down through generations.
Exploring the Thanjavur Palace
Beyond the art gallery, the palace complex often features other historical artifacts and structures. The Raja Raja Chola Art Gallery is situated in the second part of the palace, behind the bell tower, making it an integral part of the overall palace experience. The architecture of the palace, with its intricate carvings and imposing structures, reflects the artistic and engineering prowess of its builders.
Visiting the Thanjavur Palace is an opportunity to immerse yourself in history and culture. The blend of art, architecture, and historical significance makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the heritage of Tamil Nadu.

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