sea tourist places in tamilnadu

• The Best Beaches In Tamil...

The Best Beaches in Tamil Nadu, India

Tamil Nadu’s coastline, the second-longest in India after Gujarat, is dotted with beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters. While many spend their time exploring the staggering 33,000 temples the state is most famous for, its coastal beauty is also worth discovering.

Marina beach.

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Besant Nagar Beach

Mahabalipuram beaches.

While architectural and historic landmarks, such as the Shore Temple , tend to get more eyes, Mahabalipuram’s pristine and scenic beaches are not to be missed either. Due to popular new-age cafes – such as the Bob Marley Cafe – shacks and resorts popping up around town, more people have started visiting the Mahabalipuram, Pallava and Ideal beaches. The past few years have also seen Mahabalipuram’s beaches become a popular surfing destination, thanks to the presence of highly-rated surf schools, such as the Mumu Surf School and Surfboard Rental.

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Tharangambadi (Tranquebar)

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19 Top Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu, with its distinctive ancient Dravidian culture, is a fascinating part of South India . The state draws both tourists and pilgrims alike to its towering, intricately built temples . Beaches and hill stations are popular destinations as well. Due to its culture, Tamil Nadu is a particularly hassle-free destination to visit, especially for women . Enjoy these top tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

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Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is known as the Gateway to South India. It's a sprawling and busy, yet conservative, city with deep traditions that are yet to give way to the growing foreign influence there. Unlike some other Indian cities, Chennai doesn't have world famous monuments or tourist attractions. Yet, if you take your time to explore below its surface and delve into its distinctive culture, you'll grow to appreciate it. These places to visit in Chennai will give you a feel for the city and what makes it special.

Mahabalipuram Beach

Around an hour south of Chennai, you'll find one of the top beaches on India's east coast—Mahabalipuram (also known as Mamallapuram). The beach has a thriving backpacker and surfing scene but is also popular with tourists who come to relax at the resorts there . It's known for its stone sculpture industry, and is a great place to shop for these items and see artisans at work. Other attractions are the Shore Temple, Five Rathas (sculptured temples in the shape of chariots), and Arjuna's Penance (a huge carving on the face of a rock depicting scenes from The Mahabharata ).

Kanchipuram

Popularly known as a "City of a Thousand Temples", Kanchipuram is not just famous for its distinctive silk saris . Located about two hours from Chennai, on the main road to Bangalore , it was once the capital of the Pallava dynasty. Today, only 100 or so temples remain, many of them with unique architectural beauty. The diversity of temples is particularly noteworthy. There are both Shiva and Vishnu temples, built by various rulers (the Cholas, Vijayanagar kings, Muslims and British also ruled this part of Tamil Nadu) who each refined the design.

Kanchipuram, Mamallapuram, and Chennai are often referred to as Tamil Nadu's Golden Triangle for tourists. It's one of the best places to visit near Chennai .

Pondicherry

Pondicherry, a separate union territory on the east coast of Tamil Nadu, is not really a place you'd expect to find in India. It was a former 18th century French colony and still retains a distinctly French flavor. Those who feel in need of a break from India will enjoy the taste of French culture there and the relaxed atmosphere. Sri Aurobindo Ashram attracts plenty of spiritual seekers. The French Quarter and the Promenade, bordered by the Bay of Bengal, are the most happening parts of the city. Auroville is a popular day trip.

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Ancient Madurai in Tamil Nadu is home to the most impressive and important temple in south India --the Meenakshi Temple . If you only see one south Indian temple, the Meenakshi Temple should be it. The city of Madurai is more than 4,000 years old and has remained a major center of Tamil culture and learning. During the heyday of its history, when the Nayak dynasty ruled, many magnificent temples and buildings with superb architecture were constructed. The 12-day Chithirai Festival , featuring a re-enacted celestial wedding of God and Goddess, is held in Madurai during April each year.

Thanjavur (Tanjore)

Thanjavur is best known for its astonishing Brihadeshwara Temple (known as the Big Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site made out of granite by Chola king Raja Raja I in the 11th century. It's an engineering marvel. However, the town is also a distinguished hub of arts and crafts in South India. Its various rulers -- from the Cholas in the 9th century to the Bhonsles in the 19th century -- all shared a common interest in patronage of the arts and crafts. Thanjavur continues to nourish artisans and performers.

Kumbakonam and Gangaikonda Cholapuram

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Interested in seeing more superb temples from the Chola era? Kumbakonam and Gangaikonda Cholapuram, northeast of Thanjavur, have two Great Living Chola Temples that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing too. The royal temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram was built not long after Thanjavur's Big Temple in the 11th century, when Rajendra Chola I relocated the Chola capital there in celebration of victory. Its design is similar to the Big Temple in Thanjavur but on a lesser scale, and it features an enormous stone Nandi (bull). The captivating 12th century Airavatesvara temple at Darasuram, near Kumbakonam, is covered in magnificent detailed sculptures. Kumbakonam abounds with temples too. Stop by the temple town of Swamimalai on the way to Kumbakonam to meet artisans who make bronze idols of gods and goddesses.

Famous for its old mansions (some of which are open to the public) and fiery meat curries, Tamil Nadu's Chettinad region is located about two hours from Madurai and Thanjavur. It can be explored on a day trip. Or, have a heritage stay at a mansion that's been converted into a hotel! The Bangala is a stately homestead located in Karaikudi, in the heart of Chettinad. The food is a highlight; seven courses are served on a banana leaf. Cooking classes and special packages for the exploration of local cuisine are also offered.

Tranquebar (Tharangambadi)

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Continue about two hours east of Kumbakonam to the Coromandel Coast and you'll come acroos the small town of Tranquebar, which was the first Danish trading post in India established in 1620. There you can see the remains of a 17th century fort, museum, and old church. The Bungalow on the Beach is an 18th century Danish colonial house that once belonged to the Governor of Danish India and has now been turned into a heritage hotel.

Pichavaram mangrove forest is one of the world's largest mangrove jungles (along with the Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal and Bhitarkanika in Odisha ). Yet, not a lot of tourists know about it. The mangrove forest is spread over 1,100 hectares and joins the Bay of Bengal, where it's separated by a lengthy sand bank. Apparently, there are more than 50 islands of various sizes, and 4,400 big and small canals! A boat will take you to explore them. Pichavaram is located about 30 minutes from the temple town of Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, which is a bit over an hour north of Tranquebar and worth visiting too. It has a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form of Nataraj and special fire ceremonies.

Tiruvannamalai

Many people say that Tiruvannamalai, and in particular Mount Arunachala, has a very special spiritual energy. The holy mountain has been called the most silent place on earth, as it has the ability to quieten the mind. It's considered by Hindus to be the embodiment of Lord Shiva. Tiruvannamalai attracts both pilgrims and spiritual seekers to its Arunachaleswar Temple and Sri Ramana Ashram. The crowd swells on full moon nights and during the Karthigai Deepam festival in November when pilgrims walk around the holy mountain.

Kanyakumari

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Kanyakumari sits on the furthermost tip of India, where the Bay of Bengal merges with the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. It attracts a lot of pilgrims as it's regarded as the abode of virgin Goddess Kanya Kumari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati (the divine Mother Goddess). Goddess Kanya Kumari is believed to have done penance there to get Lord Shiva to marry her. The distinguishing feature of this spiritual town is the Swami Vivekananda Memorial and towering statue of Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, located on a rocky island off the shore. The Swami meditated there in 1892, before setting out on his religious crusade. In addition, Kanyakumari is one of the best places to see the southwest monsoon arrive in India, in late May each year.

Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram is a peaceful little pilgrim town, brought to life by the constant stream of people that come to bathe in its holy water, get a puja done to purify their karma ​and visit Ramanathaswamy Temple. The approach to Rameshwaram is dramatic, with two long bridges (one for trains and one for other vehicles) linking it to the mainland. Not far from Rameshwaram, the crumbled, windswept remnants of Dhanuskodi , a town destroyed by a cyclone in 1964, are eerie in their isolation. Adam's Bridge is about as remote as you can get. This chain of reefs and sandbanks almost connects India with Sri Lanka , which is only about 30 kilometers (18 miles) away.

Ooty was established in the early 19th century by the British as the summer headquarters of the Chennai government. It's a sought-after place to escape the summer heat. If you travel there during the peak season in April and May, do be prepared for it to be crowded though! Ooty's main attractions include the 22 hectare Government Botanical Gardens (a flower show is held there every May as part of the Summer Festival), boating on Ooty Lake, and climbing Dodabetta Peak for an excellent view of the Nilgiri hills. To get to Ooty, take the scenic Nilgiri mountain railway toy train from Metupalaiyam.

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Downhill from Ooty, Coonoor is where the world-class Nilgiri tea originated. The town is beginning to realize its potential as a tourist destination but remains a refreshingly quieter option than Ooty. Many of the things to do there revolve around tea. Upper Coonoor is an enjoyable neighborhood to stroll around, plus there are viewpoints and trekking spots in the area. One trail leads to the ruins of 18th century Droog Fort, used by Tipu Sultan.

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The British created Kodaikanal as an alternative to Ooty. The town is nestled into the densely forested Western Ghat mountains northwest of Madurai. While it's not as developed as Ooty and retains some old-world charm, it still attracts a lot of Indian tourists during summer. Walking, trekking, boat rides and horse rides are popular activities. For peace and quiet, ideally stay out of town at a property such as Lilly's Valley Resort with its own nature trail.

Mudumalai National Park

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One of the top national parks in India , Mudumalai isn't far from Ooty in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu on the border of Kerala and Karnataka. It's reportedly home to over 260 species of birds (including peacocks), as well as elephants, tigers, deer, monkeys, wild boar, bison, and leopards. Tree house accommodations are a popular feature at many of the properties around Mudumalai.

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One of the best places to visit off the beaten track in India , Pollachi is a relatively unexplored destination that will delight nature and wildlife lovers. It's close to the Anamali Hills and the Kerala border. The Papyrus Itineraries offers immersive trips including bird watching, nature walks, boat rides, village and farm visits, handicrafts, and tea tours . Grass Hills Tours and Travels is also a reputable company that specializes in local nature and wildlife tourism. Try to catch the annual Kongu Nadu Cattle Festival, held in January. Stay at Coco Lagoon Resort , or the cheaper Coconut County Farm Stay.

Tiruchirappalli

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Tiruchirappalli (commonly called Trichy) is among the oldest inhabited cities in Tamil Nadu. Its ancient and diverse history can be traced as far back as the Early Chola Dynasty in the 3rd century BC. The city has had about 10 different rulers who have left their mark on it, including the British. However, it really flourished in the 16th century, when it was part of the Madurai Nayak kingdom. The eclectic attractions include an old fort, temples, churches, and markets.

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32 Top Tourist and Pilgrimage Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

If you want to explore the diverse aspects of the South Indian state , the plethora of treasures opens in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu, a state in the Southern part of India, has plenty of places to visit in Tamilnadu that no matter how you plan your trip, it will be an eventful and happening trip.

The state extends its tourists a fortune to experience all kinds of adventures. From Asia’s longest beach to some cool hill stations, where you can enjoy your vacations in nature’s lap in all weather conditions. Not only to treat your eyes with some beautiful sceneries, but Tamil Nadu also has a lot of treasure to provide you inner peace. It is an excellent Pilgrimage destination with plenty of temples presenting the rich culture and vibrant life of South India.

If you are a shopaholic, just step out of any temple and enter the city, the shopkeepers are waiting for you. The variety of some of the best silk sarees, decorative items, handicraft, stonework items, and wooden work items; there are plenty of options to shop.

Tourist Places to visit in Tamilnadu

There are numerous tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu, offering you beaches with the blue sea in the backdrop of palm trees, a road-trip on the smooth East Coast Road (ECR), tranquil hill stations far away from the coastal reason to give you some reprieve from the hot weather in summers, and temples and churches that are marvels of architecture to give you inner peace and reduce stress. Every place in Tamil Nadu has something to offer to visitors and travelers.

If you wish to feel the true Tamil culture and douse into its savoir-faire clubbed with a solid cutting edge cosmopolitan impact, a visit to Chennai must be included in the list of places to visit in Tamilnadu. From praying at some of the famous historical holy pilgrimage places to going for a comfortable walk at the longest seashore in Asia, the city makes you relive the days of history at its many historical places. The visit through Chennai will leave you requesting more.

Kanchipuram

The Golden City of Thousand Temples, Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, is an ideal tourist destination for pilgrims and history lovers. The Pilgrims can have the best time exploring the temple city, but nature lovers and history fans can enjoy the forts and sanctuaries in Kanchipuram.

Kanyakumari

If you love traveling, Kanyakumari is the ideal place for you. A pilgrim, nature lover, traveling with family, or a solo traveler; no matter who you are, you will love visiting this coastal city in Tamil Nadu. The destination presents picture-perfect sunsets, fascinating full-moon nights, delicious sea-food, walk on the beach with the beautiful blue sea around while holding your loved one’s hand, or enjoy the thrill to see the southern end of India.

Kodaikanal is one of the popular tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. It is an ideal place for tired people looking for a break from their monotonous life. You can plan for a solo trip to enjoy some time in peace, go for a family vacation, or plan for your honeymoon; Kodaikanal will not let you down with plenty of options to have fun.

A small town showing its visitors the true colors of Tamil culture. With many famous temples and churches, busy and small streets, and colorful markets; Madurai is a must visit place in Tamil Nadu.

Thousands of travelers visit Ooty to relax in the hills and escape from the soaring temperature in the summers. Right from lakes, to mountain viewpoints to trekking trails, waterfalls, churches, and temples; the choices for places to visit in Ooty are numerous.

Chidambaram

With the mangrove forest around the city, waterways, exotic birds to watch, seafood, and outstanding architecture of the temples; Chidambaram gives a mix of both spirituality and nature to its tourist.

Astonishing waterfalls, temples, and other places; there is something to embrace in this small tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. A trip to Courtallam leaves a never-fading memory in the heart and mind of every visitor. The people rightly call this place as ‘Spa of South India’, which is situated in the Western ghats of India.

Dharampuri was previously known as Thagadur, the name in Tamil, which means iron place. It is an oasis to kill the thirst of pilgrims, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. There are plenty of tourist places to see in Dharampuri; churches, temples, waterfalls, and picnic spots.

The seventh-largest urban cluster in the state, after Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Salem, and Tirunelveli. A bustling city on the banks of the Bhavani and Cauvery rivers. The city is famous for the turmeric and textile industry. If you are missing something in your wardrobe or there are one missing essential ingredients in your dish, head towards Erode.

Krishnagiri

Chandira Choodeswarar Temple, Shree Parshwa Padmavathi Shaktipeet Tirth Dham, Shree Venkateshwara Swamy temple, Dakshina Tirupati, Sri Kattu Veera Anjaneya Temple, and Krishnagiri Reservoir Dam or KRP Dam are some of the major tourist attractions in Krishnagiri. The land of black stones or Black Mountain as the literal meaning of the name Krishnagiri, the travelers have a lot of options to enjoy nature and get some time in peace.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a small town in the Chengalpattu district in Tamil Nadu. At a distance of just 56 km on the ECR, Mahabalipuram is a perfect picnic spot to spend a Sunday with your family or friends. With many architectural wonders, the town is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nagapattinam

If you want to take a sunbathe, walking on the beach, or playing with the seawater; then Nagapattinam welcomes you with the warm sand and blue water of the Bay of Bengal.

The city is famous for the textile and technology hub of South India. The city still admires a lot of travelers visiting South India. This hill station is a perfect mixture of tradition and modern lifestyle and one of the most visited places in South India. The Noyyal river flowing with cool water and Nilgiri hills in the background forms a picture-perfect scenery. There is no doubt that it is a paradise and an ideal tourist place for nature lovers.

Vellore is a majestic town having numerous historical monuments and pilgrimage sites. It is one of the most sought tourist places in Tamilnadu and is famous as the Fort City of Tamil Nadu. The city was once home to numerous great dynasties, such as the Pallavas, Cholas, Carnatic Empire, and the Vijayanagar Kingdom. Vellore has various historical monuments, religious sites, and hill stations.

Even after knowing that they have to cross the snake-shaped roads, the tourists keep trooping in to explore the charming sights of Yercaud. This hill station contains a lot in its bucket, from some family time well spent at Deer Park, sightseeing at Arthur Seat, and visiting Beer caves, to spending some cool time on a picnic at Yercaud lake.

The land famous for its mention in the Hindu epic Ramayana, Rameswaram is the prominent Pilgrimage destination of Tamil Nadu. The famous Pamban Bridge, Ramanathaswamy temple where lord Ram after his victory in Lanka offered prayers to Lord Shiva, ruins of religious shrines, and miles of shorelines; Rameshwaram is definitely worth a visit to all kind of travelers.

Other Lesser-known Tourist Places to visit in Tamilnadu

Tamil Nadu is full of surprises with pocket full of pilgrimage sights, beautiful beaches, and lovely trails across Nigiri hills and Western Ghats; there are a bag full of tourist places to visit in Tamilnadu. The below list is curated of the places which are lesser known to most of the world, but offers a lot to their visitors. If you are thinking or planning a trip to South India, you must include these places in your list of places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

• Virudhunagar
• Tirunelveli
• Thoothukudi
• Tiruchirappalli
• Thiruvannamalai
• Pudukkottai

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19 Best places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

Enchanting Tamil Nadu is the epitome of ancient culture and heritage co-existing with modern infrastructure.

This beautiful state of south India is the proud home of several Indian luminaries like Nobel laureate CV Raman, World Chess champion Vishwanathan Anand, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam and many more.

For tourists, this is one of the best states to visit in India.

In this post I bring to you the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu from my own travel diaries as well as from fellow bloggers who share this love for the Dravidian state.

My Favorite Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is full of wonders – natural and man-made. Places like Mahabalipuram and Thanjavur are studded with UNESCO heritage monuments, while the Nilgiri Railways, Pamban bridge are examples of modern engineering excellence.

With the Western Ghats on the West and Eastern Ghats on the east, one can just keep exploring hill-forests in Tamil Nadu forever. Here are my all-time favorite destinations of Tamil Nadu which I would love to visit again and again.

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The post contains affiliate links for tours, hotels etc. This means if you make any purchase through the links in the post, I may get a commission without any additional cost to you.

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Dhanushkodi – A visual spectacle

Dhanushkodi is my most favorite tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. Located at the southern tip of Rameshwaram island, it was called the Ghost town of India. That is because the town that was once a trading hotspot for Sri Lanka (then called Ceylon) and India , was ravaged by a cyclone.

Following this, it was declared uninhabitable and most people , barring a few families left the town. Today tourism has breathed in new life and ushered a new ray of hope in Dhanushkodi . The crystal clear waters that change colors throughout the day, the vast clean beaches, the coastal woods and ruins of the past charms everyone who visits.

Dhanushkodi is not your usual tourist destination and does not have hotels to stay in. The entry to Dhanushkodi is closed at 6pm every day. 

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Kolukkumalai – The Pristine Nature

My second most favorite place in Tamil Nadu lies far from the sea, at the top of the hills of Western Ghats. This is Kolukkumalai , the highest organic tea garden in the world. It also boasts of one of the oldest active tea factories in India.

The cool weather, natural streams and vibrant vistas of green and blue fills the soul with pure happiness. You can take a trip to the Kolukkumalai tea estate either by a jeep from the tea garden or by trekking 9 km to the tea factory. Besides the tea estate you can also drive along the hills and explore the bountiful nature. To visit Kolukkumalai, Munnar is the best place to book your stay.

To visit Kolukkumalai, the best place to search for accommodation is in Chinnakanal, Kerala .

Rameshwaram – Architectural wonders

Rameshwaram is the holy land of Hindus – one of the biggest pilgrimage sites for the worshippers of Sri Ram. With pristine beaches, ancient heritage sites and modern architectural marvels – this is a must visit place in Tamil Nadu. Rameshwaram is in fact an island which is connected to mainland India through the first Sea-link of India – Pamban Bridge. Also called the Rameshwaram bridge, it is a marvel of modern engineering.

Mandappam is the last town in mainland India before you land on to the Rameshwaram bridge. Even this place is dotted with great beaches, the most famous of them being the Kushi beach. Rameshwaram is also home to the spectacular Ramnathaswamy temple. The quaint island is also the birthplace of late APJ Abdul Kalam, an eminent scientist and the most loved president of India.

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Mahabalipuram – The land of Pallavas

The next on my list is Mahabalipuram – a treasure trove of heritage monuments. Also called Mamallapuram, it is a historic town on the Coromandel coast which was the seat of the great 7th-century Pallava dynasty. It is associated with many ancient Hindu legends, which is probably why the Pallavas commissioned so many rock-cut temples here.

There are around 40 exquisite architectural masterpieces here, some of which are honored as UNESCO world heritage sites. The Shore temple, Pancharathas and Arjuna’s penance are my favorites. The views of the sea from the top of the cave temple complex is unworldly. Watching the sunrise at Mahabalipuram beach adjacent to the shore temple is a mesmerizing experience.

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Pondicherry – The French Meets Indian

Pondicherry is actually an union territory, politically independent from Tamil Nadu. But geographically and culturally it is in Tamil Nadu , for an average tourist. From culinary delights, to throbbing beaches, to heritage sites from the French colonial era as well as old Hindu temples – the city has it all. It’s officially called Puducherry, but the anglicized name from colonial era is still more popular. My favorite part of Pondicherry is the long wide promenade speckled with beautiful sculptures, wall art and cafe’s.

Pondicherry is a city that is best explored on foot or on a cycle. You can visit the museums, the old catholic churches, the botanical garden, Aurobindo Ashram – all in a walking tour. The food of Pondicherry is also a special attraction. The amalgamation of French and south India flavors lend a unique character to the local food.

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Kodaikanal – Queen of Hills in the South

Kodaikanal – the queen of hills in South India is a precious natural gem of Tamil Nadu. It’s one of the most popular weekend getaways for the IT crowd of Bangalore and Chennai. And why wouldn’t it be? Temperate weather all over the year, opulent green valleys, captivating scenes of mountain peaks playing hide and seek behind the clouds, treks through pine forests – what more does the heart seek?

When in Kodaikanal you will find cottage stays for all budget range. You will feel like stopping your car at every hairpin belt to marvel at the natural beauty. Croaker’s walk, Kodaikanal lake, silent valley view point, Guna caves, Byrant are some of the most popular places for all kinds of tourists. For adventure you can undertake trek to the Dolphin’s Nose, Vattakanal falls and other hidden spots.

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Coonoor is a quiet hill station in the Nilgiris tucked away from the crowd of Ooty and Kodaikanal. Coonoor is best known for the Nilgiri toy train, which also happens to be a UNESCO heritage site. The train line built on the Nilgiris is quiet a marvel. It will take you through the scenic tea gardens and valleys of the picturesque town. It’s a great place to visit for a leisure holiday with family, on honeymoon or with friends for adventure.

The Sim’s Park, the famous tea estates, treks to the hidden valley, Law’s falls are some of the best things to do in Coonoor. When in Coonoor don’t forget to take a trip to a tea factory and the heritage Indian Bakery to try out some delicacies there.

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Top recommendations from Travel Bloggers

Now I give it up to the amazing travel bloggers who pitched in with their favorite places in Tamil Nadu. These are some stunning places that surely made into my bucket-list for future. All the amazing photos here are presented by the bloggers who contributed to this.

Thanjavur – The Land of Cholas

Excerpt and Photo by Mohana and Aninda – Two Together

Located in Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur was the seat of the Cholas, the Nayaks, and the Marathas. The iconic attraction is the magnificent Brihadeshwara Temple, one of the three great living Chola temples (the other two being the Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram and the Airavatesvara Temple), whose intricate carvings narrate the religious and social traditions of the Chola kingdom. All three temples are UNESCO heritage sites.

Don’t miss the Maratha Palace on your trip to Thanjavur ; the gorgeous Durbar Hall with its vibrant frescoes draws artists and travelers from around the world. At the Saraswati Mahal library, you can see some of the world’s oldest manuscript, including a book of recipes written in the forgotten “Modi” script. Thanjavur is also the birthplace of Carnatic music and one of the major styles of Bharatnatyam; if you can attend a performance, consider yourself lucky!

If you travel to eat, Thanjavur won’t disappoint you. From Thanjavur-style biriyani, dosa and idli, and Ashoka halwa (a moong dal halwa named after a nearby town) to spicy Chettinad-style preparations, the local cuisine will leave you wanting more.

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Madurai – Old is Gold

Excerpt and Photo by Ellis Veen – Backpack Adventures

Madurai is India’s oldest continuously inhabited city. It is mostly famous because of the Meenakshi temple , but there are many more reasons to visit. Madurai is a city soaked in history and culture and also has incredible food on top of that.

Madurai’s bustling and colorful bazaars are where history and modern culture go hand in hand. Silk, cotton and jasmine flowers are sold among the sturdy remains of ancient temple architecture. The locals are rightly proud of their city and there are excellent walking tours as well as food tours available.

The Madurai Meenakshi temple will be one of the most impressive temples you have seen in India. It is a huge complex of high walls, gateways, carvings, paintings and inner sanctums. You will without doubt get lost among the more than 30,000 sculptures. Something new will amaze you at every corner and a visit to the Madurai temple can easily take up your whole day.

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Kanyakumari – The Southern Tip

Excerpt and photo by Neha – Travel Melodies

Located at the southernmost tip of India, in the state of Tamil Nadu is this famous coastal town of Kanyakumari. It is a popular religious and tourist destination. It is home to the ‘Triveni Sangam’ – the confluence of three seas- Arabian sea, Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. It is also considered auspicious to take bath in this holy water.

It is a sight to behold watching both the sunrise and sunset at the Kanyakumari beach with only the waters, monuments and the horizon within your sight. This one sure is a magical experience that can only be felt. 

Besides being a famous tourist spot it is also an important pilgrim place. Kanyakumari is named after Devi Kanya Kumari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi. There is an interesting story associated with it. In order to honor her, there is Bhagavathy Amman  temple, beloved to be 3000 year old. The temple has fixed timings and also gets closed during afternoon, so make sure to check the timings.

Other major attractions in Kanyakumari , are the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue, both on islands off the shore. It is believed that Swami Vivekananda attained enlightenment on this rock. Thiruvalluvar statue is a 41 meter tall stone sculpture of the famous Tamil poet and scholar. Both the islands are accessible by state run ferries that have a nominal ticket for a to and fro trip.

Hotels in Kanyakumari

Tiruvannamalai – The abode of Shiva

By Sarah Carter – A Social Nomad

The city of Tiruvannamalai is located in the shadow of Arunachala mountain and is one of the 5 elemental cities of Shiva in South India. It is a place of pilgrimage and many come from afar on foot to here. Tiruvannamalai pilgrims walk what’s called the Giravalam, which is a purifying ritual and is usually done barefoot. It involves circling the base of Arunachala, visiting the 8 linga along the 14-kilometre route, on tarmac roads with little road traffic to worry about its thirsty work.

The temple at the centre of Tiruvannamalai is another reason to visit – Arunachaleswarar is one of the largest in India, measuring 10 hectares with four stunning gopurams marking the entrances. Some parts of the temple date back to the 9 th century. Arunachala itself, the “mountain” is just 800 meters high but also another hike with a viewpoint of the local area. Tiruvannamalai is off the beaten track and all the most interesting to visit for it.

Hotels in Thiruvannamalai

Valparai Hill Station

Other beautiful places in Tamil Nadu

It’s a little odd to not include Ooty on the list right at the beginning. While these don’t feature on my top 5 list, they are no less beautiful. 

Who does not know about Ooty? It was the most featured destination in Hindi movies before Bollywood got obsessed with Switzerland. Ooty is probably the most famous tourist destination of Tamil Nadu. This kind of makes a weekend trip to Ooty an underwhelming experience because of the over-commercialization and over-crowded tourist spots.

If you truly want to enjoy Ooty, slow down. Book a homestay or resort away from the tourist zones and explore the enchanting small town. That doesn’t mean you should miss out on the highlights. The popular family spots in Ooty are the Boat Park, the botanical garden which hosts a flower show in May, Dodabetta peak and Avalanche lake. Unfortunately, because of the fame the places are crowded throughout the year.

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Chennai is the capital of TamilNadu and one of the four original metropolitan cities of India. Sitting on the Coromandel Coast the city is bustling with culture and heritage along with modern highways, theme parks and other amenities of an international city. It was called Detroit of India because of the large number of automobile firms that grew here.

The most famous beach of Chennai is the Marina Beach, a place where you can spend the whole day wandering. When in Chennai you can also stroll around the Eliiot's Beach or visit the clean and offbeat ECR beach on the outskirts. There are a plethora of monuments like visit St George fort , cathedrals and temples to marvel at in Chennai. You can also consider visit to the amusement parks with family and take amazing day trips to places like Mahabalipuram or Pulicat Lake.

Hotels in Chennai

Mudumalai National Park

Mudumalai National Park, also known as Masinagudi is one of the largest tiger reserves of India. Besides tigers, these dense forests are home to giant elephants, antelopes and many indigenous species of the Western Ghats .  Living in a cottage in the forests amidst deer and peacocks , and going on a tiger safari is an experience of a lifetime.

Check out the best places for Jungle Safari in India .

Yercaud is a little town in Tamil Nadu that developed around a resplendent lake surrounded by forests. Yeri means “lake” and Kaddu means “forest” – what an apt name isn’t it? This is one of the most beautiful hill stations in the Eastern Ghats of India. Filled with beautiful lakes, forests, nature-parks and colonial English houses, Yercaud is indeed a gem. You can drive to Yercaud through the 32-km loop road with numerous harpin turns along the mountains. That itself will introduce you the the bountiful nature of Yercaud.

When in Yercaud, a visit to the Emerald Lake, the lake from which the town derives its name is a must. Around the Yercaud lake there are a plethora of parks and gardens. See the sunrise on the Eastern Ghats from the Pagoda point, explore the English architecture in Montfort school, Norton’s Bunglow and other old houses in the streets. Trek to the Killyur falls, and Shevaroy temples and end your day with a magical sunset at the Lady’s seat.

Hotels in Yercaud

Auroville is an experimental city based on the vision of Rishi Aurobindo Ghosh and Mirra Alfassa, fondly remembered as the Mother. The residents of this city have no religion, no nationality, no race that divides humanity. Located right off Pondicherry, Auroville is however a separate city, and a different world all together. The experimental city pans across 20 square kilometers and is an international township. People from all over the world live and work there renouncing their nationality , religion and everything that divides humanity.

Tourists can book rooms at very affordable prices to stay and enjoy Auroville. Or they can just explore it on a day trip on foot or on a cycle. Large trees abound the city providing the much needed shade from the scorching sun. There is a theatre where you will be invited to see a short film on Auroville. Then you can walk to the Matrimandir revelling at the nature around you. Entry to Matrimandir is restricted only to people who have booked meditation sessions.

French Colony of Pondicherry and Auroville

Gingee is an ancient fortified town located in Villupuram district in Tamil Nadu. It’s surrounded by three lofty citadels which you can explore on a day trip from Pondicherry. Rajagiri, Krishnagiri and Chandrayandurg – these three together made Gingee an impregnable fortress in the medieval ages. It is located 60 km from Pondicherry and 150km from Chennai. It’s a fantastic day trip destination for families and history-lovers from either of the cities.

It is believed that the Jains built the Gingee fort 1800 years ago and lived there till 5th century AD. After that it was subsequently captured and extended by the Pallavas, the Cholas, the Nayakas, the Marathas , the Mughals, the French and the British! The British called it the Troy of the East. The forts are in ruins now but still magnificent enough to remind you of the past glory.

Hogenekkal falls is wide plunge formed by the Kaveri River in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. It is a charming perennial waterfall and one of the most popular one day trip from Bangalore , despite its distance. You can also take a coracle or boat ride in the river here.

So this was my tribute to the great Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Have you visited the state? What is it you loved about it? Do let me know your thoughts in the comments section. Please share the post and subscribe to our email-list if you liked it. Stay safe and travel later.

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14 Comments

Impressive list. Have been to a few places from the list. It inspires me to go back to Tamil Nadu and explore the others. Would def love to visit and Mudumalai National Park.

Thanks Nehaim sure you’ll enjoy the safari

That is quite an imposing list. I have been to a few places out of these. However, Pondicherry is one place I would like to visit again and again.

Thanks. Yes Pondicherry has a very easy vibe

I’ve been to Chennai, Pondicherry, and Auroville. That was my first time in South India and I was really surprised by how different it felt from the north. It almost felt like home, because we do have a lot of South Indian communities in our country. I would really love to experience more of Tamil Nadu.

Thanks a lot. You should really explore the heritage sites of Tamil Nadu next time and the beautiful hill stations

Excellent list! We were planning a trip to the hill stations of Tamil Nadu– Kodaikanal, Kolukkumalai, Valparai, all look amazing– when the pandemic began last year. Hopefully, soon this will all be over and we all can go exploring again.

I was just going through thinking you would have left some place. But you have covered all the important places of TN

thanks a lot for reading.

Brilliant coverage Sanjana. Kumbakonam is a temple town revered by the Hindus for the various famous temples including the Airaatheeswarar temple. Home of the degree coffee a myth I discovered is not due to the coffee but by the milk and the whole process of the filter coffee.

Thanks a lot! I did not know about this amazing place. Should certainly add to my bucketlist.

I have been to most of the places mentioned in this post. And it is such a nice feeling to have. My favorite is Pondicherry and Chennai. Rameshwaram is next on the list.

Thanks for reading. Rameshwaram is amazing

Its blogs describe the beauty of Tamil Nadu . All the places are very beautiful.

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Explore 13 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu

Updated on: January 18, 2024

Nikhil Tiwari

Hello Readers! I am Nikhil, As a dedicated SEO content writer at Travelothon, I craft engaging travel articles. I am fond of traveling and learning new things. Besides this, I am pursuing Bachelors of Journalism & Mass Communications.

Welcome to Tamil Nadu, a land of rich history and natural beauty. Situated in the southern region of India, Tamil Nadu offers an unforgettable experience to travelers. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the most enchanting top places to visit in Tamilnadu. Let Tamil Nadu’s magic captivate your soul on this journey of discovery.

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Tourist Places To Visit In Tamilnadu. Hotspots Are Waiting

8 famous places to visit in tamilnadu.

Chennai is one of the best places to visit in Tamilnadu that offers a true depiction of the South Indian lifestyle. Boasting an array of beautiful temples, churches, and beaches, Chennai has something for everyone.

From the famous Marina Beach to historical museums and the ancient Kapaleeshwara temple, there are numerous places to explore in this unique city. If you have an interest in culture, history, or art, a visit to Chennai should definitely be on your list!

• How to reach Chennai? The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA). It is approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the city center.
• What is Chennai famous for? Chennai is famous for its cultural heritage, classical dance and music, beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and thriving film industry (Tollywood).
• Best time to visit Chennai: The best time to visit Chennai is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant.

Pondicherry

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a vibrant Union Territory steeped in French culture and architecture. It is an ideal destination for explorers and beach lovers, with plenty of romantic spots to explore.

With easy travel options from Chennai, it is a popular choice for those seeking to relax and rejuvenate on its beautiful beaches.

• How to reach Pondicherry? The nearest airport to Pondicherry is Puducherry Airport, also known as Puducherry Civil Aviation, located about 6 kilometers from the city center.
• What is Pondicherry famous for? Puducherry is famous for its unique blend of French and Indian culture. The town still retains its French influence through its architecture, cuisine, and lifestyle.
• Best time to visit Pondicherry : The ideal time to visit Pondicherry is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Hogenakkal, situated in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu, stands as a picturesque tourist destination renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls. This charming village attracts visitors seeking romantic getaways, short family vacations, or unique trips with friends.

“Hogenakkal” means “smoking rock” and refers to the mist and spray that rises as the River Kaveri cascades through rocky terrain to create the magnificent Hogenakkal Falls, also known as the “Niagara of India.” Hogenakkal is a great place to visit in Tamilnadu with friends.

• How to reach Hogenakkal? The nearest railway station to Hogenakkal is Dharmapuri Railway Station, approximately 46 kilometers away.
• What is Hogenakkal famous for? Hogenakkal is famously known as the “Niagara of India” due to its stunning waterfall, which is formed by the Kaveri River.
• Best time to visit Hogenakkal : The best time to visit Hogenakkal is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the waterfalls and engaging in boat rides.

Trichy, a city in Tamil Nadu, offers a variety of attractions that can be explored over a weekend. Ancient temples and colonial-era churches are among the notable landmarks. Trichy offers a massive temple that attracts devotees and history enthusiasts.

Climbing to the top of the Rockfort Ucchi Pillayar Temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. This beautiful city is an ideal place to visit in Tamilnadu with family.

• How to reach Trichy? Trichy is well-connected by road with excellent road networks. National Highway 38 and National Highway 83 pass through the city, making it accessible by bus or car.
• What is Trichy famous for? Trichy is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city is famous for the iconic Rockfort Temple.
• Best time to visit Trichy : The best time to visit Trichy is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the city’s attractions.

Vellore is an ancient city in Tamil Nadu, known for its premier institutions – Christain Medical College and Vellore Institute of Technology. The city is named Fort City due to the enchanting fort in the heart of the city. There are great hotels in Vellore where you can stay, making it an excellent place to visit in Tamil Nadu.

• How to reach Vellore? The nearest airport to Vellore is the Vellore Airport (also known as Vellore Civil Aerodrome) which is approximately 12 kilometers from the city center.
• What is Vellore famous for? The city is famous for the Vellore Fort, a 16th-century fort complex known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
• Best time to visit Vellore : The best time to visit Vellore is during the winter months, from November to February.

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Yanam is a charming city in Puducherry, India with a rich history and culture. Enjoy views of the sunrise and sunset from the viewpoint, and visit holy temples and old churches with French architecture. It is also a great base for exploring nearby honeymoon destinations in Tamil Nadu.

• How to reach Yanam? The nearest airport to Yanam is Rajahmundry Airport, which is approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Yanam.
• What is Yanam famous for? The city is famous for its beautiful beaches, the Yanam River, historical architecture, and its serene atmosphere making it a popular tourist destination.
• Best time to visit Yanam : The best time to visit Yanam is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.

Chettinad, near Madurai, is a hidden gem renowned for its ancient mansions, tasty meat curries, and rich heritage. With plenty of places to explore and dishes to relish, it is a foodie’s paradise and a top tourist destination in Tamil Nadu.

• How to reach Chettinad? The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, about 90 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Chettinad.
• What is Chettinad famous for? Chettinad is famous for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Chettinad cuisine like idiyappam, paniyaram, chicken chettinad and remarkable architecture.
• Best time to visit Chettinad : The best time to visit Chettinad is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for exploring the heritage homes and enjoying the local cuisine.

Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, renowned as one of Tamil Nadu’s most exotic destinations, entices experience-seekers with its rich blend of art, architecture, and local cuisine. This mesmerizing place boasts a plethora of attractions that vividly reflect its culture and history.

From ancient temples showcasing intricate architecture to delicious local cuisine, every aspect of Kanyakumari leaves visitors spellbound.

• How to reach Kanyakumari? Kanyakumari is well-connected by road. It is about 90 km from Trivandrum and about 240 km from Madurai. Bus services and taxis are available from nearby cities.
• What is Kanyakumari famous for? Kanyakumari is famous for being the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, where the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean meet. It is also known for the Vivekanand Rock Memorial.
• Best time to visit Kanyakumari : The best time to visit Kanyakumari is during the winter months, from October to February.

Top 5 Historical Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

Mahabalipuram.

Famous for its elaborate temple carvings and ancient caves, Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu stands as a captivating gem. The city boasts stunning beaches, awe-inspiring architecture, a pleasant climate, and provides a rejuvenating experience for all types of tourists.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahabalipuram is a treasure trove of ancient architectural wonders. The renowned Shore Temple, dating back to the 7th century, stands proudly by the sea, reflecting the architectural prowess of the Pallava dynasty.

• How to reach Mahabalipuram? The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 56 kilometers away.
• What is Mahabalipuram famous for? Mahabalipuram is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing ancient rock-cut temples and monuments dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
• Best time to visit Mahabalipuram : The best time to visit Mahabalipuram is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities

Amongst the top tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur stands out as a hub of diverse experiences. This temple city gains renown for its rich cultural offerings, encompassing a wide array of art, history, and craftsmanship.

Thanjavur, also known as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu.” It bears a deep historical imprint, known for its significant contributions to art and architecture during the Chola dynasty.

• How to reach Thanjavur? Thanjavur is well-connected by road. National Highway 67 passes through the city, making it accessible by bus, taxi, or private car.
• What is Thanjavur famous for? Thanjavur is famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, an excellent example of Dravidian architecture, holds renown as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Best time to visit Thanjavur :

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, the Golden City of a thousand temples, is famous for its Kanchipuram sarees and awe-inspiring South Indian architecture. Its grand temples, such as the Kailasanathar and Ekambareswarar temples, showcase intricate carvings and are a testament to the city’s rich heritage.

• How to reach Kanchipuram? Kanchipuram is accessible by road. National Highway 48 passes through the city, making it accessible by bus, taxi, or private car.
• What is Kanchipuram famous for? Kanchipuram is famous for being the “Golden City of a thousand temples”. It is also famous for its beautiful ‘Kanchipuram sarees’
• Best time to visit Kanchipuram : It is advisable to plan your visit during the winter months for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

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Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu is a large city known for its industrial strength, textile heritage, and natural beauty. It boasts stunning waterfalls, such as the picturesque Siruvani Waterfalls, which offer a serene escape from the urban hustle.

• How to reach Coimbatore? Coimbatore International Airport is the nearest airport, about 11 km away. Travelers can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Coimbatore from the airport.
• What is Coimbatore famous for? The city is embraced by the Western Ghats, showcasing stunning natural beauty with lush hills, waterfalls, and reserves like the Valparai Hills and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
• Best time to visit Coimbatore : The best time to visit Coimbatore is during the winter months, from October to March.

Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai, nestled by Mount Arunachala, holds spiritual significance. It is one of the most silent places and an ideal retreat for seekers of peace. The practice of circumambulating the mountain, known as Girivalam, draws pilgrims seeking divine blessings and inner peace.

• How to reach Tiruvannamalai? National Highway 77 passes through the city, making it accessible by bus, taxi, or private car.
• What is Tiruvannamalai famous for? Tiruvannamalai is famous for being home to one of the most famous and revered spiritual destinations in Tamil Nadu, Mount Arunachala.
• Best time to visit Tiruvannamalai : The best time to visit Tiruvannamalai is during the winter months, from November to February.

Exploring the ‘Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu’ is an exhilarating journey through a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Tamil Nadu offers a diverse palette of experiences. Let the charm of this southern jewel captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your traveler’s heart. Plan your visit!

Suggested Reads: Beaches In Tamilnadu

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Must-visit places in Tamil Nadu include the ancient Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, the picturesque hill station Ooty, the historic Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, the spiritual town of Rameswaram, and the vibrant Marina Beach in Chennai.

The ideal time to visit Tamil Nadu is during the winter months, from November to February when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor exploration.

Tamil Nadu stands out for its rich cultural heritage, diverse geography offering beaches, hills, and forests, traditional art forms, and delectable cuisine, making it a unique and comprehensive travel destination.

Travel within Tamil Nadu is convenient through a well-connected network of buses, trains, and taxis, providing easy access to various destinations across the state.

Tamil Nadu’s temples hold immense cultural and spiritual significance, often showcasing splendid Dravidian architecture and serving as key pilgrimage sites for devotees and tourists alike.

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Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

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Tourist Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Here is a list of places to visit in tamil nadu:.

Buzzing streets, stunning heritage temples, shopping arcades, and striking beaches are the elements that certainly allure the travel enthusiasts to visit Chennai. Located on the coast of Southeastern India, Chennai is one of the biggest cities in Tamil Nadu. It is also home to thriving technology, which makes it one of the largest IT parks in Asia. With Pondicherry and Mahabalipuram in its vicinity, it is pacing up as the cultural hub of India. This city has truly preserved its charisma all through its journey of becoming Chennai from Madras. Chennai is widely recognized for its bold flavors, warm hospitality, and colorful culture that never fails to impress the travelers. Whether you’re seeking for spiritual bliss, party frenzy atmosphere or mind boggling fun activities Chennai has so much in store for the tourists that it offers something for everyone. You can marvel at the beautiful expanse of the world famous Marina Beach or you can engage into the trekking activities that are organized close to the waterfalls. You can also buy souvenirs from the shopping arcades and try the lip smacking cuisines of Chennai to make your entire trip memorable. The magnificently built temples of Chennai also attract tourists to visit this city.  Chennai is not only the city of beaches and temples. This city offers you the provision to fly in the vast sky and sail in the water currents through the expansive sea. If you’re daring and have enough courage then get tied to the harness and jump from the highest mountain peak. Yes paragliding is a must try thrilling activity over here. Apart from this several other adrenaline rushing activities like river rafting, surfing and scuba diving are lined up for the tourists in Chennai. You can also indulge into rock climbing and camping session to test your adventurous streak.  The ideal time to visit Chennai is the winter and pre-monsoon season between February and October. During this time of the year, the weather is quite pleasant, which gives you a chance to explore this city at its best. Summers can be scorching and intensely harsh as the temperature rises up to 40 degrees Celsius, so it’s best not to visit Chennai during this season. During the winter season, the temperature hovers between 20-25 degrees Celsius and cool breezes flow from the sea, providing relief from the otherwise humid weather. The months between September to July constitute the monsoon season, which is accompanied by strong winds and heavy rainfall.

From nature walks in gardens that makes one wonder whether Paradise, as depicted in scriptures of various cultures, have actually been derived from such sensory experiences to relaxing over a cup of tea from the tea plantations dotting the hillside, only to realize most humbly of nature’s gifts as a bountiful provider, the tourist places in Ooty can be expected to resuscitate the soul, depleted of its spiritual reserves through the trials of everyday existence. 

Ooty, once the summer capital of Madras Presidency under the British, can be safely regarded as “India’s Switzerland”. John Sullivan, the then collector of Coimbatore had noted the same in his elaborate report on the region, way back in the 19th century. After independence, Ooty was developed into a major tourist destination and understandably so, given its qualification for the same, owing to nature’s abundant blessings in terms of climate, scenic splendour, local sights and sounds, its wealth of birds and beasts and of course its homegrown beverages of tea and coffee.

The majestic “Queen of the Hills” forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, reputed for its fragile and exquisite ecosystem. In the ecological parlance, it is best known as a “hotspot”, the label justifying the designation of the section of the Western Ghats as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ooty has been developed to offer a rare glimpse to tourists of the essence of the rest of the reserve, much of which are out of bounds as part of conservation efforts.

The wooded hills of the Western Ghats with its canopy of unkempt, untouched shola vegetation interspersed with maintained and cultivated tea gardens offer a rare view of the symbiotic existence of man and nature where one can see and learn what sustainable use of natural resources should ideally look like. The botanical garden and rose garden curate much of the bounty of nature at Ooty to mesmerizing effect. One has to see the tourist places in Ooty it to believe in the gifts of life, otherwise often conveniently overlooked.

• Pondicherry

A love child of the French and Indian cultures, Pondicherry (Pudducherry) is a beach-side union territory located in Tamil Nadu. Previously until 1954, Pondicherry was French settlement. Now the old Bouganvellia-draped French-style houses, churches and even the newly built French-style shops, bright coloured cafes and restaurants give Pondicherry an exotic character to it.   

This French capital of India will definitely make you feel like you are someplace out of India when you visit places like the Rock Beach, Pondicherry Beach, Serenity Beach or the Botanical Gardens. And the best place to see Pondicherry with the same notion is to visit Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram where people from all over the world come to seek spirituality through yoga and meditation. 

Pondicherry is such a place, which will never cease to surprise you with its unique style. There are several cafes and restaurants that serve impeccable French cuisine along with some lip-smacking international cuisines as well. As a popular beach-town, Pondicherry also offers you with the amazing nightlife through numerous clubs and beach-parties offering great music and delicious cocktails. There is so much to do and explore here, that you will not want to go back and experience more and more of this quaint French town of India. 

Kodaikanal, the princess of hill station, is mainly known for being honeymoon destinations among other places in India. This is the most suitable and beautiful destination in the south of India because of its scenic beauty which leaves the visitors awestruck with memorable experiences.The meaning of tourist places in Kodaikanal is the gift of the forest and it contains some dense forest with enormous varieties of trees, enchanting waterfalls and huge rocks. Situated in the hills of Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu, the Kodaikanal contains a huge history as a retreat and popular tourist destination. There are many locals name that are given to this beautiful town, but the most popular is “place to see in summer”.The queen of mountain destinations is also known as the “gift of God” because of its gifted lakes and hills.The beautiful place of Kodaikanal welcomes you with a fall in the temperature accompanied by scenic beauty. The Switzerland of the east is home to varieties of adventures and exciting things to do and places to visit. Kodaikanal, the town of romance, gives you a new feeling every time you go sightseeing to different places with its pure and untouched nature’s beauty and makes you feel a step closer to the glory of Mother Nature. Kodaikanal attracts a huge number of tourists and travellers along with adventurers both national and international every year. The king of romantic places, Kodaikanal is one of the best places to visit in the south region. We all know Tamil Nadu is the king of South India and hence the town of Kodaikanal adds a little more litter into its glory. The town is not only just meant for newly married couples but also you can visit the tourist places in Kodaikanal town with your family and enjoy the various sports and adventure provided by this mesmerizing and beautiful town.

The beautiful hill station of Yelagiri is situated in the Vellore district of the Tamil Nadu state, off the Vaniyambadi Tirupattur road. The Yelagiri village, also sometimes spelled as the Elagiri Village, is located at an altitude of 1,110.6 meters above the sea level. It is surrounded by eye catching orchards, rose gardens, and a lush green valley, thereby comprising the most amazing Yelagiri Tour Packages . The hill station of Yelagiri is mainly a cluster of fourteen hamlets, with Athanavur as its main and capital town. Yelagiri is among the most famous places in India that is known for many trekking,  climbing and other adventure activities as it has some beautiful hills and mountains to climb on. The highest point in the village of Yelagiri is the Swamimalai Hill which is 4,388 ft in height blessed with some mesmerizing views and places that will make your trek a memorable one.

There is no doubt that a traveller or an adventurer will find plenty of places and sites to explore as the beautiful hills and valleys of the district allows you to give a treat to your eyes with its exotic locales. One of the most amazing and mind boggling place is the man made Punganur Lake in the region which attracts many tourists and visitors every year. It is also one of the many places to visit in Yelagiri while you stay. Every year during the months of summer, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department celebrates the Summer Festival in the Yelagiri district which showcases different cultural heritage and arts from across the country, which are considered to be the best in Yelagiri Tour. They organize several kinds of cultural programs like the flower show, the dog show, and much more. All of this festivity is conducted every year in which people from different parts of the state and country come down to take a part and is a perfect opportunity to know more about the people and past of Yelagiri.

Making every small detail stand out in India and setting a hard-hitting impression in the travelers’ mind comes another place lying in the state of Tamil Nadu . This place called Coimbatore is also known to many as Kovai. Coimbatore or Kovai occupies the most of South and has a lot to offer to its visitors. There is no justice that you can do while you’re at this place except for appreciating the beauty and magnificence of the place. The green hills, broad ghats and the beautiful waterfalls – it is one the most popular destinations in Coimbatore. This city sets itself apart in terms of its culture, education, geography and ethnicity. Charming its way through – the city has endless amounts of activities to offer at every nook and corner of the place. The city is surrounded by the river Noyyal on its South west region and covers an approximate area of 642.12km. The Western Ghats make up for the most region on the North and the West and the important location of the place is the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which lies in the north. There are eight other major tanks and wetland areas that comprise Coimbatore. These are: Kumaraswami, Krishnampathi, Selvampathy, Singanallur, Selvachinthamani, Valankulam, Ukkadam Periyakulam. The place is blessed with an extremely pleasant climate especially given the presence of luscious green forests in the north.  As far as the culture is concerned, Coimbatore and its people have set themselves a reputation for getting recognized in the world for their dominance in entrepreneurship. The place is considered as the traditional capital of India and holds great respect in the minds of all those who have already visited the place.

A less explored and undiscovered treasure perched in the Eastern Ghats in the Shevaroy Hills, Yercaud is a rejuvenating hill-station in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu. It is situated around the Emerald Lake, which is also known as the Yercaud Lake. The emerald green hue of the beautiful natural lake is also where the hill-station gets its meaning from. In the local language, the word, Yercaud translates to ‘The Lake Forest’, which it, indeed, is. This Tamil Nadu weekend destination is all that an ideal getaway is about – green landscapes, fog covered hill-tops, fresh breeze, and a soulful experience.  Steeped in raw natural attractions and a rustic aesthetic, the destination is set at an altitude of 4970 ft above sea level. From flora and fauna to an air of freshness and purity, Yercaud is also called the Ooty of the Poor, given its low cost tourism. The hill-station is seemingly enveloped under picturesque skies above dense forests that grow coffee, spices and fruits, with oranges in abundance. It houses some famous parks and gardens proffering floral masterpieces, like Anna Park and Rose Garden to name a few. Yercaud, discovered in the 19th century by the Britishers, also boasts of some stunning vantage points that help tourists soak in the beauty of the town.   Due to its unspoiled and pristine nature, Yercaud is a paradise for nature lovers, trekkers and adventurers, with various trek tours that take you to spots like Kiliyur Falls and Tipperary Point. It sees less crowd than most hill-stations, which is why it remains fairly raw and thereby, cost-effective. Moreover, Yercaud is a compact destination, easily explorable in a day or two. Beautified by fruit orchards and spice & coffee plantations, the hill also reaps in its merit from its flora and fauna that intrigues all kinds of vacationers. Epitomized as the Jewel of South India, the untouched charm of this lake hill-station and its quaintness, undoubtedly, makes it one of the topmost places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

Masinagudi is a beautiful hill station and a well-established tourist hotspot nestling amidst the Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri district. Situated at a drive of just one hour from the hill station of Ooty, Masinagudi forms a part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Lush green forest cover, stunning waterfalls, gushing rivers and rivulets, and picture-perfect landscapes all boost the Masinagudi tourism multifold. This is an ultimate weekend retreat for all those who love wildlife safaris and want to remain surrounded by wildlife. Nature lovers and wildlife photographers will genuinely fall in love with the beauty of this place.  The town is loaded with some attracting tourist spots such as Pykara Falls, Mudumalai National Park, Maravakandy Dam, and Moyar River. Jeep Safari is the best way to explore the nooks and corners of this famous town of Masinagudi. You can start your day at Masinagudi adventure early with the Moyar River hydroelectric project and then explore other nearby regions. Sightseeing is the foremost thing to be enjoyed here with great chaos. The Mudumalai National Park is a hub for the local flora and fauna. Hence, wildlife photographers and lovers will surely have a busy schedule here. Wildlife spotting, adventurous jungle stay, fishing and boating at the Moyar River, and Masinagudi camping are other adventures to explore here. As Masinagudi is perched atop a height of 950 metres above the sea level, this spot features a tropical climate. January is the driest month of the year while April accounts as the warmest month here. To have a relaxing break, you can plan your Masinagudi visit anytime between late winters and the onset of the summer season. The climate of Masinagudi remains favourable throughout the period between October to May.

Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the tourist places in Tamil Nadu . You can visit this place to experience the wild life and exotic flora and fauna. You can also trek in a few areas in this reserve. Many endangered species are  reside in this reserve. It is on the border of Karnataka and Kerala and shares its importance with the other wild life sanctuaries in the nearby locations. You will find more than 200 species of birds, 34 species of reptiles, and many other animals and birds in this wild life sanctuary. Mudumalai is popular for sightseeing and wild life tours. You can get the best of scenic view when you walk by the streams, rivers, waterfalls, and take a stroll in the deep valleys.

Close to Mudumalai you can also visit the Tiger Reserve and the Bandipur National Park. You can experience the best of eco tourism in Mudumalai. Summers in Mudumalai are hot, and monsoon and winters are cooler. Throughout the year except for the month of April and May, you can visit this sanctuary and take safaris to get a glimpse of the wildlife . There are many places to see in the nearby locations and taking safari rides are the most common activities that you will find here.

Coonoor is a municipality and a Taluk located in the Nilgiris district, on the western edge of the state, Tamil Nadu, India. As far as size is concerned, Coonoor, after Ooty, comes second in largeness in all of the beautiful hills of the Nilgiris, providing people with a lot of ground to tour. For more than one trekking expeditions, Coonoor is an ideal base and leads right into the Nilgiri Hills. The tourist places in Coonoor are breath-takingly beautiful. For a Hill station, Coonoor is very accessible, with the nearest airport being only at a distance of 79 km from the town of Coonoor. The population being so less, it offers a peaceful and relaxing environment which other hill stations don’t. The station features a subtropical highland climate which basically means cool summers and cool but not cold winter. Among the tourist places in Coonoor comes Sim’s Park, with a collective display exceeding one thousand types of species of plants. The botany based garden is developed partly in Japanese style. The main attractions of this park are the fruits and vegetables shows held annually, in May. Another important place to visit lies about 10 km away from Coonoor, considered a part of Coonoor, which is the Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, which is famous for the magnificent view of the beautiful Hills of Nilgiri and the beautiful Falls called Catherine. Catherine Falls is another important tourist attraction Coonoor. Tourists normally go trekking from Lady Canning’s seat to Dolphin’s nose. Five and a half km away from Coonoor, also considered a part of Coonoor, lies Lamb’s Rock, which is another point of vantage. The Fort of Droog is a well-known attraction. People commuting to Mettupalayam, witness Law’s Falls about five km away from Coonoor.

Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram is a small town situated in the southeastern part of Tamil Nadu, stretching between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake. It is a renowned representative city of our rich Indian culture and heritage. It is mainly a seaport, which lies 58 km away from the capital city Chennai. Mahabalipuram is a place that is famous for its temples and monuments, especially the very famous Shore Temple. It consists of three temples built in one single complex, that was constructed way back in the 8th century. Another famous temple is the Pancha Rathas. As the name suggests- they are a group of five temples sculpted in the form of chariots. The Descent of the Ganga is a giant rock with an open mouth in the form of sculpture. Some other popular tourist attractions in Mahabalipuram are Arjuna’s Penance, the Crocodile Farm, the Cave temples, the Indian Seashell Museum, Krishna’s Butterball. Along with these, there are innumerable monoliths, temples and stone carvings that are a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of India. Even though Mahabalipuram is a small town situated in the suburbs, it is well connected by buses and cars because of its immense popularity amongst Indian and even foreigners. These buses ply from different parts of Chennai, Chengal Pattu and Kanchipuram. The weather here remains cool and moderately humid throughout the year, which makes it possible to visit any time of the year, even though the best time to visit is between October and March. The town is well equipped with multiple accommodations according to the tourists’ choice and budget. Local restaurants, as well as multi-cuisine restaurants, are available for a culinarily rewarding trip as well. The local language spoken here is Tamil, although the locals are fluent in other languages like English and Hindi as well.

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu has a number of titles to its credit such as “The Athens of East", “Sleepless City" and “The City of Temples”. Steeped into history this ancient city is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu and a popular pilgrimage destination of India. Legend has it that Madurai was built after cutting down a forest zone known as Kadambavanam. On the day of naming the city, Lord Shiva emerged on the site and drops of nectar fell from his hair on the ground. Hence the city got its name derived as Madurai from the Tamil word ‘mathuram’ which means “sweetness". Steeped in traditional Tamil culture the city of Madurai is known for its mythical, vivacious and soulful essence that will draw your attention as you enter its precincts. The city exhibits a seamless blend of the traditional and contemporary with its historical Dravidian architecture and modern skyscrapers adorning its skyline. The world famous Meenakshi Amman Temple, Idaikattur Church, The Pudhu Mandapam and The Thirumalai Nayakar Palace are the prominent historical monuments of Madurai city. Besides, there are several other places of interest that will take you close to its rich cultural heritage. Some of the must visit places at Madurai are the Gandhi Museum, Vaigai Dam, Villacherry Pottery Village, Teppakulam tank, Madurai Kamaraj University and others. Besides, you can also ramble across the narrow lanes of the vibrant marketplaces or strike up a bargain with the vendors. Down the years Madurai has become a cultural hub of Tamil Nadu attracting millions of tourists and history enthusiasts round the year who want to soak into its deep rooted ethos and cultural vibe. Winter (months between December-February) is the best time to visit Madurai when you can go sightseeing to the places of attraction as the climate is favourable. Also, the major Tamil festivals (Pongal, Christmas, Jallikattu etc) are held during this time which you can revel at.  Take a look at the detailed information provided below before you visit this ancient city of Tamilnadu.

Kanyakumari

Nestled at the extreme southern end of India, Kanyakumari is a beautiful coastal town of Tamil Nadu. Since its evolution, this peaceful town has been considered to be a major hub of culture, art, and religion in the country. Kanyakumari city showcases to the world the perfect amalgamation of enthralling natural beauties and captivating ancient architectural marvels. The city of Kanyakumari is beautifully enticing, owing to its spectacular scenic environs and brilliant iconic structures. Enclosed by magnificent mountains, lined by stunning sea shores, and bordered by lofty coconut trees and paddy fields, this city is set to mesmerize every traveler. The mountainous terrains, undulating valleys, hill patches, and pristine beaches can leave anyone awestruck and spellbound. In addition to all these natural elements, the city’s iconic monuments and majestic temples also add to its incredible beauty. A long list of the major attractions of the state of Tamil Nadu are sheltered in Kanyakumari. The important tourist spots of this place include religious sites like Thanumalayan Temple, Kumari Amman Temple, and Lord Subramanya Temple; historical spots like Vattakottai Fort, Padmanabhapuram Palace, and Vivekananda Rock Memorial; and natural beauties like Thirparappu Falls, Courtallam Falls, and Sanguthurai Beach. Kanyakumari tourism has ample scope for the tourists to engage in a number of fun-filled activities. From enjoying water activities at Kanyakumari Beach to marveling at the life-like statues of famous personalities at Wax Museum and from witnessing the breathtaking sunset at Sunset Point to marveling at the Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari will offer you an action-packed trip down south. Kanyakumari experiences tropical climate, with summers being moderately humid, monsoons bringing in frequent rainfall, and winters remaining pleasant. With less humidity and clear skies, the winter months from October to March make for the best time to visit Kanyakumari.

Lying near the Cauvery Delta, Thanjavur popularly known as Tanjore is known not only in India but around the world for its vibrant culture, history and legacy of literature and learning. Dating back to the 10th-century reign of the Chola Empire, named after a demon ‘Tanjan-an-asura’, Tanjore is famous for having the largest paddy fields in southern India. While here, don’t miss to visit Saraswathi Mahal, one of the oldest libraries in Asia, that houses more than a million medieval-era manuscripts in Indian & European languages. Another amazing place to visit is the 10 th -century Brihadeshwara Temple that’s popular for its stunning architecture of 80-tonne Sikhara atop the 63-metre tall Vimana tower, the second-largest Nandi statue in the country, and one of the tallest Shiva Lingas in the world. The 16 th -century Thanjavur Palace, the royal seat of the Maratha rulers is a must-visit to see its bell tower, huge archways, pillared halls, observation towers, and it's art gallery. For those who love being amidst nature, must visit the Shiva Ganga Garden and spend time near the huge water tank amidst the cool breeze and beautifully lush surroundings. Tanjore, counted amongst the top tourist places in Tamil Nadu , is famous for its dance forms around the world and one of the best things to do here is to see a live Bharatanatyam performance, especially the ones that take place at the serene Brihadeshwara Temple. Visit any of the local markets near the temple to enjoy a cup of traditional filter coffee and see thousands of colourful terracotta dolls, stone-studded brass idols, and traditional paintings. Spend some tranquil time with yourself away from the crowds at the peaceful and quiet ambience of the Schwartz Church admiring its beautiful European architecture of stained glass windows, wooden beams, and paintings.

Nilgiris or the ‘Blue Mountains’ have always caught the fancy of travellers who love the raw undulated beauty of nature. The blue-tinted mountain ranges, a part of the Western Ghats ranges, are famous for their exotic flora, waterfalls, wildlife, streams, and beautiful nature trails. The mist-covered valleys and miles of forests lend the Nilgiris an out of the world charm unlike any place in the country making it one of the places to visit in Tamil Nadu. One of the most popular attractions here is the Doddabetta Peak, which is the highest peak in the region. Visit the Telescope House at the summit of the peak to see the massive surrounding Shola forests and catch a stunning hillside sunset. Don’t miss to visit Catherine Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the Nilgiris. Surrounded by lush tea plantations and forests, this fall is amongst the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Another great place to visit is Sim’s Park that’s popular for its unusual plants, ornamental trees, rockeries, and flowerbeds. Located in the Silent Valley National Park, Emerald Lake is one of the prettiest lakes in the region. Views of its shimmering blue-green waters surrounded by thick forests are one of the most stunning sights in the Nilgiris. One of the best things to do in the Nilgiris is to enjoy a heritage train ride. Hop on the iconic toy train with a steam engine as it takes you on an unforgettable journey through 16 tunnels, forests, forested hilly slopes, and over 250 bridges. Another great experience is to enjoy a tea plantation trail that will take you through some of the oldest plantations in the region. The intoxicating fragrance of tea, the lush trails, and the opportunity to sample some of the best teas in the world is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Being one of the famous Char Dhams of India, Rameshwaram is a small Hindu pilgrimage town and is considered to be one of the reverenced places to visit in Tamil Nadu. Due to its deep-seated religious connection and unspoiled natural beauty, it witnesses a huge influx of tourists and devotees from various corners of the globe. It is perfectly nestled on the magnificent Pamban Island in the Gulf of Munnar, just off the Indian mainland at the tip of the Indian Peninsula.

Rameshwaram is situated just 1403 kilometers away from Sri Lanka and is the nearest transit point to gain access to its breathtaking tropical beauty. Since 1914, the town has been connected to the mainland of India via the eminent Pamban Railway Bridge. Apart from the traditional legacy, this spiritual town is also blessed with immaculate beaches, picture-perfect landscapes, underwater coral reefs, Water Bird Sanctuary, tropical weather and much more.

According to the Hindu mythology, Rameshwaram is believed to be the place from where Lord Rama had constructed the bridge to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the clutches of Ravana, the king of Lanka. It is also believed that this is the place where Lord  Rama decided to atone for his sins to seek penance after having killed the Brahmin king, Ravana. Owing to the mythological significance, Ramanathaswamy Temple was established by Rama in dedication to Lord Shiva. The temple has materialized into a pious expedition site for Vaishnavites, Shaivites,  and Smartha.

However, Rameshwaram has also emerged to be a happening holiday hotspot for enthusiastic travelers because of its proximity to famous destinations like Pondicherry, Munnar, Kanyakumari, and Madurai. As a result, it is one of the fastest-growing tourism markets in India and is expected to evolve more soon.

Rameshwaram has three distinct seasons-Summer, Monsoon, and Winter. The summer season begins with the onset of March and lasts till July. The temperature here gets pretty high ranging from 27 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius.  July marks the beginning of the Monsoons and is all about rainfall and humidity. October to March is the dry season when the weather is pleasant and makes way for the best time to visit the holy town of Rameshwaram.

The city of Vellore is an ancient Indian city situated along the river banks of Palar River. It has been ruled by several different royal dynasties in the past. Comprising oodles of pilgrimage sites and historical monuments, the region accounts for one of the most sought tourist spots of Tamil Nadu. In fact, the city of Vellore is locally known as Tamil Nadu’s Fort City. Vellore lies somewhat 166 km north and 139 km west to Puducherry and Chennai, respectively. Today, the city comprises numerous temples, forts, a zoological park, and an observatory. Goddess Mahalakshmi Temple, Government Museum, Vainu Bappu Observatory, Science Park, and Yelagiri Hills are some of them. The State Government Museum at Vellore exclusively exhibits memorabilia belonging to the fields of botany, geology, prehistory, archaeology, and anthropology. While the observatory at Kavalur displays the largest telescopes of Asia employed in the studies of astronomical observations. Apart from being a vibrant cultural hub, Vellore City is also famous for its shopping activities. Roam around anywhere, and you are definitely going to spot one or the other unique local creativity. The city of Vellore leaves no stone unturned to get your adrenaline rushing. Yelagiri Hills and Swamimalai Hills are popular hiking trails amidst other tourist spots of Vellore. Wildlife spotting, archaeological survey, Periyar Park bird watching, boat riding are some activities which every Vellore tourist loves to enjoy. Vellore features a blend of both hot and dry weather throughout the 365 days of the year. The average temperature here may rise as high as 43.5 degrees and may drop as low as 18.4 degrees. In line with the remaining regions of Tamil Nadu, the city of Vellore faces the wrath of summers from April to June. June to September marks the monsoons here in Vellore while the town of Vellore enjoys its winter break from December to January.

Kotagiri is popular as the most beautiful hill station in the Nilgiris. Surrounded by lush tea plantations, emerald-green meadows, and rugged nature trails, this is amongst the most-visited places in Tamil Nadu. The biggest draws of Kotagiri are its pleasant weather, the slow pace of life, and the stunning countryside that pull travellers who want to take a break from the chaotic city life. One of the most popular places to visit in Tamil Nadu , just a stone’s throw from Kotagiri, is Elk Falls. The beauty and attraction of the fall are enhanced manifolds by the surrounding lush forests and an old European house located nearby that lends an old-world charm to the place. For nature enthusiasts who want to lose themselves in the rustic wilderness of nature, Longwood Shola forests are a must-visit. This 115-hectare tropical rainforest is the home to more than 80 species of exotic birds, animals, and trees. Minutes away is another attraction revered by the local Irulas tribe. The Rangasamy Hill has a shrine dedicated to Lord Rangasamy on its summit. The hill’s top offers stunning views of the nearby forests, hills, and valleys and is a great vantage point to see a beautiful sunset. One of the best things to do in Kotagiri is exploring its raw natural beauty on foot. There are several great hiking trails here, the most popular being the Kotagiri-Kodanad trail. Kotagiri also lets you experience a gorgeous sunset at its various vantage points. One of the best locations to do is Dolphin’s Nose that also lets you enjoy views of the nearby ravines and waterfalls. Another great experience here is to enjoy freshly brewed tea that comes straight from the nearby plantations. There are several bakeries near Johnston Circle that serve wonderful tea along with savouries and fresh cakes that are a must-try.

Krishnagiri

Krishnagiri is counted amongst one of the most scenic places to visit in Tamil Nadu due to its remarkably beautiful contrasting landscape of lush green forests and black granite rocks dating back to the Palaeolithic Age. Besides its natural beauty, people from all over the country visit the place for its ancient temples, museums, and beautiful gardens. Krishnagiri’s other claim to fame is its home-grown mangoes that are transported all across the country and the world. A trip to Krishnagiri is not complete without seeing the Shri Parshwa Padmavathi Shaktipeeth Tirth Dham. Standing at the height of 365 ft., this is the world’s highest Jain Temple and consists of 24 tirthankars. For travellers interested in history, a visit to the Krishnagiri Museum is a must. You will see Hero stones, tools, rock paintings, pottery, and sculptures dating back to the Palaeolithic, Neolithic, and Megalithic ages. Another great attraction is the 2000-year-old Kattuveera Anjaneya Temple. This revered site consists of a rare Nandi monolith amidst the beautiful stone architecture of the temple. One of the greatest experiences that you can have at Krishnagiri is forest trekking and night camping. These trails pass through charming villages and ghat roads to take you to a campsite where you can enjoy an overnight stay in a tent and enjoy music and bonfire. If you love savouring south Indian food, Krishnagiri is the place to be! There are several restaurants like Agni, Sri Krishna Inn, Gowri Shankar Hotel, etc. that serve great food and filter coffee. If you want to get away from the crowded touristy places and enjoy some time with yourself, visit the KRP Dam. The sounds of the crashing waters, misty air, and cool breeze here will be an experience like nothing else. There are several cafes around the dam that will let you enjoy great food and surrounding views.

Also called the City of Temples, Kumbakonam is located between the rivers of Cauvery and Arsala. This southern town is located in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu and attracts all art lovers, history buffs and culture vultures. Surrounded by vast paddy fields, this city lies in a region which is also called Old Delta. It is one of the oldest towns in Indian history and has many famous educational institutes. The town boasts of its amazing history which dates back to the Sangam age. It invites all the history lovers to appreciate the relevance of the times of Cholas, Pallavas and Pandavas. It was known as the Cambridge of South India and since then it has been a prominent centre to appreciate Hindu culture and European education. The city has about 188 temples which has earned it the name of Temple Town among the places to see in Tamil Nadu. Some of the most famous temples in Kumbakonam are Airavatesvara Temple, Uppiliappan Temple, Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Nageshwara Temple and Chakkarapani Temple. One of the most exciting experiences here is the festival of Mahamaham which attracts tourists from the neck and breadth of the country. Tourists attend this festival to take a holy dip in the Mahamaham Tank and soak in the blessings. While visiting the temples is a must-do activity in Kumbakonam, shopping lovers will take delight in its bustling bazaars. Along with that, the foodies will rejoice in savouring one of the best filter coffees in South India along with tasting the South Indian cuisines to treat the taste buds. With a typical tropical climate, Kumbakonan experiences cool winters and dry summers. The temperature here ranges between 20 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. The most suitable time to visit is during the winters when the weather is pleasant and during the monsoons when you can see moderate rains. Summers should be avoided because of the high temperatures.

One of the quaintest places to visit in Tamil Nadu, Theni is a small village which is located in the Western Ghats. With a scintillating backdrop of hills and ranges, this town is home to 27 forests and filled with many gorgeous tea estates. The landscape of Theni is adorned by verdant green meadows and sparkling waterfalls. Along with the beautiful tea plantations charming everyone with the fresh aroma, the city is an abode for nature lovers with many rivers and dams. The Kolukkumalai Tea estate is a spellbinding escape to enjoy the beauty of nature along with the Suruli Falls and Kumbakarai Falls. Theni also entices the travellers with a lot of interesting places to see in Tamil Nadu which include the Meghamalai Hills, Bodi Mettu and the Paravasa Ulagam Water Theme Park. Tourists here can enjoy many engaging activities and cherish beautiful memories. You can enjoy a super picnic at Vaigai Dam, Sothuparai Dam and Shanmuganathi Dam. If you want to take a religious detour, there are many temples and shrines to visit in Theni like Kuchanur, Mavoothu, Theertha Thotti, Gowmariamman Temple, Devadanapatti Kamakshi Amman Temple and Balasubramanya Temple. To appreciate some solitude and tranquil moments by yourself, a sightseeing experience to the waterfalls like Suruli Falls, Kumbakkarai Falls and Chinna Suruli Falls will leave you in awe of nature.  To take a break from all the outdoor activities, you can also enjoy a vibrant shopping experience in the local markets of Theni. Theni is known for having a salubrious climate throughout the year. The average temperature ranges between 15 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. The best months to visit are from the month of December to February since the weather is pleasant and allows you to indulge in a number of outdoor activities.

Auroville, meaning the City of Dawn, is a unique township in the district of Villupuram in Tamil Nadu, India. A lot of curious tourists come here for a day trip from Pondicherry. Many of them who have a leaning towards divine consciousness will find this place compelling. Auroville offers the tourists to witness the beautiful atmosphere where people from all over the world live in peace and harmony. The township is based on the principles of Sri Aurobindo and was thought of by Mirra Alfassa, who is popularly known as 'the Mother'. The main motive of the Ashram is to unite people of all races, caste, creed, political background and nationalities. The Auroville township was envisioned as an international community free from the clutches of the government, religion, strife, and money. Regarded as one of the most exotic places to visit in Tamil Nadu, the beauty of Auroville lies in the simplicity of the people and the peaceful atmosphere. This makes it a must-visit place on your trip to the Southern part of India. Auroville tourism has seen a gradual growth since its inception in the year 1965. As the township is unique in its principles and values, more and more people got interested in such an idealistic township which attracted a large number of tourists since its establishment.  There are certain attractions inside the township which compel the tourists to visit the place. The odd but beautiful Matrimandir here will let you bliss out in the peaceful setting. There are also a variety of projects, schools, and organic farming that are worth exploring. You can even find some excellent cafes and restaurants to enjoy some varied international food. With all this, your visit to Auroville will definitely help you relax your body and mind and make you feel rejuvenated.

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Nestled between the Coimbatore plains and foothills of Annamalai Hills, Pollachi town is the perfect place for travellers looking for an offbeat southern destination. The place, known as the coconut capital of Tamil Nadu, has an undulated raw landscape dotted with thickets of coconut trees, tea plantations, and meadows cosily nestled amidst lush green hills. Pollachi is popular around the country for its jaggery, coconut products, and cattle fairs. One of the best places to visit in Pollachi is the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve. It houses animals like tigers, Gaurs, Nilgiri Tahr, etc. Not only this, but the reserve also has marshy grasslands and shola forests and houses indigenous tribes like Poopara, Anchaam, Sungam, etc. If you love to explore architectural landmarks, visit Arulmigu Subramanyar Thirukoil Temple, which is one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu . The temple is famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambience. Savour the scenic countryside of Pollachi from Loam’s view point. Located at the Aliyar Valparai Hill, this is a great place to enjoy a beautiful sunset. One of the best activities to do in Pollachi is boating at the picturesque Aliyar Dam. The dam also has a beautiful garden perfect for taking long strolls and a theme park that has super-fun rides for everybody in the family. Another interesting activity is to enjoy trekking, elephant safaris, and van safaris at the Topslip Tiger Forest. The safari will let you see the resident tigers, sloth bear, wild boar, Indian Bison, etc. You can also explore exotic species of birds and trees like rosewood, teakwood, etc. Head over to Anaimalai Hills for a day-long trek as you walk amidst beautiful forested areas with views of the majestic Western Ghats. Enjoy a long countryside drive on the Pollachi road that leads to Kerala. Counted amongst the country’s most beautiful forest roads, this ghat road has 42 hairpin bends and passes through rainforests dotted with shimmering streams and stunning waterfalls.

Salem, the hidden gem of Tamil Nadu, is surely worth anybody’s time that loves nature, heritage, and culture. This beautiful compact place, surrounded by 4 mountain ranges, is dotted with sites dating back to the Palaeolithic Age. There is an abundance of lush coffee plantations, fragrant mango & orange orchards, and gardens standing alongside ancient temples and forts. If you want to spend some time in tranquillity and quietude, head over to Oothumalai Hill, which not only is a great vantage point to see panoramic views of Salem but also houses a cluster of ancient temples. You can visit Sri Balasubramanian Temple, Shiva Temple, and Vishnu Temple here to admire their wonderful architecture. For people travelling with children, a great place to visit is Paravasa Ulagam, one of the most popular theme parks in the area. The park has a science park, waterfalls, and several fun rides. History enthusiasts must visit the Government Museum to see relics from the Palaeolithic Age and other geological specimens that tell the story of the evolution of Salem. One of the most fun activities to do in Salem is boating and fishing in the serene Mookaneri Lake. Or you can simply lounge at the well-maintained lakeside promenade and admire the scenic surroundings and enjoy the cool breeze. Get away from the noise and crowds to spend time with yourself at the beautiful 300 ft. Kiliyur Falls. Beat the heat by taking a long cool dip in the plunge pool or simply soaking in the beautiful views. Savour the intricate stone architecture of the 18 th-century Kalipatti Kandaswamy Temple. The temple is famous for curing snake bites and is the location for a huge cattle fair that’s held every year in January.

Best of Karnataka

Dharmapuri, located in the northwestern part of Tamil Nadu, has been the cradle of civilization since time immemorial. Rock sculptures from the Neolithic age unearthed nearby bear testimony to the ancientness of this city. The roots can be traced to the Sangam era literature dating as far back as the 2nd century CE. The famous poet Avvaiyar resided here at that time. Subsequently, The Pallavas, Rashtrakutas and the Cholas all ruled over the city. Its rich heritage has added to the attraction of tourists for this city. Natural splendour, ancient architecture, the grandeur of historic monuments, religious shrines, and other such attractions allure visitors from all over the country to this city. Dharmapuri is now mainly an agricultural trade centre. The city is renowned for the 50 varieties of delicious mangoes found here. It is also fringed by the Kaveri River in the west that enhances its scenic beauty. Dharmapuri city, being well-connected to all major metropolises in South India, is also an attractive weekend getaway for the citizens of Chennai and Bengaluru. Visitors flock here to view Hogenakkal Falls, located around 46 km away from the town centre. It is often referred to as the Niagra of India because of its mighty waters gushing down in cascades, taking the visitor's breath away. Pilgrims are drawn to the different places of religious significance in Dharmapuri. The Shri Theerthagirishwarar Temple at Theerthamalai, constructed during the reigns of the Chola and Vijayanagara Kings, is revered as one of the most sacred temples in the region. Mahashivratri celebrations at this temple are incredibly colourful. Another noteworthy religious site is the Hanumantha Theertham. It is a place of mythological legends that connects it to the epic Ramayana. The Mount Carmel Church in the city also offers spiritual peace to the visitors.

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, also known as the Golden City of Temples, is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the entire world. It is the crowning jewel of Tamil Nadu that offers the perfect respite to the spiritual souls with its beautiful temples that are known for their architectural splendor. It is known to be the second holiest city after Varanasi, and thousands of visitors flock into this city to seek solace and spiritual bliss. It has been an important center for Tamil learning and exhibits the glorious Dravidian heritage. You can also find the remains of Buddhist stupas over here that indicate that Buddhism prevailed over here for a long time. This city is a unique amalgamation of culture, history, and traditions and woos the visitors with its unmatched charm. There are many places to visit in Kanchipuram that create an impression to last forever on your senses. From bird sanctuary to scenic gardens and cascading lakes, Kanchipuram takes you closer to nature with its fresh burst of air, and soothing environment. This city is extremely renowned for its beautiful Kanchipuram Sarees that are woven from the thread of pure mulberry silk. If you’re looking for some of the best accommodation options, then there are numerous luxurious hotels in Kanchipuram that offer you a royal stay. You can even explore the palatable local delights served by quirky cafes and swanky restaurants over here. If you’re a shopaholic, then there are both high end as well as local stores in Kanchipuram from where you can buy everything under the sun at great prices. You can also witness festivals and fares all around the year in Kanchipuram, making it a gateway to happiness and delight. Steeped in tradition and drenched in spirituality, Kanchipuram is a city that offers a wealth of experiences to enrich the soul of the visitors. 

Best of Kerala

The fact that Sayalgudi city is obscure and compact doesn’t take away from its extraordinary natural beauty. This hidden beachside city, located in the district of Ramanathapuram, is all about sun, sand, fresh air, and peace. Perfect for an offbeat vacation, it lets you take a break from the hustle-bustle of city life. The place has a warm and friendly atmosphere that lets you savour the slow pace of life amidst beautiful natural surroundings. While in Sayalgudi, the ancient temples are a must-visit. Temples like Sri Sakthi Mari Amman Temple and Ayyanar Kovil not only have a beautifully serene ambience, but their architecture is worth looking at too. Head over to the nearby Pamban Island to see a beautiful beachside sunset. This is the perfect place to enjoy a day under the sun. Another attraction to visit near Sayalkudi is Kilakarai Lighthouse. Established in 1979, this is a great vantage point to see the beautiful beach and fishermen’s activities. People visit from all over Tamil Nadu to the lighthouse to see a gorgeous beachside sunset and spend time in quietude. One of the most amazing activities to enjoy in Sayalkudi is beach camping along with bonfire, food, and music. The beach here offers striking views of the Bay of Bengal and its waters with ever-changing colours. This rocky beach is the home to a variety of birds like flamingos and seagulls. You can also enjoy trying out a variety of rustic South Indian foods here in Sayalkudi. There are several great restaurants like Al Baik Broasted, Hyder Ali Tea Stall, Vathiyar Mess, Jamal Hotel, etc. that serve the typical south Indian fare along with seafood.

Valparai city is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu located at an altitude of 3500 feet above the sea level on the mighty hills of Anamalai. Tucked in the cradle of the Western Ghats, it’s renowned for its scenic beauty and picturesque sites. It is a magical city dotted with enchanting grasslands, evergreen trees, cascading waterfalls, and majestic dams. You can also find here endless stretches of coffee plantations and tea estates that will rejuvenate your tired soul. Some of the best attractions that you can witness here are Whispering Falls and Sholayar Dam that are an absolute retreat for nature lovers. Valparai is also home to some of the most beautiful temples, such as Balaji Temple and Sree Muruga Temple. You can also visit Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to spot lion-tailed macaque, wild boar, common langur and other animals. The city also gives you a chance to indulge in tons of adventurous activities such as trekking,  rock climbing, and hiking. You can also do a cycling tour of the city, and you can even enjoy boating in the famous lakes. Sampling the local delicacies and enjoying shopping at the local bazaars are something that you should not miss when you’re over here. Valparai Tourism is at its peak between September to March as the weather remains delightful during this time of the year. It generally experiences tropical weather, and the rainfall here is around 76.5 inch per year. The average temperature here ranges between 58 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and it rarely falls below 51 degrees.

Best of Tamil Nadu

Tiruchirappalli

Also called Trichy, it is a famous historical city which is perched on the banks of River Kaveri in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is located at a distance of 320 kms from Chennai and has been one of the popular commercial and tourist hubs of the state. When you are here, you can’t help but admire the old-world charm which is a fine remnant of the Sangam Age during the Chola dynasty. With a landscape dotted by many beautiful Dravidian temples, this city is a wonder for architecture lovers. The famous Rock Fort Temple is one of the prominent landmarks in the city. There is also the Thayumanaswamy Temple known for its 100-pillar hall and Ranganathaswamy Temple which is hailed as one the largest temples in South India. While exploring the temples and admiring the architectural brilliance is highly recommended, Tiruchirappallli offers many other different kinds of experiences. For the shopping lovers, it is a delight to go to the bazaars and browse through a number of items like cigars, textiles and fake diamonds. If you are a foodie, you will love to attend the annual food festival here which is called Suvai and enjoy many South Indian dishes like Parupu, sambar, rasam, moru, kootu etc. The vibrant city also celebrates many other festivals like Srirangam car festival, Samayapuram flower festival, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and the Teppakulam float festival which attracts many visitors. If you have some extra time on hand, you can also play day excursions to Chettinad and Kanyakumari from Tiruchirappalli. Tiruchirapplaii experiences a tropical kind of climate with soaring temperatures and low humidity. The average yearly temperature is 30 degrees Celsius and it always ranges between 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit here is from December to February when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 19 to 22 degrees Celsius.

Located near Chennai, Tuticorin is one of the popular cities in Tamil Nadu that will enchant you with its seaport and beaches. Offering a superb weekend getaway, this city is accessible via railways and buses from the major towns of Tamil Nadu. Also called Thoothukudi, the city is for everyone who loves to appreciate the culture and history of Tamil Nadu. Tuticorin is perched on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal and offers an ideal retreat to enjoy with family. Also called Pearl City, this city is well-known for pearl fishing and a must visit for anyone who loves to spend time by the beach. Moreover, it is replete with many pilgrimage places. Tourist spots like Our Lady of Snows Basilica, Shiva Temple etc bring in many religious travellers. For those who appreciate solitude, there are beach parks in Tuticorin to savour some quiet moments by yourself. Some of the popular ones are Roche Park, Harbour Beach Park, Nehru Park and Rajaji Park. Tuticorin offers many soothing activities for the guests as it is a pleasant destination to go with your loved ones in Tamil Nadu. A sightseeing tour of the churches and temples is a must-do activity here. Also, visiting the beaches and watching the sea waves crash on the shores of beaches like Muthu Nagar New Beach and Pearl City Beach will leave you enthralled. Photography enthusiasts can look forward to capturing the beautiful sunset views. The foodies here will relish eating the famous local delicacy called macaroons which are made of cashew, coconut milk and dry fruits. Tuticorin offers pleasant weather throughout the year as the temperature remains around 30 degrees Celsius. However, the best time for tourist activities in Tuticorin is between December and March as it can get uncomfortable to venture outdoors in the summer and monsoon season due to more heat humidity.

Best of Chennai

Other Attractions

Dhanushkodi.

Dhanushkodi is often referred to as India's phantom town, it is situated by the south of Pamban Island  Rameswaram and truly is a captivating site to see. This place can be tricky to find for tourists as it is in an off beat location and can be  missed easily, nonetheless it is a breathtaking place any adventurer would like to visit. Dhanushkodi is surrounded with many small fishing villages which can be seen from the incredible train journey on the Palk strait, it is this stretched structure that goes between India to Sri Lanka. It was a peaceful town back in the british raj and was one of the prime locations for traders and pilgrims coming from Sri Lanka, at present the town of Dhanushkodi is abandoned and has turned into a ruin, as surprising it may be the coastline of Sri Lanka is just 31 km away from this ghost town. Location: Rameswaram, Ramanathapuram, Tamil. Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Throughout the day.

Mannavanur Lake

Mannavanur Lake, nestled in the serene village of Mannavanur in Tamil Nadu, is a picturesque haven that captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty. Surrounded by lush green hills and verdant meadows, the lake presents a stunning landscape that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Bear Shola Falls

Bear Shola Falls, nestled in the heart of the quaint hill station of Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu, India, is a scenic cascade that captivates visitors with its natural charm.

Sri Ramanasramam

Sri Ramanasramam, located at the foothills of Arunachala in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, is a spiritual sanctuary dedicated to the teachings of the revered Indian sage, Sri Ramana Maharshi. Established in 1922, the ashram has become a haven for seekers of peace and enlightenment from around the globe. The serene environment of the ashram, combined with its historical significance, makes it a unique place for meditation and introspection.

Thillai Natarajar Temple Chidambaram

Nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, the Thillai Natarajar Temple in Chidambaram stands as a testament to India's rich spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur. This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Nataraja form, symbolizes the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. Stepping into this sacred space, visitors are enveloped in a sense of tranquility and reverence, transcending the mundane to experience the divine.

The Thillai Natarajar Temple is renowned for its unique representation of Lord Shiva as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The central sanctum sanctorum houses the magnificent bronze idol of Nataraja, capturing the deity in a dynamic dance pose, symbolizing the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This iconic image of Lord Shiva as the master of dance is not just a religious emblem but a universal symbol of rhythm and harmony.

Architecturally, the temple is a marvel. Its sprawling complex covers an area of 40 acres, adorned with intricately carved pillars, grand gopurams (gateway towers), and ornate mandapams (halls). Each stone and carving tells a story, depicting various mythological events and deities with exquisite detail and craftsmanship. The temple's four towering gopurams, each facing a cardinal direction, are adorned with thousands of sculptures, making it a visual feast for devotees and tourists alike.

Rail Museum Park

The Rail Museum Park in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, is a tribute to the rich heritage and history of the Indian Railways. Established in 2014, this museum offers an insightful journey through the evolution of rail transport in India. It features a wide array of exhibits, including vintage locomotives, coaches, and signaling equipment. The star attractions are the meticulously restored steam engines, which provide a glimpse into the bygone era of rail travel.

Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval

Jambukeswarar Temple in Thiruvanaikaval is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Renowned for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance, it features a unique water spring beneath the sanctum. This ancient temple, representing the water element, attracts numerous devotees seeking blessings and tranquility.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu is a historic site, renowned for its grand Brihadeeswarar Temple. Built by Rajendra Chola I, the temple showcases stunning Dravidian architecture and intricate carvings. It stands as a testament to the Chola dynasty's architectural prowess and rich cultural heritage.

Arunachaleswarar Temple

Arunachaleswarar Temple, located in the town of Thiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the most revered and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This grand temple, sprawling over 25 acres, is nestled at the foot of the sacred Annamalai hills and is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees worldwide.

Rockfort Temple

Nestled in the heart of Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, the Rockfort Temple stands as a testament to ancient architectural marvel and spiritual significance. This iconic temple, perched atop a massive rock formation, offers visitors a blend of rich history, breathtaking views, and a profound sense of serenity.

The Rockfort Temple, also known as Ucchi Pillayar Temple, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It dates back to the 7th century, built by the Pallavas and later enhanced by the Nayaks of Madurai. The temple's unique location on a 273-foot-high rock offers a panoramic view of the city, the Kaveri River, and the surrounding landscapes. This vantage point alone makes the climb to the temple a rewarding experience.

Nestled amidst the serene hills of the Nilgiris, Coonoor is a picturesque town renowned for its lush tea gardens. One of the most enchanting aspects of this charming hill station is the expansive tea estates that stretch as far as the eye can see. The tea gardens of Coonoor are not just a feast for the eyes but also a testament to the region's rich heritage and tradition of tea cultivation.

Visiting a tea garden in Coonoor is like stepping into a world of verdant tranquility. The rolling hills covered with neatly manicured tea bushes create a mesmerizing mosaic of green. As you wander through the plantations, the cool, crisp mountain air, infused with the subtle aroma of fresh tea leaves, invigorates your senses and provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Vellingiri Hill Temple

The Vellingiri Hill Temple in Coimbatore is a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located atop the picturesque Vellingiri Hills, the temple offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Pilgrims often embark on a challenging trek to reach the temple, making it a popular spot for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Mahabalipuram Port

Nestled along the southeastern coast of India, Mahabalipuram Port is a treasure trove of history, art, and natural beauty. Known for its ancient temples, intricate rock carvings, and serene beaches, this coastal town offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic charm that captivates every visitor.

Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, was once a bustling port city during the Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries. The town is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed group of monuments, which showcase the architectural and artistic brilliance of the Pallavas. Among these, the Shore Temple stands out, majestically overlooking the Bay of Bengal. This stunning granite temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a testament to the town's maritime history and architectural prowess.

Dolphin Nose

Dolphin's Nose in Kodaikanal is a stunning viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lush valleys below. Located at an altitude of 6,600 feet, this cliff resembles a dolphin's nose, providing a unique and memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers visiting the picturesque hill station.

Nathar Shah Dargah

Nathar Shah Dargah, situated in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Islamic shrine dedicated to the Sufi saint Nathar Shah (Abdullah Nabi), who is believed to have arrived from Oman in the 12th century. This dargah is an epitome of communal harmony, attracting devotees from various religious backgrounds, showcasing India's rich tapestry of syncretic culture.

Blue Bay Beach

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

Pykara Lake and Waterfalls

Pykara Lake and Waterfalls, nestled in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India, are renowned for their natural beauty and serene environment. The Pykara River, originating from the Mukurthi Peak, cascades down to form these stunning waterfalls and an expansive lake. The Pykara Waterfalls, divided into two sections, drop from heights of 55 meters and 61 meters, creating a spectacular sight especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.

Hogenakkal Falls

Blue Bay Marine Park

Kolli Hills

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Top 12 destinations to visit in tamil nadu, south india.

Savour a memorable holiday filled with unforgettable experiences as travellers look forward to visiting Tamil Nadu’s most stunning destinations. These locations offer an excellent combination to assist tourists in creating an amazing trip schedule, with their abundance of tranquil beaches, stunning temples renowned for their Dravidian architecture, busy bazaars for shopping, and exciting wildlife locations.

Planning a visit to some of Tamil Nadu’s most breathtaking sights? If so, then prepare to have a blast. These locations will astound you with its breathtaking scenery and the green tea estates. Whether you are travelling for adventure, leisure, or backpacking, there is an amazing experience waiting for everyone. One can get a taste of all types of sightseeing and experiences thanks to Tamil Nadu’s abundance of tourist attractions. Let’s take a virtual trip through this blog to see the top 12 destinations that attract tourists of all kinds to Tamil Nadu.

Here is a List of Top 12 best tourist places to visit in Tamil Nadu :

Mahabalipuram

Kanchipuram, kanyakumari, tiruvannamalai.

Some Popular Tour Packages for Exploring the Sights of Tamil Nadu Tourism

• 5 Nights 6 Days Classical Tamil Nadu Tour
• 9 Nights 10 Days Tamil Nadu Spiritual Tour
• 3 Nights 4 Days Tirupati Mahaballipuram Tour
• 13 Nights 14 Days Tamil Nadu Tour with Kerala

Chennai, the state capital, is one of the top tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu for getting a genuine taste of South India and its way of life. It is also home to many stunning temples, cathedrals, and beaches. This location is unique, offering a plethora of attractions in Chennai, including Marina Beach, museums, the Kapaleeshwar temple, and much more.

With a population of more than 8 million, Chennai is known as the “Cultural Capital of India” and is the fourth biggest city in the nation. The current town, once known as Madras, was established in 1639 by Sir Francis Day, an immigrant who came with the East India Company. The little fishing town of Chennai became the site of a fort and trade post built by the British East India Company. It has become a significant industrial and educational hub in the modern era. Chennai, which has the Bay of Bengal to its west, was a significant British commerce hub for many years. If you have any interest in culture, history, or the arts, you should certainly think about going here!

Tourist Attractions

• Marina Beach
• Government Museum
• Fort St. George
• Edward Elliot’s Beach
• Ashtalakshmi Temple
• Valluvar Kottam

Best Time to Visit : November to February

Also Read: Must Visit Temples in Chennai

A little town called Mahabalipuram is located in Tamil Nadu’s southeast, nestled between the Great Salt Lake and the Bay of Bengal. It is a well-known city that embodies our rich Indian history and culture. It is primarily a seaport and is located 58 km from Chennai, the nation’s capital.

The Pallava monarchs of Kanchipuram had their second capital at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an old, historic town that was a thriving harbour in the seventh century AD when the Pallava kings ruled over it. It is named after the demon king Mahabali, who was known for his kindness, so says the story. Some claim that Mamallapuram got its name after the legendary wrestler Narasimha Varman I, a Pallava king known by the name Mamallan.

Mahabalipuram is renowned for its monuments and temples, particularly the well-known Shore Temple. It was established in the eighth century and is made up of three temples housed in a single compound. The city offers visitors stunning beaches with fine sand and an unusual shopping experience. This city offers a unique visiting experience, from the architecture to the tranquillity, the calming mood, and the stunning backdrop.

Some of the top things to do here is explore the Crocodile Bank for a chance to see some gorgeous varieties of alligators and crocodiles. The Five Rathas is a very apprised and peaceful place to be. A must-see in Mahabalipuram are the fishing towns of Covelong (Kovalam) and Sadras, which have been transformed into luxurious beach resorts.

• Shore Temple
• Descent of the Ganges
• Pancha Rathas
• Varaha Cave Temple
• Thirukadalmallai

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Also Read: Top Things to Do in Mahabalipuram

Kanchipuram is known for its sarees and is often called the “Golden City of Thousand Temples”. The location is well known for its exquisite Kanchipuram sarees, which are crafted using only the finest mulberry silk thread. Kanchipuram is a popular pilgrimage site in India because many people who are interested in Hinduism or who just want to see the wonder of South Indian architectural grandeur go to the city from all over the world. Renowned for serving as the centre of philosophy and culture, Kanchi is a must-visit place in Tamil Nadu to gain inner strength and tranquillity.

The majority of the known temples were constructed in the city, which was the capital of the Pallava Dynasty. Kanchi served as the capital of the Pallavas, who reigned over an area that stretched from the Krishna River in Andhra Pradesh to the Kaveri River in the south, from the third to the ninth century CE. It also serves as a significant hub for Tamil education and showcases the rich Dravidian legacy.

Kanchipuram has a lot of sites to see that leave an enduring imprint on the senses. Kanchipuram’s rejuvenating atmosphere and clean air bring you closer to nature, with its gorgeous gardens, sparkling lakes, and bird sanctuary.

• Ekambareswarar Temple
• Kailasanathar Temple
• Kamakshi Amman Temple,
• Tiru Parameswara Vinnagaram
• Thiru Ekambaranathar Temple
• Kanchi Mutt

Best Time to Visit : October to March

Also Read: Must Visit Temples in South India

One of the most sacred locations in India is Rameswaram , which is situated on an island. Rameswaram, which lies across the Pamban Channel from Sri Lanka, is believed to be the location where Lord Rama built the bridge that connects the two countries. Based on mythology, Lord Rama constructed a bridge over the sea from Rameswaram to save his beloved Sita from Ravana. Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here as well to atone for his guilt of murdering Ravana.

In the Gulf of Mannar, at the extreme point of the Indian peninsula, is the island that is home to Rameshwaram: Pamban Island. The Pamban Bridge, also known as the Annai Indira Gandhi Bridge, connects Pamban Island, which is divided from the Indian mainland by the Pamban Channel.

It is a pilgrimage centre renowned as the Varanasi of the South, visited by both Shaivites and Vaishnavites. The location is well known for its spectacular prakaras, which have enormous sculptured pillars on either side. The world’s longest hallway is found in the Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is situated on the other side.

• Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Villoondi Tirtham
• Lakshmana Tirtham
• Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple
• Agniteertham
• Dhanushkodi Temple

Best Time to Visit : October to April

Also Read: Top Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

Thanjavur, often known as Tanjore or the City of Temples, is a vibrantly cultural place. The area is famous for its saris, handicrafts, textiles, antiques, and Tanjore paintings. Named after the demon “Tanjan-an-asura,” Thanjavur dates back to the Chola Empire’s rule in the tenth century and is well-known for having the greatest rice fields in southern India.

Not only that, but travellers also find Thanjavur’s Carnatic music and musical instruments to be quite appealing. Both Tamil Nadu locals and tourists together are given new life every day by the vibrant cultures of the past and present. The neighbourhood and its surroundings are home to several houses of worship.

Seeing a live Bharatanatyam performance is one of the best things to experience in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The performances are especially great at the serene Brihadeshwara Temple . Thanjavur is well-known across the globe for its dance traditions. Here, one can continuously see how the great and vibrant cultures of the past and present breathe life into and coexist with the ordinary, giving the region a distinct and splendid character.

• Brihadeshwara Temple
• Siva Ganga Garden
• Saraswathi Mahal Library
• Sangeetha Mahal
• Thanjavur Maratha Palace
• Schwartz Church

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Also Read: Famous Hindu Temples in Tamil Nadu

Yelagiri is a popular hiking location that sits at 4,626 feet above sea level. Situated in the Vellore district, this stunning hill station is surrounded by verdant valleys and covered with rose gardens and orchards. The area, which consists of 14 villages spread across four hills, is a lovely spot to spend time with a loved one. Enjoy expansive, magnificent views of the hills and the surrounding areas. There are some excellent hiking opportunities here, including the Javadi and Palamathi hills and the walk to Swami Malai Hill through lush woods.

About 400 years ago, people first settled in Yelagiri. It is believed that soldiers from the army of Tipu Sultan turned farmers after settling there. Once owned by the Yelagiri Zamindar family, the hill station gained fame during British colonial control when the British utilised it as a summer retreat. Since then, it has emerged as one of South India’s best-kept secrets, featuring rocky hills and breathtaking scenery that make it the ideal getaway from the hectic pace of city life.

The man-made Punganur Lake in the area is one of the top visiting and breathtaking places in Tamil Nadu, drawing a large number of tourists and visitors each year. It is another among the several locations to explore in Yelagiri during your vacation.

• Swamimalai Hills
• Yelagiri Lake
• Yelagiri Nature Park
• Murugan Temple
• Stellar Cave
• Jalagamparai Falls

Best Time to Visit : May to June and November to February

Also Read: Popular Hill Stations to Explore in Southern India

Kanyakumari , also referred to as the southernmost point of India, is renowned for its stunning beaches, the Vivekananda Memorial, and picture-perfect sunsets. It is undoubtedly among the most fascinating destinations in India. There are locations here that never cease to astound; there are cathedrals, temples, sculptures and religious structures everywhere.

The Hindu deity Kanyakumari, often referred to as Kumari Amman, is the source of the city’s name. It has been found that Swami Vivekananda spent some time living and practising meditation here. It is located where the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal converge. This location gives breathtaking views of the sunset and sunrise. It is the only location in India where, on full moon days, one may witness the amazing spectacle of Sunset and Moonrise simultaneously.

History lovers could go on an excursion to these top tourist places in Tamil Nadu which include Vattakottai Fort or the Kumari Amman Temple as these places exhibit an ideal blend of the local cultures in their artwork and architecture of the area. It’s truly unique to spend time on beaches like Sanguthurai Beach and Sothavilai Beach, among many more. The city’s must-see attraction is the wax museum, a unique yet enticing location for tourists.

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial
• Kanyakumari Beach
• Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple
• Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam
• Our Lady of Ransom Church

Also Read: Best Destinations for Spiritual Tour in South India

Ooty , an iconic hill station in India, is located in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris area. Situated 2,240 metres above sea level, Ooty is a popular destination for honeymooners as well. Ooty, adorned with picturesque tea states, verdant rolling slopes, and expansive grasslands, requires no introduction to establish its status as one of the top tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu.

The magnificent “Queen of the Hills” in the south is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which is renowned for its exquisite and delicate ecology. It is most commonly referred to as a “hotspot” in the ecological community, a term that serves as justification for the Western Ghats region’s UNESCO World Heritage status. Ooty, which was formerly the British Madras Presidency’s summer capital, is appropriately referred to as “India’s Switzerland.”

After independence, Ooty became a popular tourist destination, which makes sense considering its qualifications for it. This is because of all that it has to offer from nature, including its favourable climate, breathtaking scenery, unique local sights and sounds, abundance of wildlife, and, of course, its own tea and coffee.

• Government Rose Garden
• The Tea Factory & The Tea Museum
• Stephen’s Church
• Botanical Garden

Best Time to Visit : October to May

Also Read: Top Destinations to Explore in Ooty

The most popular honeymoon location in South India is Kodaikanal because of its breathtaking scenery, which makes for really unforgettable experiences for its guests. Kodaikanal is endowed with a thick forest full of different kinds of plants, huge rocks in the middle, and picturesque waterfalls. Trekking, boating, and horseback riding are just a few of the best things to do at Kodaikanal which is also considered as one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu for a getaway to experience the breathtaking mountains there.

This place is commonly referred to as the ‘Princess of Hill stations’. It is located on the southernmost point of the upper Palani hills at an elevation of around 7000 feet (2133 metres). The Palaiyar tribal people were Kodaikanal’s first inhabitants. American Christian missionaries and British officials founded the present-day Kodaikanal in 1845 as an escape from the lowlands’ oppressive heat and tropical illnesses. A few rich Indians began moving to this charming hill station in the 20th century, and nature enthusiasts soon began to explore it.

• Coaker’s Walk
• Kodaikanal Lake
• Silver Cascade Falls
• Bryant Park
• Kurinji Andavar Temple
• Bear Shola Falls

Best Time to Visit : October to June

Also Read: Most Visited Places in Kodaikanal

Coonoor is a municipality and a Taluk in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India, near the state’s western border. Coonoor is fast becoming one of the most popular hill retreats in Tamil Nadu. Only 19 kilometres from Ooty, it is the second-largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills among the three beautiful hill stations, perched at an elevation of 1930 metres. It offers a wide-angle view of the Catherine Falls and the Nilgiri Hills. Rich vegetation, well-maintained hills, Colonial culture, and breathtaking scenery make this place a fantasy vacation spot.

Around Coonoor, there are several trekking and hiking paths. Visitors can enjoy a thrilling and unique journey on the toy train that links Coonoor with Mettupalayam and Ooty. In addition, Coonoor offers a few guesthouses and heritage homes that overlook the hills and are ideal for a getaway or staycation. This location is ideal for a summer getaway as it provides some of the best tourist spots for its visitors, including hills covered in tea plantations, scattered with various attractions, and blessed with cool temperatures all year round.

• High Field Tea Estate
• Tiger Hill Cemetery
• Lamb’s Rock
• Wellington Lake

Also Read: Top Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu

Madurai , known for its Meenakshi Temple , is one of India’s oldest towns. The city is claimed to be built in the shape of a lotus and is known as Lotus City. Madurai is mostly a destination for individuals who appreciate architecture or have a strong interest in Hinduism. Madurai is situated on the banks of the River Vaigai. The city appears to have a purifying influence, and when one enters it, an unexpected feeling of serenity begins to settle in them.

According to mythology, the forest area known as Kadambavanam was cleared for the construction of Madurai. Drops of nectar from Lord Shiva’s hair dropped on the ground when he emerged on the day the city was named. Thus, Madurai, the name of the city, comes from the Tamil word “mathuram,” which means “sweetness.”

The capital of the Pandyan Empire was Madurai. The famous Pandya rulers of South India ruled from this capital city, which was constructed by Kulasekhara, a Pandyan king. Later, the Cholas, Pandyas, Madurai Sultanate, Vijayanagara, Madurai Nayaks, and ultimately the British dominated it. Madurai city and the Meenakshi Amman Temple owe significance to the Pandyas and Nayaks.

Apart from Meenakshi Temple, some of the other popular destinations in Tamil Nadu include Thiruparankundram, which is one of the ancient temples devoted to Lord Muruga (Karthikeya) and another attraction in Madurai is the Gandhi Museum.

• Meenakshi Amman Temple
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
• Koodal Azhagar Temple
• Thiruparankundram Temple

Best Time to Visit : December to February

Tiruvannamalai also spelt as Tiruvannamalai is a mediaeval town whose magnificent architecture is inspired by Hindu mythology. Tiruvannamalai, a holy town perched atop the Malai hill, is renowned for its Arunachala temple in addition to several other temples and ashrams.

One of the main centres of the Saiva faith is Temple Town, Tiruvannamalai. Tamil people have worshipped the Arunachala Peak and its surroundings for ages. The temple is rich in customs, history, and festivals and has a magnificent concept and structure. The most important Deepam festival draws followers from throughout South India. The Cholan of Sambuvarayar governed this area during the late Chola era.

In addition to Tiruvannamalai, it boasts ancient sites such as Arni, Vandavasi, and Devikapuram that are linked to French businesses and East India. Some of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu you must explore include Sri Ramana Ashram, Sathanur Dam, and Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram. The Arunachaleswarar temple festival, which is a must-see event in Tamil Nadu, brings the city to life.

• Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple
• Virupaksha Cave,
• Agni Lingam,
• Sri Ramanasramam

Best Time to Visit : October to March and June to September

Also Check Out: Popular Tamil Nadu Tourism Packages

Discovering the best travel destinations in Tamil Nadu is like walking through a tapestry of spirituality, history, and breathtaking scenery. From the serene surroundings of Ooty and Kodaikanal to the vibrant metropolitan attractiveness of Chennai, every location reveals a different facet of Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural past.

The historic temples of Madurai and Rameswaram are resonant with age-old customs, while Yelagiri’s colonial ambience lends a hint of French charm. Whether admiring the imposing Mahabalipuram architecture or taking in the captivating dawn in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu fascinates tourists with an abundance of experiences. The cities skillfully combine heritage and technology, while the hill stations provide a cool retreat.

Tamil Nadu invites visitors to immerse themselves in a vibrant and unique trip by revealing itself as a region where spirituality, history, and natural beauty combine in every corner.

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Published: 29 Nov, 2023

About the author

Moumita Kundu

Moumita Kundu is a dedicated writer and researcher covering topics related to travel, eco-friendly behavior, and sustainable living. She has turned her travel dreams into reality by penning travel blogs. Moumita writes with a creative flair, allowing her to share her insights and experiences. Beyond her talent as a writer, she harbors a genuine love for animals and those around her.

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12 Best Beaches near Chennai

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1. Pondicherry

At a distance of 170 km from Chennai, 204 km from Trichy, 233 km from Tirupati, 335 km from Madurai, 639 km from Trivandrum, 578 km from Kanyakumari, 96 km from Mahabalipuram , 368 km from Bangalore and 564 km from Kochi, Pondicherry or Puducherry is a city and capital of the Union Territory of Pondicherry and is one of the most popular tourist destinations you must include in honeymoon packages . It is among top 2 day trip from Bangalore and Chennai. Pondicherry is located along the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal. The Union Territory of Puducherry comprises of four coastal regions namely Puducherry, Karaikal , Mahe and Yanam. Puducherry and Karaikal are situated on the East Coast of Tamil Nadu, Yanam in Andhra Pradesh and Mahe on the West Coast in Kerala . According to legend, Pondicherry was known by the name Vedapuri and this place is also believed to be the abode of the revered sage, Saint Agasthya. Pondicherry had trade relations with Rome during 1st century AD. Roman pottery excavated from Arikamedu near Pondicherry dates back to 1st century AD. Pondicherry was ruled by the Pallava dynasty in 4th century AD followed by different southern dynasties ...

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Distance from Chennai: 155 Kms

2. Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, also called Mamallapuram is one of the must-visit weekend getaways from Chennai for one day trip. About 57 km from Chennai, it is one of the UNESCO heritage site in Tamil Nadu and one of the best places to experience Tamilnadu Tourism . Famous for its Shore Temple built in 7th century, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram . It is known for its historical monuments, sculptures, scenic beauty, culture and tradition. The famous Arjuna's Penance, the Krishna Mandapa, Thirukadalmallai temple, Cholamadal Artist's Village, Mahabalipuram Beach, Tiger Cave and Crocodile Bank are the must include places in Mahabalipuram tour packages . One of the prominent festivals celebrated here is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival, which is organized by the Department of Tourism every year from December - January. Mahabalipuram is one of the best places to include in your Pondicherry tour packages .

Distance from Chennai: 58 Kms

3. Karaikal

At a distance 130 km from Pondicherry, 285 km from Chennai, 66 km from Chidambaram, 283 km from Rameswaram , 274 km from Madurai, 96 km from Thanjavur & 154 km from Trichy, Karaikal is an important port town and district headquarters under the Union Territory of Pondicherry. Karaikal was a French colony until its merger with Indian Union in 1954. Karaikal is one of the best places to include in your Pondicherry tour packages . French acquired Karaikal in 1674 and converted that into a major commercial port, primarily trading spices. French acquired trading rights in Karaikal by then Tanjore rulers. In 1739, the current town of Karaikal along with its adjacent villages were transferred to French East India Company by the king of Tanjore, Sahuji. This territory was surrendered to the British in 1761. The control changed between French and British few times until it was finally handed over to French in 1816 until the Treaty of Paris, 1814. Karaikal has rich heritage and it still holds the old charm. Thirunallar, Karaikal Beach, Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple and Tantondreeswara Temple are few important places to visit around Karaikal. Nagore Dargah (14 km), Nagapattinam (20 km) and Velankanni Church (31 km) are other major attractions in the vicinity of the town. Nearest Airport to Karaikal is Tiruchirapally ...

Distance from Chennai: 285 Kms

4. Poompuhar

At a distance of 40 km from Chidambaram, 40 km from Karaikal, 90 km from Thanjavur & 257 km from Chennai, Poompugar is a coastal town in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the major places to visit as part of Chidambaram trip . Poompuhar was once a flourishing ancient port city known as Kaveri Poompattinam and was at its peak of glory under the earlier Chola kings. The River Kaveri is merging with the sea here. It was known as Puhar due to the exquisite beauty of the port town, and it later came to be called Poompuhar. Silappathikaram and Manimekalai, the Tamil epics, bring out the greatness of the city in some of the poems in Sangam literature. It has now been established by marine archaeological research (conducted by the National Institute of Marine Archaeology, Goa) that much of the town was washed away by progressive erosion and floods. As per archaeological evidence found during excavation, this age-old city is said to have been established thousands of years ago. It has been destroyed several times by huge Tsunami waves in the past. Ancient Pottery dating back to the 4th century BCE have been discovered offshore by marine archaeologists east of this town. Famous for its estuary of the Kaveri River, Poompuhar is one of the popular weekend getaways from Chennai for those who always look forward to witnessing and ...

Distance from Chennai: 257 Kms

5. Nagapattinam

At a distance of 20 km from Karaikal , 85 Kms from Thanjavur & 298 Kms from Chennai, Nagapattinam is a coastal town on Bay of Bengal and is a district headquarters. This place is also famous for its temples. There are few famous temples in Nagapattinam - The Shri Kayahorana Swami Neelayathatchi Amman Temple, Sowriraja Perumal Temple, and Nellukkadai Mariamman Temple. The long and clear beaches of Nagapattinam attract large crowds on evenings. This favourite town of Chola Kings was also celebrated later by Vijayanagara Kings. The Portuguese had a commercial contact with this town during the rule of the Thanjavur Nayak Sevvappa Nayakkar and Acchuthappa Nayakkar. There are several historical and pilgrimage places around Nagapattinam.

Distance from Chennai: 298 Kms

6. V.G.P. Golden Beach

At a distance of 21 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station and 40 Kms from Mahabalipuram (situated on East Coast Road between Chennai and Mahabalipuram ), VGP Golden Beach is the only resort in Chennai city limits. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai . This Beach cum Amusement Park is developed by The Tourism and Entertainment Corridor of Tamil Nadu, and offers wide range of entertainment options like Gokarting, Dashing Cars, Water Chute, Giant Wheel, Break-dance, Dragons belly, Super trooper and many more. Kids can enjoy the special sight seeing of Jurassic Park and Aquarium. There is an Art Centre which sells handicrafts and articles made out of sea shells. The sea facing Swimming pool is an extra attraction. The beach is clean and ideal for sun-bathing. The Resort has a Multi-cuisine restaurant and a separate Bar. Cottages are also available here. Entrance - Rs. 100 for Adults and Rs. 50 per Children. No Holidays.

Distance from Chennai: 21 Kms

7. Sadras Beach Resort

At a distance of 13 kms from Mahabalipuram (towards South) and 68 Kms from Chennai, Sadras is an outstanding beach resort that takes advantage of the beautiful landscape. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit around Chennai. The beaches that surround Mahabalipuram are encompassed by beautiful, green casuarinas groves. The contrast of the vibrant green with the sparkling white beaches is breathtaking, and a sight that numerous tourists want to experience. There is an old ruined Dutch Fort and a Dutch cemetery with finely carved headstones at Sadras as well.

Distance from Chennai: 68 Kms

8. Covelong Beach

At a distance of 23 Kms from Mahabalipuram and 35 Kms from Chennai (on Chennai - Mahabalipuram Road) Covelong/ Kovalam is a famous beach resort and one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai . It was originally just a small fishing village, but now also expanded to become one of the most famous beach resorts in South India. You can still explore the old sea port that used to exist there. Numerous quality beach resorts can be found at Kovalam. The beaches at that location are absolutely exquisite, and are greatly enjoyed by all that visit there. It is also to these beaches that the well-known Olive Ridley Turtles travel to every year to hatch their eggs. Swimmimg and wind surfing are popular activities at this beach.

Distance from Chennai: 35 Kms

9. Suryalanka Beach - Bapatla

At a distance of 9 km from Bapatla, 28 km from Vodarevu Beach, 92 km from Vijayawada and 61 km from Guntur, Suryalanka Beach is situated in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. Also known as Bapatla Beach, it draws a large number of visitors on weekends and holidays. Suryalanka Beach is the perfect weekend getaway beach to spend time with friends and families. The natural beauty of the beach is major draw for people, who are looking to refresh and rejuvenate themselves. The shore of the beach is wide and spacious. The Suryalanka Beach overlooks the crystal blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. This beach is quite safe for swimming and sunbathing is another popular activity. Sunrise is very beautiful at this beach. The major tourist attraction of the beach is the sightseeing for dolphins in the month of November. Haritha Beach Resort run by AP Tourism provides accommodation here. Advance booking is advised for a weekend stay. Other than this beach resort, Bapatla town also has various affordable accommodations available. The Bhavanarayana Swamy temple at Bapatla town is another place which can be visited from here. From Bapatla town, this place can be reached by public buses and autos. Bapatla town has very good train and bus connectivity with major towns in Andhra Pradesh.

Distance from Chennai: 392 Kms

10. Vodarevu Beach - Chirala

At a distance of 8 km from Chirala, 28 km from Suryalanka Beach, 103 km from Vijayawada and 72 km from Guntur, Vodarevu Beach is located on the coastline of Bay of Bengal. It is situated 6 km from the Ramapuram Beach in Prakasam district. Vodarevu beach is popular and one of the most visited beach around Vijayawada. This Beach is a beautiful beach with a constant inflow of tourists spending their weekends in serene settings. The tranquil setting of the beach can make visitors forget time and the beautiful sunsets and sunrises just add to the overall charm and attraction of the beach. The Vodarevu Beach provides adventure in the form of exciting water-sports, swimming and fishing. Local boats are available which facilitate boating in the sea. There is also a light house nearby which can be visited. There are several accommodation facilities near Vodarevu beach. The Sip and Dip Cottages, situated on the Vodarevu Beach Road is equipped with all basic amenities. Also, the nearby Jolley Home Resort and Ramapuram Beach Resort are also good options. Alternately, there are several accommodation options available in Chirala town. Vodarevu is connected by bus and autos from Chirala town. Chirala has very good train and bus connectivity with major towns in Andhra Pradesh.

Distance from Chennai: 368 Kms

11. Manginapudi Beach

At a distance of 83 Kms from Vijayawada, 11 Kms from Machilipatnam & 351 Kms from Hyderabad, the Manginapudi Beach is scenic beach on Bay of Bengal. A unique feature of this beach is that it has black soil instead of the sand like other beaches. On the occasion of Magha Poornima lakhs of pilgrims gather here to take a holy dip in the sea. An old light house is one of the added attractions. A number of beach resorts are coming up to cater to the tourist crowd. On the banks of the sea coast, Dattashram is an ancient pilgrimage site comprising a temple of Lord Shiva. Owing to the sanctification of 9 wells of bath, like Rameswaram , Manginapudi is also known as Datta Rameswaram. Several buses are available to Manginapudi from Vijayawada and Machilipatnam.

Distance from Chennai: 455 Kms

12. Machilipatnam

At a distance of 70 Kms from Vijayawada & 340 Kms from Hyderabad, Machilipatnam is a port town and the headquarters of the Krishna District. It is renowned for its cotton textiles, especially the finely woven muslins and brightly coloured prints. Products include Hand printed silk and cotton saris, upholstery, sling bags and dresses. This was once the principal port town in the Krishna Delta, but now little can be seen of this port town's mercantile past. There are Dutch tombs with carved instructions and coats of arms bearing dates from 1649 to 1725, a reminder of the colonial history of Machilipatnam. Regular RTC buses are operated to Machilipatnam from Vijayawada Central Bus Station.

Distance from Chennai: 444 Kms

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Tourist places in Tamil Nadu

Here are the top 74 places to visit in tamil nadu in 2024:, 43. pulicat.

43 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Pulicat or Pazhaverkadu is a seashore town in Tamil Nadu, known for its colonial history. The main attractions here are the Pulicat Lake, being the second biggest brackish water body in India and the Pulicat Bird Sanctuary. The small town still showcases the Dutch aesthetic in its churches, old buil...

Best Time: October to March

44. Bodinayakkanur

44 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Bodinayakkanur is a town in Theni famous for its scenic beauty. Despite being a Tamil town, the elevation of 1,158 ft. makes for pleasant weather throughout the year. While cash crops grow here in plenty, it also boasts of spice plantations and is known as the Cardamom capital of India. Lush forests...

45. Thiruthani

45 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

A small town in India’s state of Tamil Nadu, Thiruthani is renowned for two things - the popular one being the fifth haven of Thiruthani Murugan Temple or Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple (Lord Muruga), and the birthplace of late Dr. Sarvapalli Radha Krishnan, who was the first president of India. The te...

Best Time: September to February

46. Valparai

46 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Situated at 1500m above sea level in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, Valparai is an offbeat yet tranquil hill station in the Anamalai Hills. Its alluring picturesque sights entice tourists from all over the country making it one of the sought-after destinations in the south of Western Ghats.

Best Time: December to January

Tamil Nadu Travel Packages

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Quintessential Tamil Nadu Package: Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari

Wilderness & hills package: ooty, wayanad & mysore, pearls of tamil nadu: ooty, kumbakonam, kodaikanal & more, tamil nadu darshan: rameshwaram, kanyakumari, trivandrum & more, banglore mysore ooty kodaikanal tour package, religious madurai, rameswaram & kanyakumari on a budget, 47. kolukkumalai.

47 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Kolukkumalai is a small village in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu, on the border of Idukki District, Kerala. At 7,000 ft above sea level, it is home to the highest tea plantations in the world. The natural beauty here is intoxicating, promising a beautiful sunrise overlooking the Palani hills. The...

Best Time: September to March

48. Velliangiri Hills

48 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The Velliangiri Hills or 'Sapthagiri' are located in Tamil Nadu at the border of the Coimbatore District and Palakkad District, Kerala. Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Sapthagiri or Seven Hills are a scenic, sacred adventure that commemorate Lord Shiva and Vishnu amidst nature and wildlif...

Best Time: October to April

49. Sirumalai

49 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Covering an expanse of 60,000 acres, Sirumalai is a hilly region in Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu. At an altitude of 1600m, this densely forested region boasts of diverse wildlife and flora. The weather in this southern hill station is pleasant throughout the year. Having also been recognised as a p...

50. Javadi Hills

50 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The Javadi Hills are situated between the Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts of Tamil Nadu, dividing them. A tourist hub, the region promises diverse wildlife, flora and attractions. It has been admired for its picturesque beauty through history, specially during the colonial times. The serenity p...

51. Pachamalai Hills

51 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The Pachamalai Hills or Pachais in Tamil Nadu are a green hill-range 80 km north of Tiruchirappalli. With rivers Sweata Nadi and Kallar flowing through, these hills offer waterfalls, trekking trails and medicinal gardens. It has recently developed as a region for eco-tourism, especially for weekend ...

Best Time: September to June

52. Anaimalai Hills

52 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Anaimalai Hills or Anamala Hills are a range of mountains that form the southern border of the Western Ghats, through Tamil Nadu and Kerala. While they are famous for the highest peak in South India, the lower slopes boast of expansive tea & coffee plantations. Rosewood, Sandalwood, Teak and Sag...

53. Namakkal

53 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 3 Tourist attractions

Namakkal is a district in Tamil Nadu which was separated from Salem in 1997. Known for its Rock Fort, Kolli Hills and various historic temples, Namakkal is a combination of local heritage & beauty. While River Kaveri skirts this southern borders of this well-irrigated district, rivers Aiyaru, Ka...

54 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Nagore is a pilgrimage centre, known for the Nagore Dargah and located in the Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India. Nagore is a beautiful little coastal town on the eastern shore of India, only fueled by the finger-licking delicacies found in the place. The history of Nagore is entwined wit...

55. Pichavaram Mangrove Forests

55 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The second largest Mangrove forest in the world, Pichavaram is located off the tourist trail but is totally worth the effort. One can be enchanted by the complex river system and canal network that bind this beautiful place together and support the rich biodiversity of the place.

56. Kalugumalai

56 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

A tiny tranquil town in the district of Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu, Kalugumalai or Kazhugumalai is famous for its ancient rock-cut temples and monolithic Jain beds. The city got its name from the hills surrounding it with the same name, which translates to "Hill of Vultures". The hills that surrounding...

57. Gangaikonda Cholapuram

57 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The magnificence of the Gangaikonda Cholapuram along with Brihadishwara temple will enchant you and thrill you with its history and engineering. A place which is a testimony to the architectural and engineering genius of the region and the pride of one of the greatest empires of India - Chola Empire...

58. Papanasam Falls

58 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

A twin brother to the Banateertham Falls, Papanasam Fall is an immaculate sheet of white water that flows enchantingly in the rainforests of the Western Ghats mesmerizing one and all with its sheer volume, beauty and height. The Papanasam Falls, with a drop of 120 meters is highly revered by the loc...

59. Kolli Hills

59 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

With an ominous name which means ‘Mountain of Death’, Kolli Hills or Kolli Malai are a mountain range located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is relatively untouched by commercial tourism and therefore has retained most of its natural magnificence.

60. Silver Cascade Falls

60 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The perfect stop over in-between a long journey, these silver cascade falls demand your attention while you travel from Kodaikanal till Madurai. The Silver Cascade Falls formed as a result of the over flowing of the famous man-made Kodai Lake, are the perfect way to have a break while on a long road...

61. Doddabetta Peak

61 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Dodabetta, literally translating to mean - Big Peak, is located approximately 10 km away from Ooty. It towers to a staggering height of 8650 feet or 2,623 meters above the sea level and is the highest peak in the Nilgiri Hills. A treat to the eyes, this picturesque land is indeed a great sightseeing...

62. Banatheertham Falls

62 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

In the amazing beauty of the Western Ghats is hidden a beautiful white wall of water flowing through the dense green forest known as the Banatheertham Falls. The Banatheertham Falls which is situated just over the Karaiyar Dam in the Tamirabarani River in the state of Tamil Nadu was largely unknown ...

63. Kodai-Palani Trek

63 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Known as the Princess of Hill Stations, Kodaikanal is a popular destination for those seeking adventure. The town of Kodaikanal is established on a plateau above the southern escarpment of the Upper Palani Hills at a height of 6, 998 ft.

64. Ketti Valley

64 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Located in the beautiful hills extending from Coonoor to Ooty in Tamil Nadu is the beautiful Ketti Valley. The best way to visit this beautiful valley, that is if you want to really feel its beauty is to take the toy train which is like a 20-25 minute ride.

65. Meghamalai

65 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Often known as the “High Wavy Mountains”, Meghamalai is a petit yet beautiful place located in the Western Ghats in the state of Tamil Nadu. At an elevation of 1500 meters, this place is a perfect getaway to beat the heat and enjoy some peaceful time relaxing amidst nature. Nestled between the everg...

66. Vattakanal

66 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Vattakanal near Kodaikanal is a charming little hill station in the Western Ghats. At a height of about 2011 m and towards the western edge of Tamil Nadu, Vattakanal is a small hamlet at a distance of about 7-8 km from Kodaikanal. In Tamil, ‘vatta’ suggests circle whereas ‘kanal’ translates to the f...

67. Pykara Falls

67 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Pykara Falls are set amidst the backdrop of a lush green forest and are an absolute delight to witness. Pykara is the name of a village which lies at a distance of around 19 kms from Ooty, in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is also the name of a river which runs through the Pykara village, which is sacr...

68. Anamalai Tiger Reserve

68 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The Anamalai Tiger Reserve, more famously known as the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, located in the south of India is a unique reserve which has long since protected the endemic species of both plants and animals that reside here.

69 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

One of the most popular harvest festivals of South India is Pongal. It is celebrated in mid-January every year and marks the beginning of Uttarayan-sun’s journey northwards. It is mainly observed in Tamil Nadu and lasts for about four days. The literal meaning of Pongal is “spilling over”, and it is...

70. Panguni Uthiram

70 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Panguni Uthiram is a significant Tamil festival that sees thousands of devotees flocking to all Murugan temples. This festival is also auspicious to Lord Vishnu as well as Lord Shiva and is hence considered sacred by both Saivites and Vaishnavites. This day is also celebrated as Gowri Kalyanam Day a...

71. Erumbeeswarar Temple

71 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Erumbeeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Hoisted on a 60-foot tall hill, the temple can be reached via a flight of granite steps. Since the temple is on a hill, it is colloquially called “Malai Kovil” or “hill temple”. The temple is famous not only for its Dravidian architectu...

72. Sathuragiri Hills

72 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Chathuragiri or the Sathuragiri Hills are found in the Madurai District of Tamil Nadu. It is believed that this is the meeting point of the four Vedas and is the abode of God. The sacred hills are a religious centre for pilgrims and Shiva bhakti. Reaching Sathuragiri involves a full-day upward trek ...

73. Manjolai Hills

73 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The Manjolai Hills lie 70 km away from Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. A scenic and serene getaway, the hills boast of emerald green tea gardens and picturesque skies. With vivacious waterfalls and meadows, this densely forested area is a nature lover and trekking enthusiast's perfect getaway. Still unknow...

74. Kotagiri

74 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 7 Tourist attractions

Snuggled in the Nilgiris District, Kotagiri is a gorgeous hill station frequented by tourists from different parts of the country. It is one of the oldest hill stations in the Nilgiris and rests at an altitude of 5882 feet. Once served as a site of coffee plantation, today the town is a tea plantati...

Best Time: December to May

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Interesting Facts around the World

Top 100 Best Tourist places in Tamilnadu

Tamilnadu is located in extreme south position in India. It has plenty of visiting places in various categories like Natural, Temples, Beaches, Waterfalls and dams. Tamilnadu has has very important temples like Rameswaram Temple , Madurai Temple, Kanchipuram Temple and much more.

Tamilnadu also has world-famous important Chola temple and Pallavan Temples that had been designated as Heritage Place by UNESCO . The Chola Temple had built by Raja Raja Cholan I , it had crossed 1000 years recently.

UNESCO had designated 3 places as Heritage places in Tamilnadu, They are Mammallapuram Pallavan Temples, Thanjai Chola Temples , Nilgiri Mountain Train . These places are the things which introduce to World how Tamilnadu is beautiful. Apart from all Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple and Rameswaram Temple are in the Queue on UNESCO Races.

Tamilnadu have more than 50 famous temples, 10 great beaches, 20 important dams, 3 UNESCO Heritage Places and goes on. It also has the best natural visiting places and more than 30 water falls. In which Courtalam waterfalls are the best one. It is located in Western Ghats and 100% herbal mixed. It is also called as Dudhsagar falls of  Tamilnadu.

Tamilnadu has more than 20 dams in which Mettur Dam is considered as the biggest one, which can hold 94 TMC water.

If you are at Tamilnadu and wanting to explore the places, here the embracing 100 Best Tourist places in Tamilnadu that we have prepared and go and feel the beauty of Tamilnadu.

1. Hogenakkal Falls :

Located near to Dharmapuri, 345 km from Chennai. Hogenakkal Falls are formed from the river Kaveri (or Cauvery). Hogenakkal falls is one of the main natural attraction in Tamilnadu and also one of the best waterfalls in India. This falls usually look like Niagara by its aggressive water-flows. Hogenakkal falls also known as the ‘Niagara of India’. 14 channels of water drops from 65 feet.

2. Kodaikanal Hillstation :

Kodaikanal located in Dindigul District, 528 km from Chennai. This place is one of the best hill stations in South India. Kodaikanal is usually called by local people as the ‘Princess of Hill stations’. Kodaikanal has altitude about 7000 feet. It has plenty of natural attractions with it. Best known honeymoon place in Tamilnadu.

3. Mahabalipuram Beach :

Mahabalipuram located in Kanchipuram District, 57 km from Chennai. This place is also called as Mamallapuram by tamil peoples. Mahabalipuram is well know major attraction in Tamilnadu. Mahabalipuram is famous for its attractive sea shore place and Pallava Temple built by Pallava Kings in 7th century. This monuments are listed inn UNESCO Heritage as Architecture Place.

4. Ooty Hillstation :

Ooty located in Coimbatore district, 556 km from Chennai, this is usually referred as ‘Queen of hill stations’. Best romantic place in Tamilnadu also one of the best honeymoon spot in South India. It is situated 7,440 feet above sea level. Ooty is well known place for Tea Estate, Pykara Lake and for Cima Shooting.

5. Yercaud Hillstation :

Yercaud situated in Salem District, 350 km from Chennai. It is one of the popular natural visting places in Tamilnadu. Yercaud is located in the Shevaroy range of hills. Altitude this hillstation is 4920 ft.

6. Yelagiri Hills :

Yelagiri located in Vellore district, 230 km from Chennai. This is one of the best hill stations in Tamilnadu. Yelagiri is spread over an area of 30 sq km. It is situated 3500 ft above sea level.

7. Kanyakumari Beach :

Kanyakumari located 707 km distance from Chennai. Located at extreme corner in Southen India. This place also referred as Cape Comorin. Kanyakumari is the joining point of Indian Ocean, Arean Sea, Bay of Bangal. 133 feet thiruvalluvar statue and Vivekananthar Mandapam is located center of the sea. Enjoying sunrise at early morning considered as the main attraction of Kanyakumari.

8. Rameshwaram Beach :

Rameshwaram located in Ramanathapuram District, 565 km from Chennai. This is famous Pilgrimage centers.It is considered as best holy place in south India, After Ganga in India. The Main attraction of Rameswaram is there will be no much waves all days which allow us to enjoy. Crystal clean water make us to feel good.

9. Dhanushkodi :

Dhanushkodi located in Ramanathapuram District, 600 km from Chennai, Considered at the End of India at extreme south region. Srilanka is very near from this place. It is believed that Lord Rama built bridge from this to Srilanka to have Seetha. This place is now announced not a good place to live due to the heavy Storm attack before 40 years. But visitors are allowed to enjoy the nature and crystal clean natural sea shore.

10. Elliot’s Beach :

Located in Besant Nagar, 10 km from Chennai. The Elliot’s Beach is a well known beach in Chennai for people who seek relief from the crowded metropolitan life. It is one of the most loved place in Chennai. It is considered as romantic beach.

11. Kotagiri :

Located in Nilgiris District. 544 km from Chennai. Kotagiri is a famous hill Station in Tamilnadu. It is situated 5,883 feet above sea level. It is one of the oldest and largest hill station after ooty and coonoor.

12.Pichavaram (Near Chidambaram) :

Pichavaram located in Chidambaram, 217 km from Chennai. It is the one of the best scenic places in tamilnadu. It is only backwater area in Tamilnadu. There is plenty of trees and water plants rooted under feet of water. Pichavaram magroves spread over 2800 acres. It is the largest healthiest mangrove forest in the world.

13. Kalhatty Falls – Ooty :

Kalhatty Falls located in Nigiri District. 552 Km from Chennai. This Falls also referred as Kalahasti Falls. The water flow elevation is about 130 feet. It is located in a deep forest when we visit in a monsoon time it will be wonderful feel to have it. This forest area is famous for many wildlife creatures such as Wild Buffaloes, Wild Dogs, Spotted Deer’s, Sambars and elephants.

14. Valparai :

Valparai located in Coimbatore. 600 km from Chennai. It is situated 3,500 feet above sea level. Valparai is famous who loves trekking and natural scenarios there is plenty of tea and coffee estates surrounded by thick forest.

15. Marina Beach :

Marina Beach located 4 km from Chennai. Best tourist and enjoyable place in Chennai. The Marina beach spread across 13 km. It is the second longest beach in the World. The large seashore is an enjoyable open area. The Anna Park, Tomb of M.G. Ramachandran, Tomb of J. Jeyalalitha (The former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu) Situated on the beach.

16. Emerald Lake :

Emerald Lake located in Nilgiri District. 544 Km from Chennai. It is one of the best natural sightseeing attractions near ooty. It is the place to spent time and feel the nature.

17. Avalanche Lake :

Avalanche Lake located in Nilgiri District. 540 kms from Chennai. This lake is very beautiful village situated along with avalanche lake. If you in ooty have a trip to Avalanche and enjoy the nature culture. Avalanche is famous for Homemade chocolates.

18.Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary :

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Nilgiri District, 570 Km from Chennai. It is situated near to Bandipur National Park. This is one of the most popular Sanctuary in South India. It is the oldest Sanctuary in South India held on 1940. This place spread over 330 sq.km. Total altitude is about 1140 meters. We can easily spot elephants, Spotted Deer, Reptiles and Gaur here.

19. Pykara Dam :

Located in Niligiri District, 568 Km from Chennai. This Dam built across Pykara river. amidst dense forest is a beautiful destination offering breathtaking scenery. This is one of the best among Ooty places to visit and an ideal place to experience beautiful boat ride. Pykara lake is situated over there which is one of must visit place in Ooty. Boating at Pykara lake will be an memorable moment with nature surroundings. The lake is situated along with natural surrounding.

20. Poompuhar :

Poompuhar located in Karaikal district, 257 Km from Chennai. This is well known area in terms of Kaveri river. Poompuhar is the place where the kaveri ends its journey. It has one of the biggest port on the east coast of Tamil Nadu. Poompuhar was a very glory place under the great Chola kings. It has beautiful beach for sunbathing and swimming.

21. Law’s Falls :

Law’s Falls located near to Coonoor. It is situated in the corner of deep nature. This places are undisturbed area. Plenty of monkeys will be roaming here. Sightseeing nature will be an amazing feel. The falls height is about 35 feet with slippery rocks.

22. Thiruparappu Waterfalls :

Thiruparappu Waterfalls located in Kanyakumari distict, 700 km from Chennai. It is situated in Tamilnadu and kerala border. Thiruparappu Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in Tamilnadu. It makes an elevation about 60 feet. Pechiparai dam water makes Thiruparappu Waterfalls, which is located 13 km from Thiruparappu Waterfalls. Thiruparappu Waterfalls is an amazing place to visit and enjoy the water flows in rocks and for bathing and swimming in stacked water.

23. Puliyancholai Falls :

Puliyancholai Falls located in Namakkal distict, 340 km from Chennai. It is a natural surrounded place with full of scenic spots. It is situated along with Kolli Hills.

24. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary :

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary located in Coimbatore district, 600 Km from Chennai. It is situated in Western Ghats hills. Total altitude is about 1,400 meters. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary spread over 1000 sq.km. It is home-shelter for plenty of wildlife animals including elephant, gaur, panther, sloth-bear, deer, wild bear, wild dog,flying squirrel, jackal and birds.

25. Topslip :

Topslip located in Coimbatore district, 550 km from Chennai, The Topslip is a popular tourist place located in the Annamalai mountain hills in the Western Ghats. It is Situated at 2554 feet above sea level. It is a Tiger Reserve Forest in Annamalai Tiger Reserve. The topslip got this name in British government period. It is one of the famous tourist attraction in Tamilnadu.

26. Amaravathi Dam :

Amaravathi Dam located in Coimbatore district, 516 Km from Chennai. It is situated near Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. This dam is surrounded by Annamalai Hills and Palani Hills. This dam was built in 1957. Built across Amaravathi river. It is located with full natural sourrounding so it will an wonderful feel to enjoy the nature. The famous Amaravathi Sagar Crocodile Farm, largest Crocodile nursery in India. Located 1km from Amaravathy Dam.

27. Monkey Waterfalls :

Monkey Waterfalls located in Coimbatore District, 548 Km from Chennai. Its slope height is about 60 feet. It is situated near to Aliyar Dam. This place is one of best waterfalls and thousands of visitors used to have it due to its location. It is one of the famous tourist attraction near Coimbature.

28. Vaideki Waterfalls :

Vaideki Waterfalls located in Coimbatore District, 533 Km from Chennai. These falls are naturally sloped and beautiful falls. Located with natural surroundings with full of wildlife creatures. These falls are not allowed with forest guards permission. These forest areas are still untouched by humans. These places are fully occupied by elephants, deer and other wild animals. It is better to visit at monsoon time and enjoy the nature feel.

29. Siruvani Waterfalls :

Located in Coimbatore District, 535 Km from Chennai. Siruvani Waterfalls also known as Kovai Kutralam Falls. The sources of this falls is Siruvani Hills. This falls are part of Siruvani River, well known river for Kovai people. Siruvani Waterfalls located in forest area. If you are trekking lover take your time and walk to reach the waterfalls. Best time to visit place is in Monsoon time. Siruvani Dam is located near to this falls which is the lifeline for Kovai people.

30. Courtallam Falls :

Courtallam Falls located in Tirunelveli district. 625 km from Chennai. Courtallam is well known tourist place in Tamilnadu. Apart from all it has the best waterfalls in south India after Dudhsagar Waterfalls. The waterfalls is considered herbal mixed water. This place entirely surrounded by forest. Height is about 60 m. People are accessed only to bathing area. Courtallam is also named as ‘Spa of South’, famous for Aurvedic Spa. This is considered as one of the best tourist places in tamilnadu.

31. Courtallam Five Falls :

Located at Courtalam, Also referred as Aintharuvi in Tamil.Five falls is important waterfall in Courtallam. The name Five falls came because the water flows in five different rocks. Enjoyable falls with natual feel.

32. Aliyar Dam :

Aliyar Dam located in Coimbatore, 545 Km from Chennai. This Dam is located in beautiful location surrounded by Annamali Hills. It was built across Aliyar river between 1959 and 1969. The total height of this dam is 81 meters. This place good for sightseeing.

33. Kodiveri Waterfalls :

Kodiveri Waterfalls located in Erode district. 740 km from Chennai. Kodiveri Waterfalls is wonderful breathtaking spot situated. It is one of the best natural visiting places in Tamilnadu. View of waterfalls will give great feel. Bathing and Swimming will give good memorable experience.

34. Old Courtallam falls :

Old Courtallam located in Tirunelveli district. 650 km from Chennai. Old Courtallam also known as Pazhaya Courtallaruvi distance of 8 km from Main Falls. Old Courtallam is also called as Shivamathungai Falls. The water flows from 200 feet height, hence the rocks are cut into several parts and water flow getting slow and safe for bathing.

35. Olakkay Aruvi Waterfalls :

Olakkay Aruvi Waterfalls located in Kanyakumari district, 690 Km from Chennai. This falls is located within Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is surrounded by good natural surroundings.

36. Kundar Dam :

Gundar Reservoir is located in Courtralam and Sengottai. It is one of the best nature surrounding damns in Tamilnadu. It is located very near toWestern Ghats. Gundar Reservoir is also the must visit place in Courtalam. It is sourrounded by plenty of herbal trees and plants. Gundar Reservoir constructed in 1983. Total Capacity is 0.70 M.Cum. Total length is about 400 m and height 15 m.

37. Manimutharu Waterfalls :

Manimutharu Waterfalls is located 45 km from Tirunelveli, 650 km from Chennai. It is located under Podhigai Hills with full of scenarios. It is also the deepest and dangerous waterfalls in Tamilnadu. At some point the depth will about 100 ft. This places are restricted to path because this place are very dangerous with full of rocks, more than 20 peoples died in this range. We can find large number of fishes there. For path separate place is there the entire place is protected by Forest Securities. At rainy time this place will be wonderful place to enjoy.

38. Manimutharu Dam :

Manimutharu Dam located in Tirunelveli, 650 km from Chennai. It the largest reservoir in Tirunelveli district. This dam was built in 1958 by the Tamilnadu Chief Minister Kamaraj. This dam can hold water up to 118 feet. The dam is 5,511 million cubic feet. The total length of the dam is 3 km It irrigated Around 65,000 acres of areas.

39. Agasthiyar Waterfalls :

Agasthiyar Falls is located in Tirunelveli district, 650 km from Chennai. It is also called as Papanasam Falls. This falls is located on the Western Ghats.

40. Manapadu :

Manapad is a coastal village situated in Tiruchendur, 600 km from Chennai. As per history St. Francis Xavier came to Manapad in 1542 to initiate missionary activity. Manapadu is amazing place with great view of Indian Ocean. We can visualize the beauty of Manapadu from Tiruchendur Temple.

41. Pechiparai Dam :

Pechiparai Reservoir is in Nagercoil, 700 km from Chennai. This dam was built in 19th century with cost of 2.1 Cr (Approx. 100 Cr in 2018). Total catchment area is 210 sq.km. The maximum depth is 15 m (50.0 ft). This dam is 425.5 m (1,396 ft) long and 120.7 m (396 ft) in height. The water from the reservoir is used for irrigation of crops and drinking purposes. The dam is located in the hills of Western Ghats.

42. Mathoor Hanging Bridge – Mathur Aqueduct :

Mathoor Hanging Bridge located in Mathur in Kanniyakumari District, 700 km from Chennai. It is one of the best tourist places in tamilnadu. It is locally called Thotti Palam, Mathur Bridge, Mathur Aqueduct. Mathoor Hanging Bridge built by the Great Leader Kamarajar. The canal transports water from one side of the hill to the other for irrigation requirements of the regions of Vilavancode and Kalkulam. It was constructed as a drought relief measure and for the enhancement of agriculture in Vilavancode and Kalkulam taluks. Later this bridge became a tourist attraction place with beautiful nature. This bridge is an example for Indian Architectural.

43. Beauty of Kodiyakarai :

Kodiyakarai is a village in India, it is located in the taluk of Vedaranyam, district of Nagapattinam 500 km from Chennai. Ramar Padam is present in Kodiaykarai. Kodiyakarai is well known forest area and tourist place in which we can see lot of Deers and Monkey. In Kodiyakarai, “Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary” is located and it is around 21 square kilo meters, it’s one of the best place to visit in winter season.

44. Thiruchendur :

Thiruchendur is located 600 km from Chennai. It is a popular Hindus pilgrimage destination situated in the Gulf of Mannar. This is very popular temple in Tamilnadu . This temple is one of the six Padai Veedu (Battle Camps) of Lord Murugan. It is believed that the temple existed since the Vedic period, as it is mentioned in many ancient scripts.

45. Kodiveri Dam :

Kodiveri Dam located in Erode District, 740 km from Chennai. This Dam constructed on Bhavani River. This Dam provides irrigation water for over 25,000 hectares of agriculture land.

46. Pallikaranai Marshland :

Pallikaranai wetland is a freshwater marsh in the city of Chennai, Tamilnadu India. Pallikaranai marshland is the only Surviving wetland ecosystem of the city. It is among the few and last remaining natural wetlands of South India. It is one of the 94 identified wetlands under National Wetland Conservation and Management Programmed (NWCMP) operationalized by the Government of India in 1985–86. This is one of the three in the state of Tamil Nadu, the other two being Point Calimere and Kazhuveli.

47. Kallanai Dam – Grand Anicut :

Kallanai is an ancient dam built across the Kaveri River in Tiruchirapalli District in the state of Tamilnadu in South India. Kallanai dam has 329 m (1,079 ft) long, 20 m (66 ft) wide and 5.4 m (18 ft) high. The area irrigated by the ancient irrigation network is about 69,000 acres (28,000 ha). The main fact about Kallanai is one of the oldest and still functioning dams in the world. The entire Dam built with only Stones.

48. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary – Thanjavur :

Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary is located in Nagapattinam, 354 Km from Chennai. This area covers 22 sq.km (8.29 sq mi). It is considered as protected area in Tamilnadu. This place also called as Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary is famous for the birds like flamingos, water fowl, Chital, wild boar, bonnet macaque, Painted stork, black buck, terns, plovers, stilts, Dolphins and turtles.

49. Pamban Bridge :

The pamban is a well known fishermen town near Rameshwaram, 600 Km from Chennai. The Pamban bridge is called by the name “Pamban palam”. In 1988, a road bridge was constructed parallel to the rail bridge. It is known as Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge. The road bridge was inaugurated by former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi On the date of October 2, 1988. The Pamban Road Bridge connects the National Highway (NH 49) with the Rameswaram island.

50. Brihadeeswarar Temple :

Brihadeeswarar Temple is one of the largest temples in India and one of India’s most prized architectural sites. This temple was built by emperor Raja Raja Chola I and completed in 1010 AD. It is also known as Peruvudaiyaar Temple, The Big Temple, Thanjai Temple. It turned 1000 years old in 2010. This temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Great Living Chola Temples”. The Temple tower is 216 ft high and is among the tallest of its kind in the world. The Kumbam of the temple is carved out of a single rock and it weighs around 80 tons. There is a big statue of Nandi (sacred bull), carved out of a single rock, at the entrance measuring about 16 feet long and 13 feet high.

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Tamilnadu Tourism: Top 25 Tourist Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is a gem as it is a state with lots of beautiful places. Every place in Tamil Nadu is drop dead gorgeous and whose beauty cannot be described fully in words.

These places in Tamil Nadu present serene beaches, spectacular forts as well as waterfalls, beautiful temples , and much more. Tamil Nadu is well known as the Temple state of India which presents beautiful monuments, intriguing carvings as well as majestic getaways.

There are many places in Tamil Nadu which have their own charm and which dates back to more than thousands of years. Each and every attraction in these places of Tamil Nadu has an intriguing and artistic story of its own attached to it and which leave every visitor spellbound.

We have listed below several Tamil Nadu tourist destinations which should not be missed ( Official Website ).

Here is a list of places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The 370-year-old city previously known as Madras is the capital of Tamil Nadu . The place has been recognized as one of the safest places in India and is also among the top Ten Indian Cities to travel.

It is the hub of local culture and industry and a thriving metropolis. It is well known as one of the most attractive tourist places in Tamil Nadu. Chennai is an abode to holy temples, serene beaches along with historical landmarks.

There is a list of things to do in Chennai. Visiting the Marina Beach and Besant Nagar Beach . Visit the famous Kapaleeswarar Temple which dates back to the 8th century. You can head towards Government Museum established in 1857.

It is one of the most popular and well-known tourist destinations. Don’t forget to enjoy the traditional famous Tamil cuisine rice, sambar, dosa, idli, and uttapam . The state of Tamil Nadu has its own iconic place in India’s culinary trail.

For shopping enthusiasts, Chennai has Visit Saravana Stores which sells everything from a toothbrush to most expensive silk sarees and is the largest multi-purpose store in India.

Major Tourist Attractions of Chennai :

• Marina Beach
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple
• Government Museum, Chennai
• Edward Elliot’s Beach
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park
• Semmozhi Poonga
• MGM Dizzee World
• MGR Memorial
• Chennai Rail Museum
• Tholkappia Poonga
• Krishna’s Butterball
• Thiruvalluvar Nagar Beach

2. Pondicherry

Pondicherry, an erstwhile French colony, is a city and the capital of the Pondicherry union territory. The city has a long and interesting history of French settlements. It is situated precisely 100 miles from Chennai along with a scenic highway called East Coast Road.

Though it is a small picturesque place that you can visit in a day – you are advised to spend more than one. But if you have more time, you can just relax, get up, slow down and find meaning and simplicity in the tiniest things in life. In Pondicherry – there are a million ways to relax.

There are many Things to do in Pondicherry Visiting Auroville Township will offer you a relax mind and relax the soul. The serenity of this ashram which was established by Rishi Aurobindo will give anyone a pause. You can find both Western and Indian cuisine here.

Rent a Scotty and travel to the interior of Auroville. It is the place also perfect for newly married couples as it is said to be one of the romantic places in India to visit. Wake up at dawn and visit Rock Beach for sunrise.

Many come here regularly to jog and breathe in fresh air. You can also enjoy Rock Beach in the evening. The French Quarter has its own quaint charm and should not be overlooked. It is an ideal place in Pondy, from where most places are easily accessible.

Places like Rock Beach, Le Cafe, H2K Eating Joint, Artika Café Gallery , are within walking distance. There is a bar open for guests until late at night. The food is absolutely amazing, and though not cheap it is worth the money.

Major Tourist Attractions of Pondicherry:

• Promenade Beach
• Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple
• Bharathi Park
• Botanical Garden
• Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Puducherry
• Matrimandir
• Pondicherry lighthouse
• Auroville Beach

Situated on the banks of the River Vaigai it is one of the largest cities of Tamil Nadu. It has a rich cultural heritage and is an important cultural and commercial center. At one time it was the capital of the Pandyan Empire.

It is famous for its temples built by Pandyan and Madurai kings . There is an exciting list of Things to do in Madurai as the place is worth visiting. The primary place to visit in Madurai is the famous Meenakshi temple . It is a historic temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati and her consort Lord Shiva.

Visit the Thiruparankundram temple to Lord Karthikeya which is about 20 minutes outside the city of Madurai. Madurai is 2500 years old city with rich heritage and is very famously known as the city which never sleeps. The town is busy always as anytime you can venture out.

The place also presents many delicious cuisines and is the must-visit city for foodies. The famous south Indian dish of Madurai is Idli which should not be missed at all.

Major Tourist Attractions of Madurai:

• Meenakshi Amman Temple
• Gandhi Memorial Museum, Madurai
• Alagar Koyil
• Koodal Azhagar Temple
• Madurai Corporation Eco Park
• Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal temple
• Inmaiyil Nanmai Tharuvar Temple
• St.Mary’S Church
• Thiruparankundram Hill

4. Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is better known has a history dating back to Pallava rulers in the 7th century. The granite carved structures here are some of the oldest existing Dravidian temples. Today Mahabalipuram is easily accessible from Chennai via the East Coast Highway.

It is easily among the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu. It is a fantastic place to explore which is a well-established seaport. The beauty and charm of the place are not only because of the stunning architecture but also because of its vast casuarinas trees, silvery and beach.

The tourist who visits this beautiful city will remain startled and intoxicated too with grandeur. There is the endless list of things to do in Mahabalipuram. Stroll down from East Coast Road to the Shore Temple. It would take nearly an hour to walk the only a couple of kilometers because of the shops selling curios and handicraft.

The stone artifacts on sale are breathtaking and worth stopping at now and then to admire their beauty. Spend some time at the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram.

At end visit the Pancha Rathas a monument complex known for its exquisite architecture. Mahabalipuram is known to be the ancient port town well known for its stone temples and carvings.

Major Tourist Attractions of Mahabalipuram:

• Shore Temple
• Pancha Rathas
• Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
• Mahabalipuram Beach
• Krishna Mandapam
• Ganesha Ratha
• Mamallapuram Light House

5. Kodaikanal

One of the most scenic hill stations of India is situated in Tamil Nadu is Kodaikanal. It is located 7,200 feet above sea level. A list of tourism venues in Tamil Nadu will be incomplete without Tamil Nadu tourist places hill stations.

It is the best place to visit if you are seeking for a short vacation to rejuvenate yourself. It is very well known to as the Princess of Hill stations which offer many activities to visitors.

There are many things to do in Kodaikanal to make you feel rejuvenated. The place has beautiful settings and many exciting activities to do. It is known as the complete holiday package whether it is trekking tours, museums, temples, parks, you will find much more to enjoy.

The place has striking natural settings along with a calm and soothing environment where you will find many sightseeing and amazing tourist attractions too.

Some most exciting places in Kodaikanal include Kodai lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park, Kurinjiandavar Temple, Pillar Rocks, Silent Valley View, Devil’s Kitchen, Shanthi Valley, and Silver Cascade.

The place not only offers amazing natural settings but also provides the best accommodation facilities serving a wide variety of beautiful vacations. The beauty of the place is indescribable and is also named as The Gift of the Forest .

Major Tourist Attractions of Kodaikanal:

• Kodaikanal Lake
• Bryant Park
• Silver Cascade Falls
• Bear Shola Falls
• Pillar Rocks Viewpoint
• Palani Hills
• Vattakanal Water Falls
• Kodaikanal Pine Forest
• Liril Falls

6. Thanjavur

Recognized as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur offers interesting activities for tourists. List of Tamil Nadu destinations without mentioning Tanjore is incomplete. In addition to attending festivals in South India, which are held here, you can also go shopping in Thanjavur.

Visiting the Saraswati Mahal library is a great way to spend the afternoon. There are many things to do in Thanjavur, as it is one of the very few historical sites in India that still has its relics and temples preserved. It is well known as the rice bowl of India and is considered as one of the foremost cultural headquarters of the region too.

Thanjavur tourist an attraction adds up delights and charm to tourism of Tamil Nadu. The culture, music as well as part of this renowned worldwide and along with this it is also shopper’s paradise too. Every day millions of devotees came to worship at the Cholas’ grand Brihadishwara temple.

There are many memories of other later strong and powerful dynasties preserved in the city’s labyrinthine royal palace. In all the tourist attractions here you will observe an influence of religion, history, and nature. It is primarily the place to visit for art lovers who love to explore various disciplines of art and architecture.

Major Tourist Attractions of Thanjavur:

• Brihadisvara Temple
• Thanjavur Maratha Palace
• Saraswathi Mahal Library
• Sivaganga Park
• Royal Palace Museum
• Aiyarappar temple
• Manimandapam

7. Kanyakumari

Situated at the southernmost tip of India Kanyakumari is located at the confluence of Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea . Swami Vivekananda spent a long time here meditating in silence.

It is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. It is the place that presents very unique experiences, and you can also enjoy several interesting things to do in Kanyakumari. It is known to be a haven for budget travelers and backpackers.

Kanyakumari has many important monuments as well as tourist attractions which can be explored within walking distance. Visitors can enjoy their trip as there are many exciting things to do in Kanyakumari. The place is a blend of not only the meeting spot of three water bodies but also is a combination of diverse religions, cultures, and ideas.

Kanyakumari is blessed with mesmerizing temples, serene beaches as well as historical water bodies. The beaches of Kanyakumari are known to be the only beaches in the country where you can experience both sunset and sunrise.

The beautiful temples of Kanyakumari are fully packed with thousands of pilgrims and pristine beaches which attracts numerous tourists in huge amount.

Major Tourist Attractions of Kanyakumari:

• Vivekananda Rock Memorial
• Thiruvalluvar Statue
• Kanyakumari Beach
• Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam
• Our Lady of Ransom Church
• Tri sea Sangam
• Vattakottai Fort
• Mathur Aqueduct
• Swamithope Pathi

8. Periyar National Park

Periyar National Park is located Thekkady, Kerala . It is very well known for its elephant and tiger reserve. The park is situated on 357 sq miles of land. Two rivers Pamba and Periyar run through the park.

The park is situated in the middle of Cardamom Hills . Mountain ranges cover the northern and eastern parts of the park. Visiting the Cardamom Hills so named due to cardamom plantations is well worth it. There are guided tours by jeep . Visitors can enjoy every moment in this national reserve as there are many things to do Periyar National Park.

Boating on Lake Periyar is a delight because of the picturesque lake area and is an ideal place to watch birds. It also facilitates the observation of a herd of elephants that have fun, taking a shower and drinking water from Periyar Lake. Bamboo rafting is considered one of the most popular and best adventures in Periyar. Give the thrill of rafting to the next level.

The rafting lasts approximately 3 hours, and the rafting route offers some of the best places to visit and lush scenes in the forest. You will see a panoramic sight of the various views that await tourists since the trip includes hiking . In the forest, you will find exciting varieties of fauna and flora that evoke amazement and admiration.

Major Tourist Attractions:

• Mullaperiyar Dam
• Suruli Falls
• Mangala Devi Kannagi Temple
• Perunthenaruvi Falls
• Elephant Junction Thekkady

9. Tiruchirappalli

Tiruchirappalli is an ancient city from the time of Cholas . Tiruchirappalli is a city famous for its ancient temples, which could become the capital of the first Cholas in the third century BC.

The sculptures found in local temples are unique to this city. There were many rulers in this city, but it gained importance in the seventeenth century, when it which is said to be the world’s largest Hindu temple spread across 156 acres.

Tiruchirappalli is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu and is a perfect blend of modernity and tradition which is constructed around Rock Fort. There are many other amazing colleges, churches as well as missions which date back to 1760s.

The city also presents some great Tamil scholars too. Rickfort temple is said to be the famous landmark of Tiruchirappalli. It is also a thriving commercial center in of the state famous for cigars, diamonds, glass bangles, clay and wooden toys and handloom cloth.

There are many things to do in Tiruchirappalli which will make your trip memorable one. The city is full of various tourist attractions such as the Rockfort temple, Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, Kallanai Dam, Vekkali Amman Temple, Mukkombu, best picnic spot, Viralimalai Murugan Temple and many more to enjoy.

Major Tourist Attractions of Tiruchirappalli:

• Ranganathaswamy Temple
• Tiruchirapalli Rock Fort
• Ucchi Pillayar Temple
• Jambukeswarar Temple
• Vayalur Murugan Temple
• Butterfly Park

10. Coimbatore

Coimbatore, also known as Kovai , is the second largest city in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is an industrialized city, and the principal industry is textiles. It is well known for its engineering prowess.

Things to do in Coimbatore are endless, to experience the local sights and sounds stroll down the flower market. There is a vast assortment of flowers and intoxicating fragrance of jasmines, roses, and marigolds . Experts in intricate designs and combinations create the garlands.

You can also take a walk through the TNAU Botanical Gardens . It is a very calming experience, and you can spend several hours examining the fine botanical specimens. Follow it with coffee at Annapurna and Mysore Park from Sri Krishna Sweets.

Coimbatore is also ranked as the best emerging city in the entire country and is also the sixth largest metropolis in South India. Due to the extensive textile industry in Coimbatore, it is termed as the Manchester of India with m more than 25000 small and large scale industries.

There is an abundance of things to do in Coimbatore which make this place the perfect place to visit in India. The city is an abode to various famous educational institutes which are under mesmerizing locations.

Major Tourist Attractions of Coimbatore:

• Marudhamalai
• Dhyanalinga
• Siruvani Waterfalls
• Anamalai Tiger Reserve
• Monkey Falls
• Patteeswarar Swamy Aalyam
• Koniamman Temple

11. Rameswaram

Rameswaram on Pamban Island is well known for Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is separated from the Indian mainland by a 40-kilometer wide channel. Rameswaram is a part of the Char Dham or four pilgrimage tours . The main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered a holy pilgrimage for both Saiva and Vaishnavs.

Things to do in Rameswaram are many, some of them include Visit to the Ramanathaswamy Temple with massive sculpted pillars and world’s longest corridor . Visit Shree Rama Padam or footsteps of Lord Rama. It is from here that Shree Rama had his first site of Lanka.

There is also Rama Teertham, Laxmana Teertham and Sitadevi Teertham in Rameswaram. Thousands of devotees flock here since it is one of the holiest sites of Hinduism. The place is known as one of the significant dhams in all four dhams and is the famous tourist destination in Tamil Nadu.

There are many other noteworthy tourist destinations here including Gandhamadhana Parvatam, Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agniteertham, and Five-laced Hanuman Temple . It is recognized as the nearby point to reach Sri Lanka. For visitors, there are numerous things to do in Rameswaram too, which make this place as the must-visit tourist destination.

The place is sacred to the two main sects of Hinduism, i.e. Vaishnavities along with Shaivities. Rameswaram should undoubtedly be integrated into the time of planning a trip to Tamil Nadu.

12. Kanchipuram

At times called Kanjeevaram or Kanchi, it is a small town in Tamil Nadu. It is a major religious destination among Hindus. From 4th to 10th century it was the capital of the Pallava Kingdom .

Tamil Nadu tourist places list cannot be complete without mention of Kanchipuram and its silk sarees. The city served as the capital of Pallava dynasty , and there are many things to do in Kanchipuram. The place is known as significant Hindu pilgrimage site.

It has many temples, and thus it is fully packed with foreign travelers too. They named this city as the Land of Thousand temples in Tamil Nadu. Some of the most famous temples of Kanchipuram are Kumarakottan Temple, Varadaraja Perumal temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and many more.

The city is flourished under the rule of Pallava dynasty along with Vijayanagara empire thus several structures contain the combinations of both styles of architecture. The place is said to be as significant pilgrimage center owing to its history it comprises about 108 Shaiva and about 18 Vaishnava temples to explore.

This is the reason why Kanchipuram is recognized as the golden city of numerous temples. It is also the best place to visit for shopping enthusiasts and is well known for Kanchipuram sarees.

13. Bandipur National Park

The Bandipur National Park is one of the most famous national parks in India. It is located in the middle of the Western Ghats Mountains on the Mysore-Ooty road.

Many tourists and nature lovers make excursions and safaris for wild animals in the Bandipur National Park to know the beauty of nature and its surroundings. It is a famous Tamil Nadu point of interest. The Bandipur National Park in Karnataka was set up in 1974 .

The government and several conservation agencies have taken sincere measures to preserve the national park. The national park has a high density of tropical forests and grasslands and hosts a great diversity of flora and fauna. There are many things to do in Bandipur National Park.

Visit Gopalswamy Betta one of the highest peaks in the Bandipur National Park. The peak is the site of a fort of the Palegars. The view of the surrounding countryside from the top of the peak is spectacular. There are many adventure activities also available within the park.

Bird watching is said to be one of the important activity here as you will find rare and beautiful varieties of birds. The park also includes rocky hills along with rivers and many small streams which add much more charm in the beauty of the park.

14. Coonoor

Coonoor is a famous hill station in south India located about 17 kilometers from Ooty. Coonoor is located in Tamil Nadu. It is well known for its tea plantations and factories.

The picturesque surroundings are the reason it is a well-favored picnic spot and a very famous tourist spots in Tamil Nadu. Coonoor welcomes tourists with its cool climate and tea estates .

Visit Hidden Valley a lush green forest set against stunning mountains. It is an ideal trekking zone and must be explored on foot. The place is famous for its green slopes of tea plantations and offers amazing dream view to the visitors.

After Ooty, Coonoor is known to be the second largest Nilgiri mountain area famous for its endless tea gardens as well as hilly green forests. It is said to be the perfect destination for summer trips. There are amazing sightseeing and many things to do in Coonoor which you can explore and enjoy along the comfortable weather.

It is the heaven for adventure enthusiasts as it offers many activities such as hiking, adventure in forests, trekking, picnicking and also watching hilly views.

15. Tiruvannamalai

Tiruvannamalai is one of the greatest shrines to Shiva and thus known as one of the important pilgrimage towns . Located on a massive 24-acre campus , it is host to thousands of pilgrims every full moon.

The town is thought to be one of the five Pancha Bootha Sthalams or five element temples of Lord Shiva . It is one of the best places in Tamil Nadu. The town is also very famous for the Anamalaiyar temple and also has many tourists which are worth visiting.

There are many things to do in Tiruvannamalai as the place is said to be the temple mountain town where god emerge as phallus of fire. This is recognized as one of the holiest destinations of Tamil Nadu and five element cities of Shiva.

Thousands to pilgrims come here to rejuvenate their soul. The image of Tiruvannamalai has produced many ashrams and now also attracts several spirited minded travelers.

Ooty or Ootacamund is a very famous hill town in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is well known for its scenic splendor and is a major attraction for tourists from all over India. Popularly known as “ Queen of the Hill Stations ” it is nestled in the Nilgiri Hills .

Ooty is known as one of the best hill stations in India which attracts tourists with their colonial aura, natural beauty, and exotic ambiance. This beautiful and romantic hill station has a rich history too.

Every traveler who visits this place falls in love with its magnificent aura, fascinating past, and rich history. Ooty is one of the topmost hill stations in India with natural beauty. There are many tourist attractions in Ooty which should not be missed by the traveler.

Along with place, there are many things to do in Ooty which make this placing the perfect tourist’s destination which should be visited. Visitors can enjoy every moment as there are many things to do in Ooty.

Plenty of flora and fauna is found in this beautiful hill station; thus Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is developed here. The place has many tourist attractions, and every attraction promises a lovely and unique experience that will for sure leave you delighted.

17. Yercaud

Yercaud is a hill station in the district of Salem, in Tamil Nadu. The Yercaud hilly area is known as Shevaroy Hills. There are coffee and citrus fruit plantations in abundance along with banana and pear fruit trees.

The region is famous for its hiking trails. It is one of the most famous and beautiful places in Tamil Nadu. Don’t forget to Visit the Yercaud Lake which is surrounded by deep woods and lush vegetation.

The Lady’s Seat point with a telescope and a watchtower is deserving of the attention of any tourist. The place is said to be the most visited hill stations of Tamil Nadu owing to the splendid exquisiteness, coffee plantations, and verdant greenery.

There are many things to do in Yercaud, and it also offers an excellent opportunity for visitors to relish its striking scenic beauty which is impressive and spectacular. You can also witness a diverse variety of wildlife and birds.

18. Vellore

Vellore is a city in Tamil Nadu. It is a large sprawling city and the headquarters of the Vellore District. It is well known as an industrial and medical hub of Tamil Nadu.

This small city is home to two of the topmost educational institutions in India – the Christian Medical College and VIT University. It is an ancient city located at banks of River Palar. It is said to be a princely Indian city famous for temples, forts, many tourist attractions, and picnic spots.

The city is ruled by many prosperous dynasties such as The Cholas, Vijaynagar Kingdom , and the British . as there are diverse rulers the city is a combination of fascinating cultural heritage.

There are many things to do in Vellore and also presents royal temples, grand forts, and natural wonders. The city is recognized as the transit hub for travelers. It presents splendid past with the perfect fusion of heritage and vibrant culture.

There are many tourist attractions in Vellore such as the State Government Museum, the Clock Tower, the Pearl Palace or Muthu Mandapam, and many more.

19. Nilgiri Hills

Nilgiri Hill, also known as the “ Blue Mountains ” in India, is one of the most beautiful mountainous areas of India and one of the best in the world.

Situated high above sea level, located at the intersection of two chains of ghats in Sahyadri , the district of Nilgiri offers a fascinating view.

Nilgiri gets its beauty and charm from its natural settings which are steep hills and d narrow valleys, numerous rivers, and few mesmerizing waterfalls. The place is recognized as trekker’s paradise as there are many things to do in Nilgiri hills.

T he place is called the Blue Mountains owing to the blue smoke haze which is due to the kurunji flowers which  bloom every twelve years and which offers the place bluish hue. With its scenic landscape, numerous slopes and lush greenery attract numerous tourists every year and from every corner of the country.

20. Yelagiri Hills

Situated at the height of 900 meters above sea level Yelagiri Hills in Tamil Nadu has pleasant weather all year around. The tribals who mostly inhabit the area are engaged in agriculture and forestry.

Visit the Jalagamparai Waterfalls. River Aattaru of the Yelagiri hills rushes over rocks to form the picturesque waterfalls. A traveler can go trekking at Swamimalai Hills . With a breathtaking view and misty landscape, it is a magical place.

The chirping of birds is the sound of the sweet harmony of nature. There are many things to do in Yelagiri Hills. Don’t forget to Visit Lake Punganoor which is surrounded by the beautiful hills of Yelagiri and a peaceful environment, and Lake Punganoor is a significant tourist attraction.

The peaceful climate of the place along with refreshing tea gardens is one of the main highlights of Yelagiri Hills. The place is also visited all throughout the year owing to its equable climate.

21. Pollachi

Pollachi is a town near the foothills of Western Ghats. It is located 40 kilometers south of Coimbatore. Often called mini Kodaikanal it is well known for its plantations and scenic beauty.

The place is said to be one of the best-kept secrets for tourism Tamil Nadu and there is a range of things to do in Pollachi. It is also blessed with near-perfect weather all round the year owing to its mountainous settings. Pollachi boasts among the tastiest tender coconuts both green and orange colored.

The place presents unexplored tea estates along with nature treks. The place fulfills a range of tsarist needs such as adventure, spiritual, wildlife, wellness and agro .

There are many things to do in Pollachi as it is an ideal picnic spot. Don’t forget to visit Jaggery Market in Pollachi which is known to be Asia’s largest of its kind.

There are many top sites in Pollachi which should not be missed at all. Some places to visit include Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Maasaniamman Thirukoil, Subramanian Swamy Thirukoil, Alagunachi Amman Temple.

Kumily is a town near Periyar Tiger Reserve . It is a well-known tourist destination and spice trading location. It is the beautiful town located amid Kerala and Tamil Nadu known for its plantation walks, boating, trekking, exotic wildlife and much more.

The visitor can enjoy many amazing activities and things to do in Kumily. Visit the Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary for sure which is Located in the Idukki district, at an altitude of 900 – 1800 meters. It is a must visit and a dream place for adventure and nature lovers.

Thekkady, located on the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, is so closely associated with this famous sanctuary that the names of Thekkady and Periyar are used interchangeably to refer to the region. In the region, there is also the Periyar tiger reserve, rich in biodiversity.

Palani is a town in Tamil Nadu and is the holy place near Madurai. The place houses many sacred temples of Lord Muruga and is the third A arupadai Veedu.

It is close to Coimbatore and visits the Murugan Temple which is the main attraction of Palani. Tourists have to climb 670 steps to reach the top of the mountain. There is also a winch cart. From the hilltop, one can have a stunning view of the entire surrounding plains.

Don’t forget to visit the Tiru Avinankudi temple at the foot of the Palani Hills as it is the oldest and largest temple in the region. Visitors can enjoy the visit as there is a range of things to do in Palani.

24. Velankanni

Velankanni is a reputed pilgrimage center for Christians from the Catholic community. Here is located the Church of Our Lady of Velankanni which is a basilica.

The place is declared as the holy city by the Pope, and the shrine is considered as the divine city. The shrine is the excellent combination of multicultural, international and religious harmony.

Things to do in Velankanni include your visit to Velankanni Shrine along with the beach. On the way to Velankanni tourist can see and visit Brihadeeswara Temple too.

25. Auroville

Auroville is a town about 6 kilometers north of Pondicherry. It is an international town based on the vision of The Mother or Mirra Alfassa who was a collaborator of Rishi Aurobindo .

There are about a couple of thousand people from over forty countries living in Auroville. Auroville has become a top tourist place in Tamil Nadu . Auroville is a small town promotes the idea of equality and which do not have any political and economic biases.

The place welcomes people from all caste and creed as well as nationalities. Your trip to this amazing place will be a spiritual one where tourist visits with a purpose to understand and feel the vision they want to catch up in their life.

There are numerous things to do in Auroville, and a range of activities can be done to undertake a visit at this place. It is an ideal place where you can spend your precious time fruitfully and learning many things and also getting a spiritual feel.

Conclusion:

The southern part of India is very cultured and beautiful especially Tamil Nadu. It is one of the states which showcase the majesty of South India. Tamil Nadu is a homeland of classical civilizations that are nurtured and preserved their old culture, art, and traditions.

The state has many things to offer to visitors, which includes sandy beaches, swaying fields, Rolling mountains, azure seas, high cascading waterfalls, chic hotels, lofty shopping malls, and uber cool lounges. There is nothing which Tamil Nadu did not presents and lacks and thus it is said to be one of the most visited tourist destinations of India.

Ranjeet Kashyap

Ranjeet Kashyap. Passionate travel blogger from Delhi, exploring India's diverse customs and traditions. Background in journalism and photography. Ranjeet started his travel blog in 2021 to share his experiences with the world. His blog features detailed travel guides, personal anecdotes, and stunning photographs, making it a one-stop destination for all travel enthusiasts.

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• 18 Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu
• Tourist Place
• 15 September 2023
• By urja sen

Why not visit Tamil Nadu, the famous state of South India in this summer vacation. Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu. one of the beautiful states of South India. Tourists can witness culture, religion, spontaneity, and beauty in this beautiful state. Tourists in this beautiful state can see everything from beautiful beaches to hill stations with beautiful views, temples full of amazing architecture and wildlife parks, etc. So if you really want to do something new on these holidays, then you should visit Tamil Nadu, while roaming around this beautiful place, you can also understand the culture here, and introduce yourself to this beautiful part of India.

Also Read: Places To Visit in Darjeeling

Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu:

Chennai is Formerly known as Madras. Chennai is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal is the most prominent of the biggest cultural, economic and academic centers of South India. The history of Chennai says that it is a 369-year-old city and the 36th largest metropolis in the world. Chennai’s long history begins as a service and manufacturing center in the 20th century through colonialism from ancient South Indian kingdoms. The name Madras is derived from Madraspatnam, which was selected for a permanent settlement by the British East India Company in 1639. The region is often called by different names by the local people as Madruputnam, Madras Kuppam, Madraspatnam, and Madirazipetam. You will experience the beauty of the world-famous Marina Beach or you can engage in the trekking activities that are organized close to the waterfalls. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

Ooty is a good place for mountain lovers. It is also known as “ Queen of Hills “. It was once the headquarters of the East India Company. Ooty was situated amidst the Nilgiri hills at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. Ooty is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu. Ooty is a very popular destination for couples and honeymooners. The toy train allows one to enjoy the panoramic views of this beautiful hill station. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway has the longest track in all of Asia and is one of the best train rides you will ever get to experience. The famous Doddabetta Peak is a must-visit while you are in the city. This is one of the best hills Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

Also Read: Best And Famous Palaces In Rajasthan

3.Pondicherry:

The Pondicherry region was part of the Pallava Kingdom of Kanchipuram. In the 13th century, the Cholas were replaced by the Pandyas. Pondicherry later saw a series of Muslim invasions. In 1673, the French East India Company established a trading center in Puducherry and the outpost became an important French settlement in IndiaDutch and British trading companies also wanted to establish trade with India. As a result, there was a war between these countries, and in 1693, the Dutch captured Pondicherry. And the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu is Pondicherry with the same notion is to visit Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram where people from all over the world come to seek spirituality through yoga and meditation. This is one of the best places in Tamilnadu.

4.Kanyakumari:

5.Rameshwaram:

6.Kanchipuram:

Kanchipuram is known for the beautiful Kanchipuram sarees and is also known as the ‘Golden City of a Thousand Temples’ . Kancheepuram is a popular tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram is a good place for people who believe in Hinduism. It is particularly known for being a cultural and philosophical center. The city is home to the famous Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, the consort of Lord Shiva. Kailasanathar Temple is also popular and known for its splendid architecture is one of the best places in Tamilnadu. The tallest, largest, and most impressive temple in the city is the Ekambeshwar Temple, spread over 40 acres. Kanchi Matha hosts Kutchi or South Indian classical music concerts in the evenings. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu is at an altitude of 7200 feet above sea level. Kodaikanal means “gift of forests”. Known as the princess of hill stations, Kodaikanal offers the perfect blend of culture and nature to the tourists. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

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Madurai is one of the oldest cities in India located in Tamil Nadu. The city was ruled by the Pandya kings for a long time and it was constructed in the form of a lotus. Madurai is considered the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu. The townhouses the Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi with a sanctum sanctorum for his consort, Sundareswarar. Tirupurakundram is one of the important old temples dedicated to Lord Muruga (Karthikeya) and is situated on a hill about 8 km from the city. The Gandhi Museum has Gandhi’s blood-stained dhoti and some other artifacts. Shopping here is fun and affordable. Madurai is popular for its amazing street food. Madurai This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

9.Mahabalipuram:

Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram, famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, is a historically important tourist destination, located on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal in the state of Tamil Nadu. Mahabalipuram is the “Land of Seven Pagodas”.

After the famous demon king Mahabali, Mahabalipuram was renamed Mamallapuram. Some of the famous tourist places include the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shore Temple and Five Rathas, Crocodile Bank which is home to some exquisite species of crocodiles, and the beaches located at Kovalam and Sadar. Mahabalipuram This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

Also Read: Places to visit in Hyderabad

10.Yercaud:

Yercaud is called the poor man’s Ooty. It is a beautiful small beautiful hill station in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu. Stunningly nestled in the Eastern Ghats in the lap of the Shevaroy hills, from waterfalls to lakes, churches to temples, and trekking trails to viewpoints, it has hundreds of spots that attract tourists. If you want to capture the best of sunset and sunrise pictures, then Yercaud is a must-visit. It is located at a distance of about 190 km from Coimbatore. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

11.Coimbatore:

One of the largest cities in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore is a major center for industry, textiles, and manufacturing and is well-known among many other tourist destinations in South India. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu. From ancient temples to new buildings, from breathtaking mountains to waterfalls, Coimbatore has everything you want to experience during your vacation. The Adiyogi statue is statue of Shiva with Thirunamam at Coimbatore Designed by Sadhguru. It is one of the best yoga center In Tamilnadu. There are several temples located in and around Coimbatore such as the Echanari Vinayagar Temple, Maruthamalai Murugan Temple, Sri Ayyappan Temple, and Tirumurti Malai. Many of these temples are located on hilly terrain, so you can have a good view of the whole city and its surrounding landscape from the top. Camping and trekking are very popular things to do in Coimbatore, so if you are looking for a thrill, don’t miss checking out the most exciting trekking trails.

12.Valparai:

Valparai is a hill station in the Annamalai Hills, located at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level in the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. This is one of the Places To Visit In Tamilnadu. It is a good option for those traveling to similar hill stations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, and Coorg. It is actually the ‘seventh heaven’. Driven by an economy that consists largely of coffee and tea estates, this delightful hill station also thrives on its thriving tourism industry.

13.Yelagiri:

Yelagiri, a small hill station located in Vellore, is just three hours away from Bangalore.This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu. It is spread over 30 square kilometers and at an altitude of 1100 meters above sea level, Yelagiri takes its tourists to some beautiful destinations like Jalgamparai Falls, orchards and rose gardens, etc. Originally belonging to the zamindar family of Yelagiri, the hill station started gaining popularity after the colonial rule. It has all the characteristics of a great hill station, be it the sunset point or the lakes and parks. Being one of the lesser-known hill stations in Tamil Nadu, the place is less crowded. The locally available honey is considered to be one of the purest and tastiest varieties.

14.Mudumalai National Park:

Mudumalai National Park is a part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located 150 km from Coimbatore in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. It connects the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats and the reason for its popularity is that it is home to many vulnerable and endangered animal and bird species. The borders of both the neighboring states of Kerala and Karnataka are adjacent to the park. Mudumalai is currently being considered by UNESCO to be declared a World Heritage Site. Mudumalai is known for its beautiful landscape of blue skies, the Mudumalai National Park here is quite famous, in which many species of animals and birds live. Bird watching is an interesting activity here. This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

Also Read: Beaches of Andaman and Nicobar island

15.Auroville:

Auroville is a small township in the Union Territory of Pondicherry. This universal township was inaugurated on 28 February 1968 with the agenda that it would be a place for people, regardless of their caste, creed, nationality, or race, to make it a center of uninterrupted education and progress. This place is a symbol of peace and people often come here in search of peace.

16.Dhanushkodi:

Dhanushkodi is a small, sparsely populated maritime town located off the coast of Tamil Nadu. In 1964, Dhanushkodi faced one of the worst storms India had ever experienced. Since then, Tamil Nadu has rebuilt the city to become one of the most unique and unusual beaches in India. This small town exudes grandeur and beauty.This is one of the Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

Dhanushkodi Beach lies on the tip of the Rameswaram island. On this beach, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean merge which is known as Arichal Munai in Tamil. Before 1964, Dhanushkodi was a busy, crowded city. The Dhanushkodi Beach attracted thousands of tourists each day. In 1964, Dhanushkodi was hit by a cyclone and was almost destroyed by it.

17.Kumbakonam:

Nestled between the Kaveri and Arsala rivers of southern India, Kumbakonam is a grand temple town located in the heart of the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. The city is a must visit place for history buffs and those who understand the cultural roots of India. The city is also known for its Mahamaham festival, which is celebrated every twelve years at Mahamaha Tankha. The city is one of the oldest in Indian history and is also known for its famous temples, Chola heritage, and its wonderful educational institutions. Very few people know that it is also called Cambridge of India.This is one of the Places To Visit In Tamilnadu.

18.Chidambaram:

A beautiful temple town in the eastern part of Tamil Nadu, Chidambaram is famous for housing the wonderful Lord Nataraja Temple and a few others, highlighting its importance as a special place of pilgrimage.

If one wants to see the heritage, glorious history, rich cultures, diversity, traditions and festivals, and reverent devotion of Hinduism, then one must visit Chidambaram. Situated 250 km from Chennai in the Cuddalore district of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Chidambaram has been a place of architectural splendor and religious importance since antiquity. The city, with a population of about 90,000 people, is famous for its many temples, which are a wonderful rendition of Dravidian style of architecture and a beautiful representation of Dravidian culture. The famous of these is the Nataraja temple dedicated to the cosmic dance battle of Lord Shiva with the goddess Kali in Hindu mythology. The city is a wonderful place to visit and witness the historical past of Southern India.

Conclusion:

The city is well connected to other parts of India by road. One can reach Chennai from five major national highways Kolkata, Bengaluru, Tiruchi/Madurai, Tiruvallur, and Pondicherry. Several car rental companies such as Clear Car Rental, Avis, and Hertz offer various facilities to the customers.

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About Tamilnadu Tourism

In the first place,  Tamilnadu is the #1 state that bags the award for attracting the highest number of tourists from 2014 to now in India . That’s a whopping seven years, consecutively. Tamilnadu Tourism and Tamilnadu Tourist Places are #1 in India either in the Domestic tourists’ category or the Foreign tourists’ category. That #1 is really for a reason. Here we’ve listed the reason behind this enormous number of tourists visits in Tamilnadu.

In 2019, Tamilnadu Attracts 500M Tourists. That is India’s 23% Tourist count.

Best Tourist Places In Tamilnadu

12. chennai.

Chennai is the capital and the largest city of Tamilnadu. On the other hand, Chennai employs more than 3,00,000 people. From in tourists point of view, Guindy National Park, Aringer Anna Zoological Park and Marina Beach are the best places to choose in Chennai. Apart from that, we’ve listed 50 other spots to go out for when you’re in Chennai .

11. Courtallam – Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

This is a famous waterfall in the Tenkasi district, Western Ghats. There are seven various falls in Courtallam and, they’re Main falls, Small Falls (Citharuvi), Five Falls (Iyentharuvi), Tiger Falls (Puliyaruvi), Old Courtallam Falls (Palaiya Courtallam), SenbahaDevi Falls (Senbakadavi), Honey Falls (Theanaruvi). Currently, Courtallam Falls is Open for visiting and Closed for taking a bath. From October 1, Courtallam falls will be open for a bathe for the public with safety measures.

10. Kolli Hills – The Mountains Of Death

Kolli hill is a famous destination for bikers. It is situated in the Namakkal district and has 72 hairpin bends. In contrast to saying Mountains of death, it is a mountain for bikers to experience the best of Hill stations feel in Tamilnadu. Kolli Malai is 43 KM away from Namakkal. There are two primary places to visit when you have planned to Kolli Hills. Those are Arapaleeswarar Temple and Agaya Gangai Waterfalls.

9. Hogenakkal

Hogenakkal waterfall is 47 Km away from its district Dharmapuri. The name Hogenakkal was derived from Kannada ‘Smoky Rocks’ as when waters fall from the rocks, it creates smoke. The falls starting from Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri range in the Western Ghats, Kodagu district of the state of Karnataka and, enters Tamilnadu as gushing water. Boating and bathing allowed in Hogenakkal exceptional to the pandemic situations like Covid-19 and enormous water flow. Currently, Hogenakkal falls open to the public. However, bathing and more things to do are ready from October 1, 2021.

8. Vellore – Tamilnadu Tourism

Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple or Vellore Golden Temple is one of the important tourist places in Tamilnadu. The temple spreads over 100 acres. Vellore Golden Temple Consists of more than 1.5 tonnes of pure Gold . Hundreds of thousands of artists took Six years to complete building this temple. The temple features a Star-shaped path. Together with Vellore Golden Temple, the Vellore Fort is also one of the historical places in Vellore.

7. Kodaikanal – Tamil Nadu Best Places

Kodaikanal is a famous hill station and one of the must-visit places in Tamilnadu. It is 90 KM away from its district Dindigul and, the nearest airport is 115 KM from Madurai. The Tamil meaning of the name Kodaikanal is  The Gift Of Forest.  Moreover, people call Kodaikanal the princess of hills in Tamilnadu. Kodaikanal has many tourist destinations like Kodai Lake, Guna Caves, Green Valley, etc. Continue reading about Kodaikanal Tourist Places .

6. Kanyakumari – Best Places To Visit In Tamilnadu

Kanyakumari is the only place where one can enjoy the view of both Sunrise and Sunset . It is the smallest city in Tamilnadu. Yet, the density of the population is high next to Chennai. Padmanabhapuram Palace, Vivekananda Memorial, Tiruvalluvar Statue, Thirparappu Waterfalls and much more tourist places are waiting for you in Kanyakumari.

5. Rameswaram

In the first place, Rameswaram is one of the holiest places in India after Varanasi. On the other hand, R ameswaram was a home place to the 11th President of India, Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and is his Memorial place. Apart from that, Pamban Bridge, Danuskodi and Much more temples are very famous tourist destinations in Tamilnadu. Devipattinam is a coastal village and a must-visit place in Ramanathapuram.

4. Ooty – Famous Places In Tamilnadu

Nilgiris is one of the best chilling places in Tamilnadu. Moreover, Ooty is one of the well-known and famous hill stations in India. Ooty homes N number of tourist places. The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Pykara falls, Masinagudi Forest, Doddabetta, Dolphin’s Nose are among the must-visit places in Ooty. On the other hand, the weather is just incredible(Vera Level) always. Together with this Avalanche, Tribal Museum is also one of the best tourist places in Tamilnadu. Ooty is 555 KM away from Its capital Chennai. Last but not least, Ooty Toy Train is an incredible one for those who wish to get out to Normal roads and get into the Forest.

3. Mahabalipuram – Tamilnadu Tourist Places

Mahabalipuram is the primary tourist place in Tamilnadu. The Group of monuments in Mahabalipuram is well known as one of the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.  Demon King Mahabali named this place Mahabalipuram.  After that, Lord Vishnu, The  King of Pallava Narashima Varman,  killed him and got the title of ‘ Mamalla’  and, he changed the name Mahabalipuram to Mamallapuram. It is  55 km  away from Chennai Central.

Madurai is famous for its temples, building style, and much more. Especially, Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is a magnificent temple in Tamilnadu and India. Notably, the New 7 Wonders Foundation (N7W) based in Zurich, Switzerland foundation conducted the New Seven Wonders of the World selection . At that time, the World Famous Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple was on the list of 66 places in the world. That list also includes the Taj Mahal. On the other hand, Alanganallur Jallikattu, Madurai Malli, #Madurakaranda Veeram and much more are considered unique features in Madurai.

1. Thanjai Periya Kovil

Brihadisvara Temple during the 1010 AD period. Now, the temple has completed 1010 Years. It still standing like King Raja Raja Cholan. The Nandi statue at the entrance of the temple was carved out in a single stone. The main temple is built entirely of granite which consists of more than 1,30,000 granites. Also, carved of granite, the tower above the Thanjai Periya Kovil shrine is one of the tallest in South India. Comparatively, Gangai Konda Cholapuram is also the best tourist place in Tamilnadu. Last but not least, The Great Living Chola Temples(Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram) are one of the World Heritage Site identified by UNESCO.

Tamilnadu Tourist Places – Web Story

More famous places in tamilnadu, famous temples in tamilnadu.

17. Arulmigu Uchchi Pillaiyar Temple, Trichy

16. Peruvudaiyar Temple, Gangaikonda Cholapuram

15. Arulmigu Thiru Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Tenkasi

Here Are Remaining Famous Temples In Tamilnadu.

Hill Stations In Tamilnadu

10. Yelagiri

9. Kotagiri

8. Sirumalai

Continue to Top 10 Hill stations In Tamilnadu.

Best Waterfalls In Tamilnadu To Bath

10. Kodiveri Waterfalls

9. Agasthiyar Falls – Papanasam

8. Thirumoorthy  Falls AKA Panjalinga Aruvi

Read All 10 Best Watefalls In Tamilnadu.

Some Of The Hidden Gems

Eighteenth Canal

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Top 17 temples in tamilnadu, top 10 waterfalls in tamilnadu to refresh in water.

It’s a very use full to the tourists, then I know the lot of places in the page

wow underful

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