TAMIL NADU, AN AURA OF PEACE AND CALMNESS
About Tamil Nadu:
It is the fourth largest state of India and is located in the southern part of Indian subcontinent. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean to the east and south. And also, the states of Kerala to the west, Karnataka to the northwest, and Andhra Pradesh to the north. Surrounded by the beauties literally! Tamil Nadu represents the Tamil-speaking area of what was formerly the Madras Presidency of British India. The average literacy rate of Tamil Nadu is 80.09%, and that’s not bad. It’s growing more and more as the day goes by. Tamil Nadu is a pro in production and manufacturing especially in pharmaceuticals, garments, textile products, leather products, chemicals and plastics. And not just it it is mainly known for its incredible temples across the nation. Some of the famous architectural splendour are in Thanjavur, Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Darasuram as well as the group of monuments in Mamallapuram are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
This state has both costal and hilly regions. So during hot and humid days you can take shelter in hills. So versatile isn’t it? Tamil Nadu is also known as the “knitting city” because Major textile centres are Tirupur and Coimbatore. You have many options for exploring hill resorts too. There are some Popular ones which include Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri, Javvadhu Hills, Kolli Hills, Sirumalai Hills, Valparai, Topslip, Parvathamalai Hills and Pachamalai Hills. Famous waterfalls include the cascades in Courtallam, Hogenakkal, Thiruparappu, Monkey Falls, Thirumoorthy Hills, Agaya Gangai and Papanasam Falls.
It is also the home for numerous of unique and extent species, flora and fauna. There are national parks such as the Guindy National Park and Anamalai National Park, and wildlife sanctuaries in Mudumalai, Kodiakarai, Kalakkad Mundanthurai, and Berijam. Also, Tamil has all the reasons for you to have a relaxing holiday, when itinerary is well planned. Not to mentions the stunning silvery beaches like the Marina, Elliots, Thiruvanmiyur, Tiruchendur, Rameswaram and Kanyakumari beaches. Also, here is a tip try to learn few basics as the language spoken here is Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada. English Is also spoken but its less. Tamil Nadu is one of the safest states in India. Also, here is another tip for you that avoid talking about the Sri Lankan Civil War between the mainly Sinhalese government and Tamil fighters. There has also been a lot of tension with Karnataka as there were some political issues related to the Kaveri river dispute. and to guide and help you the best we got your back. Depending on your personal preferences we can plan either short trip or a long itinerary, a relaxing stay or an adventure holiday. The place should be in every one’s bucket list. And you can witness the historic charm as well of the era of Cholas, Pandyas and Pallavas and the colonial period. And do not think that its a part of South India so you will only get idli or dosas, you must try Tirunelveli halwa to Chettinadu curries. Their authentic spices will love you in awe and crave for more.
It should be experienced and explore by every individual.
Best time to explore and experience Tamil Nadu:
November to February is considered to be the most ideal time to explore. The weather is pretty much pleasant and calm as the temperature drops. It’s the best time to explore the attractions in the state. The beaches are calm, and the water is not too cold. There are also several cultural events happening at this time in cities like Chennai, which makes it all the more attractive to visit. And experiencing the festivities here is next level, its very unique. Majority of the tourists flock during this season. It is during this time that hill stations like the Nilgiris, Yercaud and others get visited by tourists from around the state. The seasonal changes are evident, the state remains dry and humid for the major portion of the year, with summers offering scorching heat to visitors and tourists. In several places Chennai, Tiruchirapalli, Vellore, Thanjavur and Madurai, the temperatures during the summer can go up to 45 degrees Celsius. So make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Summers are prevalent from March till June last officially. It's a harsh summer, hot and humid with zero moisture at all. And there are continuous heat waves blowing during day time, so it’s not advisable to move out because even schools and colleges issue holidays for students. But if you can endure, you can experience the time lakes in the hill stations which look absolutely pristine and elegant, the views are good. Majority of the attractions are open and not much of a crowd is there. And don’t forget to go on a stroll on the beach side during evening time, it's very pleasant.
Monsoon is from late June till December in Tamil Nadu. After the harsh summers, the temperature drops down with the first rain itself. This is also one of the good times to explore and experience the lush deep green dense forests. Tourists are comparatively less at this time compared to other months. But it's the best time to witness some huge and magnificent waterfalls like Hogenakkal, Coutralam, Suluri, Monkey and Agaya Gangai are at their majestic best, with waters gushing and dropping over the rocks. And also if you are someone who loves to experience through festivals, then this season is for you. . An important festival in Velankanni to signify the nativity of Mary happens during this season during late August and early September. The festivities are extravagant with feasts and the Velankanni Church is decorated with all its elegance.
Places to explore in Tamil Nadu:
Ooty, also known as the Queen of hill stations perched on the altitude of 7,440 feet. Ooty is one of the most popular summer and weekend getaway destinations since the colonial times. Tourists swarm to this renowned hill station to relax in the lap of nature, surrounded by lush green vegetation and the misty landscapes. There are a lot of places such as the Botanical Garden, Wenlock Downs, Rose Garden and so much more to explore here. From serene Pykara Falls to Doddabetta peak. Visit the backwaters of Ooty, It is one of the most visited tourist places in Ooty. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located at the foothills of the Nilgiri hills in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the finest places for wildlife lovers. Go for a picnic at Wenlock Downs. It is one of the most scenic places in Ooty. Sandynallah Reservoir, this place has a very calming effect, situated on the slopes of the Wenlock Downs. Emerald Lake, the name justifies the lake completely. It is located near Emerald village in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. Situated amidst dense forests also known as silent valley.
Key highlights of Ooty:
1. Botanical Gardens
2. Doddabetta
3. Pykara Falls
4. Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Wenlock Downs
6. Sandynalla Reservoir
7. Emerald Lake
8. Ketti Valley View Point
9. Kandal Cross
10. Adam's Fountain
11. Deer Park
12. Kalhatty Falls.
Madurai, is the third-largest city in Tamilnadu and one of the most famous places among the pilgrimages in India. It is also known as the Athens of the East, because of the pre-Christian era settlement period. The city is very well known for Madurai Meenakshi Temple, one of the most famous one. It is also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple, is one of the biggest and most popular sites with a lot of religious significance. Dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Siva. If you are an architecture lover, you should visit this place of its architecture marvel. Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is a palace complex constructed in the Indo-Saracen style by Thirumalai Nayak in 1636. It is among the major Madurai tourist places. Tirupparamkunram Murugan Kovil temple is a huge attraction because of the colourful old rocks of the 8th century. Vaigai Dam , a perfect spot to ease yourself.
Key highlights of Madurai:
1. Meenakshi Amman Temple
2. Thirumalai Nayak Mahal
3. Tirupparamkunram Murugan Kovil temple
4. Pazhamudhir Solai
5. Vaigai Dam
6. Kumbakkarai Waterfalls
7. Narasingam Gandhi Museum
8. Alagar Koil
9. Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
10. Koodal Alagar Temple
Kodaikanal, one of the best hill stations in South India. It's on the altitude of 7000 feet (2133 m). Its on the lush green slopes of the Palani Hills. Kodaikanal is not extensively commercialized like Ooty and it offers a pleasant experience to tourists with relatively less crowd. Some of the best places to visit here is Kodai lake, is an artificial, star-shaped lake situated in Kodaikanal town. It is the most famous landmark of Kodaikanal & one of the top tourist place. Bryant Park, its on the South-East corner of Kodai Lake. Coaker's Walk, Coaker's Walk is the most scenic & beautiful tourist spot in Kodaikanal close to Kodaikanal Lake. Also its close to the bus stop, so you can just hang out with your friends for a day out. Bear Shola Falls, this falls offer best views just after monsoon during the months of September & October. Silver Cascade, Silver Cascade is a 55 meters (180 ft) waterfall formed from the outflow of Kodai Lake. Pillar rocks and much more.
Key highlights of Kodaikanal:
1. Kodai Lake
2. Coaker's Walk
3. Bryant Park
4. Pillar Rocks
5. Silver Cascade
6. Guna Cave
7. Moir Point
8. Dolphin's Nose
9. Bear Shola Falls
10. Berijam Lake
Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu. It is the fourth largest metropolis in India. It is located on the Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal, the city is famous for its beaches, museums, parks, temples, and several historic places. Some of the attractions in the vicinity of Chennai are the famous Elliot Beach, VGP Golden Beach, Pulicat Lake, Muttukadu etc. Marina beach, is the second longest beach in the World and runs to a length of 13 Km. perfect place to chill with family and friends. Sri Parthasarathy Temple, another place with religious significance. This temple was built by Pallavas in the 8th century. This is one of the top tourist places here. San Thome Cathedral Basilica is one of Chennai's historic landmarks. This Cathedral was originally built in 1504. It was rebuilt in 1890 with a 180 ft basilica. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai known for its huge magnificent architecture and commemoration of disciple Thomas. Cholamandal Artists Village, it's a calling for all the people who love being artistic. Muttukadu, is a backwater destination and excellent picnic spot. Muttukadu offers a wide range of adventure sports for you like Boating, windsurfing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, etc. Covelong beach, the most famous beach resorts in South India.
Key highlights of Chennai:
1. Marina beach
2. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
3. San Thomas Cathedral Basilica
4. Valluvar Kottam
5. Birla Planetarium
6. Vadapalani Murugan Temple
7. Elliot's Beach
8. VGP Golden Beach
9. Muttukadu
10. St.Thomas Mount
Rameshwaram, Is known for its Jyotirlinga temples in India. Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Siva is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It's one of the top most attractions and also famous for flawless Dravidian architecture. Agnitheertham, another famous place for the pilgrims, believes that taking a bath in Bay of Bengal at Agnitheertham will wash out one's sins of life time. It is visited by the followers of Lord Shiva as well as Vishnu, whose incarnation was lord Rama. Pamban Bridge, one of the most instagrammable spot on instagram. It is the longest sea bridge in India and its length is nearly 2.2 km. Kurusadai Island, secluded island for a perfect vacation. Jatayu tirtham is the holy temple constructed in the memory of Jatayu, who was the most loyal eagle of Rama and who helped lord Rama at various instances in getting herbs from the mountains. You might have seen it on television series too. Lakshmana Tirtham had been constructed in the loving memory of Lord Lakshman, brother of Lord Rama. In order to offer sacred prayers to lord Lakshmana. Villoondi Tirtham is a beach which is also considered a sacred natural water body and a favourite amongst tourists to spend quality time with family and friends. Apart from all these, make sure to do silk shopping here and buy some souvenirs at affordable cheap prices.
Key highlights of Rameshwaram:
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple
2. Agnitheertham
3. Pamban Bridge
4. Jatayu tirtham
5. Lakshmana Theertham
6. Villoondi Tirtham
7. Five-faced Hanuman temple
8. Ariyaman Beach
9. Sea World Aquarium
10. Kothandaramaswamy temple
Kanayakumari, is on the southernmost tip of the Indian Peninsula. Situated at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean, this is the only place in India where one can enjoy the unique spectacle of Sunset and Moonrise on full moon days. Some of the top touristy places you should explore are One of the main attractions in Kanyakumari is the Karumariamman Temple. Thiruvalluvar Statue, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, is a rock island about a hundred meters away from the shore. Gandhi Memorial,The Gandhi Memorial completed in 1956 is built in the memory of the Father of the Nation. Padmanabhapuram Palace is an ancient historical palace surrounded by a fort with an area of 187 acres. The ancient capital of Travancore , Suchindram, Pechiparai Reservoir, Vattakottai Fort, St Xavier's Church and Udayagiri Fort. Thirparappu waterfalls, usually the water falls from a height of nearly 50 feet and the water flows for about seven months in a year. Seems like the list is endless and to cover all these places in a budget you need to pre plan your trip with a flexible itinerary.
Key highlights of Kanyakumari:
1. Vivekananda Rock
2. Thiruvalluvar Statue
3. Gandhi Memorial
4. Padmanabhapuram Palace
5. Suchindram
6. Pechiparai Reservoir
7. Vattakottai Fort
8. St Xavier's Church
9. Udayagiri Fort
10. Travancore
Mahabalipuram, is one of the UNESCO heritage site in Tamil Nadu. It is known for its historical monuments, sculptures, scenic beauty, culture and tradition. The famous Arjuna's Penance, the Krishna Mandapa, Thirukadalmallai temple, Cholamandal Artist's Village, Mahabalipuram Beach, the most pristine beaches of Tamil Nadu, the beach is crowded by people mostly. Tiger Cave has another significance, mandapa which contains a shrine dedicated to goddess Durga which has big beautiful figures in front. The deposition here is on the battle of Goddess Durga and Mahishasura. Crocodile Bank, It houses several different species of Indian and African alligators and crocodiles. And also make sure that you don’t miss the traditional Mamallapuram Dance Festival, organised by the department of Tourism every year from December to January.
Key highlights of Mahabalipuram:
1. Arjuna's Penance
2. Krishna Mandapa
3. Thirukadalmallai temple
4. Cholamadal Artist's Village
5. Mahabalipuram Beach
6. Tiger Cave
7. Crocodile Bank
8. Mamallapuram Dance Festival
9. Sadra
10. Vedanthangal
Local food experiences in Tamil Nadu: you can find some of the finest traditional cuisine in the country, here. The region is known to offer a wide variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with a balanced authentic taste of spices. Chillies, Tamarind, Cardamom, Coriander, Pepper, Curry Leaves, Cloves, and Mint are some important spices that are produced in the state of Tamil Nadu. So trying out the local cuisine is a must here.
Chicken Chettinad, it's one of the ideal dishes for non vegetarian lovers. chicken marinated in yogurt, turmeric and a paste of red chillies, kalpasi, coconut, poppy seeds, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, black pepper, ground nuts, onions, garlic and gingelly oil. And the majority of the spices are produced here itself so it's a must try for gaining some authentic experience.
Idli, The most famous dish in Tamilnadu, as well as the whole southern region is Idli. Prepared with a grind mixture of soaked rice and white lentil, Idli is best to eat at breakfast time. With sambhar, South Indian dal mixed with different kinds of vegetables.
Uttapam, this dish is not just famous in the south but also in the north these days. It is somewhat similar to dosa but what makes it different is the topping of tomatoes, onions, capsicum, and other veggies. Uttapam tastes the best with either spicy tomato or coconut chutney.
Prawns Kuzhambu, it's a must try especially for non vegetarian lovers. Being a coastal region, this dish is majorly prepared for festivities and celebrations. The prawns are marinated in tamarind, tomatoes, milk which gives it a strong tangy taste.
Payasam, is a popular second course in Tamilnadu. This dish is prepared by roasting moong dal and cooking it in a pressure cooker along with adding jaggery syrup and dry fruits.
Banana Bonda, yes its different. In the north you find potato Bonda too. But it’s different. This bonda has a different stuffing though cooked in the same way. it is stuffed with banana which is then fried in oil. Contrasting the usual spicy Bonda, this is sweet due to the banana and is eaten as a snack with tea.
Murukku, originally served on banana leaves. The name itself justifies the shape which means its name means twisted. Again, the batter for the murukku is made by a mixture of rice flour and urad dal with some salt, water, cumin seed etc. It is then deep-fried in oil in various shapes until it turns hard.
Accessible routes for Tamil Nadu:
By airways: flights are one of the best ways to reach. The state has well functional international and domestic airports that offer good connectivity and class apart services. Chennai International airport, Coimbatore International airport, Madurai International airport and Tiruchirapalli International airport are some airports that connect travellers to both international and domestic travel destinations. Besides, there are some domestic airports in Tamil Nadu namely Hosur Airport, Neyveli Airport, Salem Airport, Tuticorin Airport, Thanjavur Airport, Vellore Airport that also give you the best of the best flight experience.
By railways: Tamilnadu has around 150 railway stations that cover the major cities of the country like New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore and also runs within the state. The rail service links all parts of Tamilnadu whether it be the district in the north like Chennai, Kanchipuram, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore or that in the south namely Dindigul, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, Madurai, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram, Virudhunagar. most of the trains like the Tamil Nadu Express, Chennai Rajdhani Express, Duronto express run from Delhi to Chennai. Some other trains are the Uday Express (double-decker train) that connects Bangalore City to Coimbatore Junction and Bangalore City to Chennai Central. Tamil Nadu Sampark Kranti Express that runs from Delhi to Madurai and Shatabdi Express linking Chennai Central to Coimbatore. There are also mails and passenger trains available from all parts of the country to Tamilnadu.
By roadways: there are 25 National Highways, Tamil Nadu connects you to destinations that are within the state with its 12 highways. You can definitely plan a self driven road trip or take state transport to explore within the state. tourist travelling from metropolitan cities of the country like Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi can easily approach Tamil Nadu via the national and state highways. Some of the main bus junctions in the state are Chennai Mofussil, Kovai Central, Trichy Central, Erode, Salem, Madurai Mattuthavani, Vellore, Thanjavur Central Bus Stand, Tirunelveli and Madurai Periyar Bus Stand. you can travel by the buses provided by the State Express Transport Corporation. Deluxe buses, ultra-deluxe buses, air-conditioned buses and Volvo buses are available depending upon your destination.