Visitor Information
Everything you need to know for a memorable visit to Brihadeeswara Temple
Temple Timings & Rituals
Plan your visit with these important timings and ritual schedules
Temple Timings
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Open all days of the week
- Special extended hours during festivals
Pooja Schedule
- Kaala Sandhi (Morning): 6:30 AM
- Uchikalam (Noon): 12:00 PM
- Sayarakshai (Evening): 5:30 PM
- Arthajamam (Night): 8:00 PM
Entry Fee
- Free entry for all devotees
- Camera fee: ₹50 for still cameras
- Video camera: ₹100 (special permission required)
- Foreign tourists may be asked for ID
Visitor Guidelines
Important information to ensure a respectful and fulfilling experience
Dress Code
- Traditional attire is preferred
- Men: Dhoti, Kurta, or formal pants & shirt
- Women: Saree, Churidar, or modest western wear
- Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothes
Photography Rules
- Photography allowed in outer areas
- No photography inside the sanctum sanctorum
- No flash photography near paintings/murals
- Tripods require special permission
Important Guidelines
- Remove footwear before entering the temple
- Maintain silence in worship areas
- Follow queue systems for darshan
- Avoid carrying valuables, food, or plastic bags
How to Reach
Travel options to reach Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur
By Air
The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport (TRZ), approximately 55 km from Thanjavur. Taxis are available from the airport to Thanjavur.
By Train
Thanjavur Junction (TJ) is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Madurai, and Trichy. The railway station is about 2 km from the temple.
By Road
Thanjavur is connected by excellent roads to all major cities in Tamil Nadu. Regular bus services operate from Chennai (350 km), Trichy (55 km), and Madurai (150 km).
Local Transport
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and cycle rickshaws are available for local transportation within Thanjavur. Most city attractions are within 5 km of the temple.
Travel Tips
- If arriving by train or bus, pre-book a return ticket during peak season
- For taxi services, use official prepaid counters at airports and railway stations
- Consider hiring a local guide for a comprehensive temple tour
Temple Address
Brihadeeswara Temple (Peruvudaiyar Kovil)
South Main Street, Balaganapathy Nagar
Thanjavur - 613001
Tamil Nadu, India
Accommodation
Places to stay during your visit to Thanjavur
Luxury Hotels
Ideal River View Resort, Svatma, and Thanjavur Marriott offer premium accommodation with modern amenities within 5 km of the temple.
Mid-Range Options
Hotel Gnanam, Hotel Parisutham, and Hotel Tamil Nadu provide comfortable rooms at moderate prices, all within 3 km of the temple.
Budget Stays
Hotel Ramnath, Thanjavur Hi Tour, and several guesthouses offer affordable accommodation options close to the temple complex.
Temple Accommodation
The temple administration maintains a basic guesthouse for pilgrims, which can be booked in advance through the temple office.
Booking Tips
- Book accommodation in advance during peak tourist season (October-March) and festival periods
- Hotels near the temple offer convenient access but may be priced higher
- For longer stays, consider homestays that offer authentic Tamil cuisine and cultural experiences
Frequently Asked Questions
Common queries about visiting Brihadeeswara Temple
What is the best time to visit Brihadeeswara Temple?
The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and heat. The temple is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Are there guides available at the temple?
Yes, official guides licensed by the Archaeological Survey of India are available at the temple entrance. They offer tours in multiple languages including Tamil, English, and Hindi. Guide fees range from ₹300-500 depending on the tour duration.
Can non-Hindus enter the temple?
Yes, the temple is open to people of all faiths. However, visitors are expected to respect the religious sentiments, follow the dress code, and observe the temple protocols.
Are there any special festivals celebrated at the temple?
The temple celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, with Maha Shivaratri (February-March), Panguni Uthiram (March-April), and Aipasi Brahmotsavam (October-November) being the most significant. The annual dance festival in January-February is also a major attraction.
Is the temple wheelchair accessible?
The main pathways of the temple are accessible for wheelchairs, and ramps have been installed at key points. However, some inner areas may still be challenging to access. The temple staff is generally helpful with assisting differently-abled visitors.
Need More Information?
Our temple administration office is happy to assist with any additional questions you may have about visiting Brihadeeswara Temple.