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Cornucopia of cultures

• Destinations

Explore Chennai city and its best places to visit

Ancient temples, vibrant arts, natural wonders and a bustling culinary scene make  Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the southern fringes of the country. Located on the Coromandel Coast, this busy metropolis was formerly called Madras. From the resplendent classical dance form of bharatnatyam to the rich flavours of its iconic cuisine and from the lustrous silk sarees traded here to the gorgeous temples and churches, Chennai is the gatekeeper of South Indian art, culture and traditions. The city is also the perfect base from which trips to other locales in Tamil Nadu can take off. 

Alongside heritage, flourish natural and contemporary highlights: sprawling beaches with natural and man-made wonders, a bustling seaport, quirky cafes, a multi-transport system, theme parks, industrial hubs, hi-tech parks and universities. Its population is a heterogenous mix of locals, expats and people from the rest of India. Chennai is widely known as the “Detroit of India”, a moniker it earned because of the high concentration of automobile factories located in and around here.

There are several stories about the origin of the city’s name. Initially, during the Nayakars rule, its name was Madras, which was inspired by Madraspattinam. At that time, it was a fishing village that was situated to the north of the area that is now Fort St George. The king of Vijaynagar sold the piece of land to the British on which now stands Fort St George, which houses the Secretariat Complex of the Government of Tamil Nadu. It was the British officers who retained the name Madraspattinam. For local populace, it was more common to call the city Chennapattinam. According to another legend, the city was named Chennai in honour of Damal Chennappa Nayakkar, a Nayak ruler. In the year 1996, the government renamed it to Chennai officially and the name stands even today.

Attractions In Chennai

The legacy of chennai through its cultural attractions, marina beach.

Often considered to be the pride of Chennai, Marina Beach, 13 km in length, is the second-longest beach of its kind in the world. A long stretch of soft sand, Marina Beach invites tourists to unwind, take a dip in the water and indulge in local...

San Thomas Basilica

A beautiful Roman catholic cathedral in pristine white, this church...

Valluvar Kottam Kodambakkam

It is a historical monument dedicated to the well-known poet,...

Fort St George

Among the first British fortresses, built in 1644, the great white...

Often considered to be the pride of Chennai, Marina Beach, 13 km in...

Immersive Experience

Food and Cuisine

Art and Crafts

• Experiences

Dakshinachitra Museum

This heritage museum houses over 4,000 artefacts and 1,000,000...

St Mary's Church

Established in 1679 AD, the St Mary’s Church is located inside the...

Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram

The Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram is one of the most popular spots to...

Kalakshetra

In 1936, the Kalakshetra Foundation was established by Rukmini Devi...

Tanjore Paintings

Tanjore paintings are a great way to beautify the interiors of your...

Semmozhi Poonga

Home to about 500 species of plants and over 80 trees, the Semmozhi...

Gujarati Shwetambar Murtipujak Jain Mandir

The Gujarati Shwetambar Murtipujak Jain Mandir is credited with being...

Kapaleeswarar Temple

Believed to be one of the oldest and most revered temples of Chennai,...

Guindy National Park

Located adjacent to Raj Bhavan, the Guindy National Park boasts a...

Government Museum

Started in 1851, it is the second-oldest museum in India and has an...

Cholamandal Artists Village

Started by KCS Paniker, who was not only a legendary artist but also...

Pulicat Lake

The second-largest brackish water lake in the country, the beautiful...

Stone Carvings

Stone carving is an ancient craft of Tamil Nadu and the temples of...

tiruvannamalai

Among the holiest towns of Tamil Nadu, Tiruvannamalai is a popular...

Kanchipuram

Synonymous with spirituality, serenity and silk, the temple town of...

Puducherry (the official name was changed from Pondicherry in 2006)...

mamallapuram

Sitting along the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, the seaport...

How to get there

Chennai International Airport is located about 7 km away from the main city. It is connected by direct daily flights to major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. Apart from this, it also connects the city to international destinations like Singapore and Colombo.

The Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminal is connected to various Indian cities like Puducherry (about 166 km), Bengaluru (about 347 km), Tirupati (about 133 km), Coimbatore (about 507 km), and Tirunelveli (about 625 km).

Three major railway stations, Chennai Central, Chennai Egmore and Tambaram, make it one of the train service hubs in South India. Several trains connect it daily to major Indian cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru.

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Welcome to Tamil Nadu!

A potpourri of vibrant cultures, exotic destinations and enduring memories; welcome to one of the heartlands of human civilization. Tamil Nadu - where stories never end .

Places to visit

Discover Tamil Nadu's unique destinations - from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to soothing beaches and hill stations.

An ideal destination for honeymooners, solo travellers, family vacationers and also individuals who simply want to travel with friends

Tranquil, graceful and steeped in Tamil culture, Madurai is the place to lose yourself in the streets and take a journey to discover the divine.

Kanniyakumari

Picture-perfect sunsets, enchanting full moon nights, scrumptious coastal food, walk by the azure waters - Kanyakumari can always leave you asking for more.

Here is where images from the past come together to paint the collage of a glorious city. A work of art in itself

Verdant valleys, with their enveloping blankets of mist, and lush mountain ranges offer a warm welcome to visitors

Experiences

If you're looking for some of the best travel experiences to explore in Tamil Nadu, you've arrived at the right spot!

Eat & Drink

Medical Tourism

UNESCO Wonders

Tamil Nadu, the cultural capital of India, boasts of five UNESCO World Heritage Sites which you should not miss

Things to do

From paragliding to scuba diving, from taking heritage trails to watching cultural activities, there is plenty to do, learn and experience in Tamil Nadu. Know more about what this enchanting land has to offer you.

Parasailing

Soar like a bird and flit like a butterfly and cherish the ecstasy and fun of flying. Tamil Nadu offers some of the safest parasailing spots in the country that will enable you to savour breathtaking views of its iconic landscapes.

Head to the sandy beaches of Tamil Nadu to ride on the rolling waves, to slice through the thundering breakers, to plunge into the depths and to feel the adrenaline rush.

The hiking trails of Tamil Nadu always offer a warm welcome to anyone seeking such solace.

Scuba Diving

Get ready to feel the thrills as you scuba dive into the pristine waters, and explore the magical flora and fauna flourishing there.

Leave the commotions of mundane life at home, and pack your bags for an exciting expedition through the trails and wildernesses of Tamil Nadu.

Attractions

Here's a list of top attractions in Tamil Nadu that you must experience at the very next opportunity.

Cuisine and Gastronomy

Treat yourself to the taste of Tamil Nadu. Immerse yourself in the unique stories that simmer in the state's gastronomic pot.

Lip-smacking snacks

The crunchy Murukku should be added to your list of must-try food in Tamil Nadu.

Cuisines of the Tamil Land

The delectable cuisine of Tamil Nadu is a culinary style which dates to antiquity and has since influenced the other states of South and South-East Asia.

Explore the regional cuisine of Tamil Nadu

Next time you visit Tamil Nadu explore beyond idli, vada and sambar. Instead savour each regional cuisine that boasts of unique cooking methods and spices. They have been backed with heirloom family recipes, ancient culture and traditions, community history and external influences.

Sweet Savouries from Tamil Nilam

No meal can be treated as complete without the desserts. The indulgent desserts of Tamil Nadu are exquisite and nutritious. Most are healthy preparations using less sugar and include healthy proteins like green gram and chickpea.

A relic of bygone Chola power & prosperity

The great Chola king, Rajaraja II (1143 CE –1173 CE), built the Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, which is ranked only third after the two famed Chola temples of Thanjavur and Gangaikondacholapuram. Read more...

Explore the Surreal Kolli Hills

Dazzling through the woods on top of hills of the Eastern ghats is the road that bends the most. Located in the high altitudes of the Eastern ghats, the Kolli Hills derive their name from the Goddess who guards the hills-ettukai Amman, also called the Kollipavai. Run wild and free in the unrevealed greenery.

The mountains are calling...

Check out these five lesser-known but pristine hill stations of Tamil Nadu that will certainly leave you spellbound. Explore the unexplored.

On the sands of time

The southernmost tip of India is a charming town blessed with beautiful temples, historical monuments and serene beaches. Kanniyakumari has been and remains a preferred destination for tourists. Part 5 of an Outlook special on tourism in Tamil Nadu.

Of faith and history

A district steeped in the history of faith, with links to epic legends as well as to modern-day visionaries, Ramanathapuram delights those who love history, gladdens the hearts of nature lovers and soothes the souls of spiritual seekers. Part 6 of an Outlook Special on tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu.

Of Worship and Waterfalls

A unique corner of Tamil Nadu, the newly-formed district of Tenkasi is home to spectacular waterfalls and ancient temples. A visit to Tenkasi is balm for the soul. Part 7 of an Outlook special on unexplored tourist spots in Tamil Nadu.

Unstained Salem

Synonymous with stainless steel, Salem’s other charms usually go unremarked. About 160 km from Coimbatore, this small city on the route to many better-known getaway destinations is overlooked by tourists. While religious travellers flock here, Salem is as significant for its lush greenery, waterfalls and rich history. Part 9 of an Outlook Special on unknown tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu.

Of forts, faith and food

Replete with a unique history and heritage, nature and nuance, culture and cuisine are the town and district of Dindigul in Tamil Nadu. Part 9 of an Outlook Special on lesser-known tourist spots takes you on a tour of this unforgettable destination.

Gift of the Forest

One of the top hill stations of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has many well-known attractions. Yet, in spite of its popularity, it remains a serene island and retains the simple charm of a century ago. Part 10 of an Outlook special series on tourist spots of Tamil Nadu.

Yours Truly, Trichy

With its magnificent houses of worship and its heavy industries, the symbols of its past glory and the titles of its present significance, Trichy is an intriguing city. Part 11 of an Outlook Special series on Tamil Nadu tourism.

Magical Madurai

Bustling and yet soulful, ancient and yet modern, cultured and progressive, Madurai epitomises the best of Tamil Nadu. Part 12 of an Outlook special on tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu.

Of serenity and spirituality

Enveloped in an ambience of spirituality, Thiruvannamalai is one of the most serene destinations in Tamil Nadu. Part 13 of an Outlook special on lesser-known destinations in the state.

A town of temples

Tamil Nadu has a plethora of towns famous for their temples. But Kumbakonam is special among these. Part 14 of an Outlook special on lesser-known destinations in the state.

The Town of the Cosmic Dance

Yet another beautiful temple town built by the Cholas, Chidambaram has a quaint charm in addition to its spiritual significance. Part 15 of an Outlook special on tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu.

Of serenity and scenery

Endless greenery, unique temples, interesting festivals and wildlife reserves make Pollachi in Tamil Nadu an intriguing destination. Part 17 of an Outlook special on lesser-known destinations in the state.

A Festival of Kite Runners

This Independence Day weekend over the Bay of Bengal, kite history will be created! The state of Tamil Nadu welcomes kite flying culture on the most historic weekend of India as it celebrates 75 years of Independence!

A Trail Along The Coromandel Coast

Azure waters, clear skies, and shimmering sand. Tamil Nadu is where each beach lover's heaven exists

From 16th Century To Now, The Past Still Lives On

Discover the beauty left behind by the Portuguese, the Dutch, the British, the Scottish, and the Irish in Tamil Nadu

15 free things to do in Chennai, India's southern capital

Chennai, the steamy capital of Tamil Nadu, is huge, sometimes hectic, and a perfect introduction to the wonderful, frenetic energy of South India. The city sprawls for miles along one of the world’s largest urban beaches, dotted with temples, museums, Raj relics, and restaurants serving what could well be the world’s finest vegetarian cuisine.

6 top day trips from Chennai for steamy southern adventures

Often overlooked by the crowds who flock to Delhi and Mumbai, fascinating, foodie Chennai is the gateway to India’s steamy south. Within easy striking distance of the Tamil Nadu capital are timeless temple towns, coastal nature reserves, old colonial outposts and beach resorts that are as popular for monsoon watching as sitting on the sand.

5 Reasons To Travel To India’s Tamil Nadu

Of cuisine and culture

In the beautiful state of Tamil Nadu, is a quaint town that is typical as well as atypical of the state in several intriguing ways. Part 17 of an Outlook special on lesser-known destinations in Tamil Nadu looks at Karaikudi

History, built up

In our times of matchbox apartments and crowded parks, uninspired design and soulless malls, Chennai offers up a slice of both grandeur and grace through its several heritage buildings reflective of colonial times. Part 18 of an Outlook special on lesser-known destinations in Tamil Nadu

Colonial Cousins

Chennai is graced with a rich architectural legacy from the times of British colonial rule. Part 19 of an Outlook special on lesser-known aspects of Tamil Nadu as a tourist destination.

Pockets of Portugal

Much before the British established their stronghold over India, the Portuguese had established trade relations with the country. Heritage buildings in various parts of India reflect traces of Portuguese architectural traditions. While Goa might come first to mind, Tamil Nadu also has quite a few imprints of Portuguese culture. Part 20 of an Outlook special on lesser-known places of interest in the state.

Portal to Portugal

The imprint of the Portuguese in Tamil Nadu has a long history that predates the British, the Dutch and the French. This is still evident today in some churches and other buildings that remain, offering travellers who are interested in history and heritage an intriguing glimpse of our past. Part 21 of an Outlook special on lesser-known travel ideas in Tamil Nadu.

Scots and the city

The East India Company and the British Empire’s presence in Tamil Nadu caused an influx of officers, officials and men from not just England but Scotland and Ireland. This also left a distinctive and beautiful imprint on the landscape of Tamil Nadu, especially its architecture. Part 22 of an Outlook special on lesser-known travel ideas in Tamil Nadu.

The magic of Marghazi

Marghazi. From the name of an auspicious month to a word synonymous with a month-long festival of music and dance today, as the global cultural cognoscenti will attest to. Part 23 of an Outlook special on tourism in Tamil Nadu gives you a peek into one of the world’s biggest music festivals.

The dance of history

The Shore Temple. Magnificent sculptures. Windswept beaches. The whisper of waves. That is Mahabalipuram every day. But, for a month every year, it becomes a stage for the tinkle of anklets, the beat of the drum and the glorious sight of dancers in tandem. Part 24 of an Outlook special series on the tourism events and destinations of Tamil Nadu - the Indian Dance Festival.

Glance through the stunning pictures and videos of tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu!

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Tamil Nadu at a Glance

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• Places to Visit in Chennai

37 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Chennai

• Chennai Overview
• Top 37 Places to Visit in Chennai
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Marina Beach

#1 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at Kamarajar Road, near local Chepauk Railway Station), the famous Marina beach is the second longest beach in the World and runs to a length of 13 Km. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city and also one of the popular attraction not to miss in a Chennai tour packages . Situated on the beach, the Anna Park, named after the founder of D.M.K Anna durai and the tomb of M.G. Ramachandran who was a film star (both were former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu) and the Statue of Labour is a splendid sculpture depicting the efforts of a team of labourers who are at hard manual labour. The beach can be ideally visited in the early mornings or in the late evenings when the area becomes a virtual ground with food stalls and other entertainments.

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Govt. Museum

#2 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Governement Museum is a museum situated on Pantheon Road in Chennai. This is one of the oldest museums in India, and among the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city. Established in 1857, Government Museum is the second oldest museum in the country after the Indian Museum in Kolkata. The museum is located in what is known as the Pantheon complex, or 'public assembly rooms.' Situated in the Egmore suburb of Chennai, it is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It is the third-largest museum in the world, and with 0.6 million visitors in 2018. It is particularly rich in archaeological and numismatic collections. It has the richest collections of bronze idols, 500 of them dating to 1000 BC, in Asia. The museum has the largest collection of Roman antiquities outside Europe. Among them, the colossal Museum Theatre is one of the most impressive. .....

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

#3 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4.5 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Sri Parthasarathy Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Triplicane locality of Chennai. It is one of the popular temples in Tamilnadu , and among the must-visit places during your Chennai Trip . Sri Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It was originally built by the Pallavas king Narasimhavarman I in the 6th century CE and was renovated by the Vijayanagara kings around the 15th century. It is one of the oldest temples as well as the famous places to visit in Chennai . The temple was built in the typical Dravidian architecture style, complete with gopurams and mandapas with intricate carvings and stucco figures. The temple has icons of five forms of Vishnu: Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja, Ranganatha, and Krishna .....

Kapiliswarar Temple

#4 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 6.5 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Mylapore), the Kapaleeswarar Temple dedicated to Shiva is built in 8th Century by Pallavas. But the current structure is rebuilt by the Vijayanagara rulers in 16th century. The 37 meters tall and grand gopuram is made in the characteristic Dravidian style of architecture. This is one of the top tourist places to visit in Chennai city. This temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 Saivaite Saints or the Nayanmars. The Arubathumoovar festival dedicated to the 63 Nayanmars held in March-April every year is a special attraction. Timings: 5 AM to 11 AM and 4 PM to 9.30 PM.

San Thome Cathedral Basilica

#5 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 7 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at the Southern end of Marina Beach, in Mylapore), 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 city. The church gets its name from St.Thomas, the apostle of Jesus who is believed to have come to India sometime during 52 A.D. It is believed he was killed on St. Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD and his remains interred in Santhome beach where a church was later built. Several years later, another church was built further inland and his mortal remains were transferred here. Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Valluvar Kottam

#6 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 7 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Vaikuntapuram, less than 1 Kms from local Kodambakkam Railway Station), Valluvar Kottam is a monument built to pay homage to Tamil Poet Saint Thiruvalluvar. Inaugurated in 1976, the memorial is the form of 101-feet high temple chariot and is the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A 33m tall life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot. Another amazing attribute of the auditorium is that it is not supported by a single pillar and stands without any support. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. All the 1330 verses of the poet's epic are depicted on the granite pillars, which surround the auditorium. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. Timings: 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Adults & Rs. 5 for Childre .....

Birla Planetarium

#7 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 10 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located at Kotturpuram near Guindy, less than 1 km from local Kotturpuram Railway Station) the Birla Planetarium is the most modern planetarium in India. It houses a fully computerised projector that depicts the heavens on a hemispherical dome. The Planetarium presents audiovisual programmes on various themes in astronomy. Adjoining the planetarium is the Periyar Sceince and Technology Museum, which is of interest to students and other science enthusiasts. Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM, Closed on National Holidays only English Programme Timings: 10.45 AM, 1.45pm and 3.45 pm. Tamil Programme Timings: 12.30 AM and 2.30 PM. Entry Fee: Rs. 45 for Adults & Rs. 25 for Children (which includes Science Centre, Planetarium, 3D Science Movie & Science Park)

Vadapalani Murugan Temple

#8 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 10 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, the Vadapalani Murugan Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Vadapalani area of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Also known as Vadapalani Andavar Temple, it is among the most popular temples in Chennai and also one of the famous places to visit in Chennai . Vadapalani Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. Built around 125 years ago, this temple is one of the most frequented temples of Chennai. According to the legend, Annaswami Nayakar, an ardent devotee of Lord Murugan was the founder of the temple. During his worship, he experienced divine power entering his body and inspiring him to speak surprising things later found to be true. His utterance went by the name of arulvakku and relieved people in several ways, like curing diseases, getting jobs and marriages, etc. The presiding deity idol in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple resembles the original .....

National Art Gallery

#9 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 3 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, the National Art Gallery is situated inside the Government Museum Complex on Pantheon Road in Egmore, Chennai. This is one of the oldest art galleries in India and also one of the must visit Chennai Tourist Places. The National Art Gallery was built of sandstone in the year 1907 by T. Namberumal Chetty. Earlier known as Victoria Memorial Hall, the National Art Gallery was built during the celebration of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in Indo-Saracenic style, designed by architect Henry Irwin. It has been identified as a Heritage site by the CMDA. The National Art Gallery consists of four different sections, which include Tanjore Painting Gallery, Decorative Art Gallery, Indian Traditional Art Gallery and Raja Ravi Varma Painting Gallery. The miniature paintings from the Mughal era, handicrafts from 11th and 12th centuries and Rajput paintings from the 18th and 19th centuries are also on display. Portraits of various .....

Elliot's Beach

#10 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 Kms from Chennai (located in Besant Nagar), The Elliot's Beach is a well known destination for people who seek relief from the crowded metropolitan life of the Chennai . The Adyar River drains into the sea here. Popularly known as 'Bessie' among locals, this is an extremely calm and tranquil place. The Beach has become a popular hangout for the young generation. Elliot's Beach is also a favorite haunt of foreigners where they can peacefully take their sun bath. The Ashtalakshmi Temple near the beach is around 20 years old and has modern style architecture. Velanganni Church is a pilgrim place for the Christians. Elliot's Beach has good connectivity and transportation options from Chennai.

V.G.P. Golden Beach

#11 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 21 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station and 40 Kms from Mahabalipuram (situated on East Coast Road between Chennai and Mahabalipuram ), VGP Golden Beach is the only resort in Chennai city limits. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai . This Beach cum Amusement Park is developed by The Tourism and Entertainment Corridor of Tamil Nadu, and offers wide range of entertainment options like Gokarting, Dashing Cars, Water Chute, Giant Wheel, Break-dance, Dragons belly, Super trooper and many more. Kids can enjoy the special sight seeing of Jurassic Park and Aquarium. There is an Art Centre which sells handicrafts and articles made out of sea shells. The sea facing Swimming pool is an extra attraction. The beach is clean and ideal for sun-bathing. The Resort has a Multi-cuisine .....

MGR Memorial

#12 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 3 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, MGR Memorial is a memorial structure situated within the picturesque surroundings of the Marina Beach in Chennai. It is one of the popular places of sightseeing in Chennai. The memorial was built in the memory of M.G. Ramachandran, India's first actor cum chief minister and that too for three consecutive terms until his death. Considered as one of the greatest political leaders and actors of the state, his followers idolize him as Puratchi Thalaivar (Revolutionary leader). He was honoured with Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of India after his death. Spread over 8.25 acres, the memorial is located adjacent to the Anna Memorial and has the highest number of visitors along the seafront. The memorial was built in 1988 and was inaugurated by Janaki Ramachandran, wife of M. G. Ramachandran, in May 1990. The memorial was remodeled and the whole complex was laid with marbles and opened in 1992 by J. Jayalalitha .....

#13 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 12 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (next to Guindy National Park), The Snake Park is a popular spot with most visitors to the city. Established in 1972, the park has been home to a wide range of snakes, from the deadly King Cobra to pythons, vipers and other reptiles. The Snake Park has become a breeding point of endangered pythons in the country. A museum of preserved specimens of reptiles and amphibian's is an added attraction. Adjacent to the Snake Park, there is a Children's Park with a collection of birds and animals. This area also houses a play park for the kids. The elephant and pony rides are popular with the children visiting this park. Timings missing 8.30 AM - 5.30 PM, Closed on Tuesday. Adult: Rs 5/-, Child: Rs 1/- Still Camera: Rs 5/-, Digital camera: 20/-, Video Camera: Rs 100/-

Cholamandal Artist's Village

#14 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 20 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (near Injambakkam, on Mahabalipuram Road), The Cholamandal Artists Village established in 1964 is an institution of fine arts and crafts. Established by students of the Madras School of Arts and Crafts, it has come to be recognized as a significant school of arts and crafts. It is a heaven for art lovers and artists. Artists live as a community and pooled together their skills and resources. Developed in an area of 8 acres, it has a permanent art gallery to hold exhibitions. Sculptures made of granite, wood, copper and bronze are created within the Artists Village. Items are kept for exhibition and sale with in Artists Village.

Muttukadu & Dakshina Chitra

#15 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 31 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station and 27 Kms from Mahabalipuram (on East Coast Road between Chennai and Mahabalipuram ), Muttukadu is a backwater destination and excellent picnic spot. Muttukadu offers wide range of water sports options like Boating, wind surfing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, etc. The windsurfing regatta held every February attracts worldwide watersports lovers. TTDC ( Tamilnadu tourism Development Corporation) has introduced boathouses in Muttukadu. Training programs are available in windsurfing and other water sports activities. Dakshina Chitra, located at a distance of 2 Kms from Muthukadu is a famous heritage centre. The architectural and cultural heritages of the South Indian states are showcased here. The architectural features of each state, the typical homes of each region of South India are built here. Timings: 10 .....

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

#16 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 38 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a zoo park located at Vandalur in Chennai city of Tamil Nadu. Also known as Vandalur Zoo, it is one of the finest zoos in India, and among the best places to visit as part of Chennai Tour . Established in 1855, Arignar Anna Zoological Park is the first public zoo in India, and is said to be one of the biggest in South East Asia. It is shifted to the current location of Vandalur reserved forests in the year 1979 and officially opened to the public in 1985. It is affiliated with the Central Zoo Authority of India. It is one of the popular Chennai tourist places . Spread over an area of 602 hectares (1,490 acres), the zoo houses 2,553 species of flora and fauna. As of 2012 the park houses around 1,500 wild species, including 46 endangered species, in its 160 .....

Rippon Building

#17 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 0.5 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located on the West of the Central Railway Station), the Rippon Building is one of the most elegant buildings in Chennai. Built in 1913, it is being used as Municipal Corporation office since then. It is a part of a large municipal complex, which includes parks and gardens, the Nehru Stadium, Victoria Public Hall and Moore Market. Named after the Governor General of India, Lord Rippon, this building is one of the best examples of British architecture in India and has still preserved its vintage look. The building also has been a witness to a number of historical events. It covers an area of 9628 square meters which was built at an approximate cost of around 8 lakhs. The high ceilings of the Rippon Building are supported by Teak wood joints and the floors are decorated by marble flooring.

Fort St.George

#18 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

Located at a distance of 1 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (near local Fort Railway Station), Fort St. George was built in the year 1640 by the British East India Company, under the supervision of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon. The Fort has a 20 feet thick wall. The flag staff at this fort is the tallest in India with a height of 150 ft. Fort St. George houses St. Mary's Church & The Fort Museum. St. Mary's Church - St. Mary's Church, within the Fort St. George, was established in 1680, and it is one of the oldest churches in India. The tombstones that are found within the premises of the Fort St. George, are among the oldest tombstones of British origin in India. The Fort Museum - The Fort Museum located within Fort St.George is a large repository of arms and armaments of British era. The museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts like, Weapons, Canons, Shields, Uniforms, Manuscripts, Paintings, Letters, coins, medals, etc. Timings 10 AM - 5 PM, Friday .....

Wallajah Mosque

#19 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 4 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located near Babu Jagjivanram Road in Triplicane - around 1 Km from local Triplicane Railway Station), The Big Mosque, also called as Wallajah Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in entire south India. Constructed in 1795, it was built by the family of the Nawab Wallajah in his memory. The architecture embodies the fusion of Indian, Islamic, and Iranian influences. The Big Mosque is built completely out of gray granite and has been successful in outliving the ravages of time. Neither wood nor steel has been used in any part of this mosque. The mosque is provided with two lofty minarets at the front. The architecture is quite typical of the medieval period. The use of iron or other such materials which are susceptible to the elements have been completely avoided while constructing this mosque. This is one of the important Muslim sites of pilgrimage in the south.

Thousand Lights Mosque

#20 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 7 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (located in Anna Salai Road), Thousand Lights Mosque is a well-known worship place for the Muslims of Chennai. Built by the Nawab of Arcot in the 1880's, the mosque is famous for its architecture, historical and religious importance. In early 19th century, the place where the mosque presently stands used to be the assembly place of Muslims during the month of Muharram. Later, the assembly hall was built, following which the mosque was constructed. Built in an area of 3 acres, the land was donated by Nawab Wallajah. The average height of the minarets is around 64 feet above the ground. There is a main hall at the ground floor to offer prayers for men & women separately.

Little Mount & St.Thomas Mount

#21 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 12 & 15 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station, Little Mount and St.Thomas Mount are famous sacred places for Christians in South India. According to legend, St. Thomas was one of the first Christians to reach India in 52 AD and to preach Christianity. He has spent the last years of his life in a cave on Little Mount. Legend states that Thomas was assassinated by a shot of an arrow in 72 AD on adjacent Mount, which later acquired the name St. Thomas Mount. Little Mount has an ancient church built by the Portuguese in 1551. At the entrance is a portrait of St. Thomas and Portuguese inscription. A shrine dedicated to 'Our Lady of Expectation' was built in 1523 by the Portuguese on St. Thomas Mount where St. Thomas was martyred in 72 AD. The stone cross embedded into the wall of the alter is said to be the 'bleeding cross' that miraculously bled between 1558 and 1704. This place was visited by Pope John Paul II during his visit to India in 1986.

Tada Falls / Ubbalamadugu Falls, Near Srikalahasti

#22 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 29 km from Tada, 45 km from Srikalahasti , 85 km from Tirupati, 92 km from Chennai, 130 km from Nellore and 156 km from Chittoor, Tada falls or Ubbalamadugu Falls is situated in Varadaiahpalem mandal of Chittoor district. It is situated on the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh and is an ideal place for trekking near Chennai for a day trip. The falls are located in a dense forest called Siddulaiah Kona. The falls are located within the Kambakam hills and are a popular destination for trekking, climbing and picnicking. The terrain that surrounds the falls includes rocky hill formations and lush forests interspersed with a number of streams. To reach the falls visitors have go through the Varadaiahpalem village, about 12 km from Tada falls. There is only 7 km rugged path and the remaining distance has to be trekked through. SUVs or vehicles with high ground clearance are best suited to reach the trekking ..... Distance (From Chennai): 92 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Guindy National Park

#23 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Guindy National Park is a protected area located on Sardar Patel Road in Chennai. It is the 8th smallest national park in India , and among the very few national parks situated inside a city. Set up in 1976, the park spread over an area of 2.70 sq. km and is maintained by the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Before the park came into existence, this space was considered as an extended part of the Guindy Lodge which is presently referred to as the Raj Bhavan, the Governor of Tamil Nadu's official home. It is one of the popular Chennai places to visit . There are over 14 species of mammals including blackbuck, chital or spotted deer, jackal, small Indian civet, common palm civet, bonnet macaque, hyena, pangolin, hedgehog, common mongoose, and three-striped palm squirrel. The park also has a .....

Kailasakona Waterfalls, Near Tirupati

#24 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 km from Puttur, 25 km from Nagari, 46 km from Tirupati, 92 km from Chennai, 76 from Chittoor, 86 km from Kanipakam , 85 km from kanchipuram and 110 km from Vellore, Kailasakona Waterfalls are a natural perennial waterfall in the valley of Nagari hills in Chittoor District. The water originates from the split in a mass rock. The height of the waterfalls is about 30 meters and it cascades down into a small pond below the rock. The water here is crystal clear having considerable mineral values & medicinal powers and can heal ailments. The tourists are not allowed to go uphill to the top of the falls. There is a small temple of Lord Shiva and Parvati near the waterfall. According to the legend, Lord Kailasanatheswara Swamy came down to earth to attend the marriage of Lord Venkateswara Swami with Goddess Padmavathi at Narayanavanam which is 9 km from Kailasakona falls. Lord Kailasanatheswara was impressed with the ..... Distance (From Chennai): 92 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): 4-6 Hours .....

Kalakshetra

#25 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 Kms from Chennai Central Railway Station (in Thiruvanmiyur), Kalakshetra is a cultural academy that focuses on preserving traditional Indian dance. Founded by Rukmini Devi Arundale in 1936, Kalakshetra now became an institution dedicated to classical dance, music, traditional textile designs and weaving. With a 100-acre campus in Thiruvanmiyur in South of Chennai, Kalakshetra has students from around the world who are trained in the ancient gurukul system. Over the years, Kalakshetra has also focused on promoting ancient cultural traditions of India. The theater within the Kalakshetra is built according to the Natya Shastra. The institute conducts research into works of several renowned Sanskrit scholars to stage dance productions, not only for an Indian audience but also for major world theaters.

Madras Light House / Marina Lighthouse

#26 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 6 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, the Madras Light House, popularly known as Marina Lighthouse, is a lighthouse facing the Bay of Bengal in Chennai. It is a famous landmark on the Marina Beach and also one of the popular tourist attractions in Chennai. Chennai Marina Lighthouse was built by the East Coast Constructions and Industries in 1976 replacing the old lighthouse in the northern direction and was opened in January 1977. The lighthouse marks the end of the promenade on the northern half of the Marina Beach. It was closed for visitors after the assassination of the former Prime Minister of India, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 but it was opened for visitors from 14th November 2013. The present lighthouse is a triangular cylindrical concrete one with lantern and double gallery and is 11 stories high. The tower is attached to a three-story circular harbour-control building. The height of the lighthouse tower is 45.72 m and height of the light source is .....

Thiruttani, Near Kanchipuram

#27 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 13 km from Arakkonam, 44 km from Kanchipuram, 86 km from Chennai and 65 km from Tirupati, Thiruthani is a holy town located in Tiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu and is famous for the Murugan Temple. This temple is one among the six Padai Veedus (Battle Grounds) of Lord Murugan, other five are Palani, Swamimalai, Tirupparangunram, Pazhamudircholai and Thiruchendur. This place represents the site where Subramanya stayed after destroying the demon Surapadman. Tiruttani is also said to be the place where the Lord Subramanya married Valli - one of his two consorts. This temple has been mentioned in the Sangam period work Tirumurugaatruppadai composed by Nakkeerar. According to legend, Devayani, daughter of Indra married Lord Murugan and was presented Indra's elephant Airavatam as part of his dowry offering. Upon Airavatam's departure Indra found his wealth waning. Lord Subramanya is said to have offered to return the white elephant, however Indra refused to accept a ..... Distance (From Chennai): 86 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): 4-6 Hours .....

Covelong Beach, Near Mahabalipuram

#28 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 23 Kms from Mahabalipuram and 35 Kms from Chennai (on Chennai - Mahabalipuram Road) Covelong/ Kovalam is a famous beach resort and one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai . It was originally just a small fishing village, but now also expanded to become one of the most famous beach resorts in South India. You can still explore the old sea port that used to exist there. Numerous quality beach resorts can be found at Kovalam. The beaches at that location are absolutely exquisite, and are greatly enjoyed by all that visit there. It is also to these beaches that the well-known Olive Ridley Turtles travel to every year to hatch their eggs. Swimmimg and wind surfing are popular activities at this beach. Distance (From Chennai): 35 Kms Trip Duration (From Muttukadu - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Mahabalipuram

#29 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 57 km from Chennai, 65 km from Kanchipuram, 96 km from Pondicherry, 420 km from Madurai, and 290 km from Trichy, Mahabalipuram (also called Mamallapuram) is situated in Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the major heritage sites in Tamilnadu , and one of the best places to experience Tamilnadu Tourism . Mahabalipuram is known for its historical monuments, sculptures, scenic beauty, culture, and tradition. Built-in 7th century CE, shore temples are the prominent attractions that can be visited as part of Mahabalipuram tour packages . These temples built largely during the reigns of Narasimha Varman and his successor Rajasimha Varman, showcase the movement from rock-cut architecture to structural buildings. The mandapas and the rathas shaped as temple chariots are made from the granite rock face, while ..... Distance (From Chennai): 58 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Kanchipuram

#30 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 68 km from Vellore, 65 km from Mahabalipuram, 75 km from Chennai, 108 km from Tirupati & 127 km from Pondicherry, Kanchipuram or Kanchi is a temple town and the headquarters of Kanchipuram district. It is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Chennai and among the major places to visit in Tamilnadu . Kanchipuram is one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in Tamilnadu . Kanchipuram has a rich history and it's one of the oldest cities in India. The temples of Kanchipuram are known for their grandeur and great architecture. The architecture of Kanchi monuments was trendsetting with great sculpture work and unique style and became a benchmark for South Indian architecture. This is another popular attraction to visit as part of Chennai tour packages . The ..... Distance (From Chennai): 70 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Nagalapuram, Near Tirupati

#31 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 16 km from Nagalapuram town, 44 km from Puttur, 87 km from Chennai, 78 km from Tirupati, 107 km from Chittoor, 130 km from Vellore, 120 km from Kanipakam & 288 km from Bangalore, Nagalapuram is a small historical town located in the Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh. Nagalapuram is famous for two things, one is Sri Vedanarayana Swamy Temple and the other one is Nagalapuram falls trekking (also known as Saddhi Koodu Madugu). This is one of the popular sites for trekking near Chennai and also among ideal weekend getaways around Chennai for a two day trip. Sri Vedanarayana temple is grand shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is said to have been built by Krishna Devaraya of Vijayanagar Empire in remembrance of his mother Nagala Devi, after whom the town is named. The temple reflects the Vijayanagara architectural and the main deity idol is facing west. The ..... Distance (From Chennai): 87 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Pulicat Lake & Sanctuary, Near Srikalahasti

#32 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 9 from Sullurpet, 50 km from Srikalahasti , 105 km from Nellore & 88 km from Chennai Central Railway Station, Pulicat Lake is the second largest brackish water lake in India, after Orissa's Chilka Lake. It lies at the border of Thiruvallur district in Tamil Nadu and Nellore district in Andhra Pradesh states. The island of Sriharikota (home for famous ISRO) separates the lake from the Bay of Bengal. This is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Chennai and an ideal weekend getaway near Chennai. The sanctuary is home to wide range of migratory birds that migrate in large numbers in winter. It is one of the best places for bird watching in the vicinity of Chennai city and at the same time experience the memorable boat riding in Pulicat Lake. The entrance to the ..... Distance (From Chennai Central Railway Station): 88 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai Central Railway Station - Including Travel): 6 Hours .....

Arunachala Temple - Tiruvannamalai, Near Kanchipuram

#33 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 83 km from Vellore, 120 km from Kanchipuram, 195 km from Chennai, and 204 km from Bangalore, the Arunachaleswara Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine situated at Thiruvannamalai near Kanchi in Tamilnadu. It is one of the greatest Shaiva places of pilgrimage in South India and among the most popular temples to visit near Bangalore & Chennai. Also known as Annamalaiyar Temple, Arunachala Temple is a breathtaking temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was constructed by Vijayanagara kings between 16th and the 17th centuries. It is significant to the Hindu sect of Saivism as it is one of the pancha bhoota sthalams, which are dedicated to the manifestation of five natural elements. Legend has it that the Lord has manifested himself as an element of fire or Agni in this temple. The temple is believed to be the eighth-largest Hindu temple in the world, ..... Distance (From Chennai): 200 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#34 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 71 km from Chittoor, 413 km from Vijayawada, 556 km from Hyderabad, 763 km from Vizag, 134 km from Chennai and 259 km from Bangalore, Tirupati is a pilgrimage city in the extreme southeast of Andhra Pradesh in Chittoor district. It is often referred as a synonym to Tirumala (called as Tirumala Tirupati), which is a sacred temple town famous for Sri Venkateswara Temple also known as Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple. Tirupati along with Chandragiri is an ideal Chennai getaways for a two day trip and also one of the top Andhra Pradesh tourist places . Tirupati is one of the most ancient and sacred pilgrimage sites in India. Tirumala, the home of Lord Venkateswara is at a distance of 22 km from Tirupati. However, Tirupati is the town and transport hub to Tirumala at the bottom ..... Distance (From Chennai): 150 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Near Mahabalipuram

#35 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 53 km from Mahabalipuram, and 89 km from Chennai, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary situated at Vedanthangal near Mahabalipuram. It is one of the oldest water bird sanctuaries in India , and among the popular weekend getaways from Chennai . Vedanthangal literally means 'the hamlet of a hunter' in the local Tamil language. It was so named as being a famous hunting grounds for the local landlords during the 18th century. Realizing this ornithological importance of the region, the British government declared it as a bird sanctuary in the year 1798, making it the oldest of its kind in the country. And, among the most popular places to visit near Mahabalipuram . Covering a total area of 30 hectares, the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a popular migratory home ..... Distance (From Chennai): 89 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): 4-6 Hours .....

Sripuram, Near Vellore

#36 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 10 km from Vellore, 70 km from Kanchipuram, 120 km from Tirupati, 146 km from Chennai, and 212 km from Bangalore, Sripuram Golden Temple is a sacred Hindu temple situated in Tirumalaikodi at Southern Vellore, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites near Bangalore , and among the must visit places during Vellore trip . Sripuram Golden Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mahalakshmi. Constructed in the year 2007, The temple is built in 100 acres area of land and constructed by Vellore-based Sri Narayani Peetham, headed by spiritual leader Sri Sakthi Amma. The Vimana and Ardha Mandapa have been coated with gold both in the interior and exterior. Sripuram is the biggest structure made out of gold as one and a half tonnes of gold has been used for the construction of the temple with a cost of 600 crores. This is one of the prominent Vellore places to visit . The ..... Distance (From Chennai): 146 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Half Day to Full Day .....

#37 of 37 Places to Visit in Chennai

At a distance of 70 km from Kanchipuram, 106 km from Tirupati, 142 km from Chennai, and 214 km from Bangalore, Vellore is a city and the administrative headquarters of Vellore district in Tamil Nadu. Situated on the banks of the Palar River, Vellore is one of the oldest cities of South India, and among the popular Tamilnadu tourist places . Vellore is popularly known as the Fort City of Tamil Nadu. Now a very calm and understated place, it was once a battleground and has seen many wars. The name Vellore also means a City of Spears. Vellore along with Sripuram is one of the popular weekend getaways from Chennai , and among the top attractions, you must include in South India Trip . Vellore has an enriching legacy reflecting the early Dravidian culture. It has been ruled by the Pallavas, Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, Rashtrakutas, ..... Distance (From Chennai): 142 Kms Trip Duration (From Chennai - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Most Asked Questions on Chennai

Chennai is highly humid area and Winter from October to February is the best time to visit Chennai . December is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. This is also the time for exploring the beautiful beaches and several historical places of Chennai

Chennai usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. However, there are several wonderful places to visit around Chennai like Mahabalipuram which usually take additional one day. Chennai can be mixed with near by wonderful destinations like Pondicherry, Kanchipuram, Chidambaram and Vellore by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Chennai trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Chennai tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 7500 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Chennai like Marina Beach, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, Govt. Museum, Valluvar Kottam, Kapiliswarar Temple, Birla Planetarium and Elliot's Beach. If you have time, you can visit near by places like Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram with additional day for each place.

Buying souvenirs is a great way to bring back some of the cherished moments you had during the trip to Chennai. The beautifully-woven silk saris of Kanchipuram, Gold Jewellery, stone carvings from Mahabalipuram, Tajore Painting, bronze, brass castings and traditional jewellery from Kumbakonam and leaf handicrafts from Tirunelveli are the must by things in Chennai. T Nagar, Pondy Bazar, Sowcar Pet and Anna Nagar the popular shopping places to buy these souvenirs.

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Things to Do in Chennai (Madras), India - Chennai (Madras) Attractions

Things to do in chennai (madras).

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Nungambakkam
• Nungambakkam/Marina Beach
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

2. Snow Kingdom

3. Besant Nagar Beach

4. Marina Beach

5. San Thome Church

6. Express Avenue Mall

7. Arulmigu Thiruvallikeni Parthasarathy Temple

8. Mylapore

10. Indian Institute Of Technology, Madras

11. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

12. Vadapalani Murugan Temple

13. The Huddleston Gardens of Theosophical Society

14. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

15. Ananthaa Padmanabha Swaamy Temple

16. Pondy Bazaar

17. VGP Marine Kingdom

18. Ramakrishna Temple

19. Guindy Snake Park

20. Viswaroopa Adhivyadhihara Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple

21. Marundeeswarar Temple

22. The Anna Centenary Library

23. Chennai Central Railway Station

24. Kalikambal Temple

25. Elliot's Beach

26. Kamakshi Amman Temple

27. ISKCON Chennai, Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple

28. VGP Universal Kingdom

29. St. Thomas Mount National Shrine

30. Ashtalakshmi Temple

What travelers are saying.

Chennai (Madras)

If you have time to explore Chennai (formerly Madras), this 284-sq-mi (400-sq-km) conglomerate of urban villages and diverse neighborhoods making up Tamil Nadu's capital will pleasantly surprise you. Its role is as keeper of South Indian artistic, religious and culinary traditions.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Government Museum

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

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

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

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…

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

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…

Book Building

Within this mural-covered space, Tara Books stages free exhibitions, author talks and workshops with visiting artists, and displays its own highly…

Sri Ramakrishna Math

The tranquil, flowery grounds of the Ramakrishna Math are a world away from Mylapore's chaos. Orange-robed monks glide around and there’s a reverential…

St Thomas Mount

The reputed site of St Thomas’ martyrdom in AD 72 rises in the southwest of Chennai, 2.5km north of St Thomas Mount train station. The Church of Our Lady…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 free things to do in chennai, india's southern capital.

Express Avenue

This is one of Chennai's best and most central shopping malls, full of major international and Indian apparel chains. The top-floor food court is good for…

Madras High Court

Completed in 1892, this imposing red Indo-Saracenic structure is said to be the world's largest judicial building after the Courts of London. The central…

Fort Museum

The Fort Museum has exhibitions on Chennai's origins and the fort itself, and displays interesting military memorabilia and artwork from colonial times…

Madras Lighthouse

At the southern end of Marina Beach, the fourth-incarnation Madras Lighthouse is India's only one with a lift; it's ridiculously popular, but the…

Marina Beach

Take an early morning or evening stroll (you don’t want to roast here at any other time) along the 3km-long main stretch of Marina Beach and you’ll pass…

Theosophical Society

Between the Adyar River and the coast, the 100-hectare grounds of the Theosophical Society provide a peaceful, green, vehicle-free retreat from the city…

Parthasarathy Temple

Built under the 8th-century Pallavas and unusually dedicated to Krishna (a form of Vishnu) as the charioteer Parthasarathy, this is one of Chennai's…

Phoenix Market City

Chennai's newest, most luxurious shopping mall hosts all the big-name Indian and international brands and chains, from Chanel and Zara to Bata, Lifestyle,…

Fort St George

Finished in 1653 by the British East India Company, the fort has undergone many facelifts. Inside the vast perimeter walls (the ramparts are 18th-century…

St Mary's Church

Completed in 1680, yellow-washed St Mary's Church was the first English church in Madras and is India's oldest surviving British-built church. Both Robert…

Valluvar Kottam

This 1976 memorial honours the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar and his classic work, the 133-chapter Thirukural. Its most striking element is a 31m-high stone…

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19 Top Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

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

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

Mahabalipuram Beach

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

Kanchipuram

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

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

Pondicherry

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

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

Thanjavur (Tanjore)

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

Kumbakonam and Gangaikonda Cholapuram

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

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

Tranquebar (Tharangambadi)

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

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

Tiruvannamalai

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

Kanyakumari

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

Rameshwaram

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

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

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

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

Mudumalai National Park

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

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

Tiruchirappalli

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

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Top Things to Do in Chennai (Madras), India

Places to visit in chennai (madras).

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Nungambakkam
• Nungambakkam/Marina Beach
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

2. Snow Kingdom

3. Besant Nagar Beach

4. Marina Beach

5. San Thome Church

6. Express Avenue Mall

7. Arulmigu Thiruvallikeni Parthasarathy Temple

8. Mylapore

10. Indian Institute Of Technology, Madras

11. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

12. Vadapalani Murugan Temple

13. The Huddleston Gardens of Theosophical Society

14. Arignar Anna Zoological Park

15. Ananthaa Padmanabha Swaamy Temple

16. Pondy Bazaar

17. VGP Marine Kingdom

18. Ramakrishna Temple

19. Guindy Snake Park

20. Viswaroopa Adhivyadhihara Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple

21. Marundeeswarar Temple

22. The Anna Centenary Library

23. Chennai Central Railway Station

24. Kalikambal Temple

25. Elliot's Beach

26. Kamakshi Amman Temple

27. ISKCON Chennai, Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple

28. VGP Universal Kingdom

29. St. Thomas Mount National Shrine

30. Ashtalakshmi Temple

What travellers are saying.

Tourist places in Tamil Nadu

Here are the top 74 places to visit in tamil nadu in 2024:, 1. rameshwaram.

1 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 22 Tourist attractions

Rameshwaram is located on a beautiful island in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is separated by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka.

Best Time: Throughout the year

2 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 20 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the Shivaroy Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a hill station in the Eastern Ghats steeped in abundant greenery. Commonly called ‘Ooty of the Poor’, this region has a history dating back to the time of the British. Located at an altitude of 4970 feet, Yercaud is known for its vast expanses ...

Best Time: October to June

3. Kodaikanal

3 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 35 Tourist attractions

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. A Lakeside resort town of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs and waterfall that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. Kodaik...

Best Time: September to May

4 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 43 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst Nilgiri hills, Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a top-rated tourist destination. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company, the Queen of the hills is a picturesque getaway.

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Quintessential Tamil Nadu Package: Madurai, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari

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

5 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 91 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the state of Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India. Located on the Coromandel coast of Bay of Bengal, Chennai is as dynamic as it is immersed in tradition. This 'capital of the south', is one among the four metropolitan siblings of In...

Best Time: October to March

6. Auroville

6 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 21 Tourist attractions

Located around 15 km from the city of Pondicherry, Auroville is located in Tamil Nadu and was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa, a disciple of Aurobindo and fondly known as the 'Mother' of Sri Aurobindo Society. This place is the epitome of tranquillity and proves as the perfect escape for the ones i...

Best Time: November to March

7. Hogenakkal

7 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 9 Tourist attractions

Hogenakkal is a waterfall located in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu where the Kaveri river splits into multiple streams of waterfalls. Located at a distance of 180 km from Bangalore, Hogenakkal has water throughout the year. The carbonite rocks, the coracle (basket boat) rides, freshwater fish, o...

8. Mahabalipuram

8 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 23 Tourist attractions

Famous for its intricately carved temples and rock-cut caves, Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram as it is famously known, is a historically important and well-loved tourist location situated on the Coromandel Coast along the Bay of Bengal, in the state of Tamil Nadu. Once the abode of the famous dem...

Best Time: November to February

9. Kanyakumari

9 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 28 Tourist attractions

Located at the southernmost tip of the Indian subcontinent, Kanyakumari is a captivating coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu. Renowned for its breathtaking confluence of three vast water bodies – the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean – Kanyakumari is celebrated for its stunnin...

Best Time: October to February

10. Kanchipuram

10 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 16 Tourist attractions

Widely known for its beautiful 'Kanchipuram sarees' and also referred to as the 'golden city of a thousand temples', Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is a popular tourist attraction. Kanchipuram or Kanchi attracts a lot of tourists from all over the world who are interested in Hinduism or just want to enjo...

Best Time: October to May

Best tourist destinations & places in Tamil Nadu

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11. Madurai

11 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 20 Tourist attractions

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of India. Ruled by Pandya kings for the longest time in its history, it is called as the 'Lotus City' as it was planned and built in the shape of a lotus. Madurai is known for Meenakshi Amm...

12. Coimbatore

12 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 27 Tourist attractions

Often termed as 'Manchester of South India', Coimbatore, the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu, photographically situated on the banks of River Noyyal. Coimbatore, also known as Kovai, is a welcoming area with the backdrop of hustle-bustle and charm of activity and industry. From ancient temple...

Best Time: September to March

13. Thanjavur

13 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 15 Tourist attractions

Also known as Tanjore or the city of temples, Thanjavur has a lot of cultural value and is known for its famous Tanjore paintings, antiques and handicrafts, textiles and saris , its Carnatic music and musical instruments and of course the temples.

14. Tirunelveli

14 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 32 Tourist attractions

Tirunelveli, also called Tinnevelly, is a big city in the midst of numerous small towns, each with its own bounty of beautiful sights, temples, waterfalls and much more. Unlike many temple towns, this 2000-year-old ancient city also does offer many other sites to its tourists. The city is locat...

15. Mudumalai National Park

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

Mudumalai National Park is a part of the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, located at a distance of 150 kilometres from Coimbatore, in the Nilgiri District of Tamilnadu. It connects the Western Ghats to the Eastern Ghats and owes its popularity to the fact that it’s home to many vulnerable and endangere...

Best Time: December to June

16. Thiruvannamalai

16 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 9 Tourist attractions

A town that offers a significant history adorned in its countless temples and ashrams, Thiruvannamalai is where Hindu Mythology takes the form of stunning architecture

17. Coonoor

17 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 17 Tourist attractions

One of the three beautiful Nilgiri hill stations, Coonoor is the second largest hill station of the Western Ghats. It is situated at an altitude of 1930 meters and just 19 km from Ooty. With slopes of tea plantations, dotted with many attractions and blessed with chilly weather throughout ...

18. Velankanni

18 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 6 Tourist attractions

Quaint and calm, Velankanni is a little hamlet tucked away in the state of Tamil Nadu, on the coast of Bay of Bengal. It is a famous Roman Catholic pilgrim centre and is visited by thousands of devotees for its shrine of ‘Our Lady of Good Health’ aka Mother Mary. Inspired by the Lourdes in France, V...

19. Dhanushkodi

19 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 6 Tourist attractions

Dhanushkodi is a small, sparsely populated beach town on the coast of Tamil Nadu. In the 1964, Dhanushkodi was hit by one of the worst storms India has ever seen. Ever since then, Tamil Nadu has rebuilt this town to become one of the most unique and unusual beach towns of India.

20. Tuticorin

20 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 14 Tourist attractions

Popularly known as Thoothukudi, Tuticorin is a port city in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu. The city lies 40km east of Tirunelveli on the gulf of Mannar of the Bay of Bengal. Tuticorin is known as the pearl city due to the pearl fishing carried out in the town.

Best Tourist Attractions in Tamil Nadu

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Vivekananda Rock Memorial

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Ooty Botanical Gardens

Ooty Rose Garden

21. Yelagiri

21 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 13 Tourist attractions

A quaint little hill station located in Vellore, Yelagiri is just three hours away from Bangalore, making it the perfect spot for a quick weekend getaway. Spread a little over 30 square kilometres, and at a height of over 1100 metres above sea level, Yelagiri offers its tourists some beautiful place...

22. Kumbakonam

22 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 25 Tourist attractions

Sandwiched between two great rivers of southern India, Cauvery and Arsala, Kumbakonam is a gorgeous temple town in the heart of the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.The town is a place for the lovers of history and those seeking to understand India's cultural roots and Hinduism.

23. Chettinad

23 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 13 Tourist attractions

Located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, Chettinad Showcases the rich heritage, striking art and grand architecture of the state. Apart from being known as a temple town, the Chettinad Cuisine is the most renowned in the repertoire of Tamil Nadu. The word "Chetti" is a Sanskrit term meaning ...

24 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 15 Tourist attractions

Nestled on the banks of the Cauvery River, Tiruchirappalli, colloquially known as Trichy, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Tamil Nadu's cultural heritage. With a history dating back to the 3rd century BC, this city seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern developments. The iconi...

25. Chidambram

25 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 10 Tourist attractions

A beautiful temple town in the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu, Chidamabaram is famous for housing the marvellous Lord Nataraja Temple and the famed chariot festival. Situated 250 kms away from the city of Chennai, Chidambaram has been a place of architectural glory and religious importance since a...

Best Time: October to January

26. Nagapattinam

26 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 8 Tourist attractions

Nagapattinam is a town on the coastline of the Bay of Bengal with a major historical significance which is also a renowned pilgrim centre with Divya Desam of Velankanni, many temples and mosques spread all over. Nagapattinam has its the name derived from Nagur, the land of serpent gods and is credit...

27. Vedanthangal

27 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 2 Tourist attractions

Lying close to the important district of Mahabalipuram, is Vedanthangal, best known for its bird sanctuary. The compact water tank of 30 hectares that the sanctuary is built around is home to at least 30,000 birds every year during migratory season.

28. Tharangambadi

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

Forgotten to be touched by time, and still known for its tranquillity, is Tharangambadi, otherwise known as Tranquebar- The land of the singing waves. Tranquebar or Tharangambadi is a tiny beach town in Nagapattinam district that dates back to the 14th century. Placed at a dreamy patch at the conflu...

Best Time: August to February

29. Kutralam

29 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 9 Tourist attractions

Courtallam, also known as Kutralam, is a perfect getaway from Tenkasi and Tirunelveli. A small town bordering Kollam District, Courtallam is famous for its waterfalls on the Western Ghats. With captivating panoramic vistas, the township is popularly renowned as 'Spa of South'. It has nine waterfalls...

Best Time: July to March

30. Bellikkal

30 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Bellikkal is one of those places where you can completely relax, without having to worry about a 'to-do' list for your vacations and yet experience mountains that will steal your breath away. Instead of having a hundred places to offer, it will take you by its beauty, calmness and serenity.

31. Vellore

31 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 17 Tourist attractions

An ancient city in the northeastern part of Tamil Nadu, Vellore is located on the banks of river Palar Vellore. Nicknamed ‘The Fort City’ due to the marvellous Vellore Fort which sits at the heart of Vellore city, it is an ideal place to glimpse Tamil Nadu's rich cultural heritage through ...

Best Time: October - March

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

Dotted by luscious patches of greenery and beautiful waterfalls, Theni is a little hamlet on the Western Ghats. The topography of Theni mainly consists of hills and ranges. It has plenty of rivers and dams and is an abode to 27 forests hence filled with unparalleled greenery. 

33. Pollachi

33 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Located down south, in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, the town of Pollachi is a popular filming spot due to its lavish greenery and blissful sceneries. Primarily an agricultural region, Pollachi adorns vast spreads of coconut, jaggery and vegetable fields. The famous Topslip Tiger reserve and Annamalai wil...

Best Time: December to February

34 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

The city of Yanam is situated in the Yanam district of Puducherry, India. The small city which covers an area of 30 square kilometers is in the confluence where Godhavari meets Koringa to the south of Kakinada district in Andhra Pradesh. The city has a widely distinct culture with a mixture of Frenc...

Best Time: June to September

35. Kolli Hills

35 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu 4 Tourist attractions

With an ominous name which means ‘Mountain of Death’, Kolli Hills or Kolli Malai are a mountain range located in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu. It is relatively untouched by commercial tourism and therefore has retained most of its natural magnificence. The mountains are famous for not on...

Best Time: March-June; August-December

36 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Right between the 200km distance from Coimbatore and Madurai lies the hilly town of Palani. The town has two hills, Sivagiri and Sakthigiri, that are the prominent visual in this scenic, hilly landscape. There are many lakes in Palani that eventually drain into the Shanmuga River at the foot of thes...

Best Time: November-March

37. Tenkasi

37 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Tenkasi is the second largest town of the Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu on the Madurai - Kollam highway. Amidst the Western Ghats, River Chittar flows through this picturesque destination favoured amongst tourists. While this town is known for waterfalls and temples, it has been made famous for i...

Best Time: July to October

38. Dindigul

38 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Dindigul is a historical city and administrative centre for Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu. Situated between the Palani hills and Sirumalai hills' foothills, this city is not particularly known for its terrain. Its history & culture has found reverence, having been home to an ancient settlement.&...

Best Time: July-March

39. Mayiladuthurai

39 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Located about 57.3 km from Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai is a temple town that's famous for it's Shiva temple known as Mayura Natha Swamy temple. Ruled dominantly by the medieval Chola dynasty, the history of Mayiladuthurai dates back many decades. The city is located near the river Cauvery with coco...

40. Thiruvarur

40 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

Thiruvavur, also written as Tiruvarur, is a municipality town nestled in Tamil Nadu, India. Famed for its antiquity, the town has been ruled by multiple groups at varied times including Medieval Cholas, Later Cholas, Vijayanagar Empire, Later Pandyas, Marathas, and the British. A charming templ...

Best Time: December to March

41. Pulicat

41 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

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

42. Bodinayakkanur

42 out of 74 Places to visit in Tamil Nadu

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

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States › Tamil Nadu › Chennai

Chennai Travel Guide

Vibrant, vivacious and vivid - Chennai's amazing amalgamation of the classical Tamil aestheticism with a new layer of cosmopolitan culture is definitely a treat for every traveller who decides to explore this coastal metropolitan city. Spanning a wide range of diverse attractions, the ample places to visit in Chennai will enthrall travellers to the core. Founded by the British in 1639, Chennai went on to emerge as a topmost tourist attraction apart from being the hub of Tamil politics, economy and culture. Beautiful beaches, a motley assortment of architectural wonders in the form of temples and numerous eateries offering delectable local and international fare - there are many points of interest in Chennai that will fill you up with charming experiences. While in the city, you will get a chance to relive the days of the Chalukya and the Chola Dynasties at the Government Museum, take a walk at India's first fortress built by the British, or observe the classic Dravidian architecture at the numerous temples sprinkled all over the city. For those who love outdoorsy things, the Guindy National Park or the campus of the Theosophical Society at Adyar is the place to be. The boulevard of the Theosophical Society is a great place to visit and take a stroll that eventually heads towards the San Thome Church.

Needless to say, this neo-Gothic Cathedral is an absolute treat to the eyes. Other must visit places in Chennai comprise a host of temples including the likes of Kapaleeshwarar Temple and Parthasarathy Temple. Both these shrines offer unique Dravidian architecture that leaves travellers in awe. Admire the timeless beauty of the temples and offer your prayers at these religious sites. The city's historic temples, churches, colourful markets, art-hubs always ensure that visitors have plenty of things to do in Chennai. Explore the city's government museum, visit the planetarium, watch sunset at Marina Beach as you grab some fried seafood snacks or go wildlife spotting at the Snake Park or at the Guindy National Park-Chennai will never fail to enthral you with its myriad experiences. In our Chennai travel guide we will tell you all about the several places to visit and some of the must do things in Chennai From offering prayers at the numerous temples to reliving the past at historical museums and forts to wildlife safaris at the few natural parks and strolling at the longest sea beach in Asia - we have covered it all.

Best Time to Visit Chennai

Chennai is located right on the banks of the Bay of Bengal and enjoys a tropical humid climate year-round. Summers are very hot and sunny while monsoons record moderate to heavy rainfall, thereby increasing the humidity levels in the air to a substantial extent. Winters are probably the best time to visit Chennai as the temperature is moderate and the weather is pleasant.

Chennai experiences severe summers. The summer season beginning from March extends almost till October, with some splashes of rains in between. However, the underlying warmness continues to remain year-round. Talking about hottest months, the duration from late May till mid-June records the highest temperature with mercury levels crossing 45° Celsius pretty often. Needless to say, that the scorching heat makes it nearly impossible to include Chennai as your summer vacation outing. However, the cool breeze of the sea, post sunset, offers some respite.

Just like pan-India, Chennai experiences monsoons from mid-June to September, though with an underlying warmness in the air. Humidity levels go up substantially accompanied by moderate to heavy rains. Though few travel junkies do visit Chennai during monsoons, exploring the city amidst rainfall can get somewhat difficult.

Winters are the best time to visit Chennai. With a slight warmth in the air, the weather is pretty much pleasant and makes for an ideal time to explore the city. Winters in Chennai are very short-lived spanning from November to February with January recording the lowest temperature. Temperature during winters range between 14°C and 22°C. Chennai also receives occasional splashes of rain during winters, making the weather all the more pleasant. A tour of Chennai during winters can be highly enjoyed.

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Chennai

Those who want to experience the authenticity of Tamil culture and soak into its savoir-faire clubbed with a strong modern-day cosmopolitan influence, Chennai is a must visit place. Right from offering prayers at the numerous religious shrines to taking a leisurely stroll at the longest beach in Asia to reliving the days of the yore at many historical architectures - a tour of Chennai will leave you asking for more.

Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple

Located in Nanganallur, the Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple is prominent religious shrine in Chennai. The shrine attracts several tourists round the year. The temple's presiding deity happens to be Lord Hanuman. Standing tall at a height of 40 feet, the idol is believed to be the biggest Hanuman statue in India. Carved out of a single granite stone, the statue is slightly green in colour. The temple has corridors running from the main sanctum to other shrines.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

Dedicated to Sai Baba, the Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a major place of worship that attracts thousands of devotees round the year. A peaceful-place, do remember to offer your prayers and seek blessings at this temple. One of the major features of the temple is that, they offer prasadam to each and every visitor and that too almost every minute.

Kapaleshwarar Temple

Built in the 7th century, the Kapaleshwarar Temple in Mylapore is an old shrine. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple boasts an impressive Dravidian architecture where devotees throng in large numbers throughout the year. The present structure is believed to have been reconstructed in the 16th century after the Portuguese destroyed the temple. The temple's most important feature happens to be a brightly coloured gopuram and a pillared mandapa.

Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam

Located in T Nagar, the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam is a popular religious shrine highly regarded by the Tamilians. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is said that the temple is one of the richest shrines in south India. Its popularity attracts devotees in large numbers throughout the year. Just like any other temples in south India, this shrine is also built in the typical Dravidian style of architecture, though its white in colour.

Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple

The Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is yet another popular Hindu religious shrine in Chennai. The presiding deity of the temple happens to be Lord Vishnu. The statue of Lord Vishnu is here seen in a reclining posture with the five-headed serpent and worshipping a Shiva Lingam. One cannot stop admiring the beauty of the deity. Built in 1962, the temple boasts of a south-Indian architecture and is highly revered among the Malayali community of Chennai.

Thousand Lights Mosque

Located in Anna Salai, the Thousand Lights Mosque is prominent place of worship in Chennai. Built in 1820, the mosque's medieval Indo Saracenic architectural is highly admirable. It is said that, the hall inside the mosque is so huge that 1000 lamps were used to lit it up. Since then, the mosque came to be known as Thousand Lights Mosque. The shrine is highly regarded by the Shia community.

Ramakrishna Temple

As the name suggests, the Ramkrishna Temple is dedicated to the famous saint and religious reformer, Ramakrishna Paramhansa. The temple was founded in 1897 by Swami Ramakrishnananda, a direct disciple of the former who came to Chennai to spread his guru's message. It has the idols of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. The temple authorities are actively involved in social development and offers free education to underprivileged children and rehabilitation to the needy.

Sri Parthasarathy Temple

The Parthasarathy Temple is yet another prominent shrine in the city of Chennai that attracts thousands of devotees year-round. Situated in Triplicane, the temple is one of the oldest shrines and was built in the 8th century AD by the rulers of the Pallava Dynasty with later addition by the Cholas and the Vijaynagar Empire. An ultimate example of Dravidian architecture, the myriad Tamil and Telugu inscriptions on the temple are worth noting.

St. George Fort and Museum

One of the prominent places of interest in Chennai, the St. George Fort and Museum was built by the British in 1653. Since its inception, the structure has undergone several facelifts and today happens to be centre of Tamil Nadu's legislative assembly. The museum in the fort displays on Chennai's origins and the fort, an interesting military memorabilia and an extensive artwork from colonial times. Read more

San Thome Cathedral and Basillica

The white neo-gothic cathedral leaves behind an indelible impression on the visitors with its 180 feet tall spire. Considered one of the holiest shrines of Christianity, the Basilica has the remains of St Thomas, (one of Jesus' 12 apostles) who came here to preach. The church was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, later reconstructed in its latest form on 1898. Read more

Vivekananda House and Museum

Dedicated to the famous religious reformer, the Vivekananda House and Museum is another must visit place in Chennai. The house is remembered as the place where Swami Vivekananda stayed for a while after returning from the US. Spherical in shape and rising three-storey high, the structure is located in the busy locality of Kamaraj Salai. There's a museum that houses several photos and events from the great monk's life.

Marina Beach

The Marina Beach happens to one of the main attractions of this coastal city. Sprawling over a distance of more than 13 kilometres, the coastline is the longest in Asia and the second longest in the world after the Miami Beach, Florida. It runs from Fort St. George in the north to Besant Nagar in the south. Travellers must make it a point to visit this landmark of Chennai while in the city. Early morning and dusk are the best time to visit the coastline when a cool breeze flows from the sea. Read more

Government Museum

History lovers and culture vultures can have an awesome time exploring the Government Museum of the city. The museum is a treasure trove of artefacts from the 6th century onwards and houses artefacts from all major south Indian kingdoms like the Cholas, the Chalukyas, the Hoysalas and the Pallavas. There are also certain galleries dedicated to zoology and natural history. One of the major highlights is the National Art Gallery that some artefacts belonging to the Deccani, Rajasthani and even Mughal dynasties. Read more

Guindy National Park and Snake Park

One of the smallest national parks of India, the Guindy National Park and its adjacent Snake Park are also prominent tourist attractions in the city. It is also one of the very few national parks located within a main city. The park is home to several rare species of animals including blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, a variety of snakes, lizards, geckos and tortoises. The park attracts more than 700,000 visitors every year.

Elliot's Beach

Located roughly 60 kilometres away from the city centre, the Elliot's Beach is yet another prominent coastline in the city of Chennai. Also known as Bessie Beach, the coastline lies extreme south of the Marina Beach and is quite popular with the youngsters of the city. There's a lot to do in this tranquil beach - watch the sun set across the horizon, build sand castles on the beach or simply lie on the beach and enjoy the cool breeze. Read more

Where to Stay in Chennai?

As a metropolitan city, it goes without saying that there are host of accommodation options in the city catering to all kinds of travellers. Whether you are an international traveller or travelling from a different part of the country, you can choose accommodations in the city as per your taste. Be it budget hotels or mid-range ones at a central location or high-end hotels overlooking the sea - you can find all kinds of options in Chennai.

How to Reach Chennai?

Being a state capital and a prominent metropolitan city, Chennai is easily accessible from all over India. Right from Assam in the extreme northeast to the extreme west coast of Gujarat - travellers can avail major modes of transport to reach Chennai. From railways to airways to roadways, every means of transport is bound towards Chennai.

If you are travelling to the city by air, you need to land at the Chennai International Airport. The airport is well-connected by several domestic and international airlines that ply several times a day.

The main railway station for the city happens to be the Chennai Central Station. The junction is extremely well-connected with numerous local and express trains throughout India. Train tickets can be booked online beforehand.

Chennai can be reached via road as well since the city is very well connected by a wide network of roads. Several National Highways (NH) and State Highways connect Chennai to hundreds of Indian cities. If you are adventurous enough you can choose to opt for a road trip to Chennai from Kolkata via NH 16. On the other hand, if you are travelling from Bengaluru, you have to take NH 48 and while travelling from Thiruvananthapuram you have to take NH 38.

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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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• Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Discover the beauty of Tamil Nadu with its Ooty, Yelagiri, Chennai, Yercaud, Masinagudi. Explore the top places in the state, including Botanical Garden, Fernhills Palace, Toda Huts, Pykara Waterfalls, Ooty Trekking, and immerse yourself in a memorable travel

1 Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Colonial Hill Station in Tamil Nadu

Officially called Ootacamund, the hill-town is better known by its nicknameOoty. It is loved by Bollywood directors, honeymooners, families, and even backpackers, for its mountains, lakes, gardens, and waterfalls.

2 Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu

Hub of Enthralling Adventure Activities

Located in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu and at 1,110 metres above sea level, Yelagiri is a picturesque hill station with rose gardens, lush green orchards and deep valleys.

3 Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Gateway to South India

With large stretches of white sand, diverse ethnicities and ancient monuments enhancing its natural, cultural, artistic and culinary vibe, the modern city of Chennai (formerly Madras) lies along the coast of Bay of Bengal.

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4 Yercaud, Tamil Nadu

Land of the Rare Kurinji Flowers

At an altitude of 1,515 metres and tucked away in the Eastern Ghats, Yercaud is a charming hill station with lakes, forests and delightful views.

5 Masinagudi, Tamil Nadu

Nature Lovers Paradise

Masinagudi is a small town situated in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is surrounded by dense forests, tea and coffee plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries. Masinagudi is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, and it attracts a large number of tourists every year. The town also has many trekking trails and waterfalls, making it a great destination for adventure lovers.

6 Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu

Pretty Hill Town in Tamil Nadu

Spread across the scenic Western Ghats at an altitude of 7,200 feet, Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill station in Tamil Nadu with wooded slopes, gigantic trees, and misty green meadows.

7 Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Gateway to Tamil Nadu's Hilly Wonders

Popularly called the Manchester of South India due to its booming textile industry, Coimbatore lies nestled within the Western Ghats. Big businesses, friendly crowd, botanical gardens, and cosmopolitan vibes thats what it is all about!

8 Coonoor, Tamil Nadu

Land of the Nilgiri Tea & Hills

Blessed with stunning flora and fauna of the Nilgiris Hills, Coonoor is the quintessential hill station with viewpoints, waterfalls, lakes, gardens, tea estates and colonial-style architecture.

9 Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

Beautiful Pilgrimage Site in Tamil Nadu

Made famous by the epic Ramayana, Rameshwaram is a quaint beach town and a popular Hindu pilgrimage destination that also attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

10 Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Cultural Capital of Tamil Nadu

The 4th century temple city of Madurai boasts of ancient temples built by the Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings. The destination draws pilgrims from far and near.

11 Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu

Historically Rich Town in Tamil Nadu

The temple town of Mahabalipuram, in Tamil Nadu, is famous for being a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing 7th and 8th century monuments, along with sun-kissed beaches and scenic shorelines.

12 Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu

Spiritual Beach Town in Tamil Nadu

The southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari boasts of stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and gushing waterfalls along with sacred temples, ancient forts and poignant memorials.

13 Hosur, Tamil Nadu

The Little England of India

Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Hosur as you explore the numerous temples of the city as well the tranquil natural spots, perfect for a relaxing vacation. Hosur, in Tamil Nadu, India, is a major industrial center. Set on the banks of the Ponnaiyar River, this stunning city is home to several factories and industries. Yet, there is plenty to see and explore here, when it comes to tourism. Hosur offers a beautiful blend of ancient religious sites, commercial hubs as well as natural spots. You can also notice the strong spiritual connection and historical tradition in the city as reflected by several temples of the city.

14 Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu's Golden City

Also known as 'The City of Thousand Temples', Kanchipuram is a holy pilgrimage destination located on the banks of the Vegavathi River. It served as the erstwhile capital of Chola Dynasty.

15 Vellore, Tamil Nadu

Ancient City in Tamil Nadu

Once a centre for ancient dynasties, the fort city of Vellore and is known for its premier medical facilities along with religious sites and historic monuments.

16 Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu

The Picturesque Town of Southern India

Tiruchirappalli boasts a multitude of temples that are worth seeing. This charming city is an example of how secularism and diversity can coexist. You can also explore natural landscapes and various shopping sites here.

17 Velankanni, Tamil Nadu

Pleasant city in Tamil Nadu

Velankanni, a city in Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India because of its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. Basilica of Our Lady of Health is a popular pilgrimage destination due to its prominence as a religious site. After learning about Velankanni's significance, the Pope of Vatican City designated it a Holy city. In addition to churches, you can spend your time exploring various temples in the city as well.

18 Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadus popular vacation spot

Dharmapuri, a city in Tamil Nadu, is one of the state's most popular vacation spots because of all the religious buildings you'll find there. Adding to its natural beauty is the mighty Kaveri River, which forms its western boundary. The area is famous for its religious institutions, but it is also loved by individuals who appreciate nature and scenic vistas. On October 2, 1965, the Salem District was split in two, and the resulting Dharmapuri District encompassed the formerly separate Taluks of Hosur, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri and Harur. This city was once known as Thagadur, a combination of the south Indian terms thagadu (meaning "iron") and ore (meaning "place").

19 Pollachi, Tamil Nadu

Pollachi City in Tamil Nadu is the district's second biggest town, and it's located in the Coimbatore district. A town in the Western Ghats range, Pozhil Vaitchi means the country of wealth in Tamil. More than fifteen hundred films have used the stunning Pollachi location as a setting, a testament to the area's natural splendour. Moreover, the cultural significance of the city's tourist attractions is not to be underestimated.

20 Kotagiri, Tamil Nadu

Discover the Serene Nilgiris

Kotagiri is a beautiful hill station located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, India. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, tea plantations, and peaceful atmosphere. With its pleasant climate and serene surroundings, Kotagiri is a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway in the midst of nature.

21 Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu

The Temple Town of Tamil Nadu

Kumbakonam, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a stunning temple town with a wealth of attractions. Tourists and pilgrims are drawn to the area year after year by the thousands of temples that dot the landscape around the city. Kumbakonam is commonly referred to as a temple town all over the country since it is home to several well-known temples. Every year, thousands of people from all over the country make the journey here to pay homage to their gods at various temples that are also well-known for their cultural and architectural significance. Kumbakonam also hosts a number of annual events, including the popular Mahamahan Festival.

22 Palani, Tamil Nadu

Home to Palani Murugan Temple

The Palani Murugan Temple has made the city of Palani famous in Tamil Nadu. The picturesque Western Ghats rise in the distance, and at their feet are several beautiful lakes, making for a really picturesque scene that will soothe your senses. This city attracts a large number of tourists annually because of its abundance of natural attractions, including beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous lakes, charming hills, verdant woods, a wonderful animal sanctuary and historic temples. Photographers like this location for its ability to depict natures pristine splendour that will leave you absolutely spellbound.

23 Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu

Incredible Temple Town

Chidambaram can be found in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple town is situated on the Vellar River. It is known for its ancient Dravidian architecture and majestic Gopurams. This town was ruled by a number of empires in the past including the Cholas, the Pandyas and later, the Britishers. The town's most notable landmark is the majestic Chidambaram Natarajar Temple. Lord Shiva is the main god worshipped at the temple, making the town a popular destination for Shaivites.

24 Tirupur, Tamil Nadu

Beautiful city on the banks of the Noyyal River

Tirupur is a well-known city in the southern part of the Deccan Plateau, nestled right on the banks of the Noyyal River. The city is recognised as the Knitwear Capital of India and is a major tourism destination for the state of Tamil Nadu. The city is well-equipped to host visitors from all over the country, whether they are in town for a quick weekend or planning an extended adventure vacation. Tirupur, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a spiritual hub for individuals interested in visiting religious and spiritual sites.

25 Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

The incredible city of Tamil Nadu

Dindigul, located in Tamil Nadu, is 100 kilometres from Tiruchirapalli and 154 kilometres from Coimbatore. The fertile area in and around the stunning city, nestled between the Sirumalai Hills and the Palani Hills, is a major economic driver. The city's status as the site of a historic colony has earned it a place of respect for its rich cultural history. In addition, it is widely renowned as the city of textiles, locks, and tanneries, as well as the Biryani Capital of the World. The Dindigul Fort is the most well-known attraction, while the city has many other points of interest for visitors.

26 Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu

The Ancient City of Tamil Nadu

Tirunelveli, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a popular vacation spot. Because of its uniqueness, the region has a wide variety of landscapes, from mountains to beaches, fields to forests, rivers to lakes, lakes to low plains, and plains to woodlands. The attractions in Tirunelveli that have earned their status as "must-sees" provide the whole gamut of vacationer favourites. Nature lovers, history aficionados, pilgrims, and everyone else may all find something to enjoy in Tirunelveli.

Places to Visit in Ooty

Elk Hill Murugan Temple

Mudumalai National Park, Tamil Nadu

Doddabetta Peak

Botanical Garden

Fernhills Palace

Pykara Waterfalls

Homemade Chocolates from King Star

Places to Visit in Yelagiri

Jalagamparai Waterfalls

Nature Park

Swamimalai Hills

Jalagandeeswarar Temple

Punganoor Lake

Yelagiri Adventure Camp

Government Silk Farm

Velavan Temple

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Best Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu , a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty, offers a plethora of best places to visit for travelers. From the bustling city of Chennai to the serene hill stations and ancient temples, Tamil Nadu caters to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination for couples, families, and solo travelers.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Marina Beach: The longest natural urban beach in India, Marina Beach is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, street food, and mesmerizing sunsets.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple: A stunning example of Dravidian architecture, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricately carved gopurams and colorful shrines.

Fort St. George: A historic landmark, Fort St. George houses the St. Mary's Church, a museum, and the iconic flagstaff, offering insights into Chennai's colonial past.

Government Museum: A treasure trove of art, history, and archaeology, the Government Museum showcases an extensive collection of artefacts, paintings, and sculptures.

Guindy National Park: A unique urban national park, Guindy offers a serene escape amidst lush greenery, featuring a variety of flora and fauna, walking trails, and a children's park.

Top Places to visit in Winters in Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and intricate stone carvings.

Kanyakumari: Witness the mesmerizing confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean at the southernmost tip of India.

Madurai: Visit the historic Meenakshi Amman Temple, an architectural marvel adorned with colourful gopurams and intricate sculptures.

Thanjavur: Discover the rich cultural heritage of this ancient city, home to the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple and the exquisite Thanjavur Royal Palace.

Top Places to visit in Summers in Tamil Nadu

Ooty: A picturesque hill station, Ooty offers a refreshing retreat with its lush tea gardens, serene lakes, and pleasant weather.

Kodaikanal: Known as the ‘Princess of Hill Stations,’ Kodaikanal enchants visitors with its misty hills, cascading waterfalls, and beautiful parks.

Coonoor: A charming hill station, Coonoor boasts stunning viewpoints, aromatic tea estates, and the thrilling Nilgiri Mountain Railway .

Yercaud: A tranquil escape, Yercaud features lush coffee plantations, scenic viewpoints, and the serene Yercaud Lake.

Top Places to visit in Monsoon in Tamil Nadu

Valparai: A lesser-known gem, Valparai offers lush greenery, tea estates, and a variety of wildlife during the monsoon season.

Hogenakkal Falls: Witness the majestic Hogenakkal Falls , often referred to as the ‘Niagara Falls of India,’ in its full glory during the monsoon.

Meghamalai: A picturesque hill station, Meghamalai comes alive with verdant landscapes, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls during the monsoon.

Courtallam: Known as the ‘Spa of South India,’ Courtallam features rejuvenating waterfalls and therapeutic natural springs, perfect for a monsoon getaway.

Famous Food/Dish of Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu's cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and a variety of mouth-watering dishes. The iconic dosa, a crispy rice and lentil pancake, is a must-try, often served with flavourful chutneys and sambar. Other popular dishes include Other popular dishes include idli, vada, and uttapam, all made from fermented rice and lentil batter, and often accompanied by coconut chutney and tangy sambar. Don't miss the flavorful biryanis, especially the Chettinad-style preparations, and the delectable, sweet treats like payasam and Mysore pak.

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in 1 Day:

Explore the historic city of Mahabalipuram, visiting its ancient temples, rock-cut caves, and the famous Shore Temple.

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in 2 Days:

Discover the cultural gems of Madurai and Thanjavur, visiting the Meenakshi Amman Temple and the Brihadeeswarar Temple.

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in 3 Days:

Experience the vibrant city life of Chennai, visiting Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple , and Fort St. George, before heading to Mahabalipuram for a day trip.

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in 4 Days:

Combine a visit to the bustling city of Chennai with a relaxing retreat to the picturesque hill stations of Ooty or Kodaikanal.

Places to Visit in Tamil Nadu in 5 Days:

Embark on a comprehensive tour of Tamil Nadu, covering the cities of Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Madurai, and Thanjavur, along with a visit to the serene hill station of Ooty or Kodaikanal.

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Tamil Nadu Attractions

Tamil Nadu is also known for its adventure sport activities and facilities. One of Tamil Nadu's most popular hill stations Kodaikanal and ooty. Kodaikanal is also a great destination for those interested in hiking and trekking and boasts. Ooty a suitable destination for adventure sports like trekking and hang gliding. A mix of landscapes, sights and sounds make grate experiance.

Tamil Nadu Hill Stations

Tamil nadu beaches, tamil nadu temples, tamil nadu churches, tamil nadu forts & palaces, arts & museum, public parks, mosques (dargahs), tamilnadu traditions, tamilnadu tourist attractions, let's plan your trip.