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.

The Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur The Thanjavur area has a rich historical heritage and is a prism of ancient as well as the modern south Indian civilizations. The city was once the stronghold of the historic Cholas and at one time was also the capital of the Cholas, Mutharayars and Marathas when they were at the peak of their power. Since then, Thanjavur has been one of the chief political, cultural and religious centres of South India.

Perumbidugu Mutharaiyar ruled his kingdom with Uraiyur as the capital. Later it was ruled by the Nayaks of Vijayanagara and the Maratha rajas.

Thanjavur is located at 10.8° N 79.15° E. It has an average elevation of 2 metres (6 feet). The city lies on the Kaveri River basin, 200 miles south of Chennai.