Thanjavur, formerly known as Tanjore, has a history that traces back over a thousand years, with its roots deeply intertwined with the Chola dynasty, one of the longest-ruling dynasties in South India. The city flourished as the capital of the Chola Empire during the 9th to 13th centuries, leaving behind a legacy of magnificent temples and a thriving cultural landscape.
Thanjavur’s cultural heritage extends beyond its architectural wonders, encompassing the realms of music, dance, and literature. The city has been a place of Tamil culture, nurturing renowned artists, scholars, and musicians over the centuries. Today, among the many Places to visit in Tamilnadu, Thanjavur continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and vibrant cultural tapestry, making it a cherished gem in the cultural landscape of India. Let’s dive into the heart of Thanjavur’s shopping scene and see what quirky finds await!
Top 20 artefacts Shopping in Thanjavur
1. Thanjavur Art Plate Shopping
Places to find: You can find Thanjavur art plates at local handicraft stores, Thanjavur Markets, Shopping malls in Thanjavur and art galleries. Local Shopping in Thanjavur is incomplete because of this.
Cost: Prices may vary depending on the size and intricacy of the design, ranging from ₹500 to ₹5000.
Suggested Read: The Vibrant Celebration Of The Thanjavur Dance Festival
2. Tanjore Paintings
Places to find: Visit Shopping malls in Thanjavur, art galleries and speciality stores in Thanjavur to purchase authentic Tanjore paintings.
Cost: Prices typically range from ₹1000 to ₹20,000, depending on the size and detailing of the artwork.
3. Thanjavur Dancing Dolls
Places to find: Thanjavur dancing dolls are available at local handicraft markets and speciality shops in the city.
Cost: Prices start from ₹200 and can go up to ₹2000, depending on the size and craftsmanship.
4. Handcrafted Silk Saris
Places to find: Visit Shopping malls in Thanjavur Handwoven silk saris can be found at traditional silk stores and boutiques in Thanjavur.
Cost: Prices vary based on the type of silk and intricacy of the design, ranging from ₹2000 to ₹50,000 or more.
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5. Poompuhar Handicrafts
Places to find: Visit the Poompuhar Handicrafts Showroom in Thanjavur to explore a wide range of handcrafted items.
Cost: Prices for wooden carvings, stone sculptures, and brassware may range from ₹500 to ₹20,000 or more, depending on the size and intricacy of the piece.
6. Thanjavur souvenir
Places to find: You can purchase Thanjavur art plates from local artisans and handicraft stores in the city.
Cost: Prices vary based on the size and detailing of the plate, ranging from ₹500 to ₹5000 or more.
7. Bronze Icons
Places to find: Bronze icons depicting Hindu deities are available at speciality stores and religious shops in Thanjavur and in Thanjavur Markets.
Cost: Prices depend on the size and craftsmanship, ranging from ₹1000 to ₹20,000 or higher.
Suggested read: 8 Must-Visit Cafes In Thanjavur: A Local’s Food Guide
8. Handloom Textiles
Places to find: Handloom textiles are sold at traditional textile stores and boutiques in Shopping malls in Thanjavur.
Cost: Prices for silk and cotton fabrics vary based on the quality and design, ranging from ₹500 to ₹5000 or more per meter.
9. Antique Shopping in Thanjavur
Where to find: Antique jewellery can be found at speciality jewellery stores and antique shops in Thanjavur and in Thanjavur Markets.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the age, craftsmanship, and materials used, ranging from ₹1000 to ₹1,00,000 or higher.
10. Brassware
Where to find: You can find a wide selection of brassware items in Thanjavur Markets and artisanal shops across Kerala, particularly in cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Thrissur.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the size, intricacy, and craftsmanship of the item, ranging from ₹500 to ₹5000 or more for larger pieces.
11. Stone Sculptures
Where to find: Thanjavur is famous for its exquisite stone sculptures, depicting gods, goddesses, and mythological figures. You can visit workshops and galleries in places like Big Bazaar Street and V.O.C. Nagar to admire and purchase these artworks.
Cost: Prices vary based on size and intricacy, ranging from ₹1000 to ₹10,000 or higher for larger pieces.
12. Traditional Pottery
Where to find: The art of traditional pottery thrives in Thanjavur, with artisans showcasing their skills in places like Amma Mandapam and Cholan Nagar. Here, you can find clay pots, vases, and decorative items reflecting the region’s pottery heritage.
Cost: Prices start from ₹200 and can go up to ₹2000 or more, depending on the item’s size and design.
Also read: 18 Best Temples In Thanjavur: Architectural Gems Of South India
13. Handcrafted Jewelry
Visit the vibrant markets of Thanjavur to discover handcrafted jewellery during the next Thanjavur Shopping, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Where to find: Jewellery shops in areas like Anna Salai and Thanjavur Main Road offer a wide range of designs crafted with precious metals and gemstones. Along with that, Shopping malls in Thanjavur are also a considerable one-stop destination for this jewellery shopping.
Cost: Prices vary based on materials and design complexity, ranging from ₹1000 to ₹20,000 or more.
14. Silk Weaving
Where to find: Thanjavur is known for its silk-weaving tradition, and you can witness this craft in action at places like Pattukottai Road and Vallam. Here, you can purchase beautiful silk fabrics and sarees directly from weavers.
Cost: Prices depend on silk quality and weaving technique, ranging from ₹1000 to ₹20,000 or higher for premium pieces.
15. Wooden Carving
Where to Find: Explore the artisan workshops and markets in Thanjavur, renowned for their exquisite wooden carvings. You can visit craft villages like Swamimalai or browse through the traditional markets in the city centre.
Cost: Prices for wooden carvings in Thanjavur vary depending on the intricacy of the design and the type of wood used. Smaller carvings may start from ₹500 to ₹2000, while larger and more intricate pieces can range from ₹3000 to ₹10,000 or more.
Also read: Top 15 Places To Eat In Thanjavur For Authentic Local Food
16. Brass Lamps
Where to Find: V isit the brassware workshops in Thanjavur, where artisans specialize in crafting traditional brass lamps. You can also find them in markets like the Old Bus Stand Market or at specialized brassware stores during Thanjavur Street Shopping. Local Shopping in Thanjavur is incomplete because of this. Moreover, Shopping malls in Thanjavur are also a considerable one-stop destination that offers a variety of these souvenirs.
Cost: Brass lamps in Thanjavur come in various sizes and designs. Small to medium-sized lamps may range from ₹300 to ₹1000, while larger and more ornate pieces can go up to ₹5000 or more.
17. Stone Jewelry
Where to Find: Explore the jewellery stores in Thanjavur, particularly in areas like Gandhinagar or South Rampart. You can also find stone jewellery at local markets and during cultural festivals. This is a must-visit during Thanjavur Street Shopping.
Cost: Stone jewellery prices in Thanjavur depend on factors such as the type of stone, craftsmanship, and design complexity. Simple stone earrings or pendants may start from ₹500 to ₹2000, while elaborate necklaces or sets can range from ₹3000 to ₹20,000 or higher.
Suggested Read: Sivaganga Book Festival: Your Literary Adventure In Tamil Nadu
18. Leather Goods
Where to Find: Look for leather artisans in Thanjavur’s craft clusters or visit the artisanal villages nearby. You can also find leather goods in local markets like Raja Serfoji Market or boutique stores in the city. Local Shopping in Thanjavur is incomplete because of this.
Cost: Prices for leather goods in Thanjavur vary based on the type of leather and craftsmanship. Basic leather wallets or belts may start from ₹500 to ₹2000, while premium leather bags or accessories can range from ₹2000 to ₹10,000 or more.
19. Embroidered Fabrics
Where to Find: Explore the textile Thanjavur Markets, such as the Big Bazaar Street or the Old Bus Stand Market, where you can find a variety of embroidered fabrics. Artisans in nearby villages like Kumbakonam also specialize in embroidery.
Cost: The cost of embroidered fabrics in Thanjavur depends on factors like fabric quality, intricacy of embroidery, and size. Small embroidered handkerchiefs or scarves may start from ₹200 to ₹800, while larger garments like sarees or shawls can range from ₹1000 to ₹5000 or more. Local Shopping in Thanjavur is incomplete because of this.
As we wrap up our quirky shopping adventure in Thanjavur, remember, it’s not just about what you buy, but the stories each find carries. So, how many of the top 20 did you manage to tick off? And speaking of stories, who would’ve guessed that this lively city holds the secrets behind the mesmerizing Tanjore paintings? Until our next shopping spree, keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep those quirky facts coming!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thanjavur famous for in terms of shopping?
Thanjavur is renowned for its rich tradition of arts and crafts, making it a hub for unique and culturally significant shopping experiences. Visitors often flock to Thanjavur Street Shopping for its exquisite handicrafts such as traditional brassware, intricately carved wooden artefacts, vibrant stone jewellery, and beautifully embroidered fabrics.
Where can I find the best silk sarees in Thanjavur?
For the best silk sarees in Thanjavur, you can explore the numerous silk weaving centres and saree shops scattered across the city. One of the most famous places to find high-quality silk sarees is the Thanjavur Silk Saree Weavers Cooperative Society Ltd., located near the Old Bus Stand in Thanjavur.
Can I buy authentic Tanjore paintings directly in Thanjavur?
Yes, you can buy authentic Tanjore paintings directly in Thanjavur. Thanjavur is the birthplace of Tanjore painting. You can find numerous art galleries, studios, and shops in Thanjavur specializing in Tanjore paintings. Some notable places to purchase authentic Tanjore paintings include the Tanjore Art Gallery, located near the Brihadeeswarar Temple, and various art shops and studios scattered across the city.