Tamil Nadu is one of the states of India known for its rich culture and heritage. Located in the southern part of India, it is a land where the past and the present blend amazingly. The history of the state is believed to span over two millennia. It is the cradle of ancient Dravidian civilization, with many majestic temples built in Dravidian architectural style.
Every corner of the state tells you a story of its grandeur, whether it’s the architectural marvels, rich culture, classical arts or cuisines.
If you are hoping for an enriching cultural experience, Tamil Nadu should definitely be listed on your travel list. To make your trip plan to Tamil Nadu easy, get in touch with the best Travel Agents in India. Discuss with them the important destinations that offer a deep connection to the history, spirituality and beauty, so that you can include in your India Tour Packages.
1. Madurai, regarded as the Cultural Capital
Madurai is one of the oldest cities, not only in India but around the world that has been inhabited continuously for centuries now. Madurai is mostly popular for its Meenakshi Amman Temple, an ancient temple built in Dravidian architectural style.
What to Experience in Meenakshi Amman Temple?
History of the temple: The Meenakshi Amman Temple is around 2500 years old and is the only living monument, where rituals have been continued till present day. The highlight of this temple are the towering gateways (referred to as gopurams) which are decorated with intricate sculptures of thousands of colorful statues of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures.
Night Ceremonies: In the evening time, sacred rituals (Aarti’s) are performed where the deity is put to bed, a tradition which have been followed from ancient times with devotion and grandeur.
Local Cuisine: Try the traditional cuisines of Madurai: Visitors should try the street-side delicacies like kothu parotta, flavorful dosas and jigarthanda (a local cold beverage).
Cultural Vibe: The city offers a rich cultural experience, visiting the temples, offering prayers, be a part of a religious ceremony, be a part of a religious procession, watch the traditional dance performances, and visits the local markets. Madurai is not only a city of enriching history and spirituality, but is a living example of the Tamil culture.
2. Thanjavur, referred to as the City of Temples and Art
Thanjavur was the capital of the powerful rulers of Chola dynasty. The city is referred to as the cultural and artistic heart of Tamil Nadu and has contributed immensely to art, music, and architecture.
What to Experience in Thanjavur?
Brihadeeswarar Temple: This Temple was built around 11th-century by Raja Raja Chola I and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its stunning architectural style. This temple is one of the best examples of Dravidian architecture with its gigantic temple towers (known as vimana), made of a single granite block weighing 80 tons and is 66 meters high.
Tanjore Painting: Highlight of Thanjavur is the traditional Tanjore Painting, which is painted using traditional methods and is known for their surface richness, use of vibrant colors and gold foils. Do buy one as a piece of souvenir to take back home.
Thanjavur Palace and Saraswathi Mahal Library: If you want to know the history of the region, visit this place, here you will find ancient manuscripts, palm-leaf texts, and Maratha-era art. This is one of the best places to know about ancient history of the place.
Cultural Vibe: Thanjavur is renowned for its classical Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance, a hub for spiritual and artistic exploration.
If you are planning your trip to Tamil Nadu, take the guidance of the best travel agents in India who can help you with your itinerary.
3. Rameswaram, the Spiritual Gateway
For spiritual lovers, Rameswaram is one of the best places for pilgrims and travelers who wish to have a spiritual experience. This place is connected to Lord Rama from the epic Ramayana, visiting this place will be a unique experience.
What to Experience in Rameswaram?
Ramanathaswamy Temple: This ancient temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is renowned for its exquisite architectural design. One of the highlight of this temple is that it has the longest temple corridor in India, its grand pillared corridors and sacred water tanks, makes its one of the most astonishing temples to visit.
Dhanushkodi: This was once a beautiful town located in the south-eastern tip of Pamban Island, merging point of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. Due to a cyclone in 1964, it was destroyed; as a result the town was abandoned, and since then got its name as the Ghost town.
Pamban Bridge: This is a railway bridge, built amazingly, connecting the island to mainland India. The views of the bridge and the ocean scene are simply breathtakingly.
Cultural Vibe: In Rameswaram you will not only be able to have a rich spiritual experience, but have a chance to relax at the serene and tranquil beaches that completely isolates itself from the hustle-bustle.
4. Kanchipuram, the City of a Thousand Temples
Given the title of “Golden City of Temples” as it houses more than thousands of temples around the city. Owning to its sacred temples it is in fact one of the seven most sacred cities in Hinduism. Those wishing for an immersive spiritual experience, you must definitely visit this place to connect with the Lord.
What to Experience in Kanchipuram?
Kailasanathar Temple: Visit the famous Kailasanathar Temple, one of the finest examples of early Dravidian architecture, which was built by the rulers of Pallava dynasty in 8th century.
Ekambareswarar Temple: This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is popular for its 60-meter high gopuram and a sacred mango tree, which is estimated to be more than 3000 years old.
Kanchipuram Silk Sarees: Take time to visit local weaving centers and watch the making of the famed silk sarees with real gold and silver thread — each one a work of wearable art.
Kanchipuram is also famous for its pure silk sarees, known as Kanchipuram Silk Sarees. Tourists can visit the local weaving centers; learn how the sarees are made using real gold and silver thread in their traditional methods. It is one of the must-do activities in India Tour Packages which you must definitely include in your trip.
Cultural Vibe: The city of Kanchipuram offers a deep spiritual experience, when you walk through the streets, visit temples or engage in spiritual activities, you will feel like you have stepped back in time.
5. Ooty, the Queen of Hill Stations
From temple hopping, next in your itinerary you can include a hill-station. Tamil Nadu is home to one of the most charming hill-station nestled in Nilgiri Hills, Ooty (locally also called Udhagamandalam). This enchanting hill-station was once the summer capital of the British. Here you will have a wonderful time exploring the natural wonders, tea gardens and colonial era buildings.
What to Experience in Ooty?
Nilgiri Mountain Railway: One of the must-have experiences when visiting Ooty is taking the Nilgiri Mountain Railway ride, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was introduced by the Britush and is a century-old toy train ride. You will navigate through the winding hills, tunnels, over bridges, dense forests, and scenic landscapes.
Botanical Gardens & Ooty Lake: The garden is around 160 years old, enjoy a walk around this beautiful garden with varied species of flora or take a boat ride in the Ooty Lake, and simply enjoy the surrounding views.
Tea Gardens & Factory Visits: Visit the tea gardens, learn about tea processing and engage in tea tasting sessions.
Doddabetta Peak: Take a trek to the highest point of Nilgiri hills, from the top enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
Cultural Vibe: Ooty is in fact the melting of cultures, here you will not only be able to enjoy the natural beauty, but will be able to have a rich cultural experience. Get to know about the indigenous Toda tribes, explore the British era bungalows and enjoy shopping in the local markets.
Tamil Nadu is not only a destination, but it is the hub of unique experiences. These five important destinations of Tamil Nadu i.e. Madurai, Thanjavur, Rameswaram, Kanchipuram, and Ooty will let you have an interesting experience.
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