The fascinating land of Tamil Nadu is home to a glorious culture and rich heritage. Its history stretches back to ancient eras and yet it looks forward to the next age.
You will find in Tamil Nadu, a civilization that dates back to two thousand years ago. This civilization is still very much alive in the language, poetry and dance of the Tamil people. It has lived unhindered and its glory can be felt all across the landscape. Here you will be enchanted with the ancient buildings whose architectural styles are still spectacular enough to make your jaw drop with pleasure. These incredible temples may serve as the bastion of the Hindu religion but they are stunning enough to be admired by everybody. Places like Mahabalipuram and Rameshwaram will delight you with their sacred temples.
The natural beauty of Tamil Nadu is not to be underestimated. This state is bordered mainly by the waters of the Bay of Bengal to its east which gifts it with some scenic beaches. However, Tamil Nadu is the only state in India to be glorified by the waters of three seas. The Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean meet Tamil Nadu for a short distance but their unified beauty is spectacular. Then there are the blue hills at Ooty. You will have no shortage of natural vistas in Tamil Nadu. Places like Ooty and Kodaikanal are there to regale you with their natural splendor.
Tamil Nadu packs a lot of punch. It can completely knock you out with its varied vistas. It is proud in its distinction from the rest of India but is still just as welcoming.
A rich history marks the stunning city of Chennai. History flows through the veins of the people who live here. The culture of the city has been irrevocably marked by the ancient traditions. Its heritage is not dead. It lives on influencing the lives of the people even today.
Chennai possesses a fascinating charm that you just cannot resist no matter how hard you try. May be it has something to do with the history. After all, the history of Chennai dates back nearly two thousand years! In the past, Chennai was the fortress to some of the most magnificent dynasties of southern India. If its streets could speak, you will hear stories of its glorious past, stories of its occupation by colonial powers. Chennai was also the site where the forces of French and British colonialists clashed. Even the magnificent Mysore Kingdom fought here. During the 18th century, Chennai became one of most important naval ports in India. Such a history is bound to leave an effect.
Over the years, the city of Chennai has become rich in heritage. As you move around the city, you will come face to face with huge colorful temples. The Tamil traditions live on in the hearts of the people. The city shows a deep love for its culture through its native Carnatic music, classical dances and other artistic expressions. Chennai is not only a center of culture. Here. Industry is booming in various forms especially the automotive and movie industries. Chennai is the home of Kollywood, the popular name for the Tamil movie industry.
The Marina Beach
Vivekananda House & Museum
The name Kodaikanal means the ‘Gift of the Forest’. When you are surrounding by the refreshing atmosphere of nature here, you will realize why the name is absolutely appropriate. The incredible Palani Hills surround Kodaikanal like a mesmerizing jade shawl. Here you will be circled by thick forests of various trees while huge rocks dot the landscape adding a bit of brown to the emerald sight. Entrancing waterfalls roar hidden by the canopy of forests adding a musical element to the experience of Kodaikanal. The pleasant weather creates an aura of relaxation allowing you to enjoy various relaxing activities. You can take a boat ride on the pristine lakes or cycle around the beautiful area. If you are in the mood for something a bit more exciting, you can ride a horse or trek. The mystical appeal of Kodaikanal is highlighted by the Kurinji flower which blooms spectacularly every 12 years
Berijam Lake
Bryant Park
Coakers Walk
Kurinji Andavar Temple
The amazing city of Tirunelveli is one of the largest cities in Tamil Nadu. Tirunelveli is filled with rich spots for enjoying nature and heritage. This place offers a bit of everything for you to explore and enjoy. Nature is an essential part of Tirunelveli. Here you will find glorious mountains covered with emerald forests. There are deserts here as well! You can take a stroll through the picturesque costal region or be mesmerized by the sight of paddy fields swaying under the breeze. A number of waterfalls here create an orchestra of water crashing down scenic hills. There are a few wildlife sanctuaries here where you can glimpse some fascinating animals. The Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary contains a lot of colorful avian species whose musical cries reverberate through the enchanting landscape. A rich collection of animals can be found at the huge Mundanthurai-Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary. The leopard, the crocodile, the jungle cat, the Nilgiri langur and the Nilgiri tahr are some of the fascinating animals that roam in the verdant landscape. It is also a place for viewing the majestic tigers. Tirunelveli also boasts of a rich cultural heritage and history that dates back to the ancient ages of 300 B.C. This rich heritage is showcases by the numerous temples in the town. The Venkatachalapathy Temple is the most spectacular temple in Tirunelveli. The colorful temple is adorned with some stunning sculptures. It is dedicated to Lord Venkatachalapathy who is worshipped here along with Goddess Devi and Goddess Bhudevi. Tirunelvelli offers you the chance to explore a rich history or to relax in the mesmerizing spots offered by nature.
As a tourist, if you enjoy something, chances are Mahabalipuram will be able to provide you with them. Enjoy the warmth of the sun on the golden sands while you make your taste buds come alive with the local spiced seafood.
The nomenclature is quite interesting. According to legends, King Mahabali was killed in the spot. He was a very arrogant king who was not only unkind but extremely discourteous even to the gods. On his death, the people rejoiced and named the place after him to celebrate the death. Either way, the place is quite fascinating.
The incredible place was once a capital of the Pallava Empire. You will easily be able to locate the amazing arts and architecture that they have left behind. Mahabalipuram contains many buildings which showcase this stunningly innovative architecture style. You are going to love the glorious temples and the nearby caves.
Arjuna’s Penance
Varaha Cave
The Krishna Temple
Although Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu, no other city manages to capture the essence of the state more spectacularly than Madurai. Madurai is the very soul of Tamil heritage. It was born and bred in Tamil culture and is among the oldest cities to still stand in India. This is a spectacular metropolis that had trade relations with the glorious ancient empire of Rome. Madurai was a glorious capital much before Chennai even came into existence. The city of Madurai was constructed in the shape of a lotus. There are some spectacular temples here. However, the ancient city is very cosmopolitan. Here people of all religions live in peace with each other creating a fascinating sight of communal harmony. Festivals of all religions are celebrated with equal amounts of pomp, splendor and passion/. The fragrance of the jasmine flower wafts through the city captivating you. The magnificent temples, ancient monuments and sweet-smelling gardens create an awesome experience for you to enjoy. The rich cultural heritage lives on in this city which has embraced modernity as well.
Sri Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple
Thirumalai Nayak Mahal
Alagarkoil
The beautiful city of Thiruchirapalli is located on the banks the scenic Cauvery River. Popularly called Trichy, the city contains some incredible temples along with a fort carved spectacularly from rock. The area that is now known as Thiruchirapalli is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Tamil Nadu. Some of the ancient settlements here date back to the second millennium B.C. Some of the glorious dynasties of Tamil Nadu ruled over the city. They include the Pallava dynasty which ruled from 590 A.D. to 880 A.D. Then came the Hoysulas followed by the Pandayas. They have left an indelible mark in the heritage of the city. Under the colonial rule, many churches were added to the list of religious spots in Thiruchirapalli
Rock Fort
Srirangam
Tiruvanaikkaval
The beautiful city of Thiruchirapalli is located on the banks the scenic Cauvery River. Popularly called Trichy, the city contains some incredible temples along with a fort carved spectacularly from rock. The area that is now known as Thiruchirapalli is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Tamil Nadu. Some of the ancient settlements here date back to the second millennium B.C. Some of the glorious dynasties of Tamil Nadu ruled over the city. They include the Pallava dynasty which ruled from 590 A.D. to 880 A.D. Then came the Hoysulas followed by the Pandayas. They have left an indelible mark in the heritage of the city. Under the colonial rule, many churches were added to the list of religious spots in Thiruchirapalli
Rock Fort
Srirangam
Tiruvanaikkaval
The city of Rameshwaram is a fascinating place whose history has been merged with mythological legends of Hinduis. One of the most important religious sites for the Hindus, the city is spectacular as well. According to the legends of Hindu religion, Lord Ram chose this place to worship Lord Shiva. It was here that he built a bridge to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife, Lady Sita from the clutches of the demon king Ravana. There are certainly remnants of an ancient strip of land here drowned by the sea. This bridge is known as Adam’s bridge. As a center of Hindu religion, the legends associated with Rameshwaram are certainly fascinating. The place is one of the Char Dham sites of Hindu pilgrimage. It is also home to one of the 12 sacred Jyothirlingas, sites of worship of Lord Shiva. Rich in temples, the town offers a number of interesting vistas.
Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple
Gandamadana Parvatham
The Five-faced Hanuman Temple
Dhanushkodi
Pondicherry is a stunning hangover from the colonial era. However, unlike other parts of India, Pondicherry was ruled by the French instead of British. The romanticism of the French still lives on in the beautiful streets of Pondicherry. However, that is the old part of the city. The newer part is South Indian in its execution and feel. Pondicherry is also called Puducherry. The beautiful city soaks in the glorious sun on the stunning Coromandel Coast while the pristine waters of the Bay of Bengal smoothly crash on the beaches. The beaches are mesmerizing here. The fragrant winds of the sea create an atmosphere of relaxation while the sun shines gently over the tranquil beaches. If you want a romantic experience that is reminiscent of the French, the beaches in Pondicherry will be perfect for you. You can also enjoy a relaxing cruise through the rivers or make camp on the incredible seaside. The streets of Pondicherry will take you to the French countryside. The wide streets are lined by colonial bungalows built in the French architectural styles. As you stroll through the beautiful city you may end up on the newer part of Pondicherry which houses the Indian side. This area is a throwback to the Indian influences. In Pondicherry you will find a fascinating blend of architecture, culture and food from the two countries. Here mosques and churches prosper side by side creating a beautiful cosmopolitan haven.
Sri Aurobindo Ashram
Auroville
Promenade Beach
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
French War Memorial
Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple
Popularly known as Ootacamund, this is a place of extreme tranquility and beauty of nature. Ooty is the most beautiful child of the enchanting Nilgiri Hills. The charm of this incredible place is well known all over India.
Originally, Ooty was a wild land ruled by tribes such as the Todas. Later, the colonial British came and transformed the wilderness into one of the most fascinating hill stations you will ever lay eyes on. Here, you are going to be mesmerized by innumerable picturesque spots that just makes you want to stop and stare. The rich soil and the cool climate has helped the growth of the tea industry here. The emerald tea plantations give off the most exquisite fragrance that is carried over to you through the soft breeze. Tea is an important part of the wonderful experience you will enjoy in Ooty.
The effect of the colonial rule is still evident as you walk around the city. The streets look so beautiful with the tall pine trees that line them that you will be forgiven for believing that you were in the English countryside. Ooty still possesses many bungalows that were built by the British during the colonial rule. These bungalows offer a high level of comfort to make your stay all the more interesting. You can have a nice time taking a stroll through the lovely gardens and parks that dot the area. Even the journey to Ooty on the miniature train is a romantic affair.
Government Botanical Garden
Rose Garden
Ooty Lake
Doddabetta
Tea Factory
Kanyakumari is famous as the southernmost point of mainland India. Bordered by the waters of two seas, the city offers you a rich scene of nature. The seashores of Kanyakumari are colored in the beauty of nature. The blue waters gently wash over the golden sands while green and brown coconut trees line the beaches. Red cliffs tower over the coast. It is an idyllic spot prefect for relaxing as you get refreshed by the cool breezes blowing in from the seas. Rolling valleys lie interspersed with plain areas creating a fascinating merger of romantic sea coasts and rocky topography. Kanyakumari is filled with a rich history and a strong cultural heritage. There is a fantastic blend of various cultures whose inheritance runs deep within the city. If you are lucky, upoi can enjoy the rare sight of watching the sun rise from the waters of three different seas at the same time. After all, the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean meet here at Kanyakumari. Even the sunset and moonrise are enchanting experiences you just should not miss when you are here.
Kumariamman Temple
Vivekananda Memorial
The Thiruvalluvar Statue
Gandhi Memorial
Kamaraj Memorial
