Thanjavur’s markets and street food lanes are a feast for the senses—bursting with color, aroma, and authentic local flavors. From early-morning flower bazaars to evening tiffin stalls, here are the best spots to explore street food and local shopping in Thanjavur.
1. Thanjavur Main Market (Old Bus Stand Area)
Why visit: A bustling local market where you can shop for vegetables, spices, household items, and enjoy street-side eats.
Highlights: – Fresh produce and traditional groceries – Filter coffee and vada stalls – Local-style breakfast counters
Timing: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
2. Keelavasal Street
Why visit: Known for its wholesale and retail textile shops, this busy market also offers snacks like murukku, karasev, and bajji on the go.
Highlights: – Saree shopping – Local sweets and savories – Evening food stalls
Timing: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
3. Pudukottai Road Food Stalls
Why visit: A popular stretch for street food where you’ll find crispy parottas, chicken fry, and egg kothu parotta at night.
Highlights: – Spicy non-veg dishes – Tanjore-style gravies – Night-time buzz
Timing: 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Entry: Free (dishes ₹50–₹150)
4. West Main Street (Near Palace & Temple)
Why visit: A vibrant stretch lined with handicraft shops, Tanjore painting stalls, and carts selling freshly fried snacks.
Highlights: – Local snacks like vadai, bajji – Handicrafts and wooden toys – Close to sightseeing areas
Timing: 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Entry: Free
5. Daily Flower Market (Near Brihadeeswarar Temple)
Why visit: A beautiful sensory experience of fresh jasmine, marigold, and rose garlands being made and sold early in the morning.
Highlights: – Freshly strung garlands – Temple-bound shoppers – Authentic local scene
Timing: 5:30 AM to 9:00 AM
Entry: Free
6. Ganthimathi Mess Lane (Off East Gate)
Why visit: A narrow local street packed with small messes and tea shops offering true Tamil tiffin fare and filter coffee.
Highlights: – Idli with sambar and podi – Hot pongal and chutney – Friendly vendors
Timing: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (meals from ₹40)
7. V.O.C. Ground Area
Why visit: A large open area that often hosts exhibitions, fairs, and food stalls during festivals or public events.
Highlights: – Seasonal food and craft fairs – Chaat stalls and snacks – Family-friendly vibe
Timing: Varies by event (usually evenings)
Entry: Free
8. Raja Serfoji Market
Why visit: A traditional bazaar offering fresh groceries, herbs, and snacks, great for soaking up the local rhythm of life.
Highlights: – Tamil spices and pickles – Fresh banana chips and sweets – Earthy, old-world setting
Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Evening Bajji & Tea Stalls (Near Medical College)
Why visit: A hotspot for students and locals, this area serves some of the best bajji, bondas, and masala chai in town.
Highlights: – Banana bajji and chilli bajji – Ginger tea – Friendly atmosphere
Timing: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free (snacks from ₹20)
10. New Bus Stand Area Street Food Zone
Why visit: Perfect for travelers arriving or leaving Thanjavur—filled with food carts offering quick, hot, and tasty South Indian dishes.
Highlights: – Dosa, uthappam, parotta – Fruit juice and buttermilk stalls – High turnover means fresh food
Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Alexander Schimmeck on Unsplash
