Top Tourist Places and Pilgrimage sites to visit in India

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  • Top Tourist Attractions and Pilgrimage Places in Karnataka.

    Karnataka is a southern state of India. The geographical situation and glorious past has blessed this state with all types of tourist locations like beaches, hill stations, trekking facilities, forts & places, pilgrimage centers, wildlife sanctuaries, famous parks, museums, industries, modern educational centers etc.

    Tourist destinations/attraction in Karnataka state are:

    Forts, Palaces and monuments :

    • Mysore Palace (also known as Amba Vilas palace located in Mysore belongs to wadiyar dynasty of Mysore Empire),
    • Bangalore Palace (center of attraction for tourists in Banglaore built in the year 1878)
    • Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace (located in Bangalore was residence of Musore ruler Tipu Sultan is an Indo-Islamic architecture)
    • Gulbarg Fort (Located in Kalaburagi and initially constructed by Raja Gulchand and later on enlarged in the year 1347 during Bahmani dynasty),
    • Raichur Fort (ancient fort on hilltop in Riachur city),
    • Mirjan Fort (Located on coast line in uttara Kannada district)
    • Bidar fort (Located in old Bidar city constructed during Bahmani dynasty),
    • Chitradurga Fort(It is a hidden gem in about 1500 acres in Chitradurga District built by Chalukyas between 11th to 13th century),
    • Gajendragad Fort(a massive fort built by famous Maratha ruler Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj located on hilltop in Gadag district),
    • Bellary Fort( Located on hilltop in Ballari city),
    • Malkheda Fort (ancient fort located in Manyakheta town in Kalaburagi district also called Manyakheta Fort),
    • Kavaledurga Fort(a hidden gem in Western Ghats of Shivamogga district),
    • Nagara Fort(Located in Nagara village in the Shivamogga district has historic importance),
    • Basavakalyana Fort(Located in Bidar district has historic importance, also known as Kalyana fort),
    • Kittur Fort (Located in Kittur town in Belagavi district and connected with Rani Chennamma, a brave ruler, is major historical monument),
    • Manjarabad Fort(a large star shaped fort on hilltop, at a height of about 985 meters above sea level, constructed by Tipu Sultan is a heritage site at about 5 kms from Sakaleshpur, a hill station,  in Hassan district).
    • Hampi (a UNESCO Word Heritage Site, is the  jewel of the glorious Vijayanagara Empire where visiting temples, streets and its bazzars is a wonderful experience of feeling the old past time) etc.

    Beaches :

                         There are about 40 beaches on about 320 Kms coastline of Karnataka, which are located in its three coastal districts i.e. Uttara Kannada, Udupi and Dakshina Kannada.  The beaches in Karnataka state are quiet and calm to enjoy a quiet day, so these are different than those in Goa.

    Beaches in Uttara (North) Kannada district are:

    • Om beach (located in Hindu pilgrimage destination town Gokarna city is most famous beach with water sports facilities),
    • Kudle Beach(one of many beaches in Hindu pilgrimage destination town Gokarna in Uttara Kannada district near famous Om breach),
    • Gokarna Beach (about 10 Kms long beach in Hindu pilgrimage destination town Gokarna),
    • Paradise Beach (another beach in Hindu pilgrimage destination town Gokarna also called ‘Full Moon Beach’),
    • Half Moon Beach (a small beach in Gokarna town adjacent the Om Beach),
    • Devbagh beach (Located in Karwar town where nature lover tourist can enjoy untouched beauty of surrounding mountains of Western Ghats & adventure sports),
    • Tagore Beach (a beach of shining golden sand located on serene coastline of Karwar town, administrative headquarter of Uttara Kannada district, where a famous event called Karavali festival is organized every year in December-January),
    • Majali Beach (a peaceful beach of  scenic beauty in Karwar town just few kilometres from South Goa with many resorts to experience a private beach, also a place for bird watching and fishing),
    • Koodi bagh Beach (Located at the delta of Kali river in near Karwar town),
    • Murudeshwar Beach (Located in Murudeshwar town famous for its Murudeshwar Temple and 2nd tallest Lord Shiva statue of word where tourist can enjoy the beauty of mountains of Western Ghats & coconut trees),
    • Bhatkal Beach (Located in Bhatkal town an old town of historical significance near Murudeshwar town famous for its Murudeshwar Temple & other beaches around it),
    • Alvekodi Beach (an immaculate crystal clear white sand beach in Alvekodi village near Kumta town is an ideal picnic spot),
    • Baada Beach (a beautiful & clean beach in hills near Kumta town on trek route from Kirki to Gokarna),
    • Kasarkod Beach (a famous beach of about 5 Kms length in Kasarkod village near Honavar town).

    Beaches in Udupi district are:

    • Malpe Beach (a beautiful beach at 6 Kms from Udupi city situated on the delta of Udyavara River),
    • Kodi Beach (It is located on the delta of Suvarna River in Kodi Bengre village at about 18km from  Udupi city & Manipal University and is surrounded by water on three sides),
    • Trasi Maravanthe beach (Located in Maravanthe village of Udupi district),
    • Kaup Beach (Located between Mangalore and Udupi cities from where panoramic view of the sea can be experienced from the top of lighthouse),
    • Maravanthe Beach(a very beautiful beach at 12 Kms from Kundapur city),
    • Ottinene (Scenic beach & backwater located at about 40 kms north to Kundapur coastal town),
    • Uppinakudru (It is a small beautiful island village also known as Salt Island near Kundapura town, once served as the center of salt trading, also houses  many famous temples and Mutts),
    • Padubidri beach(a beach having water sports activity located in a small town named Padubidri where Dakkebali ritual held once in two years).

    Beaches in Dakshina (South) Kannada district are:

    • Panambur Beach (Located at about 13 km from Mangalore city it is a wholly owned by a private enterprise and is one of the safest and well-maintained beaches, hence have massive footfall),
    • Tannirbhavi breach (another popular beach located in Manglore city),
    • Surathkal beach(Located at about 13 km from Mangalore city, a charming lighthouse is addition in its beauty),
    • Ullal Beach (This beach located in Ullal town at about 12 Kms from Mangalore city, district head quarters of Dakshina Kannada district,  is a prime tourist attraction having facilities of water activities),
    • Someshwara Breach (This beach located in Someshwara village near Manglore cuity also houses the famous Someshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and ‘Ottinene Hill’ is also adjacent to it) etc.

    Backwaters/Lakes:

    Famous Backwaters/Lakes :

    • Honnemaradu(back waters of Sharavathi river at about 30 Kms from Sagara town, famous for ‘ Golden Lake’, in Shimoga district in Sahyadri Mountain range),
    • Sigandur (it is a village bordered by the backwaters of Linganamakki Dam and famous for Choudeshwari Temple in  Shimoga district),
    • Navilathirtha or Navilthirtha(It is the backwaters of Malaprabha River near Saudatti town in Belgaum district),
    • Lakkavalli (This is a scenic town known for reservoir of Bhadra River in Western Ghats in Chikkamagaluru district),
    •  Manchanabele Backwater (a reservoir of Manchanabele Dam located at about 45 kms from Bangalore city and about 22 kms from Mysore city is a famous picnic spot),
    • Sharavathi Backwaters(a must visit wonderful picnic spot on Sharavathi river on Linganamakki Dam in Shimoga district) etc.

    Hill Stations, Waterfalls, trekking trails:

    The large area of Western Ghats hills located in Karnataka has blessed this state with   beautiful hill stations, waterfalls, trekking trails, flora & fauna and coffee plantations.

    Some famous hill stations are :

    • Chikmagalur (city is district headquarter),
    • Agumbe (located in Shivamogga district),
    • Madikeri (a town in Kodagu district), 
    • Kodachadri (located in Shivamogga district),
    • Nandi Hills (an ancient hill station in Chikkaballapur district),
    • Kogadu(city is district headquarter) etc.

    Some famous trekking trails are :

    • Narasimha Parvata (in Agumbe),  Kudremukh (a mountain range in Chikmagalur district),
    • Kumara Parvatha (also called Pushpagiri trek located in Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary in Kodgu district),
    • Kanoor trek (located in Shivamogga district),
    • Kodachadri (also located in Shivamogga district),
    • Coorg Plantations (trekking though coffee plantation).

    Some famous waterfalls are ;

    • Jog Falls(on Sharavati river near Siddapura in Uttara Kannada district),
    • Hebbe Falls(must visit waterfall at about 2 km trek near Chikmanglur),
    • Shivanasamudra Falls (near Bangalore),
    • Abbey or Jessy Falls(near Coorg),
    • Kalhatti Falls(About 400 feet falling in front of Veerabhadreshwara Temple at Chandra Drona hills at 82 kms from Chikmanglur),
    • Sathodi Falls(near Dandeli also called mini Niagra),
    • Arasina Makki or Arisina Guni Falls(within Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary at Kodachadri Hills),
    • Kudlu Theertha waterfalls (near Agumbe),
    • Burude/Dodmane waterfalls(near Kyadgi in Uttara Kannada district) etc.

    Museums :

    Some famous museums are:

    • Folklore Museum(located in the University of Mysore and having the collection of art & craft from all over Karnataka),
    • Government Museum (located in Bangalore having amazing collection of archaeological items),
    • HAL Heritage Center and Aerospace Museum (located in Bangalore having collection aircraft models),
    • Manipal Museum of Anatomy and Pathology (located in Manipal in Udupi district having large collection of specimens & samples related to anotmy),
    • Archeological Museum,Hampi (located at Kamalapura village in Vijaypura district dedicated to ruins of Hampi & Vijayanagara empires),
    • Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum (Located in Bangalore related to science and technology),
    • Jayachamarajendera Art Gallery (Located in Mysore as part of Jaganmohan Place),
    • Railway Museum (Located in Mysore illustrating the development of railway in India) .

    Pilgrimage centers :

    All famous religions have grown in this region and glorious past has given famous pilgrimage centers related to Hindus, Jain, Buddhists, Muslim, Christians, Sikhs etc. It is mind blowing fact that there are more than 34000 temples in Karnataka and large number of them are ancient temples which were built by the rulers of glorious dynasties of past as Hinduism is the oldest religion of this region.  

    Some famous temples are:

    • Virupaksha Temple(This temple dedicated to Lord Sri Virupaksha, a form of Lord Shiva, is the part of UNESCO Word Heritage Site  located in Hampi, an ancient village, in Vijayanagra district), 
    • Vitthala Temple(This temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is the part of UNESCO Word Heritage Site  located in Hampi, an ancient village, in Vijayanagra district and is famous for Stone Chariot & Musical Pillars, it is a must liked structure  due to its excellent architecture & matchless craftsmanship),
    • Sri Kadri ManjunathaTemple (Located at hill top at 4 Kms from Mangalore railway station and dedicated to Lord Manjunathaswamy, built in 10th or 11th  century & Buddhism had been practiced here till 10th century),
    • Sri Marikamba Temple(a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Durga located in Sirsi town of Uttara Kannada district built in the year 1688),
    • Kukke Subramanya Temple(this pilgrim center said to be 5000 years old is located in Subramanya village  of  Dakshina Kannada district, here Subramanya is worshiped as lord of all serpents),
    • Chennakeshava Temple(It is 12th century temple located at Belur in Hassan district),
    • Hoysaleswara Temple(12th century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at Halebidu town of Hassan district),
    • Murudeshwar Temple(a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Murdeshwar  town of Uttara Kannada district, Gopuram of temple is 237 feet tall, said to be  tallest in India, and this place also have a 123 feet tall idol ofLord Shiva said to be 2nd largest in world),
    • Udupi Shri Krishna Temple(most revered temple dedicated to Lord Krishna located in Udupi city a district head quarter),
    • Mahabaleshwar Temple(a dravidian architectural style temple of 4th century at Gokarna beach of Uttara Kannada district dedicated to Lord Shiva),
    • Chennakesava Temple(a 12th century temple dedicated to Lord Chennakeshava, a form of Lord Vishnu, at Somanathapura town in Mysore district),
    • Vidyashankara Temple (14th century temple dedicated to Guru Vidhyashankara is a wonderful monument located in Sringeri, a hill town, in Chikkamagaluru district),
    • Kotilingeshwara Temple (a famous temple having Asia’s largest Shiva Lingam locared in  Kolar city a district head quarter),
    • Mallikarjuna Temple(an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva at Pattadakal town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, having many Hindu and Jain temples in Bagalkot district),
    • Durga Gudi Temple (a rock-cut temple dedicated to Goddess Durga located at Aihole village, home of more than 125 unique temples,  in Bagalkot district),
    • Annapoorneshwari Temple (a exciting temple dedicated to Goddess Annapoorna, surrounded by dense forests and valleys of the Western Ghats, located in Horanadu town of Chikmagalur district) etc.

    Some famous Jain temples are:

    • Jain monuments in Shravanabelagola (106 Jain monuments in Shravanabelagola town of Hassan district, out of which  92 are located on Chandragiri Hill named after King Chandragupta Maurya as he visited this hill with his teacher in 300BC),
    • Kundadri Temple (dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanatha located on Kundadri hill in Shimoga district is famous Jain monument believed to be about 2000 years old),
    • Navagraha Jain Temple(located in Hubli town of Dharwad district and dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanatha with smaller sculptures of 8 other Tirthankaras, devotees believe that their worshiping can remove  graha dhoshas of nine planets),
    • Badami Cave Temples (a complex of four Jain, Hindu and Buddhist cave temples),
    • Chandranatha Temple (dedicated to the 8th Tirthankara, Chandraprabha located at Moodbidri town in Dakshina Kannada district). 
    • Chaturmukha Basadi Jain temple (16th century Jain temple in Karkala town of Udupi district),
    • Jain Basadi Complex, Halebidu (Located in Halebidu town of Hassan district),
    • Sri Humcha Padmavati Temple(dedicated to Ma Padmavati, the protective Goddess of the twenty-third Jain Tirthankara, located in Humcha village of Shimoga district),
    • Jain Narayana Temple(Located  in Pattadakal  town, a UNESCO World Heritage sites, of bagalkot district),
    • Gommateshwara Statue(a huge statue of Lord Bahubli built in 983 BC on Vindyagiri Hill in  Shravanbelagola town in Hassan district also called Gomateshwara Temple or Bahubali Temple where Mahamastakabhisheka , a festival, is  celebrated once in twelve years) etc.

    Famous Buddhist pilgrimage centers are :

    •   Namdroling Monastery (this monastery also called Golden temple is located in Bylakuppe town of Mysure district at 34 kms from Coorg).
    • Sri Kadri Manjunatha Temple (Located at hill top at 4 Kms from Mangalore railway station and dedicated to Lord Manjunathaswamy, built in 10th or 11th  century & Buddhism had been practiced here till 10th century)

    Some famous Mosques are:

    • Jama Masjid (also known as Jamiya Masjid or Jumma Masjid is located at Vijayapura also called Bijapur is a large mosque initiated in the year 1578 by Adil shah I after his victory against the Vijayanagara Empire ),
    • Ek Minar Mosque (built during the Bahmani rule with a Persian polish of architecture is located in Raichur city of district ),
    • Masjid Zeenath Baksh (located in Mangaluru, built by  Arab Muslim traders during 644 AD which portrays the life stories of Prophet Mohamed) etc.

    Some famous Churches are:

    • St. Mary’s Basilica(oldest church in  Bangalore is famous for its  solemn service and the beautiful decorations),
    • Infant Jesus Church(dedicated to Infant Jesus and located at Bangalore, it is claimed that many miracles have happened here),
    • Sacred Heart Church(Located in Banglore, its Christmas Carol is very popular),
    • Holy Trinity Church (a must visit Church in Banglore at MG road, built in 1851 in English Renaissance style of architecture),
    • St. Philomena’s Church(Beautiful & large church in the Neo-Gothic architectural style located in Mysore is a must visit destination),
    • Antony’s Shrine(Located in Mysore known for miraculous powers),
    • St. Bartholomew’s Church(It is oldest church in Mysore),
    • Infant Jesus Cathedral(a church of Syro-Malabar Community located in Mysore),
    • CSI Wesley Cathedral(built by Wesleyan Missionaries Society & located in Mysore),
    • Milagres Church or the Church of Our Lady of Miracles(a beautiful church buit in 1680 in Manglore),

    Famous Gurudwaras are:

    • Gurudwara Nanak Jhira (This Gurudwara dedicated to 1st Sikh Guru Nanak Dev ji is located in the Bidar city, the district head quarter. The Jhira means a spring of water, it is believed that on hearing the trouble of locals during his visit, Guru Nanak Dev ji rolled a stone by his foot and a spring of clean water started flowing here which serves the Bidar till now from about 500 years) .
    • Gurudwara Guru Nanak Prachar Sabha(Located at Hospet town in Bellary district).

    Wildlife sanctuaries :

    The geographical situation and Western Ghats hills have blessed the Karnataka state with enormous flora & fauna due to which there are number of national parks & wildlife sanctuaries, some famous are:

    • Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Located near Bhadravati town in Chikkamangaluru district is a tiger reserve having facilities of trekking, jeep safari, boat safari, bird watching etc),
    • Bandipur National Park ( Located in Chamarajanagar district),
    • Nagarhole or Rajiv Gandhi National Park (located in the Kogadu district),
    • Anshi National Park (Located in Uttara Kannada district),
    • Mudumalai National Park (Located in Nilgiri district),
    • Bannerghatta National Park (Located near Bangalore),
    • Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (Located in Belgaum district),
    • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary (located in Uttara Kannada district & borders with Goa),
    • Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary (near World Heritage site of Hampi),
    •  Sharavathi Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (Located in Shimoga District),
    • Jayamangali Blackbuck Reserve (Located in Tumkur district),
    • Kali Tiger Reserve (Located in the Uttar Kannada district),
    • Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary (located in the Kogadu district),
    • Talakaveri wildlife sanctuary (Located in the Kogadu district),
    • Ranganathittu Sanctuary (a bird sanctuary located in Mandya district),
    • Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary (Located in Udupi & Shivamogga districts) etc.

    Airports:

    There are two international and seven domestic airports in Karnataka as under:

    Kempegowda International Airport(Located in Devanhalli town near Bengaluru also called Banglore),

    Mangalore International Airport(Located in Mangalore, coastal city),

    Mysuru Airportalso known asMandakalli Airport(Domestic airport located near village Mandakalli at about 10 kms from Mysore city),

    Kuvempu Airport also known as Shivamogga Airport (Domestic airport located at about 9 kms from Shivamogga city & at about 8 kms from Bhadravathi city),

    Bidar Airport (Domestic airport located in Bidar on Air Force station),

    Belgaum Airport (Domestic airport located in Belgaum),

    Kalaburagi Airport (Domestic airport located at about 12 kms from Kalaburagi city),

    Hubli Airport (Domestic airport located in Gandhi Nagar at about 8 kms from Hubballi city & at about 20 kms from Dharwad city),

    Some other small airports are Baldota Koppal Aerodrome (Koppal), Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (Vidyanagar), Hassan Airport (Hassan), HAL Airport (Bangalore) etc.

    Map of Karnataka

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  • Top Tourist Attractions and Pilgrimage Places in Tamil Nadu.

     Tamil Nadu is a southern state of India which is bounded by two oceans i.e. Bay of Bengal in east and Indian Ocean in south.  Tamil Nadu state has large number of various kinds of destinations to satisfy all type of tourists.

    Famous tourist and pilgrimage attractions in Tamil Nadu state are : 

    Chennai:

    Chennai city, previously known as Madras, is the capital od Tamil Nadu  state of India and district headquarter of Chennai district of this state. This coastal city houses the to Fort St. George or White town as first English fortress settlement in the country of East India Company, this building is a museum now.  Chennai is must visit place to experience Tamil culture, to see ancient temples and old Churches built by Europeans, having longest beach of Asia and other historical evidences. This metropolitan city has its own international airport and railway station.

    Famous tourist attractions in and around Chennai are:

    • St. George Fort and Museum (This heritage site is witness of establishment of British rule & 1st office of Madras Bank),
    • Marina Beach (This famous tourist attraction is one of the longest beaches),
    • Elliot’s Beach (This famous tourist attraction is one of cleanest beach),
    • Kapaleshwarar Temple (Ancient temple of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva) ,
    • Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam (Ancient temple of  Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Vishnu),
    • Sri Bhaktha Anjaneyaswami Temple (dedicated to Lord Hannuman & located at Nanganallur),
    • Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple (built in 1962 & dedicated to Lord Vishnu),
    • Thousand Lights Mosque (beautiful shrine of Shia Community),
    • Ramkrishna Temple (dedicated to famous saint Ramakrishna Paramhansa),
    • Sri Parthasarathy Temple (A dravidian architecture built during the Pallava Dynasty),
    • San Thome Cathedral (Holy  shrine of Christianity having 180 feet tall spire) ,
    • Vivekananda House and Museum (Swami Vivekananda stayed here for some time  after returned from USA),
    • Government Museum (Housing objects related to empires of  Cholas, Chalukyas, Hoysalas and Pallavas),
    • Guindy National Park and Snake Park etc.  

      Kanchipuram:

      Kanchipuram, known as Kanchi or the city of thousand temples, is the headquarter of Kanchipuram district of Tamil Nadu state of India. The Kailasanathar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, built during Pallava-era,   is a large Complex having 1000 pillars halls. This oldest monument in this city is center of attraction for tourists not only from India but from all over the world along with a famous pilgrimage center for Hindus. There are also other ancient temples and this city is also famous for Silk Saris made in this area. This city having attraction for all types of tourist is about 75 Kms from Chennai international airport, has own railway station and well connected by roadways from Chennai, Madurai & Coimbatore.

      Famous tourist and pilgrimage attractions in and around Kanchipuram are:

      • Kailasnatha Temple (Must visit ancient temple dedicated to lord Kailashnathar a form of Lord Shiva),
      • Varadharaja Perumal Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu built during Vijaynagar Empire is famous for its 1000 pillared hall known as Kalyanamandapam),
      • Kamakshi  Amman temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi and associated with Adi sankaracharya),  Sri
      • Ekambareswar Temple ( Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Prithvilingam considered a form of Lord Shiva),
      • Shri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham (Ancient Hindu monastic institution dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi),
      • Shri Ulagalandar Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Vamana avatar having huge statue of Lord), Vaikuntha
      • Perumal Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu built by Pallava King Nandivarman),
      • Chitragupta  Swami Temple {Ancient temple dedicated to Chitragupta (chief accountant of Lord Yama) built during the Chola Dynasty},
      • Thennangur Panduranga Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu built in architecture resembling to the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri),
      • Devarajaswami Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Varadaraja, a form of Lord Vishnu, built during the Vijaynagar Empire),
      • Kachapeshwarar Temple,
      • Sri Subramaniya Swami Temple,
      • Alamparai Fort (built during mugal era),
      • Vedanthangal bird sanctuary.

      Kanyakumari:

      Kanyakumari , the headquarter of Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu state, is a coastal town at southern tip of India and is the meeting point of three seas (Indian Ocean, arabian Sea & Bay of Bangal) surrounding the India.  This town is famous destination for tourists due to Vivekananda Rock Memorial, famous pilgrimage site of Hindus as Bagavathi Amman Temple, Our Lady of Ransom Church, sunrise and sunset points and beaches. This city having attraction for all types of tourist is about 70 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram international airport (Kerala) and has own railway station connected with main trains.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Kanyakumari are:

      • Vivekananda Rock Memorial,
      • Bhagavathy Amman temple (ancient most respected temple dedicated to dedicated to Goddess Devi Kanyakumari),
      • Thiruvalluvar statue (huge statue of Tamil poet) ,
      • Kanyakumari Beach,
      • Padmanabhapuram Palace (16th century beautiful architecture  at the foothills of the Veli Hills),
      • Thanumalayan Temple ( ancient temple in dravidian style of architecture),
      • Sunset View Point (must visit place of awesome experience),
      • Bhagavathy Amman temple (ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kanyakumari),
      • Vattakotai Fort ( coastal fort built  by during Travancore Kingdom in 18th century),
      • Thirparappu Falls (at 65 kms from city),
      • Our Lady of the Ransom Church (religious shrine of Christians),
      • Gandhi Memorial, Mathur Aqueduct,
      • Kanyakumari Wax Museum,
      • Sothavilai Beach,
      • Sanguthurai Beach,
      • Courtallam Falls (at 125 Kms from city),
      • Adi Keshava Perumal Temple (Dravidian style ancient temple),
      • Kanyakumari’s Jain temple (rock-cut sculptures of the Jain Tirthankaras),
      • Tsunami Monument,
      • Vattakottai Beach ,
      • Thengapattinam Beach,
      • Observation Tower.

      Kodaikanal:

      Kodaikanal located in Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu state of India is famous hill station at  about  2000 meters above sea levels which is an area of granite rocks, green valleys, waterfalls, lake,  & scenic hills. This hill station is about 80 Kms from Madurai international airport and railway station.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Kodaikanal are:

      • Kodaikanal Lake (a popular destination in Tamil Nadu),
      • Upper Lake View Point (this point gives the view of Kodaikanal Lake),
      • Chettiar Park { rare species of flowers & Kurunji flowers (once blooming in 12 years) are attractions} ,
      • Silent Valley View Point (wonderful place to view natural and scenic mountains at morning & evening ),
      • Moir point (main view point named after a European engineer Sir Thomas Moir ), 
      • Mannavanur Lake (a cool & peaceful water body),
      • Berijam lake ( surrounded by forest & source of water supply to nearby area) ,
      • Coaker’s Walk (a man made walking area for evening walk),
      • Bear Shola Falls ,
      • Fairy Falls,
      • Astrophysical Observatory (an amazing place for astrophysics fans and tourists, which is the part of Indian Institute of Astrophysics), 
      • Pine Forest, Pillar Rocks (natural strange sight of rocks in hills),
      • Kurinji Andavar temple {dedicated to Kurinji Avtar(Lord Murugan) and  linked with  Kurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years},
      • Poombarai Village View point (offers charming views of the surrounding panorama & village is famous for garlic production),
      • Bryant Park ( a beautiful botanical garden),
      • Guna Caves,
      • Shembaganur Museum of Natural History ( collections of belongings to the Palayiar tribes),
      • La Saleth Church,
      • Vattakanal Falls (located in dense forests),
      • Christ the King Church ,
      • Subrahmanya Temple (at about 65 Kms on scenic location).

      Madurai:

      Madurai, the headquarter of Madurai district of Tamil Nadu state, is an ancient city which is must visit destination due to famous Meenakshi temple Complex. Madurai has its own airport and railway station.

      Famous tourist and pilgrimage attractions in and around Kodaikanal are:

      • Sri Meenakshi Temple {This about 2500 years old ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (an avatar of Goddess Parvati) built in Dravidian architecture, once included in the ‘ Seven Wonders of the World’, is a vast & must visit complex},
      • Pazhamudhir Solai Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan at about 20 kms near natural spring is popular shrine of area),
      • Aayiram Kaal Mandapam (with in Meenakshi Temple),Sri Ramana Mandiram (very close to the Meenakshi temple),
      • ISKCON Madurai Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Lord Vishnu, built during the Vijaynagar Empire),
      • Alagarkoil Temple and shrine (Ancient temple at the top of a hill at about 20 Kms in the ruins a Fort believed to be built during the Pandya Kingdom),
      • Gandhi Sangrahalaya (Collections of belonging of Mahatma Gandhi & housed in 17th century Tamukkam Palace of Nayak Dynasty),
      • Tirupparankunram (Ancient temple of rock cut & Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Murugan),
      • Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal (This historical sites built in Italian architect during Nayak Dynasty is the amalgamation of Dravidian and European architecture),
      • St. Mary’s Cathedral Church (This Church built in  Roman style of architecture is main religious shrine) ,
      • Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam (This is a tank in 16 acres, built  during Nayak Dynasty, used for devotional festivals),
      • Kalamegaperumal Temple (About 2000 years old ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is located in Melur ),
      • Idaikuttur Church (located on Madurai to Rameshwarm highway at about 40Kms),
      • Puthu Mandapam (Shopping complex of city built during Nayak Dynasty),
      • Samanar Hills in Keelakuyilkudi village (A historical site preserved by ASI at about 12 Kms),
      • Villacherry Pottery Village.

      Ooty :

      Ooty known as ‘Queen of hill stations’ located in Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu state of India is famous hill station at  about  2400 meters above sea levels, its nearby other hill stations are ‘Coonoor’ and ‘kotagiri’. This hill station is about 90 Kms from Coimbatore international airport and railway station.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Ooty are:

      • Nilgiri Mountain Railways (a narrow-gauge railway journey on line through tunnels and bridges of  UNESCO World Heritage Site is an wonderful experience),
      • Shooting Point (Beautiful green field surrounded by trees has been much liked by  film directors),
      • Doddabetta peak (highest point of Nilgiri mountains),
      • Ketty Valley View (A valley offering eye-catching views also called as mini Switzerland) ,
      • Pykara Falls (a wonderful sight for  adventure hunters and nature fans),
      • Rose Garden ( an orchard in 10 acres),
      • Thunder World (also called Dinosaur Park, houses the models of many  species of Dinosaurs),  
      • Botanical Garden (Garden in 22 acres maintained by Horticulture Department),
      • Ooty Lake ( a popular lake in 65 acres with boating facilities), 
      • Upper Bhavani Lake (located in the deep forests of Nilgiri mountains),
      • Emerald Lake ( at 20 Kms in the Silent Valley National Park),
      • Avalanche Lake (a camping site near Oaty),
      • Pykara Lake (at Pykara Dam with boat house, rest house & restaurant facility) ,
      • St. Stephen’s Church (main religious shrine in Ooty) ,
      • Sanctuary Avalanche (A wildlife reserve in the  Nilgiri Mountains with  some trekking opportunities),
      • Murugan Temple (located at Elk Hill & providing the  amazing views of surrounding),
      • Mudumalai National Park (Tiger reserve bounded by Karnataka & Kerala state),
      • Thread Garden (an artificial garden where flowers and plants are woven by threads without the use of needles),
      • Cairn Hills (liked for its good resorts facilities),
      • Elk Hills (Famous for its  hotels and resorts with good facilities). 

      Chidambaram:

      Chidambaram town is located on the bank of velar river in Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu state of India. The ancient Nataraj Temple temple complex is its center of attraction. Mangrove forest surrounding this town makes it place to enjoy nature with spirituality. Chidambaram town has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli at about 200 Kms.

      Famous attractions in and around Chidambaram are:

      • Thillai Nataraja Temple (a huge ancient temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva),
      • Thillai kali Amman Temple (an ancient  famous temple within the Thillai Nataraja Temple complex),
      • Tirunallurpperumanam Temple (This ancient temple having 2 prikarams is a wonderful engineering and main tourist attraction in city),
      • Tiruvetkalam Temple (another ancient temple located in the area of Annamalai University & inscriptions since  Nayaka dynasty  period),
      • Pichavaram Mangrove Forest (a wood forest in about 110 hectares with vast varieties of trees, birds, prawns, crabs ,turtles, others etc along the Bay of Bangal),
      • Pichavaram Backwaters (to get wonderful experience of  going through forests in a boat), 
      •  Annamalai University (a renowned university of India  founded in 1929).

      Courtallam :

      Courtallam, also known as ‘the Spa of South’ due medicinal value  of its waterfalls, is  located in the Western Ghats is the part of Tenkasi District of Tamil Nadu state of India. The nearest airport is Tuticorin at about 100 Kms and nearest railway stations are Deboard at about 6 Kms & Sengottai at about 10 kms.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Courtallam are:

      • Courtallam Waterfalls (five falls at one place),
      • Old Courtallam Waterfalls (main attraction),
      • Palaruvi Waterfalls (means stream of milk),
      • Kumbhavurutty Waterfall,
      •  Agathiyar Waterfalls,
      • Chitra Sabhai Temple,
      • Folk Arts Site Museum, 
      • Tiger Falls(Puli Aruvi),
      • Manjolai Estate Hill Station (famous for  aromatic tea gardens in hills),
      • Karaiyar dam, Courtallam Eco Park ( biggest Eco Park in Tamil Nadu in 37 acres),
      • Gundar Dam,
      • Adavi Nainar Dam,
      • Thirumalai Kovil ( temple dedicated to Lord Murugan),
      • Kasi viswanathar temple (This 14th century ancient temple is the tallest shrine of Tamil Nadu which is  carved by Parakrama Pandyan) ,
      • Nellaiappar Temple (This ancient temple built by King Rama Pandian in 7th Century is dedicated to Lord Shiva),
      • Tiruchendur Temple and Beach (This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan is must visit site),
      • Krishnapuram temple(This ancient temple of dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Vishnu and the ten days festival on  Vaikunta Ekadasi   during December-January is the beautiful time to visit),
      • Thenmala Eco Tourism Center(The activities available are adventure park, musical dancing fountain, children’s park, butterfly safari  trekking, boating, , mountaineering, night camping etc),
      • Manimuthar Dam and Waterfalls.

      Dharmapuri:

      Dharmapuri, the headquarter of Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu state, is major producers of mango. The nearest airport and railway station is Bengaluru (Karnataka state ) at about  140 Kms.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Dharmapuri are:

      • Hogenakkal Falls (This popular waterfall located in Melagiri Hills, also called as Niagara of India, provides an eye-catching view),
      • Subramanya Shiva Memoria (a memorial dedicated to a well-known freedom fighter, Subramanya Shiva) ,
      • Theerthamalai Temple (ancient temple of 7th century located on hill & dedicated to Lord Shiva),
      • Kottai Kovil (also called Mallikarjuneswara Temple is another ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, its architecture known as ‘hanging pillar’ is its main attraction),
      • Chenraya Perumal Temple (This ancient temple is holy shrine built in Tulavu dynasty),
      • Adiyamankottai village (Located at about 8 Kms is famous for its ancient reverted Kalavairavar Temple).

      Erode :

      Erode city known as ‘Loom City” or “Textile City” is  the headquarter of Erode district of Tamil Nadu state of India and  is major producers of Turmeric & Textile products. Tourist attractions in this district are ancient Hindu  &  Jain Temple, churches and wildlife sanctuaries. The nearest airport and railway station is Coimbatore at about 100 Kms.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Erode are:

      • Vellode Bird Sanctuary (Famous for migrated birds and attraction of bird watchers),
      • Government Museum,
      • Thindal Murugan Temple,
      • Chennimalai Murugan Temple (ancient temple on the top of hill built during Chola dynasty),
      • Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve,
      • Sri Peria Mariamman Temple (ancient temple built during Chola dynasty dedicated to Mariamman, a form of Goddess Durga),
      • Sri Kongalamman Temple,
      • Brough Church,
      • Arudra Kabalishwarar Temple,
      • Jain Temple,
      • Bannari Amman temple,
      • Bhavanisagar Dam.

      Krishnagiri :

      Krishnagiri city is the headquarter of Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu state of India and is famous for mangoes cultivation  and granite industry. Krishnagiri is the amalgamation of two words ‘Krishna’ means ‘black’ and ‘giri’ means ‘hill’. The nearest airport is Bengaluru (Karnataka state) at about 90 Kms.

      Famous tourist attractions in and around Krishnagiri are:

      • Shree Parshwa Padmavathi Shaktipeet Tirth Dham (dedicated to Parshawanath Bhagwan at bout 7 Kms ),
      • Sri Kattu Veera Anjaneya Temple (a temple dedicated to Lord Hannuman),   
      • Venugopala Swami Temple (temple dedicated to Lord Krishana),
      • Government Museum, Rajaji Memorial (Chakravarthy Rajagopalchari),
      • Arulmigu Maragathambigai Chandra Choodeswara Temple (famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva),
      • Hanumanthathirtham (a temple dedicated to Lord Hannuman),  
      • Krishnagiri Reservoir Dam (KRP Dam),
      • Krishnagiri Fort (16th century fort of Vijaynagar Empire),
      • Rayakottah Fort : ruins of fort are witness of historic battles .

        Mahabalipuram :

        Mamallapuram, also known as Mahabalipuram town located on a strip of land between the Bay of Bengal and the Great Salt Lake is in the Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu state of India. This town is famous for temples and monuments built during Pallava dynasty in the 7th and 8th centuries. This city has its own railway station and its  nearest airport is Chennai  at about 55 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Mamallapuram are:

        • Shore Temple, Descent of the Ganges (a monument),
        • Monuments at Mahabalipuram (UNESCO World Heritage Site),
        • Arjuna’s Penance (a monument),
        • Pancha Rathas (a monument),
        • Seashell Museum,
        • Krishna’s Butter Ball,
        • Varaha Cave Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site),
        • Krishna Mandapam,
        • Pancha Pandava Caves (a monument),
        • Mahishasuramardini Cave temple,
        • Ganesh Ratha Temple,
        • Trimurti Cave (a religious shrine),
        • Tiger Caves temple,
        • Wide Beach,
        • Sri Sthala Sayanaperumal Temple,
        • Mahabalipuram Beach,
        • Sculpture Museum,
        • Maritime Heritage Museum,
        • Lighthouse Heritage Museum,
        • Raya Gopuram (a monument).

        Nagapattinam :

        Nagapattinam city is the headquarter of Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu state of India and is famous for Kayarohanaswami Temple and Soundararajaperumal Temple which are  ancient Hindu pilgrimage sites along with other temples in this district. Nagapattinam has its own railway station and its  nearest airport is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli  at about 150 Kms. 

        Famous tourists attractions in and around Nagapattinam are:

        • Kayarohana Swami and Neelayadakshi Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Soundararaja Perumal Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu),
        • Nagore Dargah (tomb of the Sufi Saint Nagore Shahul Hamid ),
        • Vaitheeswaran Kovil Shrine (dedicated to Lord Shiva & considered the God of Healing),
        • Sikkal Singaravelar Temple (dedicated to Lord Muruga),
        • Mayuranathaswamy Temple (major Hindu religious shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Kodikkarai Wildlife Sanctuary,
        • Nataraja of Konerirajapuram, 
        • Poompuhar Beach,
        • Ettukudi Murugan Temple,
        • Akshyalingaswamy Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Sri Rajagopalaswami temple (considered as South Dwarka),
        • Sri Agneeswaraswami Temple (a form of Lord Shiva), Silappathikaram (a Tamil epic)
        • Art Gallery, Kayarohanaswamy Temple (a form of Lord Shiva),
        • Sri Gomuktheeswarar Temple (also known as Masilamaniswara Temple is excellent Dravidian style architecture). 

        Pudukkottai:

        Pudukkottai city is the headquarter of Pudukkottai district of Tamil Nadu state of India and is famous for its natural resources and sea binds found here along with ancient temples located at Chitthannavasal, Kudumiyanmalai and Avudayarkovli. Pudukkottai has its own railway station and its  nearest airport is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli  at about 75 Kms.

        Famous tourists attractions in and around Pudukkottai are:

        • Sittanavasal caves (Jain’s rock-cut monastery),
        • Brahadambal Temple (fusion of Jain and Dravidian architecture),
        • Avudairyarkoil temple (50 Kms away dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Thirumayam Fort (famous sightseeing destination at shoer distance).

        Coimbatore :

        Coimbatore city is the headquarter of Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu state of India and is famous for its Dravidian-style Arulmigu Subramaniyaswami Temple. Coimbatore is famous industrial area of state for   automobile, textile, spares, engineering goods etc. Coimbatorehas its own airport and railway station.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Coimbatore are:

        • Dhyanalinga temple  (dedicated to meditation by complete silence & dedicated to Lord Shiva), Marudamalai temple (dedicated to Lord Murugan),
        • Arulmigu Patteeswarar Swamy Temple (Dravidian style, dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Statue of Adiyogi Shiva ( about 34 meter tall & 25 meter long), Brookfields Mall ( shopping complex), 
        • Eachanari Vinayagar Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha),
        • Codissia Trade Fair Complex,
        • Kovai Kutralam Falls,
        • Black Thunder Theme Park,
        • Gedee Car Museum (must visit site),
        • Vellingiri Mountains (also known as the ‘Saptagiri’ has spiritual significance),
        • Vellingiri Temple (dedicated to lord Shiva at the foothills of Vellingiri Mountains),
        •  Monkey Falls (about 65 Kms away),
        • Thirumalai Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), Masaniamman Temple (Popular Hindu Shrine dedicated to Goddess Masani Amma, a form of Shakti),
        • Coimbatore ISKCON Temple,
        • G.D. Naidu Industrial Exhibition Centre (Technical material and equipment),
        • Mundhi Vinayagur Temple (dedicated to Lord Ganesha),
        • Sri Nag Sai Temple (dedicated to Shirdi Sri Sai Baba),
        • Fun Republic Mall (shopping center),
        • Sree Ayyappan Temple,
        • Parambikkulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

        Namakkal :

        Namakkal city is the headquarter of Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Namakkal district is famous for Namakkal anjaneyar temple and Namagiri amman temple. Coimbatore city is called as ‘ Egg City ‘ due to big production of Eggs in this area. The famous Tamil Poet Namakkal Kavingnar Ramalingam Pillai,  the famous Tamil Poet,  was born in this district. Namakkal city has its own railway station and its  nearest airport is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli  at about 55 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Namakkal are:

        • Anjaneya Temple (dedicated to Lord Hanuman ji),
        • Namakkal Narasimha temple (dedicated to Naramsimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu),
        • Ettukai Amman temple (situated in  Koli Mallai valleys of  Koli Hiils),
        • Seeku Parai Viewpoint (on Koli hills to see the beautiful mountain ranges and valleys),
        • Agaya Gangai Falls (Koli hills),
        • Arapaleeshwar Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lor Shiva),
        • Selur View Point (on Koli hills).

        Cuddalore : 

        Cuddalore city is the headquarter of Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Cuddalore district is famous for its ancient temples mostly dedicated to Lord  Shiva & Lord Vaishnava and sightseeing places. Cuddalore city has its own railway station and its  nearest airport is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli  at about 190 Kms. 

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Cuddalore are:

        • Pataleeswarar Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Devanathaswamy Temple at Thiruvanthipuram village (honored as Thiruvendipuram Kovil is one of the 108 ancient Vaishnava temples),
        • Veeratteswarar Temple at Thiruvathigai Village ( it is a complex which houses many temples and 108 poses of Bharatnatyam are emblazoned  here), 
        • Sri  Valli Devashena Shiva Subramanya Swamy Temple (dedicated to Lord Murugan and Goddess Valli), 
        • Bhuvaraha Swami Temple ( ancient temple of Varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu),
        • Sri  Mangalapureeswarar  (Chopuranathar)  Temple (at village Tiruchopuram dedicated to Lord Shiva),  
        • Sudarkozhunthutheesar   Temple, 
        • Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Singirikudi (As per myth Singirikudi is the place where Prahlada worshipped Lord Narasimha),
        • Pichavaram Village(scenic site in the lap of nature),
        • Silver Beach, Veeranam Lake (creation of Chola Dynasty).

        Theni : 

        Theni city is the headquarters of Theni district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Theni is a valley town surrounded by hills and rivers is famous for its sightseeing places and production of garlic, cardamom, chilli, grapes, bananas, mango etc. Theni city has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Madurai at about 80 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Theni are:

        • Andippatti village (natural beauty & a major battlefield during the Second World War)
        • Viagai dam on Vaigai River (adjacent beautiful garden  is picnic spot),
        • Periyakulam (Mango City of Theni district),
        • Arulmigu Balasubramanya Temple ( ancient temple dedicated to Lord Subramanyam or Murugan),
        • Kumbakkarai Falls ( on the foothills of the Kodaikanal Hills),
        • Sothuparaii Dam,
        • Mannavanur Lake,
        • Anayirankal Dam Reservoir,
        • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate,
        • Berijam Lake,
        • Chinna Suruli Falls,
        • Meghamalai,
        • Vaigai Dam,
        • Shanmuganathi Dam.

        Salem :

        Salem city located on Thirumanimuthar River is the headquarters of Salem district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Salem city is famous for its sightseeing places, ancient Sugavaneswarar Temple & Gopurams(towers), colonial-era Christ Church, Jamiya Masjid & Salem Steel Plant.  The famous hill station Yercaud also located in this district at about 30 Kms from Salem city. Salem city has its own airport and railway station.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Salem are:

        • Sugavaneswarar Temple or Lingam Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva having 1008 Shiva Lingams ),
        • Bathrakaliamman Temple ( dedicated to Bhadrakali Amman, an avatar of Goddess Kali),
        • Kottai Mariamman Temple ( dedicated to Goddess Kottai Mariamman, a form of Shakti),
        • Siddhar Temple ( located at the foothills of the Kanja Malai Hills  it is out of  18 Tamil Siddha Temples),
        • ISKCON Temple of Salem,
        • Kailasnathar Temple ( ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the reproduction of Meenakshi Amman Temple at Madurai),
        • Sri Ramar Temple ( dedicated to  Lord Rama),
        • Sankagiri Fort ( built by Vijaynagar Empire in 15th centaury),
        • Yercaud (ahill station),
        • Mettur Dam on Kaveri River (Stanley Reservoir is formed behind the dam).

        Thiruvannamalai : 

        Tiruvannamalai city is the headquarters of Tiruvannamalai district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Tiruvannamalai city is spiritual hub due to ancient temples and the Karthigai Deepam festival. Tiruvannamalai city has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Pondicherry at about 90 kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Thiruvannamalai are:

        • Arunachaleshwar or Annamalaiyar Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in about 25 Acres),
        • Sri Seshadri Swamigal Ashram (You can meditate here),
        • Yogi Ram Surathkumar Ashram also known as Visiri Samiyar Ashram (you can get teaching of Vedas here),
        • Sri Ramana Ashram(You can meditate here),
        • Sathanur Dam (Picnic destination),
        • Padaveedu village (Historical importance at about 35 Kms),
        • Javadu Hills area ( at about 75 Kms , Javadu hills, Komutteri Lake,  Beema Falls, Komutteri Lake,  Amirthi Forest & Kavalur Observatory).

        Thiruvarur :

        Thiruvarur city is the headquarters of Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Thiruvarur, a pilgrimage destination, is famous for its Thyagaraja temple.Thiruvarur city has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli  at about 120 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Thiruvarur are :

        • Thyagaraja Temple (Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in 30 Acres & having 96 feet tall chariot of 360 tonnes),
        • Maha Saraswathi Temple, Srivanchiyam
        • Vanchinathaswamy Temple :it is said that here self-manifested (svayambhu) Shivalingam is oldest of world and idol of Yam Dharanraj is also worshiped here.
        • Vaduvur Bird sanctuary : you can witness  birds migrated from North America and Europe during  winter season.

        Poompuhar :

        Poompuhar town, once remained the capital of Chola Kings, located in Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu state of India. This ancient city, once known as Kaveri Poompattinam ancient port city, is famous for its beach and monuments.  Its nearest airport is Tiruchy at about 150 Kms & Madurai at about 2080 Kms and nearest railway station is Nagapattinam  at about 60 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Poompuhar are :

        • Silapaddikaram Art Gallery :dedicated to a Tamil epic.
        • Elanchi or the Ilanji Mandram : a site related to an epic.
        • Kotra Pandal : a site related to an epic.
        • Poompuhar beach,  
        • Zion Church : Dutch style of architecture built in 1701.

        Vellore :

        Vellore city is the headquarters of Vellore district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Vellore is known by its 16th century Vellore Fort of granite walls and is leather hub of India. Vellore has its own railway station and nearest airport is Tirupati international airport (Andhara Pardesh) at about 130 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Vellore are :

        • Vellore Fort ( built during Vijayanagara Empire in 16th Century also houses temple, mosque & church),
        • Sri Lakshmi Golden Temple (wonder of modern architectural as Gold coated).
        • Vainu Bappu Observatory (Built in about 100 acres and telescope here is largest of Asia),
        • Yelagiri hill Station,
        • Amirthi Zoological Park,
        • Science Park,
        • Government Museum,
        • Delhi Gate (historical site as entrance a Fort),
        • Ratnagiri Temple ( dedicated to Lord Murugan),
        • Roman Catholic Diocese (Christian pilgrimage site).

        Yercaud :

        Yercaud located in the Servarayan range of hills in the Salem district of Tamil Nadu state of India is famous hill station at about 1500 meters above sea levels.These hills are famous for cultivations coffee, fruit and spices. This hill station is about 50 Kms from Salem international airport and about 32 Kms from Salem railway station.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Yercaud are:

        • Yercaud Lake (a picnic spot),
        • Deer Park ( a site near Yercaud Lake ),
        •  Arthur Seat (a point to see the view of whole town its sites),
        • Anna Park (a picnic spot),
        • Pagoda Point also called Pyramid Point (sightseeing place),
        • Orchidarium (site for nature lovers),
        • Kiliyur falls (a waterfall & trekking site),
        • Lady’s Seat ( a point to see surroundings of Town),
        • Bears Cave.

        Sivaganga : 

        Sivaganga or Sivgangai city is the headquarters of Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Sivaganga is known by its 16th century Sivgangai Fort. This district of agricultural activities and having mineral deposits is also known for metal working and weaving. Sivgangai city has its own railway station and is about 45 Kms from Madurai airport.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Sivaganga are:

        • Sivgangai Fort, Pattammangalam Guru Temple (Colorful temple of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Madapurram Kali Temple ( an ancient dedicated to Goddess Bathra Kali),
        • Mutumariamman Temple  at  Thyamangalam (dedicated to Goddess Amman),
        • Kollangudi Kali temple also known as Vettudaya Kali Temple (as per myth  Goddess Kali skilled the evil Chandasura here),
        • Nattarasankottai Kannathal Temple also called Kannudayanaki Amman Temple (Dravidian architecture & famous religious center of Hindus),
        • Sorna Kaleeeswarar Temple,
        • Venkatamudayan Perumal Temple,
        • Vettangudi  Bird sanctuary,
        • Karpaga Vinayagar Temple ( Ancient rock cut temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha),
        • Kundrakkudi Murugan Temple (also known as Shanmugunathar Temple it is dedicated to Lord Murugan and located on a hill),
        • Chettiar Mansion ( a palace of historical attraction).

        Tiruchirappalli : 

        Tiruchirappalli city also called Tiruchi or Trichy is the headquarters of Tiruchirappalli district of Tamil Nadu state of India. This district having numerous ancient temples and monuments is famous among pilgrimage tourists  and history lovers. Tiruchirappalli has its own international airport and railway station.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Tiruchirappalli are:

        • Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (ancient temple of Dravidian architecture  dedicated to Lord Vishnu in a big area on Srirangam Island between Kaveri and Kollidam rivers ),
        • Erumbeeswarar Temple ( ancient temple of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva on hill built in Chola dynasty), 
        • Kallanai Dam (an ancient contraction built during Chola dynasty & also a picnic spot), 
        •  Jambukeshwara Temple (ancient temple of Dravidian architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva built in Chola dynasty),
        • Pachamalai Hills (a beautiful hill station at about 90 Kms),
        • Vayalur Murugan Temple (ancient temple of Dravidian architecture built in Chola dynasty),
        • Railway museum, Rockfort Temple (this heritage site is said to be oldest in world ),
        • Puliyancholai Falls.

        Rameswaram :

        Rameswaram town is located on Pamban Island in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu state of India. This town is a must visit place for Hindus due to famous Rameshwaram Temple which is one of Char Dhams and one of 12 Jyotirlingas. It is said that pilgrimage visit to Varanasi (Vishwanath Jyotirlingas) remains incomplete without visit to Rameswaram Jyotirlingas. Rameswaram has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Madurai at about 175 Kms. 

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Rameswaram are:

        • Rameshwaram Temple (Famous Hindu pilgrimage center as one of Char Dhams and one of 12 Jyotirlingas ),
        • Agniteertham (it is a sea beach in fort of Rameshwaram Temple where devotees take bath before entering temple complex),
        •  Ram Setu (also called  Adam’s Bridge, as per myth this is a bridge constructed by Lord Rama hero of Ramayana a Hindu epic with the help of monkeys), 
        • Gandhamadhana Parvatham (Lord Hanumman took his flight from this hill to reach Lanka as per myth in Ramayana epic and also mention in Kalidasa’s Kumarsambhava),
        • Villoondi Tirtham (it is one of 64 holy sites where devotees take dip to get free from their sins),
        • Hanuman Temple,
        • Dhanushkodi Beach,
        • Ariyaman Beach,
        • House of former President, APJ Abdul Kalam’s House, 
        • Burial place of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam,
        • Pamban Bridge (a century old engineering marvel),
        • Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge.

        Virudhunagar : 

        Virudhunagar city, previously called Virudhupatti, is the headquarters of Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Virudhunagar city has its own railway station and is about 55 Kms from Madurai airport.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Virudhunagar are:

        • Aruppukkottai (Situated at about 20 Kms having small industries and cultivation of jasmine flowers),
        • Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary, Mariamman Temple (at Irukkankudi about 35 Kms),
        • Pilavakkal Dam ( a picnic spot at about 55 kms),
        • Kamaraj House (Memorial of former Chief Minister ),
        • Andal Temple ( located at Srivilliputhur at about 45 Kms & dedicated to Lord Vishnu).

        Tirunelveli : 

        Tiruneveli city, also known as Nellai, is the headquarters of Tiruneveli district of Tamil Nadu state of India is famous for its ancient temples and waterfalls. Tiruneveli city has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Tuticorin airport in Thoothuudi district at about  40 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Tiruneveli are:

        • Kanthimathi & Nellaiyappar Temple (This is a twin temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Siva where sound is produced from its pillars),
        • Krishnapuram Temple ( an ancient  Dravidian style architecture at about 10 Kms dedicated to Lord Vishnu),
        • Kutralam (Located in Western Ghats is famous for its waterfalls ),
        • Thoothukudi (This port city at about 50 Kms is famous for pearl fishing),
        • Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary,
        • Panchalankuruchi (This is historical village was home of freedom fighter Veerapandia Kattabomman wher a memorial fort is made).
        • Kalakadu Wildlife Sanctuary,
        • Sankaranarayanan Kovil town (houses an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva & Lord Vishnu),
        • Papanasam ( a picnic spot at about 60Kms).

        Thoothukudi :

        Thoothukudi city, located on the Coast of the Bay of Bengal, is the headquarters of Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Thoothukudi is famous for its pretty beaches, pearl fishing & salt production and is a pilgrimage destination for Hindus and Christians both. Sh. V.O. Chidambaranar, a freedom fighter, started the Swadeshi shipping company from here during British rule.  This must visit, Thoothukudi city, has its own railway station and its nearest airport is Tuticorin at about 35 kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Thoothukudi are:

        • Sankara Rameswarar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Hare Island (a picnic spot),
        • Roche Park ( a picnic spot),
        • Church of Our Lady of Snows,
        • Kazhugumalai ( located at about 120 Kms, famous for ancient Jain Caves),
        • Kulasekarapattinam Mutharamman Temple (at about 20 Kms famous for Dussehra celebration).

        Velankanni :

        Velankanni, a small town located on the Coast of the Bay of Bengal, is located in the Nagapattinam distict of Tamil Nadu state of India. Velankanni is a pilgrimage center of Christens due to Church of Mother Mary located here and is also famous for its delicate handlooms and silk. The nearest railway station is Nagapattinam at about 12 Kms and nearest airport is Truchirappalli at about 160 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Velankanni are:

        • Velankanni Beach,
        • Church of Mother Mary,
        • Velankanni Church,
        • Shopping (handlooms and silk items).

        Thanjavur :

        Thanjavur city is the headquarters of Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu state of India. Thanjavur is famous for ancient temples od Chola dynasty era, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Monuments. The nearest airport and railway station to this must visit Thanjavur city is Trichy at about 60 Kms.

        Famous tourist attractions in and around Thanjavur are:

        • Brihadeshwara Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Chola dynasty era ),
        • Gangaikonda Cholapuram (This ancient town was capital of Chola Dynasty & famous for ruins of the ancient city),
        • Swmai Malai temple (dedicated to Lord Murugan),
        • Thirunallar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shani),
        • Alangudi Temple (ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva),
        • Serfoji Sarasvati Mahal Library (This one of the oldest libraries in Asia was started in 16th Century and  now it is a Library Museum),
        • Punnainallur Mariamman Koil, Thanjavur Royal Palace (houses the ancient o Saraswathi Mahal Library having palm-leaf manuscripts and an Art Gallery having  bronze statues), 
        • Thiruvalanchuzhi village (famous for ancient Swetha Vinayagar Temple),
        • Thirumananjeri Temple (ancient temple and as per myth Lord Shiva and Parvathi got married here), 
        • Kal Garuda Temple (Devotees visit here to got blessings of Lord Vishnu & Goddess Laxmi),
        • Ramaswamy Temple (dedicated to Lord Rama).
        • Tamil University Museum (displaying coins, folk objects, musical instruments etc),
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