Located in the southern part of Thanjavur, this mandapam was built to honour the great king Raja Raja Chola (985-1014 CE), of the Chola dynasty. Surrounded by lush gardens and burning lamps, the site carries a rustic charm. Visiting this place at night is a mesmeric experience. The architecture of the mandapam follows Chola style, with the ground floor housing a museum that celebrates the raja as one of the most remarkable kings of Thanjavur. Exhibits at the museum include bronze statues, paintings, sculptures, coins and other artefacts that would be fascinating to history buffs. There is also a statue of the raja on a horse with its front legs up in the air. Manimandapam has become a must-visit site for all those seeking to experience the ancient world charm of the Chola dynasty.