Best Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu You Must Explore
“We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.” – Jawaharlal Nehru.
The beauty of South India is unmatched as the entire region presents great views for one to rejuvenate. The southern part of the Indian subcontinent is blessed with pleasant weather, incredible beaches, magnificent temples, and fabulous gardens.
Each state in the south offers something or the other to its visitors, but what catches the eye is the beauty of Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu is located in the extreme south of the Indian continent and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka on its sides.
Many tourists visit the state each year. It gives them a chance to unwind and relax, totally away from their regular busy schedules. Tamil Nadu is rich in culture and traditions and has a long-dated history. Hence, the temples and monuments in Tamil Nadu reflect remarkable architectural features.
If you plan to visit Tamil Nadu anytime soon, this blog is the perfect guide for your trip!
What does Tamil Nadu offer to its visitors?
Tamil Nadu is the heart of South India and is undoubtedly a traveler’s delight. The place is exceptionally famous for its South Indian cuisine, waterfalls, hills, scenic views, beaches, mesmerizing coastline, temples, and mountains.
Tamil Nadu offers a beautiful mix of ancient heritage, urban development, and timeless beauty. Here, the local food includes dishes such as Sambar-Idli, Rasam, Puliyodarai, Sundal, Ven Pongal, and many more. Infinite reasons attract thousands of visitors to this heavenly place in the south.
What are the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu?
These are best places to see in Tamil Nadu for tourists. You can vist with your family or friends, can plan 2 days or 4 days short trip or a longer one. You won’t be disappointed.
Hogenakkal
Hogenakkal Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. It is often referred to as the ‘Niagara of India.’ It is situated at a distance of 345 km from the capital city of Chennai.
The place is frequently visited by nature lovers, who prefer to spend some time away from the hustle of city life. The best time to visit Hogenakkal is from August to December. This is one of the best places to see in Tamil Nadu with family & friends.
Chennai
Being the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai is the largest city in both area and population. Chennai has been ranked as one of the top-visited cities in India many times. The town is mainly famous for its healthcare systems, film industry, and a plethora of flora and fauna.
The ideal period to visit Chennai is from November to February. The top visited places in Chennai are Marina Beach, Mahabalipuram, Sri Parthasarathi Temple, and Dakshinchitra museum, to name a few.
Chennai is unique and nature friendly destination to explore in Tamil Nadu. You’ll find many beautiful spots to visit near Chennai for memorable trip.
Kanyakumari
Also known as ‘The Virgin Princess,’ Kanyakumari is southern Tamil Nadu. What makes it a popular tourist spot is that it is the southernmost tip of India.
Kanyakumari has been named after Goddess Kanyakumari, and a temple dedicated to her has been constructed in the town. Other notable landmarks include Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Gandhi Memorial Mandapam, Tsunami Memorial Park, and Thiruvalluvar Statue.
Kanyakumari is must see places to visit in Tamil Nadu.
Trichy
This city is the cleanest place in Tamil Nadu and has been ranked the fifth safest city for women. Trichy is home to many famous colleges and universities, making it a great education hub in India.
Ranganathaswamy Temple, Jambukeswarar Temple, Samayapuram Mariamman Temple, and Erumbeeswarar Temple are exquisite temples in Trichy.
This is one of best place to visit for couples and friends in Tamil Nadu.
Vellore
Vellore is located on the river Palar in northeastern Tamil Nadu. Vellore Fort is the main attraction here. It is home to Jalakanteswara Temple and the State Government Museum. These tourist attractions primarily speak of the great battles in the history of India.
Mahabalipuram
Another famous city in Tamil Nadu, famously known as a UNESCO World Heritage. It is home to many ancient temples and monuments. Many tourists visit Mahabalipuram to explore its 40 ancient monuments and Hindu temples.
Rameshwaram
The legend of Rameshwaram has been long known, mainly for its name that means ‘Lord of Rama’. Located just 40 km from Sri Lanka. It is believed that Lord Rama had built a bridge from here across the sea to Sri Lanka to save Goddess Sita from her abductor Ravana.
Important landmarks include Ramanthaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi, and Temple Tanks.
Coimbatore
Renowned for the Adiyogi Shiva statue, Coimbatore is a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. One can spend the trip by visiting the Isha Yoga Center, Backwaters, Kodiveri Dams, Tiger Reserve, and more.
Coonoor
Coonoor is an outstanding hill station in the Nilgiri Hills. The place is a perfect summer getaway as it is blessed with pleasant weather throughout. The destination offers marvelous scenic views from hilltops.
It is an abode to tourist hotspots such as Ketti Valley, Dolphin’s Nose, Lamb’s Rock, and Sim’s Park.
Ooty
Another place in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is a top-rated tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. It is also called the ‘Queen of the Nilgiris .’Famous places to visit in Ooty are Ooty Lake, Emerald Lake, Avalanche Lake, and Thread Garden.
What is the best time to visit Tamil Nadu?
Tamil Nadu is flocked by tourists all over the year owing to its primarily pleasant weather. However, the ideal months to visit this state range from November to February. The state experiences light weather conditions ideal for exploring the place.
During the summer months, the temperature in Tamil Nadu may rise up to 45°C. This is when the tourists visit hill stations such as Nilgiris, Kodaikanal, and Yercaud.
What to pack?
If you are visiting Tamil Nadu in the summers, make sure to pack t-shirts, sandals, caps, hats, sunglasses, sunscreens, and adequate water at all times. Those who plan to visit Tamil Nadu in monsoons are advised to carry umbrellas, mosquito repellants, torch, and raincoats.
Visitors should bring shawls, mufflers, and jackets in winter as the temperature might dip during nights and early mornings. Power banks and small garbage bags are something that every tourist should keep handy while visiting the beautiful locations of Tamil Nadu.
Famous local dishes to try
Lemon Rice
If you visit Tamil Nadu, do not forget to try the famous lemon rice there. It is comfort food for many and is commonly available at most eateries. The dish is tempered with curry leaves, green chilies, and mustard seeds to present a beautiful aroma.
Kootu
Kootu is a South Indian stew prepared with vegetables and lentils. It seems similar to Sambhar but has a thicker consistency. Kootu may be designed in three different variations: Poricha Kootu, Araichivita Kootu, and Araichivita Sambhar. It is usually served with rice, pickles, curd, and appalam.
Pongal
This is an everyday breakfast meal for the people living in South India. Pongal is generally of four types: Chakarai Pongal, Venn Pongal, Puli Pongal, and Melagu Pongal. The main ingredient in all these types is rice, paired with butter, tamarind, jaggery, or coconut.
Medhu Vada
Belonging to the family of fritters, medhu vadas is a popular snack prepared using black lentils. It is shaped like a doughnut and is served with coconut chutney and sambhar.
Uttapam
Commonly available in all parts of India. Uttapam is a great dosa-like dish but different in texture and toppings. It is prepared using urad dal and rice, and the toppings include tomato, beans, onion, coriander, carrot, and capsicum.
Best eateries in Tamil Nadu
Gateway Coonor
Located in Coonor, the Gateway Coonor Dining Hall is visited by many food lovers daily. The place offers Italian, Chinese, Indian, and European cuisines. The eatery is a beautiful garden restaurant with colonial charm.
Café Diem
This eatery is located outside the city of Coonor, at an exotic location. The place is blessed with great ambiance and aura, attracting many visitors every day. Gluten-free dishes are available at Café Diem, along with unique Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.
If you are visiting Coonor, make sure to try out Café Diem for delicious food and great views.
Avartana
Avartana is a famous eatery located in ITC Grand Chola, Chennai. Avartana is renowned for its exceptional food and friendly atmosphere. The place offers excellent food options, especially in terms of deserts.
The Vellore Kitchen
This is a top-rated restaurant in Vellore that offers both North Indian and South Indian food. The Vellore Kitchen is famous among tourists because of its hygienic food, great ambiance, supportive staff, and reasonable prices.
Shree Annapoorna
Inaugurated about 50 years ago, Shree Annapoorna aims at serving the best quality food to its customers. The eatery is called the ‘Pride of Coimbatore’ and has 19 branches.
F.A.Q.
Seven international airports are located within Tamil Nadu, with the main airport in Chennai.
Tamil Nadu has light winters, with temperatures around 25°C. One should carry lightweight jackets, mufflers, and shawls if visiting during the winter months.
One can commute within Tamil Nadu by bus, cabs, autos, or personal vehicles.
Tamil Nadu offers a variety of destinations to explore, even in the month of December. Some popular places to visit during this time include:
- Mahabalipuram – witness the ancient rock cut temples and shore temples
- Yercaud – a hill station surrounded by coffee and spice plantations
- Rameswaram – a pilgrimage site known for its Ramanathaswamy Temple
- Pondicherry – a coastal town with a blend of Indian and French culture
- Kanyakumari – the southernmost tip of India known for its scenic beauty
- Ooty – a popular hill station known for its tea gardens and scenic beauty
- Madurai – a historic city known for its Meenakshi Temple and rich cultural heritage
These destinations offer a mix of cultural and natural experiences, making Tamil Nadu a perfect holiday destination during December.
Tamil Nadu offers a variety of romantic destinations for couples. Some popular places to visit include:
- Kodaikanal – a serene hill station surrounded by stunning natural beauty
- Yercaud – a peaceful getaway with scenic views and intimate cafes
- Pondicherry – a coastal town with charming cafes and scenic promenades
- Ooty – a romantic hill station known for its beautiful gardens and scenic beauty
- Hogenakkal – a scenic waterfall surrounded by nature’s bounty
- Mahabalipuram – an ancient city known for its rock-cut temples and romantic beaches
- Chettinad – a historic region with charming heritage homes and romantic dining experiences
These destinations offer a mix of cultural, natural, and romantic experiences, making Tamil Nadu a perfect holiday destination for couples.
Tamil Nadu offers several budget-friendly destinations for travelers. Some popular places to visit include:
- Chidambaram – an ancient temple town with a rich cultural heritage
- Thanjavur – a historic city known for its Brihadishwara Temple and art museum
- Tiruchirappalli – a historic city with several affordable tourist attractions
- Dindigul – a scenic city surrounded by hill ranges
- Tuticorin – a coastal town with affordable beaches and scenic beauty
- Kumbakonam – a historic city known for its Mahamaham Tank and temples
- Rameswaram – a pilgrimage site known for its Ramanathaswamy Temple
These destinations offer a mix of cultural, natural, and budget-friendly experiences, making Tamil Nadu a perfect holiday destination for travelers on a budget.
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