Saraswathi Mahal Library

Saraswathi Mahal Library is a historic royal library and museum located inside the Thanjavur Palace complex in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Established in the 16th century by the Nayaks and greatly expanded by Maratha King Serfoji II in the early 19th century, it is among Asia's oldest libraries. It houses a vast collection of palm-leaf and paper manuscripts in Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu and Marathi, along with rare books, paintings and maps, attracting researchers and visitors.

Visitors can expect a historic library and museum within the Thanjavur Palace complex housing extensive collections of palm-leaf and paper manuscripts, rare printed books, maps and Thanjavur paintings. The complex includes manuscript galleries, a museum section, reading and research areas, and displays of illustrated manuscripts and royal collections. The setting is inside the palace premises with traditional architecture, exhibition halls and quiet study areas for scholars and tourists.

Originally established as a royal library by the Nayaks of Thanjavur in the 16th century and significantly developed by Maratha King Serfoji II (reigned 1798-1832), who was a scholar and collector. Serfoji II expanded the collection with manuscripts collected from across India and employed scholars to catalogue and preserve them. It is considered one of the oldest libraries in Asia and was later established as a public library.

Houses a vast repository of Indian knowledge systems including literature, music, dance, Ayurveda, astronomy, and art in multiple languages such as Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Marathi and Modi script. It preserves rare palm-leaf manuscripts, Thanjavur paintings and cultural artefacts reflecting Tamil and Maratha heritage, serving as an important centre for research and cultural preservation.