top tourist places of tamil nadu

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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• 50 Best Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu Of 2024 For The Most Awesome Vacay

23 Mar 2023

Have you ever been to the south? If yes, you’d know what a gem Tamil Nadu is. If you haven’t, it’s time you think about taking a trip now because the state is home to a lot of beautiful places. In fact, even drop dead gorgeous would be an under expression to describe the beauty of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu . These places are brimming with beautiful temples, serene beaches, spectacular forts & waterfalls, and more, which only means that there are multiple excuses for you to pack your bags and head for a tour! 

50 Best Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu Of 2024

There are numerous places in the state of Tamil Nadu. However, when looking for some of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu, you can use this list below and choose the best for your next trip.

1. Chennai – Cultural Centre

Being the capital of the state and home to beautiful temples, churches, and beaches, Chennai is best tourist place in Tamil Nadu that would let you have a real glimpse of South India and its lifestyle. With numerous places to visit in Chennai , such as Marina Beach, Museums, Kapaleeshwara temple, and much more, this place is one of its kind. If culture, history, or art lies anywhere under your interest list, this is a place you should definitely consider visiting! So, if you are thinking what to do in Chennai, just escape to Chennai, among the top 10 tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time to Visit Chennai: November to February Ideal duration: 3-4 days Places to visit: Marina Beach, Government Museum, Fort St. George, Edward Elliot’s Beach, Ashtalakshmi Temple, Mylapore, Valluvar Kottam Things To Do in Chennai:

• Shop for sarees, jewelry, and other handicrafts at Pondy Bazaar, Anna Salai, or Mylapore
• Spend time at Marina Beach
• Indulge in the famous local food, and party at The Westminster or 10 Downing Street

How to reach : Flights, Railway and Bus

Must Read: Airports In Tamil Nadu

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2. Pondicherry – French Colony

Also known as Puducherry, this is an ideal place for explorers, beach lovers, and experience-seekers interested in French culture and architecture. With an extensive number of romantic places in Pondicherry, this Union Territory reeks of excitement and vibrancy. If you have had too much of Goa already or even if you haven’t, it’s time you witness the charm of Pondy! In addition, traveling from Chennai to Pondicherry has been made much more easier and this is what attracts the young crowd to one of the best tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu and the land of beautiful beaches to rejuvenate and relax. If you are looking for low budget tourist places in Tamil Nadu, visit this amazing place to have an adrenaline-filled experience.

Best Time to Visit Pondicherry: October to March Ideal duration:  4 days Places to visit: Sri Aurobindo Ashram , Promendade Beach, Arulmigu Manakula, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Paradise Beach, Auroville Things to do in Pondicherry:

• Visit the famous Aurobindo Ashram
• Indulge in water sports at Paradise Beach
• Savour croissants, baguettes, and other famous French cuisine

3. Mudumalai – Ancient Hills

Located in the Nilgiri hills, Mudumalai is one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu, which is known for its wildlife persona. For anyone who loves an encounter with nature in the most unique way, the national park here is a must visit. In Tamil Nadu tourism, this is the major attraction that one should not miss and count it on the top.

Best Time to Visit Mudumalai: October to May Ideal duration: 2-3 days Places to visit:  Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Madumalai National Park, Gopalswami Hills, Needle Rock View Point Things to do:

• Spot tigers, leopards, golden jackals, and more at Mudumalai National Park
• Capture the beautiful landscapes
• Interact with elephants at the Theppakadu Elephant Camp

How to reach : Railways then taxi, bus or public transport

Suggested Read: Kolli Hills

4. Dhanushkodi – Beautiful Abandoned Town

If you are someone who’s on a constant lookout for places that are away from the city life, Dhanushkodi is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. This beach town’s grandeur and beauty make Dhanushkodi one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu for your next refreshing getaway!

Best Time to Visit Dhanushkodi: October to February Ideal duration: 2-3 days Places to visit: Dhanushkodi Beach, Gulf Of Mannar Marine National Park, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Shri Ram Setu View Point Things to do:

• Unwind and relax at the Dhanushkodi Beach
• Savor the gorgeous views from the Adam’s Bridge
• Visit the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

5. Hogenakkal – Gorgeous Waterfalls

Of all the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu, Hogenakkal is a hometown of gorgeous waterfalls. Situated in Dharampuri, this small village is an absolute hotspot for romantic getaways, a short family vacay, and even an offbeat trip with your friends.

Best Time to Visit Hogenakkal: September to March Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit:  Hogenakkal Waterfalls, Hanging Bridge, Crocodile Park, Hogenakkal Falls View Point Things to do:

• Be spellbound by the famous Hogenakkal Falls
• Visit the Melagiri Hills
• Go temple hopping, and explore the Pennagram Village

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South India In August

6. Tuticorin – Stunning Beaches

This is one place in South India that lets you witness the best of everything at one place. From boasting a beautiful beach and a spectacular wildlife sanctuary to numerous temples & churches, Tuticorin is one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu that makes sure that every moment of your holiday outshines the previous one. There are an array of things to do here that invite you to refresh your mind, body, and soul, making it one of the reasons for tourism in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time to Visit Tuticorin: November to March Ideal duration: 2-3 days Places to visit in Tuticorin: Baisilica of Our Lady of Snows, Hare Island, Muthu Nagar Beach, Thiruchendur Murugan Temple  Things to do:

• Visit the Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Explore the temples, and unwind on the beaches
• Relish sweets like Tuticorin macaroons

How to reach : Flights, Railways, Bus, Taxi

7. Kanyakumari – Southernmost Tip Of India

Famous for being one of the most exotic places to visit in Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari is a paradise for experience-seekers. The art, architecture of temples, and even the local cuisine along with so many places to see in Kanyakumari that reflects every bit of its culture will leave you fascinated! It is also a great destination to observe some of Tamil Nadu’s popular annual festivals . 

Best Time to Visit Kanyakumari: October to March Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit in Kanyakumari: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Kanyakumari Beach, Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Bhagavathy Temple, Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam, Our Lady of Ransom Church Things to do in Kanyakumari:

• Go on an excursion tour to Kumari Amman Temple or to the Vattakottai Fort.
• Relax at Sanguthurai Beach, the Sothavilai Beach. or the Kanyakumari Beach.
• Visit the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Suggested Read: Best Waterfalls Near Chennai

8. Trichy – Historical Temples

Trichy is one of the fastest emerging cities in Tami Nadu that can be easily explored in a weekend. It offers multiple places for tourists to visit, like temples, churches. Each brings an amazing uniqueness with it that will be etched in your heart for a long time. It is one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time To Visit Trichy: October to February Ideal duration: 5-6 days Places to visit in Trichy: Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Ucchi Pillayar Temple, Thayumanaswami Temple, Jambukeswarar Temple, Kallanai Things to do :

• Explore the gorgeous Puliyancholai Waterfalls
• Visit the ancient Kallanai Dam and enjoy the mesmerizing view

9. Nagapattinam – Renowned Pilgrimage Site

Nagapattinam is a renowned pilgrimage center with several places of historical significance. The place has many temples, churches and mosques spread all over which attracts tourists from far across the globe and makes it one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu. It is also one of the best places to explore during the Monsoon in Tamil Nadu. 

Best Time To Visit Nagapattinam: October to February Ideal duration: 2-3 days Places to visit:  Nagapattinam Beach, Soundararajaperumal temple, Nagore Sharif Dargah Khadar vali, Kayarohanaswami Temple Things to do:

• Spend some peaceful time at the long stretch of beach
• Enjoy Divya Desam, the Sapta Vidangar and the sacred town of Velankanni nearby
• Explore the beautiful architecture at the Dutch Fort

How to reach : Railways then buses and taxi

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Madurai

10. Vellore – The Fort City

Primarily known for two premier institutions, Christain Medical College and Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore is an ancient city located in the northeastern part of Tamil Nadu. The city has been aptly named the Fort City due to the enchanting fort located in the heart of the city. There are some great hotels in Vellore too where one can stay during the trip here. This is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu with family.

Best Time To Visit Vellore: October to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit in Vellore: Vellore Fort, Jalakandeswarar Temple, Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple, Ratnagiri Murugan Temple, Balamathi Hills Things to do in Vellore:

• Visit the marvelous fort and St. John’s church
• Spend some quality time at Periyar Park

How to reach : Trains, Railways, Buses and Taxi

11. Pollachi – Popular Tollywood Destination

One of the most offbeat Tamil Nadu tourist places, Pollachi is located down south in Coimbatore. It is a famous filming spot because of its blissful scenery. This is the best tourist spot in Tamil Nadu that attract travellers because of the famous attractions like Topslip Tiger Reserve and Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary.

Best Time To Visit Pollachi: December to February Ideal duration: 3 days Places to visit: Arulmigu Masani Amman Temple, Pollachi Mahalingapuram Arch, Pollachi Ayyappan Temple, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve Things to do:

• Jungle trekking and bamboo rafting at the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
• Visit dams and adorn jaggery, coconut, and vegetable fields

Suggested Read: Festivals Of Tamil Nadu

12. Yanam – Unique Culture And History

Yanam is a small city in the district of Puducherry, India and is one of the best amongst all offbeat Tamil Nadu tourist places. The historical place in Tamil Nadu is famous for its interesting history and culture. One can enjoy the sunrise and sunset view from the viewpoint and visit a few holy temples spread around the city. The city also has some old churches with a touch of French architecture. It is also surrounded by some of the best honeymoon places in Tamil Nadu . 

Best Time To Visit Yanam: June to September Ideal duration: 4 days Places to visit:  Yanam Tower, Jesus Statue Church, Yanam Botanical Garden Things to do:

• Explore the history and the unique culture
• Visit the Rajiv Gandhi Beach for amazing sunrise and sunset views

13. Tranquebar – A Tranquil Beach Town

Tranquebar is a tranquil destination known as the land of the singing waves and is perfect for a one day trip in Tamil Nadu. This tiny beach town dates back to the 14th century with the establishment of the Shiva Temple built in 1306. The place has definitely a lot of history to learn, amazing architecture to adore, and a lot of activities to enjoy in one of the best Tamil Nadu tourist places.

Best Time To Visit Tranquebar: November to March Ideal duration: 1-2 days Places to visit:  Dansborg, New Jerusalem Church, Tharangambadi Maritime Museum, Danish Fort, New Masilamani Iswaran Temple Things to do:

• Visit the Fort Dansborg
• One of India’s first printing presses at Ziegenbalg Museum Complex on Admiral Street

Suggested Read: Places Near Yercaud

14. Chettinad – Every Food Lover’s Paradise

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Sitting just a few kilometres from Madurai, Chettinad is a hidden region that is known for its ancient and old mansions, lip-smacking meat curries, and rich heritage. This region is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu with family for those who are seeking an amazing day-out experience. With plenty of places to witness and ample dishes to relish, Chettinad is a foodie’s paradise. It is one of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time To Visit Chettinad: October to March Ideal duration: 1 day  Places to visit:  Chettinad Palace, Chettinad Museum, Soorakudi, Pillaiyarpatti, Athmanathaswamy Temple Things to do:

• Unravel the tales of the beautiful Chettinad Palace.
• Indulge in the local cuisine, especially fiery meat dishes, and make your tongue crave for more.
• Experience the village life of Chettinad and witness the beauty of it.

15. Courtallam – Spa Town Of Tamil Nadu

Often tagged as the ‘Spa of South India’, Courtallam is that charming destination sitting in the Western Ghats that makes has the power to distress and rejuvenate travelers in an instant. Blanketing waterfalls, museums, temples, dams, eco-parks, and much more, this town is one of those awesome places in Tamil Nadu that offers an absolute experience to its guests. Courtallam is a must-visit town when going for Tamil Nadu tourist places all thanks to the modern touch amalgamated with the tribal tales, making it one of the beautiful places. If you are looking for the best place for 2 days trip in Tamil Nadu, this is an ideal destination.

Best Time To Visit Courtallam: June to September Ideal duration: 3 days Places to visit:  Five Falls, Courtallam Main Falls, Tigar Falls Road,  Things to do:

• Take a dip in any of the famous waterfalls sitting in Courtallam including Main Falls, Five Falls, Tiger Falls, and more. 
• Take a stroll in the beautiful temple and pay some respects in the Chitra Sabhai Temple. 
• Shop for some beautiful handicrafts, sarees, artifacts, souvenirs, and more.

How to reach : Railways, buses, and taxi

Suggested Read: Resorts In Kanyakumari

Historical And Religious Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu

Discover the best pilgrimage sites and religious temples in Tamil Nadu. Known as the temple city of India, there are various significant temples. These tourist places in Tamil Nadu are a must-visit. 

16. Madurai – Stunning Architecture

Image Courtesy: Daiwikhotels.com

Constructed like a lotus, Madurai City is mostly popular for its Meenakshi Temple. While visiting here, you can marvel at the intriguing architecture or explore its numerous tourist attractions. To witness the best of the city, you must plan at least 2-day trip to Tamil Nadu.

Best Time to Visit Madurai: December to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit in Madurai: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, Koodal Azhagar Temple Things to do in Madurai :

• Go temple hopping, and spend time at the famous Meenakshi and Thiruparankundram Temples
• Explore the Gandhi Museum
• Visit the Vaigai Dam

How to reach : Airport, Railways, Buses and Taxi

17. Chidambaram – Gorgeous Temple Town

A beautiful temple town, Chidambaram is situated in the eastern part of Tamil Nadu. The glorious history, rich culture, and diverse traditions of this city have the magic of leaving anyone in awe. One of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu for 2 days trip, this town  is perfect if you’re a history buff or have a thirst for knowledge. This place can be reached by any of the airports. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit:  Thillai Nataraja Temple, Govindaraja Perumal Temple, Pasupatheswarar Temple, Tirukkazhippalai Palvannanathar Temple Things to do:

• Visit the Pichavaram Backwaters and Mangrove Forests
• Indulge in delectable Tamil cuisines like idli, vadai, and more
• Visit the famous Nataraja Temple

How to reach : Flights, trains, buses, and taxi

Suggested Read: Cottages In Ooty For Couples

18. Mahabalipuram – Magnificent Carved Temples

Popular for its intricately carved temples and caves, Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu is another gem to marvel at. Located just a few kilometres from the capital city, traveling from Chennai to Mahabalipuram is not at all a hassle. The city has beautiful beaches, magnificent architecture, soothing weather, and offers a refreshing experience to every kind of tourist. It is recommended as one of the best places in Tamil Nadu, for those who are seeking a peaceful atmosphere on their next visit. While engaging in thrilling adventures and exploring the beautiful district in Tamil Nadu, visitors can have over-the-top experience.

Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram: November to February Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit Mahabalipuram: Shore Temple, Descent of the Ganges, Pancha Rathas, Varaha Cave Temple, Thirukadalmallai Things to do in Mahabalipuram:

• Rejuvenate on the Mahabalipuram Beach
• Visit the famous Five Rathas and Shore Temple
• Explore Kovalam and Sadras, the fishing villages turned into exotic beach resorts

How to reach : Railways, Buses and Taxi

19. Rameshwaram – Temple Hopping

Image Courtesy: Rameswaramtourism.com

Situated on an island, this is one of the most religious places in India . The town is separated by a Pamban bridge from Sri Lanka, and is the best tourist spot in Tamil Nadu to explore if temple hopping is the sole purpose of your trip. Besides this, there are a plethora of hotels in Rameswaram, offering travellers the unique places to visit in Tamil Nadu.

Best Time to Visit Rameswaram: October to April Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple, Villoondi Tirtham, Lakshmana Tirtham Things to do:

• Visit the famous five-faced Hanuman Temple
• Witness the poojas at Agniteertham
• Visit the Dhanushkodi Temple and Beach
• Visit the beautiful  Rameshwaram Temple  and the  Rameshawaram Beach

Suggested Read: Kodaikanal vs Ooty For Honeymoon

20. Thanjavur – Centre Of Art

Of all the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu, Thanjavur has a lot to offer when it comes to experiences. This city of temples boast paintings, antiques, handicrafts, textiles, and sarees, which are amongst the popular things to be admired around. Explore the best district in Tamil Nadu and soak yourself with the rich culture and history.

Best Time to Visit Thanjavur: October to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit: Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Saraswathi Mahal Library, Brihadeeswara Temple, Schwartz Church, Thanjavur Palace Things to do:

• Visit the popular Brihadeeshwara Temple
• Explore the Siva Ganga Garden, Palace & Saraswathi Mahal Library
• Admire the grandeur of the Vijayanagar Fort

How to reach : Railways, Buses, and Taxi

21. Velankanni – Beautiful Coastal Town

While you may not have heard of Velankanni before like most of the other cities in the state, this place is absolutely worth your time and visit. It is a gorgeous coastal town popular for a spectacular church that was built in the honor of Mother Mary. The distance that one needs to cover from Pondicherry to Velankanni is around 160 kilometres and one can easily find road transport to cover this path.

Best Time to Visit: October to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni Church, Velankanni Beach, Morning Star Church Things to do:

• Visit the famous Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
• Unwind and relax at the Velankanni Beach
• Explore the town and the museum at Holy Path

Suggested Read: Beaches Near Coimbatore

22. Kanchipuram – Pretty Kanchipuram Sarees

Kanchipuram is also known as the Golden City of a thousand temples. This popular tourist attraction is known for its beautiful ‘Kanchipuram sarees’. Tourists who are interested in Hinduism or just want to catch a glimpse of the beautiful South Indian architecture, visit this place. Kanchipuram, among the famous cities in Tamil Nadu, is an ideal place for art & literature, architectural, and adventure enthusiasts.

Best Time To Visit Kanchipuram: October to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit: Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, Tiru Parameswara Vinnagaram, Thiru Ekambaranathar Temple Things to do:

• Visit Kanchi Kamakshi Temple and Kailasanathar Temple
• Attend South Indian classical music concerts in the evenings
• Indulge in shopping of Kanchipuram sarees

23. Coimbatore – A Major Textile Hub

Coimbatore is one of the largest cities of Tamil Nadu, famous for its industry, textiles and manufacturing. For a perfect holiday experience, the place offers you gorgeous waterfalls, breathtaking mountains, and temples in Coimbatore are a must-visit by all the travelers.

Best Time To Visit Coimbatore: July to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit: Marudhamalai, Dhyanalinga, Siruvani Waterfalls, Gass Forest Museum, Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple,  Things to do:

• Visit the the Maruthamalai Murugan Temple, Eachanari Vinayagar Temple, the Sree Ayyappan Temple
• Enjoy exciting trekking trails such as the Vellari Mala, the Dhoni Hills, the Perumal Peak, and the Thalaiyar Falls trek
• Visit the famous 112 feet tall statue of Lord Shiva, known as the Adiyogi Shiva Statue

Suggested Read: Mahabalipuram Resorts

24. Tirunelveli – Scenic Beauty

Located on the west bank of the Thamirabarani River, Tirunelveli offers many exciting tourist attractions like breathtaking waterfalls, scenic beauty, temples and much more. Along with many religious places, the city also has some wonderful delicacies you can try.

Best Time To Visit: October to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Nellaiappar Temple, District Science Centre, Sri Subramania Swamy Temple, Holy Trinity Cathedral Things to do:

• Visit Nellaiappar Temple and Nellaiappar Temple
• Enjoy the scenic beauty at Nainar Kulam Lake

25. Kumbakonam – Historic Beauty

Kumbakonam is a beautiful temple town in the Thanjavur district. It is a must-visit place for history lovers to understand the depth of India’s culture and Hinduism. This is also one of the oldest towns in the Indian history known for its famous temples.

Best Time To Visit: December to February Ideal duration:  1-2 days Places to visit: Airavatesvara Temple, Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Mahamaham tank, Swamimalai Temple, Kasi Viswanathar Temple Things to do:

• Visit the grand festival called Mahamaham festival which is celebrated every twelve years at the Mahamaham Tank
• Shop in the town for indigenous products
• Visit the various famous temples such as Adi Kumbeshwara Temple

Suggested Read: Romantic Things To Do In Kodaikanal

26. Tiruvannamalai – Town With Spiritual Significance

Home to one of the most famous and mighty Mount Arunchala, Tiruvannamalai has spiritual importance latched to itself. With the mountain being tagged as the most silent place in the entire world, Tiruvannamalai is a great escape for those who are seeking to run away from chaos and embrace tranquility. Home to various temples and ashrams, this destination attracts numerous pilgrims and spiritual seekers.

Best Time To Visit: October to March | June to September Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Arulmigu Arunachaleswarar Temple, Virupaksha Cave, Agni Lingam, Sri Ramanasramam Things to do:

• Explore one of the largest temples of India- Arunachaleshwara Temple.
• Conquer the mighty Mount Arunachala along with other pilgrims.
• Try the healthy, scrumptious dishes served at the Dreaming Tree restaurant.

27. Dharmapuri – City Of Places Of Worship

Dharmapuri, a city often tagged as the land of churches and temples, is one of the greatest places to see in Tamil Nadu. Along with enveloping various places of worship, this town is also home to some of the marvelous wonders of mother nature such as waterfalls, rivers, and more. For those who are seeking to get closer to mother nature and the higher power above us, this place is definitely a steal!

Best Time To Visit: November to March Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Kalabairavar Temple, Shri Theerthagirishwarar Temple, Dharmapuri Archaeological Museum, Chenraya Perumal Temple Things to do:

• Take a ride on the boat in the pond near the Dharmapuri Falls.
• Try the oil massages that are offered in this town and get relieved of all the stress, even if it is just for a little while.
• Head to the various temples and churches covering the floors of Dharmapuri and offer homage.

How to reach : Flights then buses and taxi

Suggested Read: Hotels In Coonoor

Best Hill Stations In Tamil Nadu Of 2024

Check our pick of the best hill stations along with an ideal time to visit.

28. Ooty – Queen Of Hill Stations

Situated in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, Ooty is one of thecool tourist places in Tamil Nadu It has a gorgeous backdrop of the hills and greenery, which makes it a great destination for both honeymooners and family.Ooty sightseeing is everything one needs to rejuvenate and simply relax on their escape to Tamil Nadu. When traveling from Ooty to Kodaikanal, one needs to cover the distance of 250 kilometres that is best covered by a cab or taxi. Cover all the major places to visit in Ooty on your trip here.

Best Time to Visit Ooty: March to June Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Government Rose Garden, The Tea Factory & The Tea Museum, St. Stephen’s Church, Tiger Hill Things to do:

• Visit the popular Ooty Lake
• Take a scenic toy train ride
• Explore the Botanical Gardens

29. Kodaikanal – Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Adorned with dense forests, huge rocks, beautiful waterfalls, and plenty of other places to visit in Kodaikanal, this destination is a perfect romantic tourist place to visit with your loved one. We can bet that the picturesque beauty and romantic things to do in Kodaikanal would add stars to your holiday experience, making it only more memorable!

Best Time to Visit: March to June and December to February Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit in Kodaikanal: Coaker’s Walk, Kodaikanal Lake, Silver Cascade Falls, Bryant Park, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Bear Shola Falls Things to do:

• Indulge in boating at Kodai Lake
• Enjoy horse riding while you savour the scenic views
• Visit the Pillar rocks and the Palni Hills

How to reach : Flights, trains – then buses and taxi

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Coimbatore 

30. Coonoor – Thrilling Joyride

Situated at an altitude of 1,930 metres, Coonoor is gradually becoming one of the top cool tourist places in Tamil Nadu. It offers a panoramic view of the Nilgiri Hills and the Catherine Falls, which makes it an ideal hotspot for those whose heart belong in the hills! Moreover, when traveling from Coonoor to Ooty, one can take a train that runs on a regular basis and exhibits some beautiful landscapes of the surroundings. 

Best Time to Visit: October to March Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Sim’s Park, Hight Field Tea Estate, Droog Fort, Tiger Hill Cemetery, Lamb’s Rock, Wellington Lake Things to do:

• Savor the breathtaking views from Dolphin’s Nose
• Trek to the famous Doddabetta Mountain
• Visit the beautiful Sim’s Park

31. Yelagiri – Exciting Adventure Activities

Image Courtesy: Mouthshut.com

Trekking in the hills has its own joy and fun. Situated at an elevation of 4,626 feet, Yelagiri Hills is a perfect tourist place in Tamil Nadu surrounded by green valleys, orchards, and rose gardens. This is an ideal place to visit with a loved one, and even your friends if adventure is on your mind!

Best Time to Visit Yelagiri: May to June and November to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Swamimalai Hills, Yelagiri Lake, Yelagiri Nature Park, Murugan Temple, Stellar Cave Things to do Yelagiri:

• Trek to Swami Malai Hills through the lush green forests
• Visit the Jalagamparai Falls
• Indulge in paragliding, mountain climbing, etc.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Rameshwaram 

32. Yercaud – Ooty Of Poor People

Situated close to the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is a gorgeous hill station in Tamil Nadu. This place is a must visit for its vast evergreen forests, rich coffee plantations, and unique flora and fauna. From trekking to admiring the beauty of the famous attractions, there are many things to do in Yercaud that will keep you on your toes.

Best Time to Visit Yercaud: October to June Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit: Kiliyur Falls, Lady’s Seat, Shevaroy Hills, Shevaroy Temple, Karadiyoor View Point, Manjakuttai View Point Things to do:

• Visit the popular Emerald Lake
• Take a tour of attractions like Anna Park, Japanese Park, Bear’s Cave, and more
• Enjoy the gorgeous view of the hills from the Lady’s Seat

33. Kotagiri – Captivating Waterfalls

Image Courtesy: Self Drive Trips

Situated in the Nilgiris, this place is a small town known for having one of the best climates in the world. With captivating waterfalls and rich wildlife, Kotagiri is one of the summer tourist places in Tamil Nadu you must visit during your trip to the state.

Best Time to Visit Kotagiri: November to May Ideal duration:  2-3 days Places to visit: Catherine Water Falls, Lamb’s Rock, Ralliah Dam, Kodanad View Point, Rangaswamy Peak and Pillar Things to do:

• Visit the mesmerizing Elk Falls
• Wildlife spotting at Longwood Shola
• Indulge in a picturesque trekking trail from Kotagiri to Kodanad

Suggested Read: Best Homestays In Yercaud

34. Valparai – Beautiful Hill Station

Valparai is a beautiful hill station, situated in the mesmerizing Anamalai Hill Range. Apart from being a part of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, the town also has a decent number of tea and coffee estates surrounded by forests. It’s an awesome tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu for the travellers who wants to get closer to nature. One can take a flight to travel from Chennai to Valparaiand cover the distance of approximately 587 kilometres in a feasible manner. 

Best Time to Visit: September to March Ideal duration:  2-3 days Places to visit: Anaimalai Hills, Monkey Falls, Solaiyar Dam, Nirar Dam, Nallamudi View point, Chinnakallar Falls Things to do:

• Go on a backpacking tour to the famous Anamalai Hills
• Visit Nallamudi Viewpoint
• Explore the Sholayar Dam, Monkey Falls, Balaji Temple, and more

35. Theni – The Magical Land

No matter what time of the year it is, Theni is that town in Tamil Nadu that one would always find nestled amidst the foggy mist, making it look like a fairyland. Theni is the best tourist place in Tamil Nadu for those who are seeking to avoid the beaten paths and take the roads less taken. Sitting on the Western Ghats, Theni covers some fragrant plantations, velvety green landscapes, colorful markets, magical waterfalls, and much more.

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year Ideal duration: 1-2 days Places to visit:  Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Suruli Falls, Gowmariamman Temple Things to do:

• Visit the Kolukkumalai Tea estate, world’s highest organic estate.
• Shop for various exotic spices and condiments, handloom products, agricultural products, and much more.
• Plan a picnic to the Vaigai Dam and spend some quality time with your family

Suggested Read: Picnic Spots In And Around Chennai

36. Vedanthangal – Paradise For Bird Lovers

You must have heard about Vedanthangal for its bird sanctuary which makes it one of the top places to visit in Tamil Nadu. If you visit the sanctuary during the migratory season, then you can witness around 30,000 birds like spoonbills, herons, and storks. So, if you are a bird lover then make sure that you include this place in your itinerary.

Best time to visit: November to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit:  Madurantakam Lake, Karikili Bird Sanctuary, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary Things to do:

• Visit the bird sanctuary.
• Admire the view of Vedanthangal covered with thousands of birds.

37. Tharangambadi – The Land Of The Singing Waves

Counted among the top tourist places in Tamil Nadu, Tharangambadi is a tiny beach town. The history of this place can be dated back to the 14th century. The name of this town literally translates into ‘the land of the singing waves’. The town overlooks the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and Kaveri River. The place is known for its tranquility which is why it is visited by hundreds of tourists every year.

Best time to visit: November to March Ideal duration:  2-3 days Places to visit:  Shri Murugan Temple, Tharangambadi Maritime Museum, New Masilamani Iswaran Temple, Danish Fort Things to do:

• Explore Dansborg Fort where you can witness a mixture of German, Danish, and French colonies.
• Visit the Zion Church that stands still since the year 1701.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Madurai 

38. Salem – Explore The Bucolic Nature

A visit to Tamil Nadu will remain incomplete if you do not visit its fifth largest city, Salem. That may not be a great fact but it being a home to natural vistas is a great fact. Not only this, there are several ancient temples in Salem that are a must visit. So, make sure to include it in your Tamil Nadu vacation itinerary.

Best time to visit: October to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Anna Park, Pagoda Point Road, Yercaud Lake, Kurumbapatty Zoological Park, Eco Tourism Park Things to do:

• Explore the churches and temples here.
• Get ready to soak in some amazing nature views.

39. Kolli Hills – Ride Through The Bent Curves

Popular as the ‘Mountain of Death’, Kolli Hills is located in the Namakkal District which is untouched by industrialization and retains most of the natural beauty. If you are looking for one of the best places to see in Tamil Nadu then you must include Kolli Hills in your itinerary as several tourists head to this place and watch nature at its best.

Best time to visit: December to February Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Kolli Hill Forest, Puliansolai R.F, Nayinarmalai Forest, Rasipuram Things to do:

• Admire the natural magnificence.
• Visit the famous Lord Shiva’s Arappaleshwar Temple.

How to reach : Trains, buses, and taxi

Suggested Read: Best Resorts In Yelagiri

40. Palani – Wrapped Within Two Hills

Another amazing place to explore in Tamil Nadu is Palani which is blanketed with two hills – Sakthigiri and Sivagiri. So, where you look, you will get to see these majestic hills creating a beautiful scenery. While exploring Palani, you will come across several lakes that eventually flow to the Shanmuga River at the foothills.

Best time to visit: November to March Ideal duration:  3 days Places to visit:  Palani Hill Temple, Arulmigu Dhandayuthapani Swamy, Thiru Aavinnankudi Temple, Thanga Ther, Idumban Temple Things to do:

• Explore the lakes making their way through the whole Palani.
• Visit the temples that are famous here.

41. Dindigul – A Historical City

If you are planning a vacation to Tamil Nadu then your trip will remain incomplete without Dindigul as it is one of the famous places in Tamil Nadu. It is a historical city that is wedged between Sirumalai Hills and Palani Hills. One of the must-visit place here is Dindigul Fort which has attracted several tourists to this place.

Best time to visit: October to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Dindigul Rock Fort, Soundararajaperumal Temple, Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyer Temple, Murugan Temple Things to do:

• Explore the popular Dindigul Fort on your visit.
• Dig deep into the culture and history of this place.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Salem

42. Mayiladuthurai – The Peacock Town

Another one listed in the places to visit in Tamil Nadu is Mayiladuthurai which is a temple town famous for Mayura Natha Swamy Temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The place was ruled by the Chola dynasty and it still holds reminiscents of that. While traveling on the roads here, you will witness coconut trees lining along the roadsides.

Best time to visit: October to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Mayuranathaswami Temple, Parimala Ranganatha Perumal Temple, Mahalakshmeeswarar Temple, Thirupariyalur Veeratteswarar Koil Things to do:

• Admire the Dravidian architecture on your visit.
• Explore the famous Shiva temple.

43. Thiruvarur – A Blend Of Cultures

The list of tourist places in Tamil Nadu also includes Thiruvarur which is popular for its antiquity as it was ruled by several groups like VIjayanagar Empire, Marathas, Medieval as well as Later Cholas, and the British. Apart from this, it is home to three rivers namely Sukumar, Valaiyar, and Odambokki rivers which add to the beauty of this place.

Best time to visit: December to March Ideal duration:  2 days Places to visit:  Thyagaraja Temple, Sivan Temple, Perumal Kovil, Kariviranathan Temple, Akshyalingaswamy Temple Things to do:

• Visit the famous Thyagaraja Temple.
• Dig into the rich history of Thiruvarur.

Suggested Read: Airports In Kerala

44. Pulicat – For Bird Watchers

One of the bestplaces to visit in Tamil Nadu is Pulicat which is home to the Pulicat Lake. This is that famous place where thousands of birds migrate here between the months of October & March. You can witness several species including Flamingos.

Best time to visit: October to March Ideal duration:  2-3 days Places to visit:  Thirupalaivanam Sivan Koil, Perumal Temple, Jadarayar Temple, Chindamaniseswarar Temple Things to do:

• Visit the famous Fort Geldaria.
• Bird watchers must explore this place

45. Bodinayakkanur – Cardamom Capital Of India

One of the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu for all serenity lovers, Bodinayakkanur is a quaint town. With its beautiful surroundings, this town will leave you in awe. This town is famed as the Cardamom capital of India and you must visit it on your vacation. You can observe pleasant weather in Bodinayakkanur at all times and it was called South Kashmir by Jawahar Lal Nehru.

Best Time To Visit: October to February Ideal duration: 2 days Places to visit: Vaigai Dam, Bodi Hill. Things to do:

• Buy the best quality Cardamom
• Explore the town

Suggested Read: Wayanad In Summer

46. Javadi Hills – An Unexplored Charm

The Javadi Hills is one of the most popular trekking destinations among travelers that is a stretch of sprawling green landscapes between the Vellore and Tiruvannamalai districts. From a diverse variety of flora and fauna to observatories and trails that give a panoramic view of the area, it is among the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu for one day trip.

Best Time To Visit : March to September Ideal duration: 1 day Places to visit: Shevaroy Hills Things to do:

• Birdwatching

47. Sirumalai – A Serene Valley

Nestled amidst the green outskirts at a distance of 90 kilometers from Madurai, the Sirumalai region is the last mountain range in the Eastern Ghat. If you are a nature lover and want to explore the far stretches of Tamil Nadu, this place is perfect for a wild weekend getaway. 

Best Time To Visit: March to September Ideal duration: 3 days Places to visit: Kolli Hills Things to do:

• Sightseeing

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Chennai

48. Devala – A Hidden Gem

A quaint town located in the Nilgiris district, it is one of those small towns that give off the real essence of Tamil Nadu’s local suburban culture. If you are traveling to the state and looking to stay with a family for some cultural tourism experience, this is where you can feel warm and welcome for an exploration of your own. 

Best Time To Visit: April to October Ideal duration: 1 day Places to visit: Wild Planet Resort Things to do:

• Local food tasting

49. Ambur – Quaint Escape

From being the home to a popular leather industry to hosting some of Tamil Nadu’s dense residencies, Ambur is an edgy, suburban town situated on the banks of the Palar River. But more than that, it is popular for a spicy non-vegetarian biryani that is known across India for its unique taste. Another much-recommended food item is Makkhenpeda, a traditional sweet that is known for its classic flavors. 

Best Time To Visit: March to October Ideal duration: 1 day Places to visit: Kasi Vishwanath Temple Things to do:

Suggested Read: Seaports In India 

50. Idappadi – The Best Kept Secret

Located in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu, Edappdi was once a popular town for its power loom industry. The riverside landscape of this town is rocky and surrounded by lakes like Periyayeri, ChettiYeri, and Punka-yeri. If you are looking for an escape in Tamil Nadu where you can enjoy a long-stay, do some sightseeing, enjoy nature walks and observe the local life, Idappadi is the place to be. 

Best Time To Visit: April to October Ideal duration: 3 days Places to visit: Wild Planet Resort Things to do:  Arulmigu Kailashanathar Temple

Further Read: New Year Parties In Chennai 

While these best tourist places in Tamil Nadu are famous for their own attractions, each one of them is worth your time, money, and visit to experience the best of the south! Plan your trip to Tamil Nadu right away and have an awesome vacation. While you have a wonderful trip to this amazing place, do not forget to share your experience with us!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu

Which is the coolest place in Tamil Nadu?

There are numerous cool places in Tamil Nadu but the following are the most popular among them: 1. Ooty 2. Yercaud 3. Yelagiri 4. Kodaikanal 5. Coonoor 6. Kotagiri 7. Kolli Hills 8. Anamalai Hills 9. Meghamalai 10. Velliangiri Hilla

Which is the most beautiful place in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu is home to numerous beautiful places that offer something unique to its visitors. The most popular beautiful places in Tamil Nadu are: 1. Chennai 2. Pondicherry 3. Mudumalai 4. Dhanushkodi 5. Hogenakkal 6. Tuticorin 7. Kanyakumari 8. Madurai 9. Chidambaram

What should I buy in Tamil Nadu?

If you are planning a visit to Tamil Nadu then you must know that Chennai, the capital city is a hub of shopping. The following are the most popular Chennai shopping items- 1. Pure mulberry silk 2. Classical dance accessories 3. Cool cotton fabrics 4. Pandian bangles and accessories 5. Handbags 6. Ladies’ ornaments

Which is the best city in Tamil Nadu?

There’s not just one but a number of cities that are considered the best in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. These are the ones that are renowned as the best here: 1. Coimbatore 2. Madurai 3. Tiruchirappalli 4. Chennai

Which is the best hill station in Tamil Nadu?

There are a number of hill stations in Tamil Nadu that are: 1. Yelagiri 2. Ooty 3. Kolli Hills 4. Coonoor 5. Kotagiri 6. Yercaud 7. Velliangiri Hills 8. Kodaikanal

Which is the best place for a honeymoon in Tamil Nadu?

There are a number of tourist spots in Tamil Nadu that are ideal for a honeymoon vacation. Some of them are: 1. Chennai 2. Ooty 3. Meghamalai 4. Kodaikanal 5. Kanyakumari

Which place in Tamil Nadu is famous for the mangrove forest?

The floors of Tamil Nadu are covered with the mangrove forest in many regions. But the most famous place in Tamil Nadu is Pichavaram.

Is Tamil Nadu beautiful?

Tamil Nadu is one of the most beautiful places to visit in South India. It is home to waterfalls, lush greens, trekking trails, beautifully carved temples, picturesque landscapes, and much more, this state of India is one of a kind.

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19 Best places to visit in Tamil Nadu

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.

A Quick Outline

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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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.

Brose Hotels in Mahabalipuram

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.

Hotels in Thanjavur

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.

Check hotels in Madurai

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.

Browse hotels in Ooty

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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Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

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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Must-see attractions in Tamil Nadu

Brihadeeshwara Temple

Thanjavur (Tanjore)

Come here twice: in the morning, when the honey-hued granite begins to assert its dominance over the white dawn sunshine, and in the evening, when the…

Meenakshi Amman Temple

The colourful abode of the triple-breasted warrior goddess Meenakshi (‘fish-eyed’ – an epithet for perfect eyes in classical Tamil poetry) is generally…

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)

So large it feels like a self-enclosed city, Sri Ranganathaswamy is quite possibly India's biggest temple. It has 49 separate Vishnu shrines, and reaching…

Arjuna’s Penance

Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram)

The crowning masterpiece of Mamallapuram’s stonework, this giant relief carving is one of India's greatest ancient artworks. Inscribed on two huge,…

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple

The temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram ('City of the Chola who Conquered the Ganges'), 35km north of Kumbakonam, is dedicated to Shiva. It was built by…

Padmanabhapuram Palace

With a forest’s worth of intricately carved rosewood ceilings and polished-teak beams, this labyrinthine palace, 35km northwest of Kanyakumari, near the…

Arunachaleshwar Temple

Tiruvannamalai

This 10-hectare temple is one of India's largest. Its oldest parts date to the 9th century, but the site was a place of worship long before that. Four…

Royal Palace

Thanjavur’s royal palace is a mixed bag of ruin and renovation, superb art and random royal paraphernalia. The mazelike complex was constructed partly by…

Government Museum

Chennai (Madras)

Housed across from the striking British-built Pantheon Complex, this excellent museum is Chennai’s best. The big highlight is building 3, the Bronze…

Rock Fort Temple

The Rock Fort Temple, perched 83m high on a massive outcrop, lords over Trichy with stony arrogance. The ancient rock was first hewn by the Pallavas and…

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Mylapore is one of Chennai's most characterful and traditional neighbourhoods; it predated colonial Madras by several centuries. Its Kapaleeshwarar Temple…

Cholamandal Artists’ Village

There’s a tropical bohemian groove floating around Injambakkam village, site of the Cholamandal Artists’ Village, 10km south of Chennai's Adyar River…

Trimurti Cave Temple

At the northern end of the Mamallapuram Hill compound, the Trimurti Cave Temple depicts the Hindu 'trinity' amid guardian figures: Brahma (left), Shiva …

Gingee Fort

With three separate hilltop citadels and a 6km perimeter of cliffs and thick walls, the ruins of enormous Gingee Fort rise out of the Tamil plain, 37km…

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

The Western Ghats

In the foothills of the Nilgiris, this newly enlarged 765-sq-km wildlife reserve is like a classical Indian landscape painting given life, with chital…

Five Rathas

Huddled together at the southern end of Mamallapuram, the Five Rathas were, astonishingly, all carved from single large rocks. Each of these fine 7th…

Nataraja Temple

According to legend, Shiva and Kali got into a dance-off judged by Vishnu. Shiva dropped an earring and picked it up with his foot, a move that Kali could…

San Thome Cathedral

This soaring Roman Catholic cathedral, a stone's throw from the beach, was founded by the Portuguese in 1523, then rebuilt by the British in neo-Gothic…

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

A pristine 958-sq-km reserve of tropical jungle, shola forest and grassland rising to 2400m in the Western Ghats and spilling over into Kerala between…

Mt Arunachala

This 800m-high extinct volcano dominates Tiruvannamalai – and local conceptions of the element of fire, which supposedly finds its sacred abode in…

Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Pondy is a seaside town, but that doesn’t make it a beach destination; the city’s sand is a thin strip of dirty brown that slurps into a seawall of jagged…

Botanical Gardens

Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

Established in 1848, these pretty 22-hectare gardens are a living gallery of the Nilgiris' natural flora. Keep an eye out for a typical Toda mund (village…

Sri Aurobindo Ashram

Founded in 1926 by Sri Aurobindo and a French-born woman, ‘the Mother’, this famous spiritual community has about 2000 members in its many departments…

Ekambareshwara Temple

Kanchipuram

Of South India's five Shiva temples associated with each of the five elements, this 12-hectare precinct is the shrine of earth. You enter beneath the 59m…

Shore Temple

Standing like a magnificent fist of rock-cut elegance overlooking the sea, surrounded by gardens and ruined courts, the two-towered Shore Temple…

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Housed in a 17th-century Nayak queen's palace, this impressive museum contains a moving, comprehensive account of Gandhi's life and India’s struggle for…

Airavatesvara Temple

Three kilometres west of Kumbakonam, this late-Chola Shiva temple was constructed by Raja Raja II (1146–73). The steps of Rajagambhira Hall are carved…

Kamakshi Amman Temple

This imposing temple, dedicated to Kamakshi/Parvati, is one of India's most important places of shakti (female energy/deities) worship, said to mark the…

Sittannavasal

About 16km northwest of Pudukkottai, this small Jain cave temple conceals magnificent vegetable-oil frescoes, which you’ll probably get to appreciate all…

Matrimandir

To some, the large, golden, almost spherical Matrimandir (Auroville's focal point), set amid red (cement) lotus petals and surrounded by pristine green…

Varadaraja Perumal Temple

This enormous 11th-century Chola-built temple in southeast Kanchipuram is dedicated to Vishnu. Non-Hindus cannot enter the central compound, but the…

Producers of beautiful hand-printed books, this publishing company is based in southern Chennai. Visit its Book Building showroom, where you can browse,…

Tirumalai Nayak Palace

What Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple is to Nayak religious architecture, Tirumalai Nayak's crumbling palace is to the secular. It’s said to be only a…

Madras Crocodile Bank

Just 6km south of Kovalam, this incredible conservation and research trust is a fascinating peek into the reptile world. Founded by croc/snake-expert…

Pudhu Mandapa

This 16th-century pillared hall stands outside the Meenakshi Amman Temple, opposite the eastern gopuram. It's crammed with colourful textile and crafts…

Sri Jambukeshwara Temple

Of Tamil Nadu's five Shiva elemental temples, Sri Jambukeshwara is dedicated to Shiva, Parvati and the medium of water. The liquid theme is realised in…

The Tiger Cave, 5km north of Mamallapuram, is an unfinished but impressive rock-cut shrine, dedicated to Durga (a form of Devi, Shiva's wife), probably…

Vivekananda Memorial

Four hundred metres offshore is the rock where famous Hindu apostle Swami Vivekananda meditated from 25 to 27 December 1892, and decided to take his moral…

Temple Art Museum

Inside the eastern gopuram of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, you'll find the Nayak-period Thousand Pillared Hall (with 985 columns) on your right. Now the…

Vivekananda House

The marshmallow-pink Vivekananda House is interesting not only for its displays on the famous ‘wandering monk’, Swami Vivekananda, but also for its…

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Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

• Places To Visit

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.

Best of Bangalore

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.

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.

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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. 

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 Kerala

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.

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.

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.

Blue Bay Beach

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

Hogenakkal Falls

Blue Bay Marine Park

Kolli Hills

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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 my studies in sociology.

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.

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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Top Tourist Places & Things to Do in Tamil Nadu

A treasure trove opens in Tamil Nadu for the tourists who are keen on exploring varied aspects of this southern India state. Indeed, the state has so much in store as tourist attractions ensuring your trip to be quite an eventful one. Tamil Nadu offers a chance to enjoy the best beach vacations not only at Asia’s longest beach, Marina in Chennai but at the quaint beaches of Mahabalipuram and Tranquebar as well. The azure water and the palm trees backdrop is likely to offer the best beach holiday experience to you. Away from the coastline are the serene hill stations in Tamil Nadu where you can find respite from the sultry weather during summers. Along with visual treats and salubrious weather, you are likely to find inner peace. Tamil Nadu is also an excellent destination for pilgrimage tour; the innumerable temples make it apparent. So amidst the rich culture and vibrant life, you do have the chance to imbibe spirituality at some gorgeous temples like Meenakshi Amman and Ramanathaswamy. Step out in the cities and even at quaint destinations, a great opportunity for shopping opens for you in Tamil Nadu.

You can choose to buy finest silk sarees, filigree work items and stone sculptors of any size in the state. Feeling adventurous? You have fewer but incredible things to do in that realm as well including trekking, camping, surfing, and motorbiking on the smoothest and gorgeous East Coast Road and those Nilgiri mountains. Your trekking adventure can become epic if you choose the Western Ghats for it; the UNESCO recognized World Heritage Site has so many adventures hidden for you. You have the opportunity to sight the rare lion-tailed macaque and some most venomous snakes during your adventure trek in the Western Ghat. The wildlife safaris in the many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries are amongst the top things to do for that enthralling experience in the state. On the other hand, to get that best camping experience, the Nilgiris welcome you to its scenic settings. And then there is always the option of sightseeing tours that you can enjoy which eventually conclude the best things to do list in Tamil Nadu.

• Destinations

Popular Tourism Destinations in Tamil Nadu

Kanchipuram

Kanyakumari

Chidambaram

Krishnagiri

Mahabalipuram

Nagapattinam

Pudukkottai

Thiruvannamalai

Tiruchirappalli

Virudhunagar

Tirunelveli

Thoothukudi

Wildlife Tourism Places in Tamil Nadu

Mudumalai Sanctuary

Vallanadu Sanctuary

Gulf Of Mannar Marine National Park

Viralimalai Sanctuary

Point Calimere Sanctuary

Mukurthi National Park

Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Mundanthurai Sanctuary

Mayura Thottam

Srivilliputhur Sanctuary

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary

Guindy National Park

Crocodile Park

Must visit temples in tamil nadu.

Chidambaram Kapaleeswarar

Meenakshi Temple

Madurai Murugan Temple

Rameshwaram Temple

Kanyakumari Temple

Chayavan Eshwara Temple

Chennai Krishnapuram Temple

Kumbeswarar Temple

Swamimalai Temple

Kailasam Udayar Temple

Nageswaran Temple

Airavatheeswara Temple

Heritage tourist places in tamil nadu.

Caves of Tamil Nadu

Arjuna's Penance

Rock Fort in Tiruchirapalli

Valluvar Kottam

Thanjavur palace.

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Sivaganga Palace

St. George's Fort

Must visit beaches in tamil nadu.

Marina Beach

Mahabalipuram Beach

Kanyakumari Beach

Covelong Beach

Elliot's Beach

Ariyaman Beach

Kunthukal Beach

Dhanushkodi Beach

Olaikuda Beach

Pamban Beach

Sangumal Beach

Must visit museums in tamil nadu.

Gandhi Museum Madurai

DakshinaChitra Museum Muttukadu

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam House Rameswaram

India Seashell Museum Mahabalipuram

Kanyakumari Wax Museum

Government Museum Chennai

Gedee Car Museum Coimbatore

Shembaganur Museum of Natural History Kodaikanal

Chennai Rail Museum

Fort Museum Chennai

G.D. Naidu Industrial Exhibition Coimbatore

Birla Planetarium Chennai

Cholamandal Artists' Village Chennai

Astrophysical Observatory Kodaikanal

Click Art Museum Chennai

M & N Chocolate Museum Ooty

Wax World Museum Ooty

Forest College Museum Coimbatore

National Art Gallery Chennai

Railway Heritage Centre cum Railway Museum Tiruchirappalli

Archeological Museum of India Vellore

Government Museum Pudukkottai

Kanchi Kudil Kanchipuram

Sculpture Museum Mahabalipuram

Popular lakes in tamil nadu.

Chembarambakkam Lake

Kaliveli Lake

Kovalai Lake

Pulicat Lake

Sholavaram Lake

Veeranam Lake

Red hills lake

Ambattur Lake

Singanallur Lake

Valankulam Lake

Popular waterfalls in tamil nadu.

Catherine Waterfalls

Courtallam waterfalls, hogenakkal waterfalls.

Kumbakkarari Waterfalls

Kutladampatti Waterfalls

Monkey Waterfalls

Panchalinga Waterfalls

Suruli Waterfalls

Thalaiyar Waterfalls

Popular churches in tamil nadu.

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

San Thome Cathedral Basilica

St. Mary’s Cathedral Church

Our Lady of Ransom Church

La Saleth Church

Our Lady of Snows Basilica

Holy Trinity Church

Karamalai Annai Velankanni Church

Kappal Matha Church

Armenian Church

Christ the King Church

Popular fairs & festivals in tamil nadu.

Pongal Festival

Natyanjali Dance Festival

Karthigai Deepam

Jallikattu Bull Festival

Music & Dance Festival, Chennai

Vinayaka Chathurthi

Saraswathi Pooja

Chitri Rai Festival

Mahamaham Festival

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Tamil Nadu Travel Information at a Glance

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15 Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu, South India

Home / Blog / 15 Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu, South India

Tamil Nadu is adorned with a diversity of heritage and religious tourism. Tamil Nadu is well-known for its carved temples, festivals, and celebration of the arts and hence make a must part of the South India tour. A treasure for history buffs, culture explorers, spirituality seekers, and nature enthusiasts, Tamil Nadu stands out as one of the distinctive states in India that offers a unique experience to its visitors. It is the people who make the state come alive; thus Tamil Nadu is as calm in its crowd just as the people here. With its extensive coastline, Nilgiri mountain ranges, and Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu offers a serene connection with nature. Additionally, its cities and towns narrate ancient tales through their culture, traditions, and architectural marvels.

Undoubtedly, Tamil Nadu ranks among the top pilgrimage destinations in India, featuring revered cities like Rameshwaram and Kanchipuram, as well as historical towns like Madurai and Kanyakumari, all of which embody the rich heritage of South Indian culture. While exploring these sites, make sure not to resist the temptation of indulging in mouth-watering South Indian cuisines and sweets. Dishes like Dosa, Idli, Sambar, and various curries are bound to linger in your memory long after your unforgettable holiday in Tamil Nadu.

Top 15 Must Visit Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu-

Mahabalipuram, kanchipuram, chidambaram.

Popularly known as “Detroit of India ”, Chennai is the capital of the southern state Tamil Nadu. Home to beautiful temples, churches, British-era museums, monuments, culinary delights and beaches, Chennai is the best place to visit in Tamil Nadu that gives you a glimpse of South India and its culture. If you are planning to visit Chennai, then the ideal time is from November to March. During this period, you can enjoy the best of the winters with a slight dip in Mercury.

Best Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Chennai

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

Famous for its beautifully carved temples and caves, Mahabalipuram is the home to the dynasty of Pallavas. This small quaint town, Mahabalipuram is a short drive from the capital city, Chennai.The town is a perfect amalgam of culture and history offering magnificent architecture from the Pallavas Dynasty, giving a rejuvenating experience to tourists. This is the reason why it is the best place to explore in Tamil Nadu.If you are planning to visit Chennai, then the ideal time is from November to February.

Best Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Mahabalipuram

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

Kanchipuram has secured a spot in the world for its beautiful ‘’Kanchipuram sarees’. The culturally rich city also known as the Golden City of a thousand temples, attracts tourists from all over the world. If you are intrigued by knowing the rise of Hinduism or just want a glimpse of the beautiful South Indian architecture, then you must visit Kanchipuram. It is one of the top heritage destinations to visit in Tamil Nadu.The ideal time to plan your visit to Kanchipuram is from October to March when the summers are bearable.

Popular Tourist Attractions and Places to Visit in Kanchipuram

• Ekambareswarar Temple
• Kailasanathar Temple
• Kamakshi Amman Temple
• Tiru Parameswara Vinnagaram
• Thiru Ekambaranathar Temple

Situated on an island, Rameswaram holds religious significance from the Ramayana period. This town will make you feel closer to Lord Ram when you explore the evidence of his existence. This pilgrimage tourist destination in Tamil Nadu is separated by a Pamban bridge from Sri Lanka.If you are planning to visit Rameswaram, then the ideal time is from October to April.

Popular Tourist Places & Attractions to Visit in Rameshwaram

• Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple
• Villoondi Tirtham
• Lakshmana Tirtha
• Five-faced Hanuman Temple
• Dhanushkodi Temple
• Rameshwaram Beaches

Thanjavur is a center of South Indian religion, art, and architecture. Abode to the Great Living Chola Temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Monuments, are located in and around Thanjavur. This city of temples boasts paintings, antiques, handicrafts, textiles, and sarees, which are quite popular among tourists. It is one of the best heritage tourist places to explore in Tamil Nadu sightseeing Tour.The ideal time to visit the city is from October to March.

Popular Tourist Places & Attractions to Visit in Thanjavur

• Thanjavur Maratha Palace
• Saraswathi Mahal Library
• Brihadeeswara Temple
• Schwartz Church
• Thanjavur Palace

Yelagiri Hills is one of the top hill stations in Tamil Nadu that is situated at an elevation of 4,626 feet. Yelagiri hills are known for trekking as it is surrounded by lush green valleys, beautiful orchards, breathtaking panoramic views of the hills, and rose gardens. One can indulge themselves in various activities such as paragliding, mountain climbing and trekking. To beat the scorching heat of summer, you can plan a visit from May to June and November to February to enjoy the pleasant winters.

Top Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Yelagiri

• Swamimalai Hills,
• Yelagiri Lake
• Yelagiri Nature Park
• Murugan Temple
• Stellar Cave

Kanyakumari

The southernmost town of India’s mainland, Kanyakumari is also known as ‘The Land’s End’. The Kanyakumari district is famous for its majestic hills, pristine rivers, virgin beaches and meandering brooks. It has an essence of architecture, culture and customs of neighbouring states Kerala. It is globally famous for its remarkable sunrise, sunset and moonrise from the 41-metre (133 ft) Thiruvalluvar Statue and Vivekananda Rock Memorial off the coast, and also as a pilgrimage tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. One can plan the visit to Kanyakumari from October to March.

Best Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Kanyakumari

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

Ooty is located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. A quaint town established as a British Raj summer resort. It is one of the most beautiful hill stations to explore in Tamil Nadu. Ooty is most famous for its tea plantations. Connoisseurs will find plenty to choose from: dust and leaf; black, green, black and white varieties; and flavors such as masala, jasmine, cardamom and even chocolate. Ooty has a picturesque sight of the hills and lush greenery and is a perfect romantic getaway for both honeymooners. One can enjoy a scenic toy train ride established in the British era. The ideal time to visit Ooty is from March to June.

Best Tourist Places & Attractions to Visit in Ooty

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

Kodaikanal is a hill town of Tamil Nadu that is festooned with dense forests, huge rocks and pristine waterfalls. Set in an area of granite cliffs at 2,000 meters above sea level, the town centers around man-made, star-shaped Kodaikanal Lake, adjoined by an evergreen grove. Abundant in natural beauty, Kodaikanal is a suitable location for a family holiday in Tamil Nadu. It is also one of the most favorite places visited by honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. The best time to visit Kodaikanal is March to June and December to February.

Best Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Kodaikanal

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

Being one of the largest cities of Tamil Nadu Coimbatore is famous for its industry, textiles and manufacturing. That’s why it is known as the ‘Textile capital of South India’. Coimbatore is not just about the industry, it is a home for the colorful and intricately carved temples, untouched waterfalls and scenic mountains. It is indeed a must visit place in Tamil Nadu.One can plan a visit to Coimbatore from July to March.

Top Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Coimbatore

• Marudhamalai
• Dhyanalinga
• Siruvani Waterfalls
• Gass Forest Museum
• Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple
• Famous 112 Feet Tall Statue of Lord Shiva (Known as the Adiyogi Shiva Statue)

Situated at a height of 1,930 meters, Coonoor has emerged as one of the top hill station places in Tamil Nadu. Not only does it present a spectacular view of the Nilgiri Hills and the Catherine Falls, but also makes it a perfect destination to whom “mountains are calling “. Coonoor is also popular for its tea estates in the Nilgiri hills. Coonoor gives a perfect environment for activities like trekking and hiking.One can enjoy the lap of nature in Coonoor from October to March.

Best Tourist Attractions and Places to Visit in Coonoor

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

Constructed as a lotus, Madurai City is the epitome of great architecture and culture. The city skyline is overseen by the 14 colorful gopurams (gateway towers) of Meenakshi Amman Temple. The most popular Meenakshi Temple is made in the Dravidian-style Temple and covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods. The vibrant culture and delightful hustle and bustle make it one of the top travel destinations to explore with family in Tamil Nadu.The perfect time to plan your trip to Madurai is from December to February.

Top Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Madurai

• Meenakshi Amman Temple
• Gandhi Memorial Museum
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
• Koodal Azhagar Temple

Located in the adorned Nilgiri Hills, Mudumalai is a tourist attraction of the first national park of South India. Mudumalai National Park is in close vicinity of Bandipur National Park which gives visitors an opportunity of visiting both places together, in between them, they house more than 500 species of animals, birds, reptiles and even more species of insects.Needless to say, Mudumalai has breathtaking and fascinating views to offer along with the jungle safari and camping.The favorable months to visit the Mudumalai is between October to May.

Chidambaram is a beautiful temple town located in the eastern part of Tamil Nadu. The grand history, rich culture, and traditions is a perfect destination for a history buff. Because of the Dravidian culture and magnificent architecture, Chidambaram has become a prominent pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu. Not only does this little town offers the best combination of history and culture, one can rejuvenatein the Backwaters of Pichavaram in the midst of Mangrove Forests. Plan your trip to Chidambaram from October to March which is considered the ideal time.

Top Places & Tourist to Visit in Chidambaram

• Thillai Nataraja Temple
• Govindaraja Perumal Temple
• Pasupatheswarar Temple
• Tirukkazhippalai Palvannanathar Temple

Vellore, popularly known as the leather hub of India. This city is home to hundreds of leather and tannery facilities. Enchanting visitors from every corner of the country, Vellore has attracted tourists because of its cultural-historical background. If you are interested in knowing the history of independent India, then it is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu.You must plan your trip to the city from October to February.

Best Places & Tourist Attractions to Visit in Vellore

• Vellore Fort
• Jalakandeswarar Temple
• Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple
• Ratnagiri Murugan Temple
• Balamathi Hills

We hope that this blog will help you in planning a wonderful trip to Tamil Nadu. While top visiting places in Tamil Nadu are famous for their heritage and religious tourism, you will also find solace and delight in its pleasing hill stations. Let the bliss begins. Plan your trip to Tamil Nadu today and have an incredible vacation. Like & follow us on our following official social media channels

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Really it’s a fantastic blog, I’ll definitely visit those places one day. Good work, Keep going.

I am intrested in tamilnadu trip. 7 nights 8 days. You can plan trip such a way we don’t have to travel too long between one place to other.i am looking for 2 nd November . Trip start from Mumbai and finish at last destination.flight need Mumbai to Mumbai.Need around four star hotel and car.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu (2024)

• Post last modified: 6 April 2023
• Reading time: 18 mins read
• Post category: Places to Visit / Tourism

Tamil Nadu is a state nestled in the southern part of the Indian subcontinent. This state boasts its presence in the deep cultural roots of the country and its many civilizations. Tamil, the native language of Tamil Nadu is one of the oldest languages in India.

Tamil Nadu shares its borders with the other South Indian states of Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The western borders of this state are guarded by the majestic Western Ghats and to the north, Tamil Nadu has got the Eastern Ghats.

Table of Content

• 1.1 Chennai
• 1.3 Madurai
• 1.4 Mahabalipuram
• 1.5 Coimbatore
• 1.6 Kanyakumari
• 1.7 Coonoor
• 1.8 Kanchipuram
• 1.9 Rameswaram
• 1.10 Thanjavur
• 2.1 Why is Tamil Nadu famous for tourism?
• 2.2 What are the famous activities in Tamil Nadu?
• 2.3 Which district is the best for tourism in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu has been ruled by various dynasties which paved the way for this state to be home to numerous architectural marvels and cultural cities. This state is flooded by tourists who have a liking for architectural wonders, religious sites and modern cities. In addition, Tamil Nadu is home to cities and villages that are rich in cultural and touristic values. In this article, check out the places to visit in Tamil Nadu .

10 Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram, kanyakumari, kanchipuram.

Can we ever consider visiting Tamil Nadu without planning a trip to Chennai? The city that is labelled Tamil Nadu’s heart is also the most popular and the most visited city in Tamil Nadu. The capital city of the state rests in the north-eastern part of Tamil Nadu. It is a prominent location in South India from economic, cultural and educational perspectives. The civic body of the city — The Greater Chennai Corporation — is the oldest city corporation in the world after London.

Chennai attracts people from not just all over the country but the world as well. It is called the ‘Medical Capital of India’ due to its rising number of tourists who visit the city for medical purposes. Home to a lot of attractive places like Marina Beach, MGR Film City, and Valluvar Kottam, among others, there are a lot of places to visit in Chennai .

Best Time To Visit: November to February

Major Attractions: Marina Beach, MGR Film City, and Valluvar Kottam

Ideal duration to explore: 2-3 days

Things to do: Experience life in a metro

Ooty aka Udhagamandalam lies comfortably within the Nilgris in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Popularly called the Queen of Hill Stations, Ooty is one of the top places to visit in Tamil Nadu . Bask in the soothing climate of this city while taking a memorable railroad trip with the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. Or just take a stroll through the calming pine forests to make the most of Ooty and its beloved cold weather.

Nicknamed the Switzerland of India, Ooty is a famous honeymoon destination. The backdrop of lush green Nilgiris could be found anywhere in Ooty. The same makes this city a photographer’s heaven. Make sure you pay a visit to the Ooty Lake and Ooty Rose Garden. Do not forget to buy authentic tea from Ooty on your way back home as a souvenir.

Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November

Major Attractions: Ooty Lake and Ooty Rose Garden

Things to do: Vacation, Trekking, Camping, Hiking

The city of Madurai is symbolic of culture in India. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. Evidence suggests that Madurai is over 2500 years old. The history of Madurai is closely tied to that of the Tamil language itself. It is the hub of Tamil Scholars and musicians. Apart from the brimming cultural roots, the city is also one of the top destinations in Tamil Nadu for pilgrims.

The Madura Meenakshi Temple is renowned worldwide for its architecture and religious values. Madurai hosts a plethora of tourist places that could be chosen to make the most of the Tamil Nadu trip. The city is also renowned for its influence on the manufacturing and educational sectors in the state. Visit Madurai to absorb the real essence of Tamil Nadu in every way possible.

Best Time To Visit: December to February

Major Attractions: Madurai Meenakshi Temple

Ideal duration to explore: 2 days

Things to do: Pilgrimage

Mahabalipuram is yet another ancient city of India that adorns the state of Tamil Nadu. Home to the 7th and 8th-century Group of Monuments, Mahabalipuram is one of the most visited tourist spots in Tamil Nadu . History and religious buffs visit this town to witness the rock chariots, mandapas, rock sculptures and the famous Shore Temple.

Once known as Mamallapuram and Thirukadalmallai, Mahabalipuram earned its current name after Pallava king Narasimhavarman I. Add Mahabalipuram to your list of places to see in Tamil Nadu if you are keen on the Hindu culture and historic monuments. The royalty of this then-prominent port town can be sensed even today.

The addition of the Group of Monuments to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites has put Mahabalipuram among one the most cultural cities in the world.

Best Time To Visit: October to February

Major Attractions: Shore Temple, Rock Chariots

Ideal duration to explore: 1-2 days

Things to do: Pilgrimage, Learn more about various dynasties in the history of Tamil Nadu

Located on the banks of the Noyyal River and surrounded by the Western Ghats, lies this wonderful metro city of Tamil Nadu called Coimbatore. Referred to as the “Manchester of South India”, Coimbatore is famous for its textile industry. It is the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu after Chennai. Like many other prominent cities in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore has had its share in shaping the state’s cultural aspect too.

In its vast history, the city was ruled by the Cheras, Cholas, Nayaks and also by the Vijayanagara Empire. It welcomes tourists of all sorts around the year. Coimbatore is also identified as one of the safest cities for women in India. Do not miss out on tasting delicious south Indian delicacies like appam, idli and dosa while in the city. Coimbatore is one of the most beautiful places in Tamil Nadu .

Best Time To Visit: September to March

Major Attractions: Adiyogi Shiva Statue, Vydehi Falls

Things to do: Food Tasting, Experience City Life

Words can only do little justice to the mesmerising beauty of this town. Kanyakumari is the southernmost town in India and is referred to as “The Land’s End”. Dotted with enchanting beaches and jaw-dropping architectural marvels, Kanyakumari is one of the must-visit places in Tamil Nadu . The presence of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial makes Kanyakumari a famous pilgrim spot.

Filled with picturesque locations, this town is a favourite among families. Make sure you have a planned itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kanyakumari. And also, catch the view of the red sun escaping into the horizon from the sunset point. You will be certain to return home with loads of Instagram-worthy pictures.

Best Time To Visit: October to March

Major Attractions: Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Sunset Point

Things to do: Pilgrimage. Family Outing, Experience Sunset, Photography

The presence of Nilgiris makes cities in Tamil Nadu much more beautiful and Coonoor is no different. Coonoor is the second-largest town in the Nilgiri hills after Ooty. The town is majorly divided into Upper Coonnoor and Lower Coonoor. Lower Coonoor is host to busy markets and the town’s transportation hubs. Meanwhile, Upper Coonoor has tourism-rich places.

Sim’s Park botanical garden is a must-visit spot in Upper Coonoor. People from all parts of the country visit Coonoor to witness the annual fruit and vegetable festival at Sim’s Park. Other famous spots include Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, Droog Fort, Lamb’s Rock and Law’s Falls. Visit this town during winter to make your trip even more memorable. Coonoor should be a must addition to your list of places to see in Tamil Nadu .

Major Attractions: Dolphin’s Nose Viewpoint, Droog Fort, Lamb’s Rock and Law’s Falls

Ideal duration to explore : 1-2 days

Things to do: Bike ride/Road Trip, Weekend Getaway, Camping, Hiking

The term Kanchipuram is synonymous with supreme quality silk. Apart from its renowned silk sarees, Kanchipuram is also famous for its temple architecture, 1000-pillared halls and huge towers. The city boasts establishments that date back to the 7th century. Kanchipuram is a religiously significant place. It served as one of the seven pilgrimage sites for the Vaishnavas.

Fifteen out of One Hundred and Five Lord Vishnu temples in India are located in Kanchipuram. During your visit, make sure you come across the handloom industries that weave top-quality silk sarees. The presence of numerous small-scale textile setups makes Kanchipuram one of the top places to visit in Tamil Nadu for shopping for clothing goodies.

Best Time To Visit: March to October

Major Attractions: Kamakshi Amman Temple

Ideal duration to explore: 1 day

Things to do: Sightseeing, Pilgrimage, Photography, Shopping

Rameswaram personifies all the religious epics that you have heard in your childhood. It is lauded as one of the holiest places in India. Rameswaram is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage alongside Dwarka, Puri and Badrinath. Geographically, it is separated from mainland India and is connected by a railway bridge called the Pamban Bridge.

Rameswaram lies just 40 kilometres off Sri Lanka’s Mannar Island. Rameswaram is the closest point to Sri Lanka and geological evidence supports the epic of Ramayana and the construction of Ram Sethu. Rameshwaram thrives on tourism and the fishery. It was a significant location for Shaivas and Vaishnavas equally. Rameshwaram can certainly be added to your itinerary of places to visit in Tamil Nadu .

Major Attractions: Pamban Bridge

Things to do: Pilgrimage, Sightseeing

Religion, art and architecture – these sum up Thanjavur. The city is home to countless Chola Temples which happen to be UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. One should surely visit Brihadeeswara Temple which is a widely famous monument and is located at the heart of the city. Art enthusiasts visit Tanjavur to gain firsthand experience of witnessing the Tanjore painting.

Thanjavur served as the capital of the Chola dynasty and thrived under their rule. Later, it served as a home to the Mutharaiyar dynasty, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagar Empire, the Madurai Nayaks and many more. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Tamil Nadu .

Major Attractions: Brihadeeswara Temple

To conclude, Tamil Nadu is arguably one of the best places in South India for tourists to experience a wholesome trip. Even though travellers mostly prefer places to visit in Kerala , a day or two could be easily spared to visit its neighbour state, Tamil Nadu. The state has all sorts of travel destinations to cater to all sorts of visitors. The presence of imposing temples that are older than many cities in India attracts pilgrims from all over the country.

Apart from its pilgrimage perspective, Tamil Nadu is also home to many waterfalls, lakes, beaches and national parks. Planning camping or a trekking getaway gets easier over here. If you have a weak spot for hill stations then visit either Coorg, Coonoor or Kodaikanal and if it is coastal areas that entice you then there is always Chennai, Kanyakumari and Rameswaram.

Why is Tamil Nadu famous for tourism?

Tamil Nadu radiates the age-old tradition and history of India. It is dotted with places that are full of cultural, religious and tourist values. Apart from famous temples and historic monuments, Tamil Nadu is also home to beautiful beaches, mesmerising waterfalls and hill stations.

What are the famous activities in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu has an array of activities to choose from. Watching the sunrise at Kanyakumari, discovering dolls and paintings in Thanjavur, experiencing sunset in Marina Beach, Chennai — the list just goes on.

Which district is the best for tourism in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu is full of significant tourist destinations and pointing out one would be a difficult task. However, Ooty, Madurai, Chennai, Kanyakumari and Rameswaram stand out.

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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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Top 10 Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu

The words Tamil Nadu literally means ‘ The Land of The Tamils or Tamil Country ’. The State of Tamil Nadu is the 11th largest State out of the 29 states of India. But what Tamil Nadu lacks in size, it gains in its abundance of natural resources. The western, north-western and the southern parts are abundant in vegetation since they’re the meeting points of the Western and Eastern Ghats with the Nilgiris Hills. This makes the state an ecological niche which gives the State of Tamil Nadu abundance in flora and fauna. Tamil Nadu has also been home to the oldest of civilizations, and has seen the rule of various ancient dynasties like the Chera , Chola and Pandya which ruled the region between 300 BC – 300 AD. The state of Tamil Nadu is thus rich in both the aspects of Cultural and Natural making it a tourist haven. In this article we shall discuss about the 10 popular places you must Visit in Tamil Nadu .

Formerly known by the name Madras , Chennai is the Capital City of Tamil Nadu. The city has been surrounded by the South Indian Kingdoms since ages, thus it has always been the forefront of all cultural, economical, social, commercial and industrial development in the south of India. Chennai is the short form of the actual name Chennapatnam . It’s often nicknamed as the Detroit of India, due to Chennai housing the majority of India’s Automobile industries. Not only industries, the city is famous for its distinctive culture and heritage as well and you might need to take around 2-3 days to properly explore this city alone.

The city houses more than 20 heritage structures including railway stations, Museums, Book Shops, Cinema halls and many more. Chennai is also famous for its clean sandy beaches, parks, temples and cultural centers. There are various shopping attractions here and most sorts for Modern Day Activities one can name. With a big list of tourist attractions, Chennai is aptly the 3rd most visited City by tourists after Delhi and Mumbai.

• Marina Beach
• Semmozhi Poonga
• The Huddleston Gardens Of Theosophical Society
• Arignar Anna Zoological Park
• Pulicat Lake
• Kapaleeswarar Temple
• Breezy Beach
• National Art Gallery
• Connemara Public Library
• Little Mount Shrine

2. Mahabalipuram

Also known as Mamallapuram , the city of Mahabalipuram is famous for its ancient and cultural heritage. The city of Mahabalipuram was a prominent sea port dating back to 7th century AD and was ruled by the Pallava Dynasty. The place is famous for its monuments and is classified among the UNESCO world heritage sites. Almost all of the monuments are carved out of Granite and display the brilliance of Dravidian style architecture.

The town is otherwise a small one and the best way to get around it either by foot or bike rental. The attractions in the whole town can be covered in a day or two. The city is bustling with tourists most times of the year except monsoons. The amazing location of this place adds to the charm of the monuments and the intricate carvings. The temples here are a marvel to behold and with the aid of a knowledgeable tour guide one can totally get lost in the ancient stories behind each of the monuments.

• Arjuna’s Penance
• Thirukadalmallai
• Cave Temples
• Shore Temple
• Pancha Rathas

3. Kanyakumari

The southernmost tip of mainland India, Kanyakumari was formerly known by the name Cape Comorin . The ancient town of Kanyakumari was an important site during the Reign of the Chola, Chera and Pandya dynasty. The town is famous for its beautiful beaches, temples, monuments and cultural centers. The town is also famous for its distinctive culture and hospitable people.

The place due to its unique location witnesses a marvel like only a few places in the world has seen i.e. the sunrise and the sunset can be viewed at the same beach. The town lays at the confluence of three bodies of water namely the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal and is thus considered an important pilgrimage site in the south of India. The temples here are built in Dravidian style of architecture. The various south Indian delicacies served here are great and light on the stomach and include some of the south Indian classics like Sambhar, Idli and Dosa etc. a trip to this town is sure to refresh your senses.

• Kanyakumari Temple
• Vivekananda Rock Memorial
• Padmanabhapuram Palace
• Thiruvalluvar Statue

The 3rd largest city in Tamil Nadu, Madurai is also one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The place has been mentioned by many such as Kautilya and Megasthenes. The city has been ruled by both the Pandya and the Chola dynasties. The city houses a number of important and magnificent temples that it is built around. Geographically the city of Madurai lies on the fertile plains near the river Vaigai which divides the city in two parts. The land is thus mainly used for agriculture and the major supplier for paddy crops such as rice in India.

The majority of tourists who come to Madurai come to visit the various temples that enshrine this ancient city. The Meenakshi Ammam Temple is of prime importance here as it has been mentioned in almost all the ancient texts and is considered as the prime pilgrim spot for the Tamil people. The Temple complex consists of 27 different temples and the highest tower with the height of 51.9 meters high crowns the place. Many different monuments and temples are also a must visit along with the various festivals celebrated here. The town of Madurai is a spiritual experience in itself.

• Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple
• Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple
• Gandhi Museum
• Samanar Hills
• Koodal Azhagar Temple
• Pazhamudhir Solai
• Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

5. Kodaikanal

The town is also referred to as the ‘ Princess of the Hill stations ’ with its name meaning ‘ the Gift of the Forest ’. It is a small hill station with an average elevation of 2,331 meters above sea level. The place is surrounded by thick forests and is located at the top of the Palani Hills. The establishment of the hill station dates back to 1845 which was founded as a refuge from the heat and the diseases of the tropical plains. The town is a major tourist attraction and tourism industry is the source of the majority of the town’s economy.

Kodaikanal is famous for its scenic beauty and has a number of natural attractions that is the reason for its high tourist population. The lakes, parks and different waterfalls along with the rich abundance of flora and fauna, the town, is indeed the gift of the forests. The place is a home to many natural marvels and phenomena such as the blooming of the rare Kurinji Flower which only blooms once in 12 years and is said to cover the entire valley in blue. With its various flora and natural and manmade attractions to enjoy, Kodaikanal will make you want to stay.

• Berijam Lake
• Coakers Walk
• Kurinjiandavar Temple
• Dolphin’s Nose
• Bryant Park
• Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
• Green Valley View

Also known as, the Fort city , Vellore is located at the banks of Palar River at the North-eastern part of Tamil Nadu. The city came under the reign of various kingdoms and monarchies such as the Pallava, the Chola, the Carnatic Kingdom and the British. The place’s name comes from the Monolithic fort of Vellore which was built in the 16th century by the Vijaynagar Kings and is constructed out of granite. The fort complex has a Christian church courtesy the British, a Mosque and an old Hindu Temple which has some of the most magnificent carvings.

The place has a lot of historic relevance as well, as the fort of Vellore is said to have housed Tipu sultan’s family during the British Rule. Apart from the fort there are several other attractions that have made it an important tourist destination. The various temples with a brilliant display of carvings and Dravidian Style architecture, the picturesque hill station of Yelagiri , the churches and mosques and various shopping hotspots has made it a must visit place in Tamil Nadu.

• Vellore Fort
• Jalakandeswarar Temple
• Srilakshmi Golden Temple
• Vainu Bappu Observatory
• Delhi Gate (Vellore)

The Capital of the Nilgiris District, Ooty or Ootacamund is one of the top visited hill stations in India. The place lies in the heart of the Nilgiris Mountains with an average elevation of 2,240 meters above sea level. The place is characterized by the blue smoky mist from the thick eucalyptus forests and is also known to house the rare kurunji flower. The town’s major source of economy, like most hill stations is tourism. Many officials of the British government described the likeliness of this place to resemble Switzerland.

Despite of being located in the tropical region of India, Ooty enjoys a pleasant and mild climate throughout the year, with chilly nights. The best time to visit is between the months of December till February and is frequented by tourists all around. The various lakes, mountains, gardens and valleys are amazing places to visit. The different peaks are great spots for trekking and the lakes make amazing camping and picnic spots. A visit to Ooty and you will experience a surrounding which is unique to almost any place in India.

• Botanical Gardens
• Tea Factory
• Doddabetta Peak
• Avalanche Lake
• Government Rose Gardens
• Pykara River
• Mudumalai National Park
• Emerald Lake

8. Kanchipuram

The city of Kanchipuram is located on the shores of the Vegavathy River. The city has seen a number of ruling dynasties and monarchies such as the Pandya, Cholas, the Vijaynagar Empire, the Carnatic kingdom and the British monarchy. Kanchipuram since medieval times has been significant as the educational center and was known as the place for learning. The city is also famous for its various temples that are built in the Dravidian style of architecture and display amazing stone carvings. Kanchipuram has been an important city and has been mentioned in texts dating back to the Maurya Period (325-185 BC) and has been constantly mentioned as a city like no other in the Dravidian Kingdom.

Kanchipuram apart from its various temples is also known for its medicinal herbs, this fact has been vouched for by the ancient texts as well. One of the major products of Kanchipuram is its specialized silk and more than 5000 families residing here are involved in silk weaving and famous for the “Kanchipuram silk Saris”. The place is rich in both natural and manmade attractions and has a distinct culture that one must experience. With its various Temples, bird Sanctuary, beaches, backwaters etc. makes the city a must visit.

• Ekambareswarar Temple
• Kamakshi Amman Temple
• Kailasanathar Temple
• Kanchi Kudil
• Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
• Devarajaswami Temple

9. Coimbatore

The highly industrialized town of Coimbatore is often termed as the ‘ Manchester of India ’. It is the second largest city in terms of area in the State of Tamil Nadu. The place is famous for its various temples, shopping hubs and typical Tamil food items. The town of Coimbatore is also surrounded by various picnic spots like waterfalls and rivers which are sure to refresh your senses and are great places to visit with family or friends. The city is located on the banks of the Noyyal River and is surrounded by the Western Ghats.

The best thing about this city is its pleasant weather all year round. The thick forest covered mountains and the cool wind from the Palghat gap makes the hot weather a pleasant one. The city also takes pride in housing the Siruvani River which is a tributary of the River Kaveri. The special thing about this river is the taste of the water due to a perfect mix of the minerals making it the second tastiest water in the world after the Nile River (do not buy packaged water when you visit this place). There are various parks and zoos that only add to the large number of tourist attractions present in this city.

• Marudamalai Temple
• Eachanari Vinayagar Temple
• Perur Patteeswarar Temple
• Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
• Siruvani Waterfalls
• Anubhavi Subramaniar Temple

10. Tirunelveli

Another ancient city in Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli is famous for its temples. The city is located at the southernmost tip of the Deccan plateau with the river Tamirabarani running through the city. The city is a religious and agricultural hub and thrives on tourism. The place is abundant in natural resources and has a diverse range of physical features like mountain ranges, rivers, sea coasts and forests.

The temples here are of special significance as they were created in medieval times by the ruling dynasties of that era and display some brilliant architecture and stone carvings. Apart from being a monumental hub of Tamil Nadu, the city holds numerous undiscovered spots which make it a tourist haven. The forests house a variety of natural flora and fauna along with many rare and endangered species. The best time to visit the place is between October-February when the climate is pleasant and the vegetation is at its peak.

• Nellaiappar Temple
• Sankaranarayanan Koil
• Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
• Venkatachalapathy Temple

The Magical State of Tamil Nadu is the second most frequented tourist spot in India . With its abundance in natural and man-made wonders the city has more than 4000 years of cultural history. Apart from the places mentioned above, the hill stations of Coonoor and Yelagiri are also popular amongst the tourists. Also, Rameswaram and Tiruchirappalli are also popular tourist destinations of Tamil Nadu. Most of the sites and monuments from the ancient era have been well preserved along with the natural resources which make it a definitive tourist attraction.

About Rohit

24 thoughts on “Top 10 Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu”

My name is Cyril. I am planning to visit Chennai in November but I am a bit confused about the places to visit near Chennai in outer Chennai. Our plan is to visit Velankanni Church and then we want to see all the famous places and beaches around. We have a family of 5 / myself / Parents (both are above 60 ) two sisters.

Hi Am Shobana… Good to hear from you.. Visit Marina beach,Elliot beach, Besant Nagar Temple, Express Avenue Mall, Forum Mall, Chennai City Centre, Valluvarkottam, Skywalk, Mylapore Saibaba temple,Escape cinima, T.nagar, Usman Road, Semmolzhi poonga.. Dony miss it.. Have fun..!!!

Dear Cyril.

The best option is for you to take ECR road to Velankanni, On the way you can start with Marina Beach, Ellitot Beach , Adayar Velankanni church is there and close by you can also visit beasent nagar beach… You can then move to covelong beach which is close to mahabalipuram. The artistic beauty of mahabalipuram is amazing and you cant miss it. Pondicherry too is on the visa, just take a break at pondichery.

ooty,kodaikanal,valparai,yercaud,kollimalai for hills marena,silver beach,mangroove forest,pondicherry for beach courtalam,hogenakkal ,aagaya gangai,killyur falls for falls meenakshi temple,chidambaram Natarajar temple, tanjore temple,sri rangam temple ,golden temple vellore,isha temple covai ,mahabalipuram beach temples ,mainly tiruchendoor murugan temple etc.

Hey nice selection of cities given here. But u guys have missed tanjavur pls add it too

wow..can you please guide me for the same.

Rohit, This is the best website I ever visited. Thank you so much…It is my dream to visit all these places…let’s see. 🙂

Thanks for the appreciation Vaishali!

hmmm.. You tell me a place is nice place. I am going to Srirangam temple.

I visited Trichy. But Chennai is nice place and more important place. You missed Chennai city, the 1st modern city.

But Srirangam is old temple in our Trichy City Sollunga.

I am planning to visit chennai on 1st week on aug, my first priority is to visit balaji temple…kindly let me know how long should i stay and what are the places i can see on short tenure.

1. Madurai 2. Kodaikanal 3. Rameshwaram 4. Srirangam 5. Kodanad View Point

We are also going to visit there in mid November. ? Hope u enjoy the journey. ?

In Chennai – Marina beach, Santhome bascilica, Kapaleeswarar & Parthasarathy temples Near Chennai – Kancheepuram (several temples), Mahabalipuram (shore temple, Pallava period rock sculptures), Crocodile bank Near Pondicherry – Auroville, Pichavaram mangroves boat cruise, Chidambaram Nataraja temple(all on the way to Velankanni church)

how many days we need for sightseeing in Tamil nadu. please suggest me route for 10 important sightseeing places in tn. I will be travelling from Hyderabad.

I am visiting in Tamil Nadu places so describe any tourist for protect any blog presentation in the websites.

Everything is fantastic. Apart from all above city the most important and ancient places in tamilnadu is THANJAVUR. .each and every people must have visit at least once in a lifetime.the 1000 years old Brahadeawarar Temple, The palace, Sharja tower, The world one of the oldest and famous library sangeetha mahal, mani mandapam, south zone.etc.inside and around thanjavur

We are planning to visit Rameswaram, Ooty, Kodaikanal and Kanyakumari on April. Please help us on how to start and how to travel these places one by one. Its our honeymoon so please help us. We are starting from Bhubaneswar by train.

Great Posting… Keep doing it… Thanks

I want to visit Kerala so from where I start

Wonderful blog! It describe all things about Chennai, it is very helpful blog. Ooty is the best tourist destination in Tamil Nadu – many people come and enjoy there holiday in Ooty. Thanks for this information.

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From Temples To Monuments: Explore Kanyakumari's Top Historical Landmarks

Whether seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a glimpse into the past, Kanyakumari offers a truly enriching experience for history enthusiasts and travellers. 

• Alice Mary Topno
• Updated - 2024-03-31, 11:00 IST

1. Vivekananda Rock Memorial 

2. Padmanabhapuram Palace 

3. Kumari Amman Temple

4. Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Mandapam

5. Thiruvalluvar Statue 

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• South India trips

What makes TN top choice for medical tourism

In 1664, when the British set up a hospital at Fort St. George in erstwhile Madras to treat sick soldiers of the East India Company, there weren’t any such facilities available anywhere else in the country. It was the first modern hospital to come up in India. Today, the hospital, which relocated out of the fort, has turned into the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital and has over 2,700 beds with multiple speciality care wings, treating hundreds of patients daily.

With a strong lineage in healthcare, Tamil Nadu has always been an important centre for medical care and has been attracting a large number of international and domestic health tourists. With healthcare indices to boast of, as it ranks at the top in the country in terms of number of children immunised and low mortality rates, the government has been taking initiatives over the years to integrate medical care and tourism. Healthcare now has become one of the fastest growing tourism segments in both mainstream medical services and wellness tourism.

What sets Tamil Nadu apart from other states is the medical infrastructure and thousands of specialised medical practitioners working in thousands of hospitals across the state.

According to government data, the state has over 12,500 hospital beds, around 10 lakh registered doctors, 48 government-run medical colleges with hospitals; and hundreds of private specialty and multi-specialty hospitals. Besides, there are around 1,500 Indian system hospitals and hundreds of ayurvedic, siddha and unani resources. Backing these are 84 pharma colleges and around 400 pharma-manufacturing companies in the state.

As medical costs are competitive and meet global standards, patients prefer getting treatment here. “In Bangladesh, PET scans would cost Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000, but at SIMS it would cost them only Rs 20,000. These people would not have medical insurance, so they have to spend from their pockets. Therefore they come in search of affordability,” said Shumaila Tarannum, manager of SRM Institutes for Medical Science (SIMS) Care Connect in Chennai.

Tarannum added that every month around 25-35 international patients visit SIMS and the majority come from Bangladesh for gastroenterology issues. “We get patients from African countries, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Bahrain.”

Over 15 lakh patients visit Tamil Nadu annually for medical diagnosis and treatment, according to the state tourism department. As the state has established itself as a leader in medical tourism, the state department of tourism along with hospitals have established a Medical Tourism Information Centre at the Tamil Nadu Tourism Complex and travel desks in Chennai and Madurai. A core committee of medical experts and the Directorate of Medical Education oversee the system.

The department of tourism is also planning to launch a medical and wellness tourism scheme to develop medical and wellness tourism in Tamil Nadu, in line with the National Strategy and Roadmap drafted by the Ministry of Tourism. Efforts will be taken to promote Tamil Nadu under the ‘Heal in India’ brand while setting up enabling regulatory and institutional frameworks for medical and wellness tourism.

“Apollo hospitals receive international patients from SAARC countries, West Asia, Mauritius and others. India is known for good experienced doctors. There are experts here. Patients prefer coming here for cost effective treatment, high end technologies and good medical services. Most of the patients come to Apollo for cancer treatment, joint replacement and cardiac surgeries,” said Dr R K Venkatachalam, Director of Medical Services, Apollo Hospitals.

“SRMC gets patients from countries including Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Oman. Annually, 500-550 patients come to SRMC for treatments. Doctors here also clearly chart out medical costs for them so that they can come prepared,” said Dr Sudagar Singh, medical director at Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre.

What adds to the experience for patients is the hospitality, culture and culinary experience and tourist spots the state has to offer. “In Chennai people are also warm and nice. They are welcoming. We frequently organise small trips to places like Tirupathi, Puducherry and Coimbatore,” said Dr Rakesh Jalali, medical director and senior consultant, neuro oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, Chennai.

“We provide help, if needed, in obtaining visa and also receive them from the airport. We also have tie ups with a number of hotels, apartments and accommodations where we have discounted rates,” he added.

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