Royal Palace, Thanjavur

The Thanjavur Royal Palace also known as Thanjavur Maratha Palace is locally known as Aranmanai. It is the official residence of the Bhonsle family that ruled Tanjore from 1674 to 1855 located in Thanjavur.

History:

This Royal Palace was originally constructed by the rulers of Thanjavur Nayak Kingdom. Later, it served as the official residence of the Thanjavur Marathas. The Thanjavur Marathas continued to hold sway over the palace and the surrounding fort or walled city.

The Bhonsle family continued to hold on to the palace even after the last king, Shivaji of Thanjavur. The palace complex consists of the Sadar Mahal Palace, the queen's courtyard and the Durbar Hall. 

The Royal Palace museum contains a splendid collection of Chola bronzes. The Raja Serfoji Memorial Hall & the Royal Palace Museum are situated in the Sadar Mahal Palace.  There is also a bell tower and a Saraswathi Mahal library.

How To Reach:

The Thanjavur bus stand is located at a distance of around 6.6 KM from the palace. You can reach the temple by taking a local bus or taxi from the bus stand.