Tamil Nadu

Mamallapuram dates its history back to an ancient Pallava dynasty, which operated in 7th and the 9th century. You would be mesmerized by the structural beauty of granite carvings. They form the rich history in Dravidian architecture as they are the oldest existing examples available to the world.

The city of Kanchipuram is called as the religious capital of the southern India. This is because of the many temples of importance present here. Some of the famous temples include the Kamakshi temple, Varadaraja temple, Ekambareshwar temple, Ulahalnda Perumal temple, Kailashanathar temple,Kumara Kottam etc. Besides many a religious festivals are celebrated throughout the year which include Bhramotsavam, Garuda Sevai, Float festival, Kamakshi Ammam festival and Panguni Uthiram along with the Navratri festival.

Vellore, an ancient district of Tamil Nadu, has a very inspiring history. It was ruled by lots of great dynasties, including Cholas, Pallavas and also Bijapurs. You can see the flavor of the traditions and culture of all these rulers till date in this district. The art work of all these rulers is remarkable and thus Vellore is a place blessed with artistic sculptures and monuments. A small list of must visit destinations of Vellore is mentioned below.

Do not judge Pondicherry by its small size. In India it was once the biggest French colony. This city bears a long, rich and interesting history of war and trade. You would find a stringent French influence on the city. The quarters, Mediterranean style houses lined by boulevards, bakeries etc will give you a French effect. Although the city is Indian, French is understood. You will find a heartening amalgamation of West and East.

Situated to the east – centre of Tamil Nadu is this lovely town of Chidambaram. Beautifully placed in the Valley of Coleroon River, Chidambaram means sky which is infused in a wise and intelligent atmosphere.

The city of Thanjavur is known for its rice production and also as the capital of the Chola kingdom. It has been a centre for learning and art since the ancient times. It boasts of much classical music, dance forms and also a special style of paintings found here. The classical performances performed here will surely put you in a trance. The city as such retains an ancient feel coupled with the latest technology. The city is well connected by roads and rails. The nearest airport is at Trichy which is approximately 65km away. There are also taxi services available to visit the popular tourist places.

Located at the excursions of River Cauvery, Tiruchirappalli is reported as the 4^th largest city in the state of Tamil Nadu. The name ofthis city came after the fight between Lord Shiva and the demon Trisiras. But now it is a renowned commercial center as well as a cultural heritage of India. The artificial diamonds that you get here are equally famous. Along with this you can also shop for cigars, clay toys, glass bangles, wooden toys and handloom cloth.

Madurai then acted as a cultural centre to Pandyan dynasty and now is serving as administrative headquarters to Madurai District is famous for temples. These temples were built by Madurai Nayak and Pandyan dynasty in pure Dravidian style. Madurai is considered to be India's prominent pilgrimage centre for Hindus.

The famous hillstation of Kodaikanal is located amongst the lush green trees, waterfalls and lake. It is located on the Pali hills and will surely mesmerize any traveler. It looks like paradise when the ‘Kurinji flower’ blossoms every twelve years. There are also many international schools of repute present here. The slope is also a place where many a fruit plantations take place like plum etc. Being a hill station, it is located afar from the airport or any railway station. However it is well connected by road ways, though there are no auto-rickshaws here.