India, known for its cultural beauty, surprises you through every state, city, district, corner. One such gem showcasing the diversity of South India is Tamil Nadu. Home to rich civilizations preserved over centuries, the state offers everything from rolling mountains, majestic seas, clam beaches, breathtaking waterfalls to uber chic hotels, lofty shopping malls and historic places. Widening your eyes to witness the country’s diversity in a unique way, the state compels you towards new destinations and locations. With a coastline running along Bay of Bengal, enriched with a plethora of history and nature, Tamil Nadu’s destinations are not to be missed while exploring the Southern part of the country.
India, known for its cultural beauty, surprises you through every state, city, district, corner. One such gem showcasing the diversity of South India is Tamil Nadu. Home to rich civilizations preserved over centuries, the state offers everything from rolling mountains, majestic seas, clam beaches, breathtaking waterfalls to uber chic hotels, lofty shopping malls and historic places. Widening your eyes to witness the country’s diversity in a unique way, the state compels you towards new destinations and locations. With a coastline running along Bay of Bengal, enriched with a plethora of history and nature, Tamil Nadu’s destinations are not to be missed while exploring the Southern part of the country. Seeing the rise and fall of many dynasties like the Cholas, Cheras and Pandyas, the state flourished in new traditions and customs which can be experienced till date. Many visit the city to see the marvel of temples built across the region. From the legendary Meenakshi Temple, the mesmerizing views of Ooty and the southernmost tip of the country Kankyakumari, read more to know what truly defines the state.
Eye-Catching Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu
Chennai
A doorway to Tamil Nadu’s heritage and lifestyle, this capital city is home to a beautiful mix of temples, churches and beaches. With many options to add on the must see list like Marina Beach, Museums, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Santhome Church, Iskcon Temple, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Chembarambakkam Lake, one is bound to spend more time outdoors. You can spend a day at the Marina Beach, indulge in local food, shop for handicrafts at Pondy Bazaar, Anna Salai, Mylapore or simply enjoy at modern malls in the city. Going beyond the shopping and temples
A doorway to Tamil Nadu’s heritage and lifestyle, this capital city is home to a beautiful mix of temples, churches and beaches. With many options to add on the must see list like Marina Beach, Museums, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Santhome Church, Iskcon Temple, Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Chembarambakkam Lake, one is bound to spend more time outdoors. You can spend a day at the Marina Beach, indulge in local food, shop for handicrafts at Pondy Bazaar, Anna Salai, Mylapore or simply enjoy at modern malls in the city. Going beyond the shopping and temples, the city also offers many adrenaline pumping activities like paragliding, river rafting, scuba diving, rock climbing etc.
Ooty
Situated in the Western Ghats, this southern hill-station is nothing less than a picturesque postcard, one that reminds you of mesmerizing views and irreplaceable memories. Once the summer capital of the Madras presidency, the place should be on your must see list to experience the tranquility of purity of nature. A relaxing cup of coffee overlooking the tea plantations, a book in hand and a seeker's heart is all you need to have a fulfilling vacation in what is often called India's Switzerland. Apart from spending quality time at your resorts, you can also explore the Government Rose
Situated in the Western Ghats, this southern hill-station is nothing less than a picturesque postcard, one that reminds you of mesmerizing views and irreplaceable memories. Once the summer capital of the Madras presidency, the place should be on your must see list to experience the tranquility of purity of nature. A relaxing cup of coffee overlooking the tea plantations, a book in hand and a seeker's heart is all you need to have a fulfilling vacation in what is often called India's Switzerland. Apart from spending quality time at your resorts, you can also explore the Government Rose Garden, The Tea Factory & The Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Tiger Hill around the area.
Coonoor
Tamil Nadu is blessed with natural diversity that can be experienced through its different destinations. Situated in the beautiful hills of the Nilgiris is the district of Coonoor, another vibrant hill station that offers some breathtaking views. Known for some trekking routes, the destination sets a perfect base to sit back and soak in what all nature has to offer. Many visit the Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s view point, Catherine Falls during their stay in the town. Some tourists often take a trekking route to explore the hills or ride to the nearby attractions like Lamb’s Rock and The Fort of Droog.
Tamil Nadu is blessed with natural diversity that can be experienced through its different destinations. Situated in the beautiful hills of the Nilgiris is the district of Coonoor, another vibrant hill station that offers some breathtaking views. Known for some trekking routes, the destination sets a perfect base to sit back and soak in what all nature has to offer. Many visit the Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s view point, Catherine Falls during their stay in the town. Some tourists often take a trekking route to explore the hills or ride to the nearby attractions like Lamb’s Rock and The Fort of Droog.
Madurai
The cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is a popular pilgrimage destination in India. This ancient city is rooted in legends that give it a mythical and soulful essence. The city exuberates great architecture be it contemporary or modern, examples of which can be seen across the city. The renowned Meenakshi Amman Temple, Idaikattur Church, The Puthu Mandapam and The Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace are the prominent historical monuments visited by tourists. Some of the other must visit places are the Gandhi Museum, Vaigai Dam, Vilachery Pottery Village,
The cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is a popular pilgrimage destination in India. This ancient city is rooted in legends that give it a mythical and soulful essence. The city exuberates great architecture be it contemporary or modern, examples of which can be seen across the city. The renowned Meenakshi Amman Temple, Idaikattur Church, The Puthu Mandapam and The Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace are the prominent historical monuments visited by tourists. Some of the other must visit places are the Gandhi Museum, Vaigai Dam, Vilachery Pottery Village, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Madurai Kamaraj University. On the other hand the narrow vibrant lanes of the marketplaces are perfect to explore the shopping, food and true Tamil culture. Over the years this city has become a cultural hub attracting history enthusiasts, devotees and curators looking for a cultural experience.
Rameswaram
One of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage towns down South, Rameswaram receives many tourists, being one of the Char Dhams in the country. Situated on the magnificent Pamban island in the Gulf of Munnar, the religious connection and untouched natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for a traveller's wishlist. Many from across the globe travel here solely for the purpose of visiting the most famous temples like Ramanathaswamy Temple, Villoondi Tirtham, Lakshmana Tirtham. Some other attractions include Pamban Bridge, Agni Tirtham, Adam's
One of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage towns down South, Rameswaram receives many tourists, being one of the Char Dhams in the country. Situated on the magnificent Pamban island in the Gulf of Munnar, the religious connection and untouched natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for a traveller's wishlist. Many from across the globe travel here solely for the purpose of visiting the most famous temples like Ramanathaswamy Temple, Villoondi Tirtham, Lakshmana Tirtham. Some other attractions include Pamban Bridge, Agni Tirtham, Adam's Bridge, Pamban Island, etc. Majorly known for the Ramayana tales, this town goes beyond religious spots in offering some underwater coral reefs, breezy beaches and beautiful tropical weather.
Dhanushkodi
Known for some impeccable beaches, Dhanuskodi, near Rameshwaram is another add on to the list that's worth mentioning. One looking for a refreshing new experience must see Dhanushkodi on their trip down south. Some of the places one can visit are the Dhanushkodi Beach, Shri Ram Setu View Point, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Adam’s Bridge and the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. This silent town, a quick trip from Rameshwaram, used to be brimming with activity during British Raj, however is now in ruins. This destination is best combined with your trip to Rameswaram.
Known for some impeccable beaches, Dhanuskodi, near Rameshwaram is another add on to the list that's worth mentioning. One looking for a refreshing new experience must see Dhanushkodi on their trip down south. Some of the places one can visit are the Dhanushkodi Beach, Shri Ram Setu View Point, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Adam’s Bridge and the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park. This silent town, a quick trip from Rameshwaram, used to be brimming with activity during British Raj, however is now in ruins. This destination is best combined with your trip to Rameswaram.
Mahabalipuram
A small town situated in the southerneastern part of Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram is known for its temples and historic monuments, primarily the Shore Temple. Mainly a seaport, about 58 kms away from Chennai, it sets another example for India’s rich heritage and culture. Like the Shore temple built in the 8th century, it consists of three temples built in one single complex which make it a sight to witness. Another popular temple is the Pancha Rathas representing five temples sculpted in the form of a chariot. Some other tourist attractions are the crocodile farm, the Cave
A small town situated in the southerneastern part of Tamil Nadu, Mahabalipuram is known for its temples and historic monuments, primarily the Shore Temple. Mainly a seaport, about 58 kms away from Chennai, it sets another example for India’s rich heritage and culture. Like the Shore temple built in the 8th century, it consists of three temples built in one single complex which make it a sight to witness. Another popular temple is the Pancha Rathas representing five temples sculpted in the form of a chariot. Some other tourist attractions are the crocodile farm, the Cave Temples, Krishna’s Butterball, Arjuna’s Penance and the India Seashell museum. The local restaurants serve some delicious southern dishes that can be enjoyed after exploring the city.
Thanjavur
Thanjavur’s vibrant culture matched with legacy of literature and history suddenly captivates you in the city. Commonly known as Tanjore, the city gets its name from a demon ‘Tanjan-an-asura’, dating back to the 10th century reign of the Chola empire. Home to the largest paddy fields in southern India, the views are best captured with one’s eyes. Moving along the city is Saraswathi Mahal, one of the oldest libraries in Asia, home to more than a million medieval manuscripts in Indian and European languages. Other major attractions include the 10th century Brihadeshwara
Thanjavur’s vibrant culture matched with legacy of literature and history suddenly captivates you in the city. Commonly known as Tanjore, the city gets its name from a demon ‘Tanjan-an-asura’, dating back to the 10th century reign of the Chola empire. Home to the largest paddy fields in southern India, the views are best captured with one’s eyes. Moving along the city is Saraswathi Mahal, one of the oldest libraries in Asia, home to more than a million medieval manuscripts in Indian and European languages. Other major attractions include the 10th century Brihadeshwara Temple, the 16th century Thanjavur Palace and the Shiva Ganga Garden. One must also see a live performance of the local dance form Bharatnatyam at the serene backdrop of Brihadeshwara Temple.
Trichy
This fast emerging city is surely climbing its way up as destinations to explore in Tamil Nadu. Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, it is just 325 kms from the state capital, Chennai. The main citadel of the Chola Rulers of ancient India, this place beautifully combines tradition, heritage and modernity. There are also many old churches, colleges and missions of the 17th century that led the city to be called, ‘Rome of the East’. Situated in the heart of the city lies Rock Fort Temple, also known as Ucchi Pallaiyar Kovil, a 275 ft tall structure said to be a million years old. 437 steps take you towards the temple where halfway
This fast emerging city is surely climbing its way up as destinations to explore in Tamil Nadu. Situated on the banks of river Kaveri, it is just 325 kms from the state capital, Chennai. The main citadel of the Chola Rulers of ancient India, this place beautifully combines tradition, heritage and modernity. There are also many old churches, colleges and missions of the 17th century that led the city to be called, ‘Rome of the East’. Situated in the heart of the city lies Rock Fort Temple, also known as Ucchi Pallaiyar Kovil, a 275 ft tall structure said to be a million years old. 437 steps take you towards the temple where halfway you can visit the Temple of Lord Shiva called Sri Thayumanaswamy Temple. Then there is Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam devoted to Lord Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu. Moving away, the mesmerizing Puliyancholai Waterfalls on the base of Kolli Hills can also be explored. Best for a weekend stay while in Chennai, this small city is home to numerous cultural offerings.
Chettinad
Chettinad is a historical town in Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga district, one of South India's most popular tourist destinations, known for its delectable cuisine, unique architecture, and rich art and cultural legacy. Rising in the Nattukottai community gives it a unique style in architecture and tasteful art scene. The streets lined with traditional bungalows are an ideal way to witness this state's fantastic architecture. On the other hand, the museums can be explored to see old artefacts to find remnants of this city’s history. Another marvel to see is the Chettinad Palace, built by Annamalai Chettiar 115 years ago.
Chettinad is a historical town in Tamil Nadu's Sivaganga district, one of South India's most popular tourist destinations, known for its delectable cuisine, unique architecture, and rich art and cultural legacy. Rising in the Nattukottai community gives it a unique style in architecture and tasteful art scene. The streets lined with traditional bungalows are an ideal way to witness this state's fantastic architecture. On the other hand, the museums can be explored to see old artefacts to find remnants of this city’s history. Another marvel to see is the Chettinad Palace, built by Annamalai Chettiar 115 years ago. Marble from Italy, chandeliers and teak from Myanmar, Indonesian crockery, and European crystal and wall-to-wall mirrors embellish the spaces. Chettinad's arts and crafts hold a unique place in South Indian culture. Wood carvings, silver adornment, woven saris, palm-leaf baskets, gold jewellery, handcrafted tiles, architectural styles, and egg plastering are only a few examples of the diverse repertoire. Some of the outstanding masterpieces are Kandaangi sarees or Chettinad sarees best for souvenirs.
Shopping at Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is rich in heritage and culture, with roots dating back to archaic times. It is one of the best sites in India for shoppers to get their hands on the region's famous traditional arts. The state has a large inventory of embroidered sarees, particularly Kanchipuram Silk, which is recognised for its mulberry silk and variegated borders. Kanchipuram Sarees are known for their floral, striped, checkered, and temple border designs. Traditional sarees, especially Kanchipuram, are available in practically every city and hamlet. In terms of textiles, the state produces Cotton Dhotis, which are quite popular among locals and are worn on a daily basis.
Tamil Nadu is rich in heritage and culture, with roots dating back to archaic times. It is one of the best sites in India for shoppers to get their hands on the region's famous traditional arts. The state has a large inventory of embroidered sarees, particularly Kanchipuram Silk, which is recognised for its mulberry silk and variegated borders. Kanchipuram Sarees are known for their floral, striped, checkered, and temple border designs. Traditional sarees, especially Kanchipuram, are available in practically every city and hamlet. In terms of textiles, the state produces Cotton Dhotis, which are quite popular among locals and are worn on a daily basis. Metalware in Chennai, Woodcraft in Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore, and Textile in Salem, Coimbatore, and Tirupur are among the souvenirs to take back from the state. Furthermore, Thanjavur, one of Tamilnadu's top shopping destinations, attracts a huge number of art and music enthusiasts because it is home to famed Tanjore Paintings, metal arts, and musical instruments. Mahabalipuram, on the other hand, is another great spot to shop with an eclectic selection of sculptures and statues to choose from. The cities of Chennai and Coimbatore are home to some of Tamil Nadu's top local jewellery markets. Moreover, for affordable prices, Madurai is ready to give you authentic-looking artificial jewellery
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