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- 1 Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening Closing Timings Today
Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening Closing Timings Today
Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening is a must-know for travellers planning a visit to this majestic UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tamil Nadu, India. The iconic temple welcomes visitors daily with specific morning and evening windows, offering glimpses into its ancient Dravidian architecture, sacred rituals, and spiritual ambience. Built by Chola emperor Raja Raja I in 1010 AD, this temple — also called Brihadisvara Temple – UNESCO World Heritage Site — stands as one of India’s most revered attractions. For official information, visit Incredible India.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Temple Opening Times | 06:00 AM–12:30 PM & 04:00 PM–08:30 PM (Daily) |
| Temple Closing Time | 08:30 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free (General Worship) |
| Special Darshan Fee | Approx. ₹5 on Sundays (optional) |
| Contact / Info | Thanjavur Tourism / Local Temple Office |
How To Reach Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple
By Air
The nearest major airport to Thanjavur is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), about 60–65 km away. From here, you can take a prepaid taxi, app-based cab, or hire a private car. The airport is well connected with major Indian cities and some international flights.
By Train
Thanjavur Junction is the closest railway station, and it has direct connections to Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Bengaluru, and many other cities. Trains from major southern Indian cities run frequently, making rail travel convenient and comfortable for visitors exploring South India’s cultural destinations. Understanding Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening is essential.
By Road
Thanjavur is well connected by road with frequent bus services from cities like Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, and Coimbatore. Both government and private buses operate non-stop or intercity services. If you are driving, NH36 and other state highways offer scenic countryside views. Local taxis and rental bikes are also available for inner-city travel.
Temple Opening And Closing Timings
The Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple is open to visitors in two daily sessions:
- Morning Session: 06:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:30 PM – 04:00 PM (Temple Closed)
- Evening Session: 04:00 PM – 08:30 PM
This schedule applies every day of the week unless there’s a special festival or event. During the afternoon closure, the inner sanctum might be restricted even if the outer complex is accessible for photography or exterior viewing. This relates to Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening.
Booking And Ticket Information
General entry for darshan at the Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple is free for all visitors. You do not need advance booking for basic temple access.
Steps To Visit Without Advance Booking
- Arrive at the temple gate at your chosen time (preferably before opening to avoid queues).
- Remove footwear at the designated shoe stand outside the temple grounds.
- Enter through the main entrance on Membalam Road and proceed for darshan.
- Follow the crowds in orderly queues; priests and volunteers assist pilgrims during busy hours.
Tip: During weekends or festival days, the number of visitors increases and queues may take longer. You might see an option for a nominal “special darshan ticket” (around ₹5) on Sundays to speed up entry.
Insider Tips From My Visit
When I visited Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple early in the morning, the air was crisp and the crowds were minimal, allowing me to absorb the sheer scale of the vimana without distraction. What surprised me most was how the temple’s shadow never touches the ground at noon — an architectural marvel attributed to the Chola designers. Learn more about Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple Opening.
I personally recommend attending the evening session if you enjoy quieter, cooler conditions and the soft glow of lamps as the sun sets. The chanting during the Sayarakshai pooja adds a serene layer to the experience that morning darshan doesn’t always provide. Keep water and a hat handy; the stone courtyard can get hot by midday.
Nearby Attractions (With Distances)
- Thanjavur Palace & Art Gallery: ~1.2 km – A blend of Maratha and Nayak architecture with historic artefacts.
- Schwartz Church: ~1.5 km – A colonial heritage church with peaceful surroundings.
- Butterfly Museum: ~2.5 km – A quirky stop with vibrant butterfly specimens.
- Saraswathi Mahal Library: ~1.7 km – One of Asia’s oldest libraries with rare manuscripts.
- Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple: ~70 km away – Another UNESCO Chola temple worth a side trip.
Best Time To Visit
October to March is widely regarded as the best period to visit Thanjavur Brihadishvara Temple due to pleasant temperatures around 22 °C–28 °C and lower humidity. This makes exploring the expansive temple complex and nearby attractions comfortable.
Winter months also coincide with major festivals like Mahashivaratri, drawing devotees and cultural enthusiasts alike. Avoid the peak afternoons between March and May as temperatures can exceed 35 °C, making outdoor walking strenuous.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Current Temple Opening Hours?
The temple opens daily from 06:00 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 04:00 PM to 08:30 PM. There is a short break in the afternoon when the temple is closed for rituals.
Is There An Entry Fee For Tourists?
General entry is free. If you opt for a “special darshan” during busy days, a small fee (around ₹5) may be charged.
Can I Take Photographs Inside?
Photography is allowed in the outer temple complex. However, inside the sanctum or near the inner deity, photography is generally restricted to maintain sanctity. Ask temple staff for official guidance if unsure.
Do I Need Advance Booking?
No advance booking is needed for general darshan. Just ensure you arrive within the opening windows. For special rituals or group visits, contact the temple office or local tourism desk in Thanjavur.
How Much Time Should I Allocate?
Plan for 1.5–3 hours to explore the temple complex and enjoy nearby attractions at a relaxed pace.