Tamil Nadu is the native soil of one of humanity’s classical Civilisations. Drenched in history, Tamil Nadu’s charismatic temples, abundance of fauna, vibrant dance forms and spectacular festivals are sheer manifestation of the state’s rich traditions which still breathe here.
The locals of Tamil Nadu are mainly Dravidian. Tamilians have perfectly adopted the modern lifestyle today; however, this does not detach them from their roots. They are deeply devoted to their cultures depicted in their day to day chores. The abode of poetry, song and dance, Tamil Nadu is known for the most famous classical dance form Bharatnatyam in which the dancers, wearing gleaming silk, create a unique magic through their hand movements, theatrical poses and a range of facial expressions.
Tamil is the official language of the state spoken by majority of the locals. Many Tamilians understand English as well.
Tamil Nadu is a treasure trove of natural exquisiteness. Visit here and unwind yourself amongst emerald landscapes, pristine streams, charismatic beaches and beautiful dams. Yelagiri, known for green valleys dotted with orchards and rose gardens, is a perfect location to rejuvenate your tired nerves. Housing 14 hamlets situated amidst four hills, the destination is blessed with the most picturesque vistas of nature. Beach enthusiasts can visit Kanyakumari that unfolds some of the most gorgeous beaches, including Sanguthurai Beach and Sothavilai Beach.
Another destination that remains a hit among honeymooners is Ooty. Placed at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level, the hill station is beautified with striking tea states, emerald mountains and extensive grasslands. Also, nature devotees can explore Kodaikanal, Yercaud and Coonoor which are no less than a dream come true.
Every year streams of adventure freaks head towards Tamil Nadu to gratify their hunger for some exciting activities. And the state never disappoints anyone. Sulur Lake of Tamil Nadu is famous for canoeing and kayaking. Those looking for paragliding head for Nilgiris stretching across the borders of Kerala and Karnataka. In addition to this, rock climbing and trekking can be experienced at Thirumoorthy Hills and Parambikulam, respectively.
With 3 Biosphere reserves, 5 National parks, 8 Wildlife sanctuaries, 4 elephant reserves, 4 Tiger Reserves and 13 Bird sanctuaries - Tamil Nadu comes out as a heaven for wild animals. This is perhaps the place where you can spot the best sights of the wild closely. Annamalai (or Indira Gandhi) Wildlife Sanctuary, located at a distance of 108 Kms from Coimbatore, houses varieties of fauna like elephant, gaur, tiger, panther, sloth-bear, deer, wild bear, wild dog, etc. The sanctuary is known for its beautifully cascading waterfalls, grass hills and tea estates. Topslip is another wildlife hub known for elephant camp, wildlife safaris, pleasurable weather and stunning views of Annamalai Hills. Travellers visiting Topslip can spot unique teak forests, Bamboo forests and exotic species of plants.
Sheltering more than 170 species of animals, Arignar Anna Zoological Park has become one of the most visited zoos in India. The park houses Tigers, Jaguars, Lions, Panther, Elephants, Sambar and Giraffes. Apart from these, for best bird watching experiences, a visit to the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is a must. Visit here between October and March when over 100,000 avian species flock here.
Tamil Nadu is world renowned for its temples, each flaunting a diverse architectural style. Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Chennai is a jaw dropping shrine featuring numerous halls. The temple dates back to the 7th century and still creates a magic with its imposing structure. Brihadeeswarar Temple of Thanjavur holds its UNESCO World Heritage Site tag with pride. With a 1000 year old heritage, the temple is beautifully adorned with giant sculptures. Other noteworthy temple of Tamil Nadu is Meenakshi Sundareswarar in Madurai dedicated to Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati. The temple edges the Vaigai River and features 33,000 astonishing sculptures. In addition to this, other prominent temples that uplift the significance of Tamil Nadu among pilgrims are:
Tamil Nadu brings loads of surprises for shopaholics. The local markets of the state are decked up with rainbow colour artefacts that narrate stories of the bygone era. The capital city of Chennai is known for silk, embroidered saris, hand-woven garments and other handicrafts. Poompuhar, the Tamil Nadu Emporium and Khadi Gramodyog Bhawan are perfect to buy traditional handicrafts at great prices. Those having keenness for fine pieces of sculptures can visit Mahabalipuram.
Madurai, the textile hub of South India, also pleases the heart and soul of shoppers. It is known for readymade silk and cotton garments. Apart from these, Thanjavur is the perfect place to bag bronze items, including replicas of the ancient paintings and Thanjavur plates.
Some of the major delicacies of Tamil Nadu are Banana Bonda (wheat balls stuffed with banana), idli (made with a mixture of urad dal and rice), dosa (urad dal and rice, spread over a pan and cooked mildly), sambar (prepared with locally found vegetables and rich spices) and uppama (made of Urad Dal and rice powder). Rice is the staple food of the state. Locals also consume lentil in abundance which is usually served with rice. Those with a sweet tooth can try Paruppu Payasam (made of urad dal with roasted cashew nuts).
The locals of Tamil Nadu believe in celebrating every festival to the fullest. All the local festivities mirror the rich culture and religious harmony fused in the soil of Tamil Nadu. Pongal is perhaps the most popular festival of Tamilians celebrated to thank the Sun God. Meenakshi Kalyanam Festival is a popular annual festival celebrated at the magnificent Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. Thousands of devotees flock at the temple to partake in the festival which brings our state’s rituals, dance forms and colourful costumes. Tamil New Year, the first day of the Hindu Solar Calendar, also holds great importance among locals. Chithirai Festival of Madurai is the time when the wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar take place. To explore the local dance forms, Natyanjali Dance Festival is a beguiler. With over 300 professional dancers performing beautiful South Indian dance forms, this festival is a treat for the lovers of music and dance.
Apart from these, Tamilians also have great respect for the Mahamaham Festival when they bath in the Mahamaham Tank to wash away all their sins.
The best time to visit Tamil Nadu is between July-September and January-March. The months of April, May and June are hottest in the state with the mercury reaching over 40°C. Monsoon hits Tamil Nadu in October and continues till the end of December, making sightseeing difficult.
All the major cities of Tamil Nadu have their own airports. Chennai International Airport is a major airport that caters domestic flights as well as international flights.
Tamil Nadu has a great road network and thus, it is easier to visit here by taking private and state buses. Also, Chennai being the focal point of the Southern Railways makes rail travel extremely easy. Other major junctions of the state include Madurai, Tiruchirapalli, Salem, and Coimbatore.
The roads of Tamil Nadu are well maintained. Travellers can find both private and state operated buses to travel around. Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore and Tiruchirapalli also have airports and thus, enjoy great air connectivity. Hiring a car or motorbike is also a good option.
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