Things to do in Tamil nadu

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Winter begins from November and continues till February. The temperature is around 17° C and hence, is good for sightseeing. July to September is monsoon time and the scenic beauty of Rameswaram is quite amazing to view during this period.
One can get buses

at regular intervals from all major cities in India to Rameswaram from the Rameswaram Bus Stand. You can avail trains like Madurai - Rameswaram Passenger, Tiruchirappalli - Rameswaram Passenger, Chennai Egmore - Rameswaram Sethu Express, KKDI-TPJ-Salem-Bangalore, etc.

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Also known as Tirupperunthurai, Athmanathaswamy Temple is situated in Avudaiyarkoil. As per the legend, the temple was built by Manickavasagar, the prime minister in the court of Varagunavarman II. He used the money intended for war-horses in building the temple. Covering an area of more than 10

acres, Athmanathaswamy Temple is dedicated to the deity named Athmanathar (Shiva). The temple is also renowned for being the origin of Tiruvacakam, a sacred book of Tamil Saiva Siddhanta, composed by Manickavasagar. The temple hosts annual festivals like Aani Tirumanjanam and Maargazhi Tiruvaadirai.

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Also known as Brihadeeswarar Temple, Brihadeeswara Temple is a famous Hindu temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. Other names given to this temple are – RajaRajeswara Temple, Rajarajewaram, and Periya Kovil. This temple is more than 1000 years old and is considered one of the largest and oldest temples in the country. The temple constructed during the Chola Period is a UNESCO World Heritage Site today. Built by Raja Raja Chola I between 1003 AD and 1010 AD, it took many years to complete the entire temple complex.
Also known as Dakshina Meru, it is an unparalleled example of the great Dravidian architecture. The

entire temple is made of granite stone and looks splendid. The inscriptions, frescos, and sculptures of the temple portray the beliefs of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism traditions of the Hindu religion. The temple complex comprises the main temple structure, gopura, and a huge tower (Vimana), which is 216 feet high and is considered the tallest in the world.
Another unique feature of this temple is the big statue of Nandi (sacred bull of Lord Shiva) placed at the entrance, which is sculpted from a single rock. The temple can also be accessed via roadways by the government and private buses and cabs from all cities.

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Established in 1912 by Dr. Annamalai Chettiar, Chettinad Palace is a majestic monument in Chettinad, Tamil Nadu. Boasting of the rich cultural heritage of the region, the palace was constructed using raw

material, decorative pieces, furniture, upholstery, etc. from East Asian countries and Europe. The magnificent blend of art and styles make the palace a must-visit site in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

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Nestled in Kanadukathan, Chettinadu Mansion is a heritage resort in Tamil Nadu. The well-maintained heritage resort is the best place to experience the lifestyle of the locals of Chettinad. The mansion has old-age charm and architecture intact. The mansion offers a memorable and comfortable stay to visitors. Visitors can avail of different amenities at the

mansion, including swimming, pool, water games, Ayurvedic massages, etc. Besides, the mansion has a museum exhibiting some rarest antiques and a library. The mansion also allows visitors to taste the delicacies of exotic Chettinad cuisine along with exploring the village of Kanadukathan. In short, one must visit the mansion to make his/her visit to Chettinad worthwhile.

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Doddabetta Mountain is the highest peak (8650 feet) of the Nilgiri Mountain Range in the Western Ghats and the fourth highest peak in South India. Its staggering elevation is about 2637 meters. One can get a bird’s eye view of the city of Coimbatore and the surrounding areas from this mountain peak.
This is one of the very few mountains that have a road access to reach the top and this feature makes it unique, different, and even more alluring. A beautiful forested area sheltering many endangered species of animals nestles around the mountain and varieties of thick grasses, shrubs, and herbs could be spotted frequently.
It is 9 km away from Ooty and the easiest route to reach Doddabetta is via Doddabetta Road by public buses. One can reach the flat summit easily on jeeps and private cars as there are well-built tracks reaching the top of the mountain. Visit the place early in the morning to get clear weather and amazing views and to avoid

crowds. Video and still cameras are allowed but for that, extra charges have to be paid.
Those who are fond of adventures and nature-viewing, Doddabetta is an unmissable site for them. You will find nature at its best form here offering all its beauty and richness bountifully. So, when you are visiting Tamil Nadu, you simply can’t afford to miss this site.
The rugged, winding trails of Doddabetta will take you through the greenery of ferns, fragranced sub-alpine herbs, and the vibrantly colored rhododendrons. At the zenith of the mountain is an observatory with a Telescope Tower having two telescopes. The tower, which is octagonal in shape and placed at the middle of the peak gives awe-inspiring panoramic views of Ooty and Bandipur National Park. Also, there are options for trekking, enjoying ariel views, etc. For sightseeing purpose, the Tea Museum, Rose Garden, Botanical Garden, Ooty Lake, Thunder World, etc. located close-by, can also be visited.

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Kodaikanal is notable for its Hill Stations in India. The Dolphin’s Nose site is the place you can have the best encounters in Kodaikanal. The valleys, rough landscape, clear skies, and the wonder of green adorning the scene are quite overwhelming. This view-point is located on a level, projecting a bit of rock that is molded like a dolphin’s nose, hence the name. This structures an obvious precipice at the height of more than six-thousand feet. The best part is that it is open to people in general. This spot is ideal for the individuals, who want a daring adventure to the generally laidback trip that Kodaikanal

offers.
Getting to this superb spot requires a moderate three kilometers long trek through the pines and boulders of the Palani Hills. It is preferable to visit an adjacent cascade and nearby villages en route.
Maybe the most enamoring situation would be if you happened to visit Dolphin’s Nose when an enchanted haze has secured the mountains and encompassing valley. A peaceful return into the mountains is an impressive method to take part in some heartfelt reflection or marvel while the experience itself can be upgraded multi-overlay during dawn or dusk. The harmony and quietness in the climate are mind-blowing.

Tourist attractions

You will find fruit juices sellers and food stalls here; however, the things are generally costly in this place. By and large, Dolphin’s Nose comprises a half-day tour into the mountains for a reviving morning or night. Dolphin’s Nose tourist site is a must on the agenda of those searching for a daring adventure on their visit to Kodaikanal. Passionate photographers may appreciate taking some amazing clicks from this lovely

spot.
If you love to fish, then the Dolphin’s Nose has the right arrangement for you. There is a place called the Echo Point at the last point of Dolphin’s Nose. A climb further along rocky paths of the Nose course will take you to Echo Point. Remember, this ride is not for weak-hearted people. The valley is divided on each side, and it requires some exertion to arrive here. However, the scenic beauty here is simply splendid.

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Elliot's Beach is also famously known as the Beach of Besant Nagar or "Bessie". It lies in the city of Chennai. The Edward Elliot's Beach is the last corner of Marina Beach shore and is named after Edward Elliot. He was previously the Central Judge, Director of Madras and Legislative head of Chennai during the rule of the British. The Ashtalakshmi Kovil and the Velankanni Church are close to this region and also, are major attractions. The entrancing beach is one of the cleanest beaches in the Chennai city.
It is situated towards the south of Marina Beach, an extraordinarily quiet and peaceful spot. This Beach doesn't offer much action and is a perfect spot for long strolls. In addition, the site is ideal for the ones, who need to absorb their feet in the sparkling ocean water and need Mother Nature to embrace them.
Elliot's Beach is very popular among the travelers just as the

locals of the state. In provincial times, it was a spot restricted to the white individuals. This beach is prominent with local undergrads and families. There are numerous eateries close to the beach with mouth-watering cuisines. There is a police station at the beach, and the visitors are overseen by means of off-road vehicles to forestall and avert disasters caused due to drowning. In 2010, numerous individuals got drowned and died. After witnessing this, the authorities endorsed two more ATVs in the next year pretty soon.
Voyagers frequently visit the beach for sunbathing, unwinding, and visiting the popular antiquated landmarks close-by. It is typically less swarmed than the acclaimed Marina Beach and henceforth, favored by the voyagers. Amid the night hours, one can spot different youths meandering around the beach as it offers the ideal retreat, far from the crowds and pollutions of the city.

Tourist attractions

You can visit a few attractions nearby this beach, for example, Karl Schmidt Remembrance. This memorable landmark pays homage to a Dutch mariner, who died while saving a swimmer getting drowned.
You can connect with different picture takers clicking shots of the shoreline with the landmark as the frontal area.
You can also visit

Elliot's Promenade. Discover a grouping of Indian eateries, which serve regularly zesty Tamil Nadu cuisines, just as celebrated universal inexpensive food chains.
Towards the southern end of the promenade is a straightforward yet, an enthusiastic market of fishes, where local inhabitants come to buy crispy kinds of seafood and fishes.

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The Ekambareswarar Temple forms an integral part of the Pancha Bhootha Sthala. The Pancha or the five elements are the Air, Water, Sky, Earth, and Fire. This ancient temple was renovated by the Pallavas and Cholas, and later remodeled by Krishna Deva Raya. It is considered to be one of the largest temples of this region in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
The Ekambareswarar Temple has five roomy passages and a delightful 1000 pillared corridor (Aayiram Kaal Mandap). As many as 1008

Siva Lingas can be found here. The holy temple of Tank Kampai Tirtha is known to have an underground heavenly waterway. This structure is found directly inverse to the temple.
The temple is about 5 minutes walking distance from Kanchipuram. This place is two kilometers away from the bus route of Kanchipuram. Once you reach Kanchipuram, you can avail any public transport from here to get to this temple. If you are in Tirupati, you can avail a direct bus to Kanchipuram from here.

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G. D. Naidu, also known as the Edison of India, is credited with the construction of India’s first indigenous motor. He is known for his contribution to the field of automobile, mechanical, and agricultural engineering. Housing the collections of the famous industrialist, Gopalswamy Doraiswamy Naidu, or more popularly known as G.D. Naidu, this museum is an excellent place to visit for all, but especially, more for the technical geeks and car enthusiasts.
The museum features an eclectic collection of automobiles, with the major focus on models based on design and innovation. It contains electrical, electronic, and scientific gadgets, which have been in use since ancient times and are being used even till this day. If you visit this museum once, you will become familiar with the various types of projection TVs, film cameras, typewriters, printers, floppy disks,

calculators, and other electronic gadgets. A visit to this museum will make you feel like you are in a time machine.
A portion of the museum has been devoted to the storage of those exhibits, which G. D. Naidu created in the early years of his life. When school children are given a tour of this museum, it is particularly this section, which piques their interest.
In many sections of the museum, sensor lights are installed. So, when you walk through the room, the lights are automatically turned on and as you leave the room, the lights get switched off, thus saving electricity.
You have the chance to win a brownie point if you can correctly guess the educational degree of the famous industrialist and inventor, G. D, Naidu. Well, to your surprise, he never studied more than the primary level but his scientific aptitude and his curiosity made him reach this astonishing height.

Tourist attractions

In a separate section of the museum, vintage cars and motorbikes, which are not only well-maintained but also, in working condition, are on display. One particular

display, which arises a lot of curiosity is a roof-less and door-less petrol car. This place is not only visited by Indian tourists but even foreigners pay a visit on a large scale.

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The Government Museum is also popular by the name of Museum of Egmore. This Museum is also famously known as Madras Museum. It is the second most established Indian Museum. The Government Museum is the origination of the antique gallery in the city

of Madras which was arranged in 1846 by the Madras Scholarly Society. It is the biggest gallery in the southern region of Asia wealthy in archaeological numismatic collections. It does have the biggest accumulation of ancient Roman pieces outside Europe.

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Situated in Chennai, Guindy National Park is a protected area in Tamil Nadu. Spread across 2.7 sq. km, it is the 8th smallest national park of India. The park has dry evergreen scrub and thorn forest, grasslands, and water

bodies with more than 350 species of plants and 24 species of trees. In terms of fauna, the park has over 14 species of mammals, 150 species of birds, 9 species of amphibians, 60 species of butterflies and spiders, and many others.

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The Sri Jambukeswarar Temple is situated in the Srirangam Island, a similar spot where the famous Ranganathaswamy Temple is located. It is one of the five main Shiva temples in the province of Tamil Nadu. This temple was created by Kocengannan Chola around 1800 years back, and this structure represents water as an element. One of the fascinating realities about the sanctum of Jambukeswarar Temple is that a water stream runs underneath it and despite endeavors of siphoning the water out, the stream never runs dry.
If you are religiously-disposed, a visit to this temple is an absolute necessity. Developed around indistinguishable time from the Srirangam Ranganathaswamy Temple, this one outperforms the previous in architecture and designs.
Inside the compound of

the temple, there are five fenced-in areas. They are called regions and may not be quickly obvious to you as the complex is extremely huge. The primary enormous external divider you discover your direction, called Vibudi Prakara, is a mile long, twenty-five feet high and two feet thick. The fourth region has a corridor with 796 columns and a little tank bolstered by springs. The third region contains the two gopurams or the entryway towers, one seventy-three feet tall and the other one hundred feet. The second region has another gopuram that is sixty-five feet high and has a few little hallowed places. It is the last region, where the sanctum with the Appu Lingam is located. The engravings and figures you find in the temple represent the architectural designs of the Chola Period.

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Kanyakumari Beach is a standout amongst the most outstanding beaches in the waterfront town of Kanyakumari. The Kanyakumari Beach owes its name from the temple of Goddess Shakti in Kanyakumari. There is a pillar at the beach for enjoying the staggering perspectives of the crystal clear blue waters. During dawn and nightfall, the beach becomes excellent to watch and rosy in shading.
Public transports and auto-rickshaws are accessible to take you to

the beach anywhere from the Kanyakumari city. Language can sometimes be an obstruction to utilize open transport. Hence, you can procure a vehicle from a vehicle-agency or from the inn, where you are lodging. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are linked with Kanyakumari through a decent roadway system. Hence, self-driving or reaching the beach through a hired vehicle is not a problem at all. From the airport, you can avail taxis or cabs to directly reach the beach.

Tourist attractions

This beach lies at a place, where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean merge together. One of the real attractions of the beach is the multi-hued sand. It is quite unique and found only in this place. As the rays of the Sun fall on them, this multi-colored sand glitters like gold. Hence, it looks terrific while watching. Other than delighting in the excellence here, guests can enjoy shopping in the beachside

markets.
A decent number of fairs and celebrations are held nearby Kanyakumari Beach. Navaratri, Kalabham, and Vaisakha, are some of the well-known festivals of the area. Voyagers can purchase high-quality handicrafts, seashell craftsmanship pieces, and palm leaf illustrations from nearby shops and stores. Stay away during the months of December and January, as the spot becomes very crowded. You can visit this beach at dawn and nightfall as well.

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The Kappal Matha Church is also famous by the name Selva Matha Church (Our Lady of Good Health). It lies on the seashores of the Bay of Bengal. The church has been devoted to St. Mary. It is a structure that signifies marvelous engineering brilliance. This construction depicts a form of an airplane on top of a ship. It was built in the year 1974 when the first church was harmed because of ocean disintegration. The Kappal Matha Church confronts the blue ocean and the moving rushes of the ocean close-by give a feeling that this ship-like church

is cruising on the ocean.
It is about 70 kilometers away from Tirunelveli. From here, you can avail of buses, taxis, and cabs to reach the Church. This church is located at about 2.5 kilometers from Uvari Swayambulinga Swamy Temple. From here, you can get any public transport to get to the church. If you are coming from Kanyakumari, then the distance is 52 kilometers by road. The ideal time to visit this place will be during the winter season. The temperature is quite amicable till March and is good for sightseeing in and around this church.

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Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam is a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. The memorial is built at the same place where the urn of his ashes was kept for the public to pay homage. Constructed in 1956, the structure is built in Odisha's architectural style. The central shape of the edifice is 79 feet high, the same as the

age of Mahatma Gandhi. Moreover, the monument has been built in such a way that on 2 October (the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi); the rays of the sun pass through a hole on the top of the building and fall on the place where his ashes were placed before immersion. The memorial is a must-visit place for the followers of Gandhian philosophy and patriots.

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The area of Marina Beach extends as long as twelve kilometers and is situated in the east of Chennai adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. The vast area of the beach extends from Fort St. George in the north side to Foreshore Estate, located in the southern end. Known to be the longest beach in India, Marina Beach is also the second longest beach in the world.
It is famous for activities like sight-seeing, photography, walk by the seashore, etc. It is to be remembered that activities like bathing and swimming are prohibited, the reason being the turbulent nature of the undercurrent. Apart from its beautiful rising

sea waves, this beach draws tourists from all over the world due to its collection of several freshwater species. Here are some more attractive facts about the beach:
o The promenade street close-by has various statues and chronicled structures that recount the tales of times past.
o The beach has a pillar that is around fifty meters high and gives dazzling views of Marina Beach and the rest of the city.
o India's first aquarium was set up on the Marina Beach in the year 1909.
o There are many food stalls near the beach offering food items, such as murukku, ice-cream, and other South-Indian snacks.

Tourist attractions

Some of the prominent buildings situated on the beach driveway are the University of Madras, Chepauk Palace, Senate House, Ice House, and Presidency College.
There are also some attractions nearby the beach like the

Vivekananda House, Connemara Library, U. Pope Statue, Victory War Memorial, Fort St. George, Avvaiyar Statue, Dash ?N Splash, etc.
Let the cool breezes from the sea and the lovely environment of Marina Beach welcome you.

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This wondrous temple is situated on the embankments of River Vaigai. One should visit the temple early morning to avoid the crowd. This 2500-year-old magnificent temple is solely dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, who is an avatar of Goddess Parvati, and her husband Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). The Meenakshi Amman Temple complex is huge, covering an area of 14 acres and has more than 33000 sculptures and 12 gopurams, which are imposing in height. Out of these 12 gopurams, the 4 major ones are placed in four different directions.
This

epitome of Dravidian architectural brilliance was constructed by the rulers of the Nayaka Dynasty between the 16th and 18th centuries. The temple was destroyed a number of times by the Muslim invaders and was rebuilt.
The visitors should note that there are specific dress codes for men and women to enter the temple complex. Men should wear full trousers and shirts and no western outfits are allowed for women.
If you opt for the roadways, both AC and non-AC buses, private cabs, and auto-rickshaws are available to reach the temple.

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Mudumalai Sanctuary is one of the first woodland regions in India to be reported as a National Park. The Mudumalai National Park is about 80 kilometers away from Coimbatore and 64 kilometers from Udhagamandalam. This place has connections to major cities in India like Chennai, Mumbai, and Kozhikode. There are several well-constructed roads connected to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Hence, roadways trip is also a very good option. The Mysore or Ooty highways are favorable choices.
From April to June the weather here is

sweltering while during winters, the climate is extremely cold. The rainy season on the western part of this sanctuary is from June to September. On the eastern part, it generally rains from October to December. One can visit the spot all throughout the year; the weather doesn’t make much of a difference. The greenery all around and the serene ambiance of this woodland can certainly fill the hearts of the tourists with delight, peace, and contentment. Hence, this reserve forest should never be missed when one is touring the state of Tamil Nadu.

Tourist attractions

This forest was announced as Tiger Reserve as because this place has as many as fifty tigers. Along with Bandipur National Park, Nagarhole National Park and Wayanad Sanctuary combined together this region is the home to more than five-hundred types of creatures, fowls, reptiles, and varieties of insects.
Other than all these species that you get the opportunity to see in Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, you will also be able to witness gigantic elephants as well. Breeds like

different kinds of uncommon langurs are found here too. The smell of mahogany, teak, sal wood trees all through the timberlands will make your safari very enchanting.
Apart from all these, there are several waterfalls and lakes nearby this sanctuary. You can stay nearby these lakes and refresh yourself for a while. Some of the popular waterfalls and lakes here are Mudumalai Waterfalls, Pykara Lakes, Kallatty Falls, etc. If you have time, you can visit the Mudumalai Museum as well.

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Pancha Rathas, additionally alluded as Rathas of the Pandavas, are superb buildings of architecture amongst the 9 Mahabalipuram temples established on the shore of Coromandel, near the city of Chennai aside the Bay of Bengal. These five ancient sculptures, each etched shaping the chariots or rathas out of huge stone blocks or stone monuments of rock embodies solid Indian designs of rock-cutting that go back in the seventh-century during the rule of the Pallavas.
These compositions derive their names from the 5 Pandava siblings and Draupadi, their life-partner, from the incomparable Indian epic ‘Mahabharata’. These rathas are in the chronological order as Dharmaraja, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva, and Draupadi Ratha. Albeit incomplete and never sanctified, people wrongly allude these pillars as temples. They currently belong to the landmark complex that is set apart as ‘Gathering of Landmarks at Mahabalipuram’ by the UNESCO. It is enrolled in UNESCO’s Reality Legacy Destinations. Kept up under the support of the ‘Archaeological Survey of India’ (ASI), this complex has stayed as a very well-known visitor spot of southern India that progressed towards becoming a model and

established the framework of another new design of art, which is the temple design of South India.
Way back in the seventh century, the development of these rathas took place. Mahendravarman I was the ruler during that time from 600 to 630 CE. His successor was Narasimhavarman I, who ruled from 630 to 668 AD. They belonged to the reign of the Pallavas. An ASI marked stone at the spot specifies that the idea of cutting the stones that shaped like chariots belonged to the Pallava administration keeping structures made of wood as models. Development work of these pieces ceased after the death of first Narasimhavarman in 668 AD. The sculptures outlining the Dravidian style later moved towards becoming formats to temples of a lot higher measurements built in the area.
The explanation behind building the rathas, the maximum of which was bearing impressions of Chaityas and Viharas of the Buddhist is unknown even today. Despite the fact that no relationship exists between these pillars and the Mahabharata’s Pandavas, these structures also called the Vimanas, have unremittingly stayed connected with the names of the Pandavas. UNESCO, in the year 1984, declared the spot as a World Heritage Site.

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These forests are spread across 1100 hectares of an area covering Killai post of Chidambaram, in the state of Tamil Nadu. The forest has in excess of fifty islands of different sizes, and 4,400 types of waterways. There are several birds of different species available here to witness. You can also enjoy the sound of the roaring seas nearby.
Researchers all over from India come to the mangrove timberland. There are about two hundred varieties of birds found here. You can also find numerous

crabs, fish, prawns, shellfish, turtles, etc. There are around twenty distinct breeds of trees in the mangrove woodland too.
From Chennai, you need to cover 230 kilometers on road to reach Pichavaram. However, if you are going through Puducherry and Tindivanam then the distance is only 15 kilometers by road. Several buses are available within this distance. Hence, the best way is to board a bus and come to either Puducherry or Chidambaram. From there you avail another bus directly to Pichavaram.

Tourist attractions

You can avail boat rides from here from 8 o’ clock in the morning to 5 in the afternoon all days of the week. These boats will take you directly inside the mangrove forests. However, the weather gets heated up here as the day progresses. Hence, it is better to reach here as early in the morning as

possible. November to February is the best time for viewing different kinds of birds. For a tranquil ordeal, keep away from ends of the week and open occasions as it gets occupied at that point. Also, abstain from visiting amid the searing summer months, in April and May, as the high dampness is incredibly awkward.

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Also referred to as Karpaka Vinayakar Temple, Pillaiyarpatti Pillaiyar Temple is an ancient rock-cut cave temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha in Tamil Nadu. As per the Agama texts on stone inscriptions, the temple dates back to between 1091 and 1238 B.C. In addition to the deity of Karpaka Vinayakar, the temple also has images of Shiva

and other gods.
The temple is the only one in Tamil Nadu to have a 6 feet rock-cut image of Vinayaka. The God in the temple is also called Valampuri Pillaiyar as his trunk is curled towards his right side. Despite being a Shiva temple, it is popular for Karpaga Vinayaka. The major festival hosted at the temple is Vinayaka Chaturthi.

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Pykara Lake and Falls lie at 22.7 km from Ooty by the Coimbatore Ooty Gundelpet Highway. You have to drive and take left from the Pykara Police Station to reach there in around 40 minutes. For those looking to explore all of this amazing attraction, the best thing to do is to take along a

Pykara Falls map.
The lake is located almost 23 km away from the city, and it is pretty easy to get there via road transfer, within an hour. One can hire a private taxi, or get on a local bus to reach there. The roads are well-maintained so it becomes easier to drive your own vehicle as well.

Tourist attractions

It is considered very sacred by the Todas. The river flows through a series of cascades. Pykara Falls is approximately 6 km from the bridge on the main road. Pykara, a beautiful village, is a well-known getaway set at a distance of 21 km from Ooty. A gushing river flows through it. This river has a dam and a

power plant. The backwater forms a big lake, which is popular by the name of Pykara Lake. The attraction is set amid lush greenery and breathtaking sights, which allure people from different corners of the world. All tourists spots near Pykara Falls can be covered within 2-3 days provided you have that zeal in you.

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Ripon Building, a massive and iconic monument is an exclusive example of the neoclassical style of architecture. Named after Lord Ripon, this is predominantly the seat of the Greater Chennai Corporation. A mandate for anyone visiting Chennai, Ripon Building is an all-white monument that upholds the richness and heritage of the historic times and has an 8.2 feet chiming clock that is indeed the cynosure of the place. It is situated at the heart of the city and lies in close proximity to the Chennai Railway Station. Cars, bike or cabs being the more convenient option, there are also plenty of other options for public commutations, such as buses, carpool, and vanpool that are extremely convenient. One can easily avail public buses from the Chennai Railway station to Ripon Building.
Built in the year 1913, Ripon Building was designed by G.S.T Harris. Being colossal in structure, it is renowned for

its intricate design and is surely Chennai?s prized possession. The building is rectangular being 85 meters long and 32 meters wide. The flooring is eccentric in itself. Although the original flooring was made of Cuddapah slate, the monument has undergone massive restoration at a cost of 77 million. The walls are constructed with solid bricks, plastered with lime mortar thus, are exquisite in their designs and extremely rare. One of the major attractions of the building is the Westminster Quarter Chiming Clock that was installed by Oaks and Company. It has a mechanical key system that is wound 4 times a day.
Ripon Building has an annex building known as ?Amma Maaligai?. This was constructed as a space for all the departments of the Chennai Corporation. Ensuring ample parking space and being centrally air-conditioned, this has been one of the famous government buildings drawing a lot of tourists.

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The Shore Temple bears the symbol of the old landmarks in Mahabalipuram. This temple is named so, as it lies in the shores of Coromandel adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. The brilliance of sculpture symbolizes the statures of architectural mastery of the Pallavas. The Dravidian style of engineering goes back to the seventh-eighth century. Under King Narasimha Varma’s reign, this famous temple was established.
The Shore Temple is an example of one of the best craftsmanship’s ever in ancient history. The stone cut-outs are confirmation of the magnificence of the artists, who have made this wonderful composition. The basic structures can be just called ‘verse in stone’. UNESCO, in the year 1984, declared this temple as a World Heritage Site.
The temple stands tall on fifty feet square base and is a pyramidal structure ascending to sixty feet. The Shore Temple is a trademark example of

temples of Dravidian design. It is one of the most established stone temples of South India. The temple lounges in the shine of the first beams of the rising sun and enlightens the waters after dusk.
Both insides and outsides of the temple are intricately cut and formed. The pictures on the etched boards delineate scenes from regular day to day existence in a genuine and aesthetic style. Images depicting Nandi bull is glorious and worth looking at. The archaeological office has exhumed certain different figures from the site.
The Shore Temple is not regarded as a worshipping place any longer. This building is quite amazing and was raised essentially as a master artwork. In today’s date, this temple is the foundation of Mahabalipuram Dance Celebration held every year in January and February. The objective to organize it was to advance the customary dance just like the travel industry in Mahabalipuram.

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The cascade has been named due to the color of the waterfall, which resembles the metal silver. It draws-in your attention while you travel from Kodaikanal till Madurai. The waterfall is around a fifteen-minute drive from the town area of Kodaikanal. Guests can get here by means of cabs, auto-rickshaws, and nearby transports. Those who are thinking to get to the spot while strolling can do so as it is about 30 minutes walking distance from Kodaikanal Lake through the sloping tree-lined streets.
Winters are ideal to visit the cascade

because of the lovely temperature and low mugginess level. The climate is typically cooler amid nights. Rainy seasons can be a decent time to visit the cascades with water levels reaching some height. One can enjoy the attractive sight of the fall running down progressively.
The Waterfalls is created because of the over streaming of the acclaimed man-made Kodai Lake. Visiting it is an ideal method to have a break while on a lengthy, difficult trip. You can also think of diving in the waters of the cascade for a swim if the temperature is ideal.

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On your voyage from Kodaikanal to Madurai by street, you will be astounded by the overwhelming sight of water whipping down from one-hundred eighty feet directly into the ground beneath and hypnotizing everyone with its sheer quality and excellence. You will find several product merchants selling impeccable, mouth-watering fruits, food products, and forest products, which you can purchase and relish under the Silver Cascade Falls. It surely is an

experience that is quite unmatched. You can also spot many monkeys here, which is quite a delight for the kids.
You will also love to shop some of the fantastic home-made chocolates that are found here along with oils and cheese. Recently, there has been a small park developed near the cascade area, where you can enjoy activities like photography. It is certainly a must-visit site for any tourist coming to Kodaikanal for the very first time.

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If you are a nature lover, then a visit to Sim’s Park, a Government-owned park, is a must. Located in the north side of Coonoor Railway Station, Sim’s Park can be visited by people belonging to all age groups. This park came into existence because of the combined efforts of the early European settlers and was inaugurated in the year 1874 by Mr. J. D. Sim and Major Murray. This splendid looking park extends over an area of 30 acres. Situated at a height of about 1780 meters above the sea level, this park is a must visit when you are amidst the Nilgiri Hills of Coonoor.
This park-cum-botanical garden contains many rare and exquisite plant species. This treasure trove houses around 100 species of flora. These plants and trees have been scattered all over the park, thereby, increasing its greenery quotient. Some

of the famous trees found in this park are Queensland Karry Pine, the Handsome Ornamental Tree, and the Rudraksha - the bead tree.
The gardens and walkways lined up with beautiful flowers make up for a perfect landscape. There is a lake situated inside the park, which offers boating facility to the tourists. It is an outstanding sightseeing option, which can be easily reached. Botanists from all across the globe get enthralled upon witnessing the variety of plant and flower species present in this park. The Nilgiris have a tropical mountain climate and therefore, the vegetation of this park gets the perfect climate to bloom.
This park was initially started as pleasure resort but now, the park has been developed into a botanical park, which allows residents and visitors to witness the myriad of exotic species.

Tourist attractions

This park also has a boating pool, where you can take charge of the oars and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the surroundings while rowing the boat.
Watching the various rose

species present in the park is definitely mandatory, as it is going to be a visual treat for your eyes.
There is also a glasshouse, which houses many ornamental trees and plants.

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Situated toward the western end of the Srirangapatna town, Sri Ranganathaswamy temple is around 14 kilometers from Mysore. You can head out to the spot by your private vehicle or you can even go by contracting a taxi. It is about 62 kilometers from Thanjavur, 145 kilometers from Madurai, and 327 kilometers from Chennai.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is a standout amongst the most acclaimed temples in South India. It was built in the Dravidian style of engineering. This temple is devoted to Ranganatha, a form of the Hindu God, Lord Vishnu. This temple is situated on a type of island formed within River Kollidam and Cauvery. The temple includes a

corridor containing one thousand towers. Mind-boggling figures are the most appealing pieces of the lobby. The Corridor was created during the Vijayanagara reign from 1336 to 1565. The second compound in this area contains the holy deity of Ranganayaki, an epitome of Goddess Lakshmi.
From Chennai, you need to cover 230 kilometers on road to reach Pichavaram. However, if you are going through Puducherry and Tindivanam then the distance is only 15 kilometers by road. Several buses are available within this distance. Hence, the best way is to board a bus and come to either Puducherry or Chidambaram. From there you avail another bus directly to Pichavaram.

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This temple is likewise referred to by different names, for example, Periyakoil, Bhoologa Vaikundam, Thiruvaranga Tirupati, and Bhogamandabam. It has seven nooks shaped by thick and immense bulwark dividers, which go around the sanctum. Aside from the seven nooks with enormous dividers, the temple complex has

twenty-one extremely bright etched gopuras, fifty sub places of worship, nine holy pools and a great Vimana (arch) over the sanctum sanctorum of the idol. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is open all days of the week. If you visit during 6 o’ clock in the morning till 7.15 A.M, you can witness the rituals of Viswaroopa Seva.

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Thyagaraya Nagar, which is affectionately known as T Nagar by the locals, is one of the most famous markets of Tamil Nadu. This market was initially constructed as a trading community and over time, it has made its place as the biggest commercial hub of Chennai. This place needs to be on every shopaholic's itinerary list. Saravana Stores, the one-stop departmental store is Chennai's own version of Walmart, where you will get everything from apparels to electronics, and furniture items to home appliances. Pondy Bazaar, with its effervescent street hawkers selling items like women's clothes and accessories, kids toys, local food, etc. is also a major attraction.
There are many shops selling good quality steel utensils. The textile shops of Pondy Bazaar selling saris will keep you glued if you love to shop the ethnic six-drape attire. Once you are done with the apparel

shopping, it is time to pay attention to the accessories by paying a visit to the Pandian Bangles and other roadside shops. For gold and platinum lovers, there are a plethora of genuine and trustworthy jewelry shops selling gold, silver, platinum, and ornaments of other precious metals and stones. Visit Pothy's and you will be surprised to see that they store everything ever imaginable.
For the middle and lower middle-class people, this place is a shopper's paradise as you can find every item at a reasonable price. Try visiting the market during the weekdays because if you visit during the weekend, you might experience a crowded environment.
For brand enthusiasts, there is good news. Now that the famous brand, Being Human has launched an exclusive store at Mall Palladium in Chennai, which is situated in T Nagar, this already buzzing place is attracting even more customers.

Tourist attractions

Crown Residency Towers: Once you are done with the shopping, treat your hungry stomach to a platter of seafood delight by visiting this restaurant, which offers a 360 view of the city.
Tiki Taka: This is

a covered rooftop football ground, where you can play the sport on the pitch created using synthetic turf. There is also an air-conditioned gallery for the viewers and a separate section for playing video games.

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When very few out of a business-driven city even comprehended what craftsmanship and appreciating artwork implied, a pioneer textile researcher and author, Kasthuri Sreenivasan longed for an organization, where the expressive arts would be praised and conventions of textile would be adored. It would be an area driven by ability, and where business would be the second option.
In this way, he built up the Kasthuri Sreenivasan Trust in 1981. G.V. Doraiswamy Naidu, in the year 1983, presented this Trust a section of land. From there, it transformed into the Kasthuri Sreenivasan Art Museum and Textile Exhibition Hall as we are aware of today. The inauguration was held about thirty-one years back on 29th August 1988 by Mr. R. Venkataraman, the then President of India.
The museum of textile inside the center of culture unites an ordered depiction of the development

of the textile business. The charkha models, spinning and sewing machines, an extensive range of fastens, weaves and sews, and shows offered by various collectors make the historical center an absolute must-visit destination on the schedule of voyagers and textile lovers.
You must admire the Craftsmanship and resources of textiles in Coimbatore. This exhibition house of textiles digs into the development of weaving and spinning directly from the eras of Mohenjo Daro to the modern insurgency, in a random manner alongside the movement in forming yarns.
In the Artistry Museum section, there is a fully air-conditioned and massive auditorium built. This auditorium has a seating capacity of more than two hundred people with the facility of latest public address system. It is available for all types of cultural activities as well as seminars, meetings, workshops, etc.

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You can get an interesting viewpoint at the Material Exhibition hall, which has a show on various sorts of handlooms from the nation all over and several fibers like banana and pineapple.
You can likewise discover the collection of Saxony wheel, Jurgen spin wheel, handle turning, Egyptian twists, Chinese silk weaving, early Egyptian spin, an Egyptian painting appearing and weaving,

Leonard DA Vinci’s spinning wheel, and significantly more are shown. Make sure you visit the Artistry Museum as well. Here you will find houses of customary Indian craftsmanship including Thanjavur depictions that are very ancient. Overseas craftsmanship from over the world is additionally showcased here. A portion of the art museum is devoted to present-day painters for displaying their works.

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The South Indian town of Kanyakumari is famous for its pristine beaches. Two such beaches are Sangathurai Beach and Sothavilai Beach. Lying close to each other, both are very beautiful. Having white sandy dunes and calm water,

Sothavilai Beach is well-suited for beach activities and swimming. The Sangathurai Beach is just down the road from the tranquil Sothavilai Beach. As both the beaches are located in proximity, tourists can enjoy visiting these on the same day.

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Located in the heart of Chidambaram, Thillai Nataraja Temple is one of the 5 most revered Shiva temples displaying Dravidian architectural style. Thillai Nataraja Temple is a very famous Hindu Temple that is devoted to Lord Nataraja Shiva, who is also known as the Lord of Dance. The temple has mythical roots and a Shiva shrine, which is worshipped since the 12th century.
The main idol that one will find in this temple, appears in the form of Spatika Lingam –

meaning, the sky element. Another unique feature of this temple is its 9 gateways, which represent the 9 orifices that are present in the human body. The literal meaning of the name of the temple is “clothed in thought”. The sculptures of this temple have been inspired by the postures of the dance form Bharatnatyam. This temple has influenced architecture, worship, performance, and sculpture art for over two millenniums. It is the foremost temple to the Shaivites.

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Morning Darshan :- 6 am to 12 noon
Evening Darshan :- 5 pm to 10 pm
Pal Nivedhayam :- 6:30 am
Maha Arati :- 7 am
Kalashandhi Pooja :- 7:45 am to 9:45

am
Irandam Kalaam :- 10 am to 11 am
Uchhikalam :- 11:30 am to 12 noon
Saayarakhshai :- 5 pm to 6 pm
Irandam Kalaam :- 7 pm to 8 pm
Ardhajanam :- 9 pm to 10 pm

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Thiruvalluvar Statue or Valluvar Statue is a 133 feet tall stone sculpture of the Tamil poet and philosopher, Valluvar. The statue is situated atop a small island near Kanyakumari. The Indian sculptor V. Ganapati Sthapati sculpted the statue. The combined height of the statue and pedestal is 133 feet denoting the 133 chapters of the Tirukkural, an

ancient Tamil work of the poet. The sculpture is 95 feet high while the pedestal is 38 feet in height, symbolizing the 38 chapters of Virtue, the first of the three books of the Kural text. Similarly, the statue represents the consecutive books, i.e. Wealth and Love. The statue has been built in conformation with the elements of Indian architecture.

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Also called Vadukanthapuram and Vairavanpatti Temple, Arulmigu Sri Vairavar Swamy Temple is a 500-year-old temple in Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Bhairava, the temple is given due importance by the Chettiar community.

Counted amongst Ashta Bairava Sthalams, the temple features beautiful sculptures, paintings, and carvings. The temple has Swayambu lingam known as Valarolinidhar and Goddess Vadivudai Ammai. In all, the temple is a perfect specimen of Tamil architecture.

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Established in the honor of the classical Tamil poet and philosopher Valluvar, it is a famous monument in Chennai. Situated at the intersection point of Kodambakkam High road and Village road in Nungambakkam, the monument was built by M.

Karunanidhi in the 1970s. The monument comprises of a decorative arch, an auditorium, and the Kural Manimandapam. The major highlight of the attraction is the 39 m high stone car, which is a replica of the famous temple chariot of Thiruvarur.

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The memorial is located in close proximities to the Marina Beach in Chennai. It is about 2.7 kilometers via road. The roadways trip to the spot will take approximately 7 to 10 minutes. You can also reach Tirupati Airport in Tirupati and hire taxis or any other forms of transport. The memorial is located about 140 kilometers away from this airport. The other airways trip option is Pondicherry Airport, which is 162 kilometers away.
Ideally speaking, the weather in Chennai can be quite intense in summers. Hence, visiting this place during winters is your best bait when the weather is pretty cool and good for sightseeing.
The Victoria War Memorial of Chennai was initially built in the remembrance

of the martyred army personnel of the World War I. It at that point turned into a commemoration for World War II. It remembers the penances made by warriors of the Madras Administration in support of the English Crown. Presently, engravings from the 1948 Kashmir Animosity, 1962 War with China, Indo-Pak War and Kargil activity have been included there. The Remembrance is developed in marble and there is additionally a round shaped rock, where previously a coastal tower was manufactured.
Respect is paid to the saints by the Military during the Armed Force Day on 15th January, Infantry Day on 27th October 27, NCC Day on 18th November, Naval Force Day on 3rd December, and Vijay Diwas on 16th December 16.

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Vivekananda Rock Memorial was built in the year 1970 and is spread around five hundred meters. This memorial was created in the memory of India's one of the holiest persons, Swami Vivekananda. It is where he had ruminated. Swami Vivekananda reached Kanyakumari in 1892 and had meditated on this stone for two days.
On one of the pillars of this memorial, a charming remembrance of Swami Vivekananda has been assembled. This memorial gloats of incredible engineering brilliance. The commemoration hypnotizes each guest with its design. The architectural style is a mix of the traditional and modern Indian architectural styles.
The two main principal structures of the memorial are the main sanctum sanctorum, which is known as Shripada

Mandapam. This mandapa is enclosed within an outer platform. This structure is square in shape and includes an Inner Prakaram, an outer Prakaram, and a Garbha Graham. The other main structure is the Vikenanada Mandapam, which has been built in honor of Swamiji, and you will find the Dhyan Mandapam, Sabha Mandapam, and Mukha Mandapam within this structure. The Dhyan Mandapam is the meditation hall that allows visitors to relax and meditate in a peaceful environment. The Sabha Mandapam consists of a statue of Swamiji, a corridor, and an outer courtyard.
Vivekananda Mandapam is very comparative in structure to Sri Ramakrishna Temple, which is situated in Belur. The passages of the memorial follow their style from the old Ajanta and Ellora cavern sanctuaries.

Tourist attractions

The bronze statue of Swami Vivekananda in his 'Parivrajak' act is charming and a standout amongst the most appealing highlights of the

Pillar.
Close to this memorial is a spot, where a mysterious carving of a foot has been found. This carving is believed to be that of goddess Devi Kumari.

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