Outstation route
Bangalore to Thanjavur Distance and Cab
Thanjavur, the old Chola capital in the Kaveri delta, is home to the great Brihadisvara Temple and a rich tradition of art. Here is how far it is from Bangalore, what the drive involves, and how to book a private cab with driver.
The route
Bangalore to Thanjavur distance and drive
The Bangalore to Thanjavur distance is covered mostly on national highways. The route-planner path uses NH 136, NH 44, NH 79 and NH 844, leaving the Karnataka plains behind and heading deep into central Tamil Nadu.
| Road distance | About 390 km one way |
| Driving time (route planner) | About 5 h 30 min without traffic delays or stops |
| Main roads on the route | NH 136, NH 44, NH 79, NH 844 |
| Round trip | About 780 km of driving, plus any local sightseeing |
Measured from central Bengaluru (Vidhana Soudha) using OpenStreetMap route data. Your exact distance depends on the pickup point and the route the driver takes, and real journey times are usually longer once city traffic, ghat sections and breaks are added.
Both the distance and the time are route-planner figures, with the time given for driving without traffic or stops. Allow extra for meals and rest breaks. As this is a Tamil Nadu trip, interstate permit charges and tolls are extra.
Things to see
Why people travel to Thanjavur
- Brihadisvara Temple, built by the Chola king Rajaraja I and part of the UNESCO-listed Great Living Chola Temples, famous for its towering vimana.
- Thanjavur Maratha Palace, a sprawling complex with courtyards, a durbar hall and an art gallery.
- Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of the oldest libraries in India, with a collection of manuscripts.
- Thanjavur paintings with gold foil, and the nodding-head Thanjavur dolls, which make popular keepsakes.
The surrounding Kaveri delta is known as a rice-growing region, so the drive through it passes a lot of green fields.
Plan your trip
Give it at least two days
This is a long drive, so plan for at least two days: one for the road and the temple, and another for the palace, library and market streets before the drive back. Anyone who wants to see more of the delta usually adds a night.
Thanjavur works well in a loop with Kumbakonam, another temple town in the same region, and with Tiruchirappalli, a large city in the same part of Tamil Nadu. For a coastal finish, see Pondicherry.
Which vehicle
Choosing a cab for a long journey
On a trip of this length, comfort matters. An Innova Crysta suits families with elders, while a sedan is fine for two or three travellers. Pilgrim groups and families travelling together can ask about a Tempo Traveller. Round trips are billed with a minimum of 300 km per day.
Vehicle options
Cabs for Thanjavur
Vehicle availability depends on your travel date. Tell us your group size and luggage when booking and we will suggest a suitable option.
Tariff
Bangalore to Thanjavur Distance and round-trip rates
| Vehicle | Round-trip rate | Driver allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Suzuki Dzire (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Toyota Etios (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (sedan) | ₹14 / km | ₹350 |
| Toyota Innova | ₹16 / km | ₹400 |
| Toyota Innova Crysta | ₹22 / km | ₹400 |
| Toyota Innova Hycross | ₹25 / km | ₹400 |
| Tempo Traveller | On request | ₹600 |
| Mini bus (21 / 24 seater) | On request | ₹600 |
Round trip, minimum 300 km per day. Fares are inclusive of GST, and the final bill is based on the actual distance travelled. Hill-station charges, interstate permits, state permits, tolls and parking are extra. One-way drop fares are confirmed when you book.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is the Bangalore to Thanjavur distance by road?
It is about 390 km one way from central Bengaluru, and the route-planner time is about 5 h 30 min of driving without traffic or stops. The round-trip distance is about 780 km.
Can I visit Thanjavur from Bangalore in one day?
It is not practical. The drive alone is long, so plan an overnight stay and see the temple the next morning.
Is the Brihadisvara Temple worth the long drive?
Yes, it is the main reason most travellers come. It is one of the most celebrated Chola monuments. Check current visiting rules locally before you go.
How is the fare worked out?
The rate table on this page shows the outstation rates by vehicle. Round trips use actual kilometres with a minimum of 300 km per day plus driver allowance, and tolls, parking and permits are extra. Your fare is confirmed when you book.
Can I combine Thanjavur with other towns?
Yes. Kumbakonam and Trichy are common additions. Tell us the places you want when you call, and we will confirm the plan.
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