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Tamil Nadu
The southern state of Tamil Nadu is referred to as the cradle of Dravidian culture, an ancient culture distinguished by unique languages and customs. The cultural icons are everywhere - huge temples with their towering gopurams (spires) not seen anywhere else in the country, intricate rock carvings, evocative music and, of course, the complex classical dance. Tamil Nadu is a bastion of Hinduism at its most vigorous, whose past endures into the present.
Temples in Tamil Nadu were the fulcrum of society and even today art forms that have their origin in religious worship continue to colour daily life. Notable among these are splendid bronzes of deities, painting on glass and Bharatanatyam, an evocative dance form.
Tamil Nadu offers the traveller excellent value, particularly in accommodation. Hotel prices are generally lower than they are further north and standards are often higher.
Temples in Tamil Nadu were the fulcrum of society and even today art forms that have their origin in religious worship continue to colour daily life. Notable among these are splendid bronzes of deities, painting on glass and Bharatanatyam, an evocative dance form.
Tamil Nadu offers the traveller excellent value, particularly in accommodation. Hotel prices are generally lower than they are further north and standards are often higher.
| Capital | : | Chennai |
| District Area | : | 130,058 sq km |
| Literacy | : | 73.47% |
| Best time to visit | : | December to February |
| Temperature | : | Summer: 40ºC (Max) Winter: 20°C (Min) |
| Climate | : | Summer (Mar to June): Warm Winter (Nov - Feb): Warm and Pleasant |
| Rainfall | : | 25 and 75 inches |
| Clothing | : | Summer: Cottons Winters: Light Woolens |
| Local Languages | : | Tamil |
Chidambaram
Between two rivers in a 40 acre temple-complex, lies the temple of Chidambaram, one of the oldest, and most magnificent temples of South India. Shiva Natraja (the Dancing Shiva) stands in his cosmic dance pose in the golden sanctum sanctorum. Flanking the temple are 108 sculptured illustrations of Bharat Natya Shashtra.
Kanchipuram
The temple town of Kanchipuram, 64 kms from Chennai, was the ancient capital of the Pallavas. Famous as a city of 1000 temples, it still has 124 shrines. The first temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in the 7th and 8th century and has paintings on the walls. The temples of Ekambaswara, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi and Varadarajaswamy are also of interest. Kanchipuram, also called Kanjeevaram, is also famous for its silks.
Madurai
Madurai's famous Meenakshi Temple, with its gopurams rising high above the surrounding countryside, is dedicated to Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Also visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace, a gracious building in the Indo-saracenic style, famous for the Stuccowork on its domes and arches; the Alagar Hills; and the Tirupara Kundran Rock temple.
Read More..
Kodaikanal
120 kms from Madurai, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station situated amidst the grandeur of the southern crest of the upper Palani hill in the Western Ghats, at a height of 2135 mts. Its tranquil lake framed by wooded hills, mighty rocks, slopes and enchanting waterfalls mesmerize visitors. It is noted for hybrids and grafts, hill plantain, fruits and plums and the Kurunji flower which blossoms once in 12 years.
Udhagamandalam (formerly Ooty)
This "little patch of England" was established as a hill station by the British in the early part of the 19th century, in the Nilgiris or the Blue Moutains (so called because of the blue haze that envelops them). Today, echoes of the Raj still linger in its little cottages, colourful gardens, winding lanes, old churches, Botanical Gardens and the lake surrounded by eucalyptus groves. A fine retreat from the heat of the plains, Udhagamandalam is a great place to honeymoon or simply unwind. Visit the Dodabetta Peak and Wenlock Downs.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is famous for its' seven pagodas - a group of ancient rock hewn temples on the seashore. They are an excellent example of the Dravidian style of architecture. Mahabalipuram itself is a good example of a temple town, where a multi layered society that preached faith and grew from social harmony developed within the temple precincts.
Rameshwaram
The island of Rameshwaram, spread out over 56 km of gentle sand dunes, embellished with casuarina trees and stark palms, is a sacred place for Hindus since, according to the Ramayana, this is where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to absolve himself of the sin of killing Ravana. A dip into the sacred waters of the Agnitheertham, which was calmed by Rama, is a must for Hindus.
Thanjavur (formerly Tanjore)
This temple town has the beautiful Chola Temple of Brihadeshwara (a World Culturage Heritage site), capped by a monolithic cupola made of a single granite block weighing 80 tons. It was taken to its' position with the help of a 6 km long ramp, using the same technique as the Egyptians did for building pyramids. Thanjavur is an important center for bronze figure casting, and its' bronzes and handicrafts make it one of the highlights of a visit to South India.
Kanniyakumari
The Southern-most tip of peninsular India, where the waters of the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea meet, offers visitors the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Visit the Swami Vivekananda Memorial perched on a little rocky island close to the seashore. Also visit The Gandhi Memorial.
Trichy
Trichy, also known as Tiruchirapalli, was the citadel of the Chola dynasty in the medieval period. In the 18th century it witnessed the Carnatic wars fought between the French and the English. Lord Robert Clive's house still stands and so do the Danish Church and The Rock Fort. 434 steps lead to the ancient temple of Ganapati, and a further climb takes you to a Shiva temple.
Vedathangal
This sanctuary is 80 kms from Chennai. The waterbirds are mostly found here during their breeding season, from November to January.
Mamallapuram
Has famous temples, finely carved ancient monuments, beaches and sculptors plying their skills. The Shore temple, here, is a World Cultural Heritage site.
Pondicherry
Quite a contrast to Tamil Nadu's temple heritage is this erstwhile French colony. French is still widely spoken, and seaside villas and cobbled streets are more reminiscent of the south of France than the south of India! The main mode of transport is the bicycle.
Mudumalai Sanctuary
This 103.24 sq km sanctuary is home to elephant, gaur, chital, sambar, tiger, panther, sloth bear, and wild dog. The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (160 kms) and nearest railhead at Udhagamandalam (64 kms). The best time to visit is from February to June.
Brihadisvara
Brihadisvara is the showpiece of Chola architecture, the most enduring aspect of the four-century rule of the Cholas (AD 850- AD 1280). It was probably the richest temple of its time and is today a World Heritage site. The temple rituals have changed little in the thousand years of its existence. Even today, the deity is woken up to the accompaniment of ceremonial music and, after a morning bath, the rituals start with the Vedic chants and singing. In time-honoured tradition, the temple is closed in the afternoon to allow the Lord a nap and the priests return to their homes in adjoining streets, where their families have lived since the time of Rajaraja Chola. At four in the evening, the temple doors are opened again and the rituals start until it is time for the Lord to retire for the night.
The major hill stations of Tamil Nadu are :
Ooty
Ootacamund, also called Udhagamandalam is nicknamed the queen of the hill stations of South India, is crowning the Nilgiri's at an altitude of 2240 metres. Ooty is known for its extraordinary scenic beauty and salubrious climate round the year. Green Udhagamandalam better known as Ooty is the most popular hill station in the South.
Yercaud
Unlike other popular summer resorts of Tamilnadu, Yercaud is a hidden treasure in the southern peninsula. Perfect for a calm and solitary holiday, Yercaud is bedecked with numerous natural charms which are unmatched in their respective sense.
Yelagiri
Paradise for trekkers, Yelagiri is another alluring hill resort in TamilNadu. Blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year, Yelagiri is an ideal destination to rejuvenate one's body, mind and soul amidst serene beauty of 'Mother Nature.'
Kodaikanal
Situated at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level and 120 Kms from the bustling city of Madurai, Kodaikanal is a perfect destination for a calm and solitary vacations. Feel every breath you take here, rejuvenate you to the deepest.
Coonoor
The exquisite hill station of Coonoor lies in the wraps of the Nilgiri Hills. In fact Coonoor is located at an altitude of 1800 m. This is probably the best hill station in the state for trekking.
Kotagiri
In the serene setting of the Nilgiri Hills and just an hour's drive from Ooty, Kotagiri is a small town set among the lush tea estates. Retaining the essence of hill magic and charm, the resort offers year round sylvan charm.
Between two rivers in a 40 acre temple-complex, lies the temple of Chidambaram, one of the oldest, and most magnificent temples of South India. Shiva Natraja (the Dancing Shiva) stands in his cosmic dance pose in the golden sanctum sanctorum. Flanking the temple are 108 sculptured illustrations of Bharat Natya Shashtra.
Kanchipuram
The temple town of Kanchipuram, 64 kms from Chennai, was the ancient capital of the Pallavas. Famous as a city of 1000 temples, it still has 124 shrines. The first temple, dedicated to Shiva, was built in the 7th and 8th century and has paintings on the walls. The temples of Ekambaswara, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi and Varadarajaswamy are also of interest. Kanchipuram, also called Kanjeevaram, is also famous for its silks.
Madurai
Madurai's famous Meenakshi Temple, with its gopurams rising high above the surrounding countryside, is dedicated to Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. Also visit the Tirumala Nayak Palace, a gracious building in the Indo-saracenic style, famous for the Stuccowork on its domes and arches; the Alagar Hills; and the Tirupara Kundran Rock temple.
Read More..
Kodaikanal
120 kms from Madurai, Kodaikanal is a charming hill station situated amidst the grandeur of the southern crest of the upper Palani hill in the Western Ghats, at a height of 2135 mts. Its tranquil lake framed by wooded hills, mighty rocks, slopes and enchanting waterfalls mesmerize visitors. It is noted for hybrids and grafts, hill plantain, fruits and plums and the Kurunji flower which blossoms once in 12 years.
Udhagamandalam (formerly Ooty)
This "little patch of England" was established as a hill station by the British in the early part of the 19th century, in the Nilgiris or the Blue Moutains (so called because of the blue haze that envelops them). Today, echoes of the Raj still linger in its little cottages, colourful gardens, winding lanes, old churches, Botanical Gardens and the lake surrounded by eucalyptus groves. A fine retreat from the heat of the plains, Udhagamandalam is a great place to honeymoon or simply unwind. Visit the Dodabetta Peak and Wenlock Downs.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram is famous for its' seven pagodas - a group of ancient rock hewn temples on the seashore. They are an excellent example of the Dravidian style of architecture. Mahabalipuram itself is a good example of a temple town, where a multi layered society that preached faith and grew from social harmony developed within the temple precincts.
Rameshwaram
The island of Rameshwaram, spread out over 56 km of gentle sand dunes, embellished with casuarina trees and stark palms, is a sacred place for Hindus since, according to the Ramayana, this is where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to absolve himself of the sin of killing Ravana. A dip into the sacred waters of the Agnitheertham, which was calmed by Rama, is a must for Hindus.
Thanjavur (formerly Tanjore)
This temple town has the beautiful Chola Temple of Brihadeshwara (a World Culturage Heritage site), capped by a monolithic cupola made of a single granite block weighing 80 tons. It was taken to its' position with the help of a 6 km long ramp, using the same technique as the Egyptians did for building pyramids. Thanjavur is an important center for bronze figure casting, and its' bronzes and handicrafts make it one of the highlights of a visit to South India.
Kanniyakumari
The Southern-most tip of peninsular India, where the waters of the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea meet, offers visitors the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Visit the Swami Vivekananda Memorial perched on a little rocky island close to the seashore. Also visit The Gandhi Memorial.
Trichy
Trichy, also known as Tiruchirapalli, was the citadel of the Chola dynasty in the medieval period. In the 18th century it witnessed the Carnatic wars fought between the French and the English. Lord Robert Clive's house still stands and so do the Danish Church and The Rock Fort. 434 steps lead to the ancient temple of Ganapati, and a further climb takes you to a Shiva temple.
Vedathangal
This sanctuary is 80 kms from Chennai. The waterbirds are mostly found here during their breeding season, from November to January.
Mamallapuram
Has famous temples, finely carved ancient monuments, beaches and sculptors plying their skills. The Shore temple, here, is a World Cultural Heritage site.
Pondicherry
Quite a contrast to Tamil Nadu's temple heritage is this erstwhile French colony. French is still widely spoken, and seaside villas and cobbled streets are more reminiscent of the south of France than the south of India! The main mode of transport is the bicycle.
Mudumalai Sanctuary
This 103.24 sq km sanctuary is home to elephant, gaur, chital, sambar, tiger, panther, sloth bear, and wild dog. The nearest airport is at Coimbatore (160 kms) and nearest railhead at Udhagamandalam (64 kms). The best time to visit is from February to June.
Brihadisvara
Brihadisvara is the showpiece of Chola architecture, the most enduring aspect of the four-century rule of the Cholas (AD 850- AD 1280). It was probably the richest temple of its time and is today a World Heritage site. The temple rituals have changed little in the thousand years of its existence. Even today, the deity is woken up to the accompaniment of ceremonial music and, after a morning bath, the rituals start with the Vedic chants and singing. In time-honoured tradition, the temple is closed in the afternoon to allow the Lord a nap and the priests return to their homes in adjoining streets, where their families have lived since the time of Rajaraja Chola. At four in the evening, the temple doors are opened again and the rituals start until it is time for the Lord to retire for the night.
The major hill stations of Tamil Nadu are :
Ooty
Ootacamund, also called Udhagamandalam is nicknamed the queen of the hill stations of South India, is crowning the Nilgiri's at an altitude of 2240 metres. Ooty is known for its extraordinary scenic beauty and salubrious climate round the year. Green Udhagamandalam better known as Ooty is the most popular hill station in the South.
Yercaud
Unlike other popular summer resorts of Tamilnadu, Yercaud is a hidden treasure in the southern peninsula. Perfect for a calm and solitary holiday, Yercaud is bedecked with numerous natural charms which are unmatched in their respective sense.
Yelagiri
Paradise for trekkers, Yelagiri is another alluring hill resort in TamilNadu. Blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year, Yelagiri is an ideal destination to rejuvenate one's body, mind and soul amidst serene beauty of 'Mother Nature.'
Kodaikanal
Situated at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level and 120 Kms from the bustling city of Madurai, Kodaikanal is a perfect destination for a calm and solitary vacations. Feel every breath you take here, rejuvenate you to the deepest.
Coonoor
The exquisite hill station of Coonoor lies in the wraps of the Nilgiri Hills. In fact Coonoor is located at an altitude of 1800 m. This is probably the best hill station in the state for trekking.
Kotagiri
In the serene setting of the Nilgiri Hills and just an hour's drive from Ooty, Kotagiri is a small town set among the lush tea estates. Retaining the essence of hill magic and charm, the resort offers year round sylvan charm.
Wildlife Parks in Tamil Nadu:
Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary
Vedanthangal is a home not only to migratory birds but also to many ornithologists who camp here for weeks observing the birds at close quarters.
Point Calimere Bird Sanctuary
Sprawling on 17.26 sq km surrounded by sea and shore, comprising forests of tidal swamps, this sanctuary is situated in Nagapattinam district.
Crocodile Bank
This Crocodile Bank has been established with an aim to protected and conserve the endangered reptiles such as crocodiles, Alligators etc.
Kunthakulam Bird Sanctuary
Kunthakulam bird sanctuary is situated 33-km south of Tirunelveli in Nanguneri taluk. Kunthakulam is a small and natural scenic village, which is covered with natural forests and ponds.
Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
An ecological Paradise, Spread over 958 sq kms, this sanctuary can be reached though sin Anamalai Hills on the Western Ghats.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Nilgiri Hills, the offshoot of the Western Ghats meet the Eastern Ghats. This 321 sq km wide sanctuary encompasses a National Park measuring an area of 103 sq kms. This sanctuary is located where the Niligiri Hills, the offshoot of the Western Ghats.
Mukkurthi National Park / Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris, 40 kms from Udhagamandalam. It contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitrgus-hilocrius), Sambar, Nilgiri Marten, Barking deer Located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris.
Guindy National Park
Situated in Chennai. Compositions of animals Black Buck, Chital, Jackal, Pangolin and a variety of Avi fauna. Guindy National Park is one of the prime visiting spots for those who come to Chennai during vacation period.
Vedanthangal And Karikili Bird Sanctuaries
Situated in the Kanchipuram district. In all 115 species of birds have been recorded in this sanctuary.
Monuments
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance, perhaps the world's largest bas-relief, is the universe itself in stone, throbbing with a vastness of conception. Legend has it that King Bhagiratha had to bring down to earth the celestial Ganga to sanctify and redeem the cursed souls of his ancestors
Rock Fort Temple
The Rock Fort temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a conglomeration of three temples - the Manikka Vinayaka temple at the foot of the hill, the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the Taayumaanava Koyil (Shivastalam) on the hill.
Valluvar Kottam
The memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot which is 33m. tall.
Tanjavur Palace
The rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, Tanjavur is a bustling country town situated 55 kms east of Trichy. Tanjore, also known as Thanjavur, was the ancient capital of the Chola kings and later of the Tanjavur Nayaka and Maratha rulers.
Tanjore Maratha Marvels
There were 275 Siva temples and 108 Vaishnavaite temples in the ninth century A.D. in Tamil Nadu. Of these, 230 temples were in the original Chola Desa. The Cholas were the greatest single dynasty, which had built the largest number of temples in India, perhaps in the world.
Padmanabhapuram Palace
Located in Kanyakumari district, about 15 km from Nagercoil has the rare distinction of being one of the most ancient monuments in South India. Known for its strategic planning and military architecture, the palace was the seat of power for the Travancore emperors till 1790.
Sivaganga Palace
Built in the architectural style of Thirumalai Nayak's period and infused with Rajputana arts, which the remains are mute witness to, the palace is said to have been ignored during the period of Rajah Doraisingh Thevar (1898-1941).
Caves of Tamil Nadu
Built in the architectural style of Thirumalai Nayak's period and infused with Rajputana arts, which the remains are mute witness to, the palace is said to have been ignored during the period of Rajah Doraisingh Thevar (1898-1941).
St. George's Fort
It is the oldest English fort on the East Coast, the tallest flag post in the region, the oldest Anglican Church in the east of Suez. Constructed between 1640 and 1653 and subsequently reconstructed in 1783, the Fort was once a town, complete with named streets, alleys and roads.
Major festivals of Tamil Nadu:
Pongal Festival
Pongal is the harvesting festival of Tamil Nadu which also is the most important of all other festivals. The celebration of Pongal Festival goes on for four consecutive days. During this festival, people take opportunity to thank all factors like Sun God, Air, Water, and Earth for a good crop and pray for prosperity. The cook a meal called 'Pongal' which is made of rice, jaggery and milk. The content of the pot is then allowed to boil over signifying prosperity.
Natyanjali Dance Festival
Natyanjali Dance Festival may be a cultural festival but it has a religious significance as well as the festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja, 'The Cosmic Dancer'. Held in the temple city of Chidambaram in the month of February, Natyanjali Dance Festival attracts famous and excellent classical dancers as well as young performers, for whom this is a perfect platform to showcase their talent.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam Festival is the festival of light of Tamil Nadu. It is a nine day festival and on all days houses are illuminated with many lights and lamps. On important days between these days, beautiful processions of many deities are taken out.
Jallikatu Bull Fight
Jallikatu Bull Festival is celebrated in Tiruchirapalli on the 4th day of Pongal. People tie bundles of money on horns of violent bulls and they try to snatch it from there.
Music & Dance Festival, Chennai
Among the many cultural festivals that are held in Chennai, Music and Dance festival is the most famous and attracts the most number of performers as well as audiences.
Vinayaka Chathurthi
Vinayaka Chathurthi is a festival that is celebrated in many parts of the country. However the rituals and method of celebrations are totally different in all parts. The festival dedicated to Lord Ganapathi is celebrated in the month of September and October.
Navarathiri
The festival of Nine nights is an important part of people of Tamil Nadu as well. During these nine days Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswathi are worshipped for health, wealth and knowledge.
Deepavali
The Festival of Deepavali symbolises the triumph of good over evil. During the festival people light up their houses with lamps and lights.
Vedanthangal Water Birds Sanctuary
Vedanthangal is a home not only to migratory birds but also to many ornithologists who camp here for weeks observing the birds at close quarters.
Point Calimere Bird Sanctuary
Sprawling on 17.26 sq km surrounded by sea and shore, comprising forests of tidal swamps, this sanctuary is situated in Nagapattinam district.
Crocodile Bank
This Crocodile Bank has been established with an aim to protected and conserve the endangered reptiles such as crocodiles, Alligators etc.
Kunthakulam Bird Sanctuary
Kunthakulam bird sanctuary is situated 33-km south of Tirunelveli in Nanguneri taluk. Kunthakulam is a small and natural scenic village, which is covered with natural forests and ponds.
Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary
An ecological Paradise, Spread over 958 sq kms, this sanctuary can be reached though sin Anamalai Hills on the Western Ghats.
Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Nilgiri Hills, the offshoot of the Western Ghats meet the Eastern Ghats. This 321 sq km wide sanctuary encompasses a National Park measuring an area of 103 sq kms. This sanctuary is located where the Niligiri Hills, the offshoot of the Western Ghats.
Mukkurthi National Park / Kalakkadu Wildlife Sanctuary
Located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris, 40 kms from Udhagamandalam. It contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitrgus-hilocrius), Sambar, Nilgiri Marten, Barking deer Located on the high altitudes of the Nilgiris.
Guindy National Park
Situated in Chennai. Compositions of animals Black Buck, Chital, Jackal, Pangolin and a variety of Avi fauna. Guindy National Park is one of the prime visiting spots for those who come to Chennai during vacation period.
Vedanthangal And Karikili Bird Sanctuaries
Situated in the Kanchipuram district. In all 115 species of birds have been recorded in this sanctuary.
Monuments
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance, perhaps the world's largest bas-relief, is the universe itself in stone, throbbing with a vastness of conception. Legend has it that King Bhagiratha had to bring down to earth the celestial Ganga to sanctify and redeem the cursed souls of his ancestors
Rock Fort Temple
The Rock Fort temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a conglomeration of three temples - the Manikka Vinayaka temple at the foot of the hill, the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the Taayumaanava Koyil (Shivastalam) on the hill.
Valluvar Kottam
The memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot which is 33m. tall.
Tanjavur Palace
The rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, Tanjavur is a bustling country town situated 55 kms east of Trichy. Tanjore, also known as Thanjavur, was the ancient capital of the Chola kings and later of the Tanjavur Nayaka and Maratha rulers.
Tanjore Maratha Marvels
There were 275 Siva temples and 108 Vaishnavaite temples in the ninth century A.D. in Tamil Nadu. Of these, 230 temples were in the original Chola Desa. The Cholas were the greatest single dynasty, which had built the largest number of temples in India, perhaps in the world.
Padmanabhapuram Palace
Located in Kanyakumari district, about 15 km from Nagercoil has the rare distinction of being one of the most ancient monuments in South India. Known for its strategic planning and military architecture, the palace was the seat of power for the Travancore emperors till 1790.
Sivaganga Palace
Built in the architectural style of Thirumalai Nayak's period and infused with Rajputana arts, which the remains are mute witness to, the palace is said to have been ignored during the period of Rajah Doraisingh Thevar (1898-1941).
Caves of Tamil Nadu
Built in the architectural style of Thirumalai Nayak's period and infused with Rajputana arts, which the remains are mute witness to, the palace is said to have been ignored during the period of Rajah Doraisingh Thevar (1898-1941).
St. George's Fort
It is the oldest English fort on the East Coast, the tallest flag post in the region, the oldest Anglican Church in the east of Suez. Constructed between 1640 and 1653 and subsequently reconstructed in 1783, the Fort was once a town, complete with named streets, alleys and roads.
Major festivals of Tamil Nadu:
Pongal Festival
Pongal is the harvesting festival of Tamil Nadu which also is the most important of all other festivals. The celebration of Pongal Festival goes on for four consecutive days. During this festival, people take opportunity to thank all factors like Sun God, Air, Water, and Earth for a good crop and pray for prosperity. The cook a meal called 'Pongal' which is made of rice, jaggery and milk. The content of the pot is then allowed to boil over signifying prosperity.
Natyanjali Dance Festival
Natyanjali Dance Festival may be a cultural festival but it has a religious significance as well as the festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja, 'The Cosmic Dancer'. Held in the temple city of Chidambaram in the month of February, Natyanjali Dance Festival attracts famous and excellent classical dancers as well as young performers, for whom this is a perfect platform to showcase their talent.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam Festival is the festival of light of Tamil Nadu. It is a nine day festival and on all days houses are illuminated with many lights and lamps. On important days between these days, beautiful processions of many deities are taken out.
Jallikatu Bull Fight
Jallikatu Bull Festival is celebrated in Tiruchirapalli on the 4th day of Pongal. People tie bundles of money on horns of violent bulls and they try to snatch it from there.
Music & Dance Festival, Chennai
Among the many cultural festivals that are held in Chennai, Music and Dance festival is the most famous and attracts the most number of performers as well as audiences.
Vinayaka Chathurthi
Vinayaka Chathurthi is a festival that is celebrated in many parts of the country. However the rituals and method of celebrations are totally different in all parts. The festival dedicated to Lord Ganapathi is celebrated in the month of September and October.
Navarathiri
The festival of Nine nights is an important part of people of Tamil Nadu as well. During these nine days Goddess Durga, Goddess Lakshmi, and Goddess Saraswathi are worshipped for health, wealth and knowledge.
Deepavali
The Festival of Deepavali symbolises the triumph of good over evil. During the festival people light up their houses with lamps and lights.
The climate in southern India shows only slight seasonal variations. The climate of Tamil Nadu is essentially tropical. The temperature in summer seldom 43º C and in winter seldom falls below 18º C. Temperatures and humidity remain relatively high all year round. Lightweight clothes and an umbrella are required throughout the year. A few extra layers of clothing may also be useful during the cooler months, as temperatures may drop slightly in the evening. The Cool Season and the beginning of the Summer Season is the best time to visit when rainfall is marginally lower which is between November and March.
Summer
April and May are the hottest months with the mercury often soaring above the 40ºC (108.75 F approx.) mark. Even the coastal regions are warm and humid during the summers, but with the nightfall, however, cool sea breeze brings some respite. Summer temperatures are quite equable at the foothills of the ghats. But the most pleasant are the hill stations where the maximum temperature rarely rises above mid twenties in summer.
Monsoon
In Tamil Nadu the rainy season is between October and December when the Northeast monsoon brings rain in spurts. The average annual rainfall, falling mainly between October and December, ranges between 25 and 75 inches. The most precipitation falls in the Nilgiris and other hill areas.
Winter
Winter falls between November-February during which, the mercury hardly falls below 20°C (54 F approx.), except in the hill stations. The winter monsoons of Tamil Nadu occur in the months of October to December. The lowest temperatures are recorded during December and January.
Summer
April and May are the hottest months with the mercury often soaring above the 40ºC (108.75 F approx.) mark. Even the coastal regions are warm and humid during the summers, but with the nightfall, however, cool sea breeze brings some respite. Summer temperatures are quite equable at the foothills of the ghats. But the most pleasant are the hill stations where the maximum temperature rarely rises above mid twenties in summer.
Monsoon
In Tamil Nadu the rainy season is between October and December when the Northeast monsoon brings rain in spurts. The average annual rainfall, falling mainly between October and December, ranges between 25 and 75 inches. The most precipitation falls in the Nilgiris and other hill areas.
Winter
Winter falls between November-February during which, the mercury hardly falls below 20°C (54 F approx.), except in the hill stations. The winter monsoons of Tamil Nadu occur in the months of October to December. The lowest temperatures are recorded during December and January.
By Air:
Tamil Nadu has an International Airport near Chennai, which serves as the most convenient entry point for Tamil Nadu. International airlines from countries like Sri Lanka, Dubai, Germany, Jakarta, Malaysia, England, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore operate regular flights to connect Chennai. You can also approach Chennai from any part of the country by most public and private airlines in India.
By Railway:
The main Railway Station in Tamil Nadu is in Chennai. Many important trains connect Chennai to major Railway Stations in the country.
By Road:
An extensive network of roadways covers Tamil Nadu. A number of national highways and state highways literally crisscross the land. Most of the major cities like: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore are linked by road to Chennai and other important cities in the state.
Tamil Nadu has an International Airport near Chennai, which serves as the most convenient entry point for Tamil Nadu. International airlines from countries like Sri Lanka, Dubai, Germany, Jakarta, Malaysia, England, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore operate regular flights to connect Chennai. You can also approach Chennai from any part of the country by most public and private airlines in India.
By Railway:
The main Railway Station in Tamil Nadu is in Chennai. Many important trains connect Chennai to major Railway Stations in the country.
By Road:
An extensive network of roadways covers Tamil Nadu. A number of national highways and state highways literally crisscross the land. Most of the major cities like: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bangalore are linked by road to Chennai and other important cities in the state.