Tamil Nadu

Land of the Tamils, a land of enduring heritage has the history that dates back several thousand of years. It is a land where traditions and culture blend and continue to live in harmony. After the independence of India, the state of Madras was created in 1956 based on linguistic boundaries. Lying on the southeastern coast of the Indian peninsula, Tamil Nadu is bounded by the Eastern Ghats in the north and Nilgiri, the Annamalai Hills and Palghat on the west. The state abounds in monuments and temples that are ancient and each has its own story of religious, artistic and cultural accomplishment and specialty waiting to be heard. It is the sixth most populous state in India, the third largest economy among the states of India. The Tamil kingdoms of Chera, Chola, Pandya and Pallava were responsible for the production of some of the oldest surviving literature in India. Also, Carnatic Music, Bharatanatyam dance and Indian architecture is evolved within the state. The grandeur of the Hindu temple architecture in Tamil Nadu should be seen to be believed. Tamilnadu is the gate way for travelers to South India.

Places in and around Tamil Nadu

Groups always run in this order. Inside each group, the must-see picks come first; hikes and places to stay follow the order Windhorse recommends.

Sights and attractions in Tamil Nadu

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Agricultural University

One of the best institutions of its kind in South Asia, the Agricultural University was originally established as an Agriculture Farm in Saidapet, Chennai.
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Alangudi (43 km) Guru Temple

One of the Nine Planets. It is situated near Kumbakonam on the way to Mannargudi. It attracts pilgrim from all over India.
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Art Gallery

In the Palace there are a number of granite and bronze statues of the Chola period. Timings 9 a.m to 1.p.m., 2.p.m. to 6.p.m
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Azhagar Koil

A Vishnu temple on a picturesque wooded hill. During the Chithirai Festival in April/May, Azhagar travels to Madurai for the Celestial marriage.
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Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake, situated 21 Kms from the township, lies in a beautiful valley, reflecting the glory of the specious in its clean waters.
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Bhavani

The Sangameshwarar temple at Bhavani is situated at the confluence of the rivers Bhavani and the Cauvery. This place is called as "Tiruveni of South India".
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Birla Planetarium

The Birla Planetarium at Kotturpuram, between Adyar and Guindy, is the most modern planetarium in the country.
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Black Thunder

A water theme park, "Black Thunder" is located about 8 kms. from Mettupalayam - Ooty Ghat Road at the foot hills of Nilgiris.
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Botanical Garden

This garden was laid out in 1847 by the Marquis of Tweedale and is spread over 55 acres.
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Carnatic Music Trinity

Thyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshitar and Shyama Sastri Thiruvaiyaru: Situated on the banks of the river Kaveri, 13kms from Thanjavur, Thiruvaaiyaru has an old Shiva temple dedicated to Panchanatheeswar.
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Caves

There are nine rock cut cave temples.
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Chennai

It is the latest of a line of Indian cities that is hurtling into the 21st century. Major place of Interest in Chennai includes Fort St.
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Chettinad (Karaikudi)

Chettinad or Karaikudi was famous because of the predominance of the Nattu Kottai Chettiars, a prosperous banking community, who have ventured far and wide to set up their…
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Chola Temple Brihadisvara

The celebrated Shiva temple at Thanjavur, appropriately called Brihadisvara and Daksinameru, is the grandest creation of the Chola emperor Rajaraja (AD 985-1012).
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Coimbatore

The third largest city of the state, Coimbatore, the headquarters of a district of the same name, is one of the most industrialised cities in Tamil Nadu.
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Coonoor

Situated a little lower than Ooty at 1850m, Conoor is a peaceful, often overlooked hill station, which has avoided the ravages of tourism.
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Five Rathas

These rock-cut temples are rated as excellent example of Pallava art. Shaped in different styles, the five structures are named after the Pandava brothers of Mahabharatha and Draupadi.
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Forest College

One of the oldest institutions of its kind in the country, the Forest College is situated 3.5 kms. north of the Railway Station. The College Museum is worth a visit.
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Fort St. George
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G.D. Naidu Industrial Exhibition

The late Thiru G.D. Naidu was a born technocrat. He was a legend in his own lifetime. He had made invaluable contributions to automobile, electronics, mechanical and agricultural sectors.
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Gandhi Memorial

The Gandhi Mandapam has been constructed at the spot where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were kept for public view in an urn before a portion was immersed…
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Glenmorgan

It is about 17 kms from Udhagamandalam an ecologically rich forestry spot. There from is an Electricity Board (E.B).
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Grand Anaicut Grand Anaicut (Kallanai Dam)

An ancient dam built by Karikala Chola across the river Cavery in 2 AD.
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Hazrath Nathervali

Known for its marvellous architecture, the dome is made up of shining marbles giving a great look to the Durga. It is also situated in the heart of Trichy City.
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Kalakshetra

In Thiruvanmiyur, beyond Elliot's beach, is Kalakshetra or 'Temple of Art'.
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Kalhatty falls

It is located on the Kalhatty slopes at about 13 kms from Udhagamandalam on the Udhagamandalam - Mysore Kalhatty ghat road. The height of the water falls is about 100 ft.
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Kalvarayan Hills

The Kalvarayan hills are situated 150 kms. north west of Chidambaram on the western side of Kallakurichi Taluk. Spread over an area of 600 sq. kms.
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Kamaraj Memorial

The memorial to the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was constructed on the seashore, where the ashes of the Late Leader was immersed.
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Kanchipuram

Ancient Kanchipuram, the city of thousand temples, is one of the seven most sacred pilgrim centres for the Hindus.
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Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin is the Land's End of the Indian subcontinent, where the Bay of Bengal meets the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.
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Kapaleswarar Temple

Not far from Triplicane, in Mylapore, there is yet another 8th century Pallava temple. The temple 'Gopuram' (tower) is characteristic of Dravidian style architecture.
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Kodaikkanal

Kodaikanal, better known as Kodai, is a stunningly situated, on the southern crest of Palani knolls, about 120km northwest of Madurai.
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Koodal Azhagar Temple

This ancient shrine has Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures one above the other.
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Krishna Mandapam

This cave has a big bas-relief, notable for its realistic representation. The panel relates one of the stories of Lord Krishna. Bas-Relief.
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Kumariamman Temple

The legend of this temple is as romantic as the place itself.
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Kurinji Andavar Temple

It is dedicated to Lord Murugan. It offers the worshipper a beautiful view of the northern plains and the Palani hills
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Madurai

Madurai located on the banks of the Vaigai River, apparently named for the nectar that flowed from Shiva's hair as blessing for new city.
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Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a laid back beach town, situated 60km south of Chennai.
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Mariamman Temple: (Punnai Nallur)

This Temple located 6 km away from Thanjavur is dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. It is one of the local temples in Thanjavur which attracts Domestic Tourists.
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Marina Beach
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Marudhamalai Temple

Dedicated to Lord Subramanya, this hilltop temple is one of the most visited temples in the region, the reason being that the residing deity Dandayuthapani is believed to…
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Meenakshi Temple

- Located at the heart of the city, the Meenakshi- Sundareswarar temple has long been the focus of both Indian and international tourist attraction as well as one…
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Mini Garden

At about one kilometre distance Tourist can visit this mini garden (Children's Lake Garden) which is on the way to Boat House. Children's amusement park is housed here.
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Mudumalai

Mudumalai wild life sanctuary, created in 1940 is one of the biggest & first wild life sanctuaries in South India. It lies in the westernmost part of Tamilnadu state, bordering Karnataka & Kerala.
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Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

The most prominent of the wildlife sanctuaries in the state, as well as one of the most important in the southern region, thickly forested Mudumalai borders the Bandipur…
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Mukkombu

wonderful picnic spot,where the river Kollidam branches off from the river Cavery. It is 18 kilometer from Trichy City.
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Ooty (Udhagamandalam)

The famous hill station of Ooty has been a favorite summer holiday gateway for the British, during colonial days.
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Papanasam

In Thanjavur District, Papanasam is one of the historical cities. There are two Temples, one Pallavanatha swamy Temple constructed by Chola King another one 108 Sivalayam Temple.
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Patteswaram

The Temple dedicated to Goddess Durgai Amman. Friday is very famous to worship the goddess. Located near Kumbakonam, 8 km from Thanjavur, city buses available form Kumbakonam.
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Perur Temple

This Temple is 7 kms from Coimbatore Railway Station and was constructed by Karikal Cholan over 1500 years ago.
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Poondi Madha Shrine

The Poondi village is about 35 km from Thanjavur nearest Railway Station is Budalur. It is also one of the Roman Catholic Pilgrim centre another like Velankanni.
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Puliancholai

A fine picnic spot, it is located in the foothills of the kolli rage. It is 72 kilometers from Trichy city.
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Rajarajan Mani Mandapam

During the 8th World Tamil Conference this Mandapam was built. It is having a small garden with Children's-play materials. Timings 10 a.m to 8 p.m
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Rajarajan Museum

Raja Rajan Musem is functioning for the benefit of the Tourists.
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Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram Island is situated in the Gulf of Mannar, at the very tip of the Indian peninsula, connected to mainland by one of India's great engineering wonders, the…
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Rock Fort

The view from the fort is spectacular. The Vinayaka temple at the top is reached by climbing a tunnel in rock.
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Rose Garden

It is located just 3/4 kms away from Charring Cross. It lies with 10 acres of land with 1919 variety of roses.
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Royal Museum

Located in the palace complex, this museum has mixed collections like manuscripts, weapon dresses, Utensils, Musical instruments used by the Royal Family of Thanjavur. Timings 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Samayapuram

Famous for its shrine to Goddess Mariamman. It is on the National Highway 45 (Trichy - Chennai highway). It is 20 kilometres from Trichy City.
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Saraswathi Mahal Library

In another section of the palace is a library where over 30,000 palm leaves and paper manuscripts in Indian and European languages are preserved Timings 10 a.m to…
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Schwartz Church

Built in 1779 AD by Rajah Serfoji in token of his affection for the Rev. C.V.Schwartz of the Danish Mission (In the Palace Garden)
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Sharja Madi

It is located in the Palace complex. One can have panaromic view of Thanjavur city. The wooden Sculptures are inside the Sharja Madi are unique. Timings 10a.m.
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Shebaganur Museum

5.6 Kms away is easily one of the best orchidoriums in the country offering the visitor, more than 300 species of orchids.
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Sivaganga Tank

Near the Palace is this tank known for its sweet water.
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Solaimalai Mandapam

About 4 kms. above on the same hill with a temple to Lord Subramanya.
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Sri Brahadeeswarar Temple

Built by the great Chola King, Raja Raja in the 10th Century AD is an outstanding example of Chola architecture.
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Sri Brihadeeswarar Temple

Built by the great Chola King, Rajaraja.1 in the 10th century AD is an outstanding example of Chola architecture
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Srirangam

The most important pilgrim center in the district is located in an island just 5kms from Trichy.
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St. Lourdes Church

Built in 1812, this church has levered doors, which when opened, turns the church into an airy pavilion. Its excellent setting and marvellous architecture, makes it a site worth visiting.
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St. Thomas Mount

St. Thomas Mount is a small hillock located, a little off Guindy and close to the flying range in Chennai. It is associated with St.
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Suchindram

Close to Kanyakumari, at a distance of approx 14kms is Suchindram temple (Thanumalayar temple) and is the only shrine dedicated to TRINITY.
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Suriyanar Koil (58 km) Lord of Sun – (Sun Temple)

This is the only place where the Image of the Sun is worshipped. It is believed that the Chola King Kulothunga-I who built the Shrine borrowed this feature.
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Tamil University

Established in 1981 is engaged in research and Advanced study in Tamil.
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Tarangambadi (Tranquebar)

Tarangambadi or Tranquebar is a small coastal town in Nagapattinam district. It was a Danish colony in India from 1620 - 1845. Tarangambadi means place of the singing waves.
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Thanjavur

Nestled in the fertile delta of the Cauvery River, Tanjore, now known as Thanjavur, was the capital of the Chola dynasty from the 10th to the 14th century.
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The Gandhi Museum

The old palace is dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Timings 10.00-13.00 hrs. and 14.00-17,30 hrs.
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The Palace

The Palace near the temple is a vast building of masonry built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas.
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The Shore Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in South India.
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Theosophical Society

The world headquarters of the Theosophical Society, formed to facilitate and encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science is situated in beautiful sylvan settings in Adyar.
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Thingalore (18 km from Thanjavur) Chandran Temple (Moon

One of the Nine Planets. It is situated on Thiruvaiyaru to Kumbkonam route. It attracts more pilgrims on all days.
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Thirumalai Nayak Palace

This Palace was built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak with the help of an Italian Architect. The building we see today was the main Palace where the King lived.
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Thirunageswaram

One of the temples for Nine Planets is in Thanjavur District. This place is situated 6 km to the east of Kumbakonam and 47 Km away from Thanjavur.
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Thirupparankunram

One of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya
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Thiruvalluvar Statue

THIRUVALLUVAR, author of THIRUKKURAL - A Sagacious saint born before the Christ (i.e. about 30 years before the Jesus Christ).
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Thiruvidai Maruthur

This place is about 8 kms from Kumbakonam and 48 km away from Thanjavur. It is spelt in ancient books as Thiruvidaimaruthur. The village is also called Madhyarjunam.
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Tholkappiyar Sadukkam

During the 8th World Tamil Conference, this Sadukkam (Square) was built. One can have a panoramic view of Thanjavur Town from the Tower. Timings 9 a.m to 7. p.m
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Tiger’s Cave

It is 5 kms North of the main monument complex, and on the way to Chennai.
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Tiruvanaikkaval or Jambukeswara Temp

Situated 2 kms east of Srirangam, this beautiful Siva temple steals the show from the larger Ranganathaswami temple due to its excellent architectural design.
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Tiruvanaikkavali

The temple here has a Siva lingam almost submerged in water, which flows from a subterranean spring in the sanctum sanctorum.
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Trichy (Tiruchirapalli)

Trichy or Tiruchirapalli (city of three headed demon) sprawls on the banks of the Cauvery River, at the foot of colossal Rock Fort Temple perched on a massive rocky outcrop.
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Upper Bhavani

It is about 10 kms from Korakundah and about 20 kms from Avalanche. This is Naturalist's Paradise. Some of the best sholas like sholas lies enroute.
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Uppliyappan Koil

This place is 6 km, from Kumbakonam and 46 km away from Thanjavur. Lord Venkatesaperumal dedicated like Tirupathi Balaji "Oppil Upper" is the other name.
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V O C Park

Named after the freedom fighter V.O.Chidambaram, this park is maintained by the Corporation. There is a mini-zoo and joy train in the park.
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Vaideki Water Falls

It is located 30 kms. from Coimbatore via. Narasipuram village. It is a fine picnic spot for trekkers. A perrennial water falls is a major attraction here.
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Valluvar Kottam

The memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur.
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Vivekananda Memorial

The memorial has been built on the Vivekananda Rock where the great philosopher - guide Swami Vivekananda went into meditation that transformed him into one of the most…