kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Tourism
Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal - Princess of Hill stations
Situated on the southern ridge of Palani Hills in the Western Ghats, Kodaikanal is around 120 km from Madurai. It is sitting on an altitude of 6,854 feet above sea level and is among the most visited tourist destinations of South. The 'Princess of Hill Stations' is how sometimes Kodaikanal is referred. It also has the distinction of being the only hill station in India to be established by Americans. The town is surrounded by thick dark forests and it seems as if the this gem of a hill station is actually being enviously guarded by this dark forest. In fact the name Kodaikanal itself means 'The Gift Of forest'. The hill station is full of natural marvels like Fairy Falls, Coaker's walk, Green Valley view, Pillar Rocks and Dolphin's Nose. For peace lovers, it offers serene and calm atmosphere that is intoxicating and refreshing whereas for adventure lovers, it proves to be a heaven with ample of trekking opportunities available through out the town. The town is not densely populated with only around 30,000 residents. Tamil is the main spoken language but English is also widely understood.
The Charms of the City
The beauty of the sights to see in this picturesque town is simply boundless. Here You will see the splendors of mother nature as closely as anyone can. If time permits, unfold the mesmerizing beauty of Kodaikanal with a leisurely walk to places like star shaped lake and Fairy Falls that add something special to the already ravishing beauty of this heavenly destination.
Star Shaped Lake
The star-shaped lake or the Kodaikanal Lake is located in the central point of the Kodaikanal and is one of the major tourist attraction of town. It is the brainchild of former Collector, Sir Vere Levinge, who transformed a marshy land into a breathtaking star shaped water body. The entire lake spread over an area of about 60 acres. The lake is surrounded by a variety of trees like Pine and Eucalyptus. Apart from enjoying the relaxing view of the lake, you have an option for boating courtesy the Boat Club or you can savor a small horse ride along the sidelines.
Solar Observatory
From the Kodaikanal Lake, it is just 3 km away. It is one of the three solar observatories in the world that were built more than 75 years ago. It is situated at an elevation of 2343 meters which is the highest point of the town. You have to book a ticket for the scheduled shows to get an experience of the solar system, which surely will be worth the money and time you spend on it.
View Points
Kodaikanal is famous among travelers for the most scintillating viewpoints from where you get the most panoramic glances of the entire Kodaikanal hill station. The best viewpoints here are Green Valley view point, Pillar Rocks, and the Dolphin's Nose. A visit to these viewpoints and a glimpse of the nature's marvel from them can be the best memory that you take from here.
Fairy Falls
Situated just 5 km away from the town center, Fairy Falls have become a famous destination for picnics among localities. Another fall named Glen falls is just around the corner and is equally famous. These falls are nothing short of a destination blessed by nature itself. A swim on the foot of these falls is very refreshing and is not to be missed.
Where to Put Up
Kodaikanal is full of top-end hotels and budget lodges. There is also a TTDC (Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation) run hotel on Fern Hill, that proves to be a good option for a pleasant stay. Carlton Hotel is another luxury hotel that you can look upon for a pleasing stay. Hotel Clifton and Hotel Garden Manor are other hotels that stand out.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest airport to Kodaikanal is in Madurai and is around 120 km away. Flights operate to all major cities of India.
By Rail
Kodai Road Railway station is the nearest rail head which is 80 km away from Kodaikanal. All major passenger trains passing through this network have a halt at this station.
By Road
Kodaikanal is well connected to all major cities of Tamil Nadu. Transport buses from nearby cities and towns ply to Kodaikanal with appreciable frequency. Luxury coaches are also an option.
Local Transport
You won't find any rickshaws or auto rickshaws operating in the town. Taxis and Buses are the only transport that you will find in Kodaikanal though they are available in good numbers.

yercade

Yercaud Tourism
Yercaud Lake
Yercaud - A Hill Side Panorama
Situated around 35 kilometers away from Salem, Yercaud is sitting handsomely at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level in the Shevaroy hills. It takes around an hour to reach here from Salem by bus. In fact bus is the only mode of transport to reach Yercaud through a route which is full of hairpin bends. Being as beautiful and gracious as Ooty and Kodaikanal but being remarkably cheaper than both of them, it is quite logically referred to as 'poor man's Ooty'. Yercaud got its name from combination of two Tamil words 'yer' and kaddu which respectively mean lake and forest. Apart from visiting the most famous tourist destination, shop for the locally made handicrafts and handlooms. You will be amazed to see the price difference between the prices here and any where else in Tamil Nadu and probably for the same material quality. So it is advisable that you shop for such items from Yercaud rather than other cities. You can also go for a trekking an excursion which are worth the time you spend on them.
Places To Visit
Attraction that one can visit in this wonderland are numerous. You will find few of the most dreamlike sights in Yercaud that probably cannot be expressed in words. The most talked about and visited spot on this hill station is the refreshing Yercaud lake which is surrounded by greenery from all sides. There are many other breathtaking sites and viewpoints whose true beauty you can only enjoy when they are right in front of your eyes.
The Servaroyan Temple
Situated at the highest point in Shevaroy hills, the Servaroyan temple is a beautifully carved cave temple. This temple is famous for the festival, which is organized here by the local tribes in the month of May. The festival sees a huge turnover of local people. This splendid temple due to its remote location does not witness a huge number of tourist footfalls. So be the one of the few privileged who have discovered the hidden aura of this wonder.
Green House
Green house is a must visit place for all nature lovers as one sees the most beautiful and colorful plants It is an orchard which also doubles up as a Nursery of rose and other flowers. Innumerable varieties of rose and other flowers are thriving in the premises. It also has loads of orange trees which when are fully laden present the most exotic views full of color. Visit this place and find the perfect amalgamation of all the color you can even think of.
Yercaud Lake
This is the first place in Yercaud that catches the attention of travelers. No matter how many beautiful lakes one has seen, they always find this pool of water extremely appealing and tempting. The water is cold and plea sing and it leaves you refreshed to your deepest self. Enjoy a scintillating boat ride in the lake, which is amidst the most breathtaking gardens and trees. What you will see from this crystal clear lake is greenery all around.
Bear's Cave
Situated near the Yercaud's oldest bungalow, Norton Bungalow, Bear' s Cave is formed by two huge boulders and lies on the way to Servaroyan Temple. It is located inside a private coffee estate but the occasionally, a staying tourist is allowed inside the premises. The cave is about 7 feet below the ground level and is said to extend beyond the Servaroyan temple till Kaveri in the state of Karnataka which is around 485 Km away. It is believed that the cave was used as a hideout and an escape route by Tipu Sultan during the time of War. If tourists wish, they can try to squeeze past the boulders into the cave and explore it. Although one cannot go beyond few hundred meters as fallen rocks block the path but its worth an experience.
Where To Put Up
Accommodation in Yercaud are very thoughtfully located amidst the picturesque surroundings and are quite pleasant to stay in. There are budget as well as luxury hotels here, although not in great numbers. The presence of good and nominally priced hotels make Yercaud a dream destination for a holiday. The best of all in Yercaud are Hotel Grand Palace, Sterling Resort, and Gem Holiday Resort.
Getting There
By Air
Trichy is the nearest airport situated some 180 km away. From there you can catch a train to Salem or you can opt for scenic road travel. It will take around 4 hrs to cover the distance either by rail or by road.
By Rail
Nearest railhead is at Salem around 36 Km away from Yercaud. Trains from all parts of India are regular at Salem
By Road
Yercaud is well connected to all the surrounding town by state transport buses and privately operated buses. State transport buses of Karnataka also ply to Yercaud.
Local Transport
Local transport is basically restricted to three wheelers like auto rickshaws and manual rickshaws. Public transport is not available to move around inside the city walls.

ooty

Udhagamandalam (Ooty) Tourism
Ooty
Udagamandalam (Ooty) - A Travel Through Misty Heights
Situated at a distance of 105 km from Coimbatore, this Queen of Hill Stations is located in the Nilgiri Hills at an altitude of 7,347 feet above sea level. The weather being pleasant all rounds the year, attracting tourists through out the twelve-month period. The landscape of this beautiful land is dotted with rolling hills and plateaus completely covered with thick blanket of vegetation, tea gardens and different beautiful trees. This hill station was developed by the British as a summer retreat for them. The train ride to Ooty is another feature that has gained popularity among locales and international tourists alike. The ride on one of the few running steam trains will definitely take longer than other modes of travel like a bus or a cab, but the leisure journey in the train from Mettupalayam will definitely be the most scenic of all train travels that you have ever done. A must to do, while you are touring the Ooty hills. Apart from sightseeing, you can also indulge in many adventure activities like trekking and hiking through the woods.
Places To Visit - Nature At Its Most Generous
Ooty is called the 'Queen of Hill Stations' for very obvious reasons. This is the most naturally gifted part of Tamil Nadu and the most scenic of all hill stations in the whole country. Ooty offers plethora of attractions to keep tourist on their toes exploring, experiencing and enjoying the charismatic lure of this panoramic beauty. To be honest, the whole of Ooty is so ravishingly beautiful that there is no specific place that you can pin point as a tourist attraction, every ninch of the city is so mesmerizing that tourists keep turning their heads again and again towards whatever they see once. Most visited spots in Ooty are the Rose Garden, Government Botanical Garden and Doddabetta Peak.
Rose Garden
Maintained by Department of Horticulture, this is a must visit site for all nature lovers. The garden is at an elevation of around 2200-m above sea level and covers an area of 4 hectares. The garden has five terraces that have more than 2800 varieties of roses, the largest collection among any Indian garden. You are allowed to take photos inside the garden but you will have to pay extra for that.
Coonoor Sim's Park
This is a botanical park which is situated in the Coonoor town around 19 km away from Ooty. The park is located at a height of 1858 meters above sea level and covers an area of 12 hectares. The park showcases more than 1000 species from 85 families few of which, you will only find in this park like the rare species belonging to Eucalytus, Acacia and Cinnamomum. There is also a glass house that has many ornamental plants and flowers.
Ooty Lake
This artificial lake was built in the year 1825 by Mr. John Sullivan, the then district collector. The lake, around 2.5-km in length and 40 feet deep, offers options for both boating and fishing. Before you go for a boat ride, take care of your safety and get a life jacket. And if you are interested in fishing as well, don't forget to take prior permission from the officials.
Doddabetta Peak
The Doddabetta Peak is situated some 10 km from Ooty. It is at a height of 2623 m and is famous as the highest peak in Nilgiris. It offers few of the most breathtaking views of the Nilgiri peaks that have made it one of the most visited spots in Ooty. Trek to the top peak as it is not very challenging, and at the same time provides views that are worth every step you take through the jungles.
Government Botanical Garden
This Botanical Garden is maintained by Government of Tamil Nadu, department of Horticulture. The Garden which was started in the year 1848 covers an area of 22 ha and is located at a height of 2250 m above sea level. The garden has been decorated with trees that have been collected from all over the world. It is home to rare species of trees like the Lily Pond and the Italian garden that bear colorful flowers. It also has the Cork tree, which is one of its kinds in India. Other attractions are the monkey-puzzle tree, called so because monkeys can't climb it and a 20 million year old fossil tree trunk.
Where To Put Up
Accommodation facility is good in the city with hotels ranging from five star to economy class being present here. All travelers are bound to find a hotel or a lodge that are according to their needs and tastes. Even the most basic hotels are priced aptly and take good care of their guests. Few hotels that can be recommended are Hotel Sinclairs, Hotel The Monarch, Sullivan Court and Sterling Holiday Resorts.
Getting There
By Air
The nearest airport is in Coimbatore around 100 km away. Coimbatore receives flights from all major airports in the country.
By Rail
Ooty is connected to Chennai by Nilgiri Express that takes tourist till, Mettupalyam. From there, you can either take a bus or a steam train. The surroundings on both the routes are breathtakingly attractive.
By Road
Ooty is well connected to all the major cities of Tamil Nadu and few cities of Karnataka. There is regular public and private bus services to and from Ooty.
Local Transport
Local buses, taxis and rickshaws are easily available that you can hire to roam around in the city.

sports

Adventure Tourism
Parasailing
Adventure Sports - The Never Ending Thrill
If adventure is what you are looking for, then the state of Tamil Nadu is in no way lacking behind. With such diverse topography, there is no adventure sport that cannot be indulged in here. Experience the thrill of para-sailing, yatching or angling as you get soaked in the gushing seawater on your beach adventure trial. Feel your heartbeat and your head spindle as the air suddenly changes its course when you are well set on hangs - gliding. Want more adrenaline pumping action? Then you can try kayaking, rock climbing, rappelling, jungle trekking, mountaineering expeditions...the list of adventure sports here is endless.
Trekking
The hills of Ooty, Annamalai, Elagiri, Kodaikanalare are perfect for taking up treking trial amidst the green valley and mist clad mountains. Ooty is rated as the most sourt after destinations in whole South India. Located in the Nilgiri hills at 2286 m above sea level make Ooty a suitable destination for adventure sports like trekking and hang gliding. Ooty has to offer several exceptionally challenging trek routes that have different distances, altitude and terrain. The base camp at Parsons Valley is considered a perfect spot to start your trekking tour. The major trekking paths in Ooty which are apt for learners as well as for seasoned trekkers are given below just read on.....Trek Routes: Ooty Parsons Valley Mukkurthi - Lake Pandiar hills - Pykara falls - Madumalai Sanctuary.Parsons`Valley - Portimund - Emerald - Avalanchi - Kolaribetta - Western Catchment II or III - Mukurthi PeakHang - Gliding has also become one of the most indulged in activity in Ooty. For starters, courses are also organized during March to May every year, kind of a summer camp. You will be amazed to see the number of people taking up this course. So get prepared to jump of the hills, into the lap of nature.
Beach Adventure
The vast coastal stretches of Tamil Nadu offers diverse opportunity to indulge in varied water sports activities. One can enjoy the thrilling para-sailing, yatching, angling on the famous Marina Beach in Chennai, the beach is fully equipped to handle any type of adventure sport that can quench the passion of adventure enthusiast. The talented guides and skilled professionals provides with the best quality gears and equipment required to take up the water sports activities on these blue waters. The beach adventure tourism in Tamil Nadu has gain momentum and is also one of the major reason for taking up a tour to this part of India.
Eco-friendly Adventure Tours
Preservation of ecology or the environment is a concept gaining prominence now. Similarly, Eco-friendly Adventure tours are also gaining a steady drive. Tamil Nadu boasts of several ideal locations to attract the visitors, who have concern on preservation of ecology. The Eco friendly areas of Tamil Nadu are for exploring the Nature at its best and to be a part of it. Get into Tamil Nadu. Get acquaint with the Nature.

cuisine

Tamil Nadu Cuisine Guide
Idli & Sambhar
Tamil Nadu Cuisine - Your Senses Will Love It
Tamil Nadu is a hot favorite spot for tasting the various south Indian dishes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. The tourist here gets to taste the dishes that might not be very famous in north India but are equally delicious, if not better than the ones that are famous. The menu only gets bigger during the festivals which by no means, can be called few. During the festival of Pongal, the varieties of delicacies, right from the spiciest food to the sweetest desert, increase many folds. To relish these sumptuous delights one surely has to come to these land.Vegetarian food in Tamil Nadu are mainly based on grains, lentils, vegetables and specially rice. The most famous items are Idli( rice cakes), dosa, vada and Pongal(a mash of rice and lentils boiled together and seasoned with ghee, cashew nuts, pepper and cummin seeds). These items are eaten with variety of other side dishes like Sambar and coconut chutney. The items mentioned above are just items that you will get for breakfast. If you go to a restaurant in noon time and ask for a proper lunch, you will get the biggest surprise of your life. Hold tour breath as waiter will bring to you a huge plate full of rice and side dishes. Such will be smell and aroma of the dishes that you probably won't think of the volume of the food and start filling up your stomach and after a while you will only think, the more the better. These are few of the dishes without which South Indian cuisine is incomplete.Non-vegetarian food lovers too are going to have time of theirs lives. People of Tamil Nadu not only experiment with the veg. stuff, but they are equally enthusiastic about non veg. as well. The trials are carried out in this section as well and more often than not, they come up with the goods. Chettinad cuisine has become the unique feature of Tamil Nadu cuisine. Numerous varieties of fish, mutton, and chicken are served with that extra zing that makes them these dishes the best among the rest. Although you wouldn't want to miss out on any delicacy, but you just cannot afford to miss the special Chettinad pepper chicken which after having once, you will only crave for more.
Get Pampered with South Indian Delicacies
After you are done with the meal, we know that not much space would be left in your stomach, but make space for the irresistible 'Payasam'. Its a sweet dish made of milk that is served after the meals. Even here you will find uncountable number of varieties and each a touch above the earlier one. In early mornings and evenings, you can have the famous filter coffee, better known as 'Kappi here.' The cuisine of Tamil Nadu has made everyone who has tasted it, a huge admirer of itself. The count of varieties is numerous, the taste of each dish is exceptional, the cleanliness and hygiene are of the top level. All these features have made this cuisine one of the best in the world. So, come to Tamil Nadu and give your stomach and tongue a reason to smile. Buy a cook book from a book store and make it yourself in your home. Believe it, it is that easy and worth your time.

pilgrimages

Pilgrimage in Tamil Nadu
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
The Divine Path to Attain Nirvana
Tamil Nadu is called the land of Temples and Tamils, the greatest temple builders. And after you complete a tour through Tamil Nadu, you will say, for quite obvious reasons. The state of Tamil Nadu is dotted with more than a thousand temples and each a wonder in itself. There are temples that date back to pre-Christian era and there are temples that are as recent as twentieth century but all of them reflect the same gracefulness and wizardry of hands. Almost all temples of the past are build of brick and mortar. Tamil Nadu has been ruled by different dynasties and it is visible in the different monuments and temples. Some of the important temples in Tamil Nadu include Meenakshi temple, Ranganathaswamy temple, and Shore temple. Come and explore these wonders of time and experience the feeling of a walk through the bygone era.
Meenakshi Temple
If you are anywhere near Madurai and do not visit Meenakshi temple, consider your tour incomplete. We can safely affirm that this temple is the most important and most beautiful of all that are there in Tamil Nadu. This temple is more than 2000 years and you will see amalgamation of many styles of architecture of different dynasties that once ruled this part of the country. The moment you enter this temple from any of the four massive gopurams, you will be left speechless by the first glimpse itself of the exceptional carvings, art and sculptures that are sprinkled throughout the premises. Do not forget to explore the thousand-pillared hall which is one of the biggest in India. You can visit this temple between 4.30 am to 12.30 pm and 4.00 pm to 9.30 pm on any day.
Ranganathaswamy Temple
This temple is the most important temple in India for all Lord Vishnu devotees. The temple is located in Tiruchirapalli on the banks of river Kaveri. This temple is considered to be the largest temple in the entire India, which makes it an important tourist destination as well. You will be awe struck by the sheer size of its premises and the exemplary work of carvings which you will find in almost all nook and corners of the temple. Also find magnificent paintings kept inside the many halls inside the temple.
Kapaleeswarar Temple
An epitome of Dravidian culture and their mastery is how this temple can be described. This 350 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in Mylapore in Chennai Suburbs. This is the biggets temple in Chennai and also the most visited. Here you will be astonished to see the remarkable carvings that are done inside the temple, which depicts tale from Indian mythology and 13th century inscriptions. The Teppam festival (float festival) which is held every year and the Paradosham festival which is celebrated every two weeks, are a real treat for eyes and are spiritually very uplifting.
Shore Temple
This 8th century temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in the entire country. More than its architectural brilliance, perhaps its the location of the temple that attracts such large number of tourists. It is located on the Mahabalipuram beach right adjacent to Bay of Bengal. Try to visit this temple at dusk when it is resplendently lit up and stay till late in the evening because on a full moon day, the sight of this Shore temple is as breathtaking as a glimpse into paradise.

Festivals

Tamil Nadu Festivals
Pongal Festival
A Date With The Most Memorable Calendar.....
Tamil Nadu. There is no place like this. Having fascinated tourists for decades, Tamil Nadu has something new to offer every year. Tamil Nadu is blessed with a rich culture and a traditional past. The glory and the gradeur comes alive to greet you every day. Temples, beaches, hill stations, gopurams, mountains, waterfalls, wildlife... name it, you have it. The festivals and the festive moods of Tamil Nadu are other reasons for the constant inflow of tourists. There is a festival for every month.Festivals serve as an occasion for family reunion from long time and now become a part and parcel of people's lives, occasions like the Natyanjali Dance festival, has started attracting tourists from all over the world. Tamil Nadu is also blessed with innumerable number of temples, almost all of these religious structures have their own special festivals and fairs to celebrate. Most of these temple festivals are in the month between September and November and between March and June. Come, and join the soil of verginity along In festivals of Tamil Nadu you will see a perfect blend of dance, music and religion that will give you an insight into the real world of frolic and celebrations. Festivals that make a year full of fond memories. We welcome you to share the same.
Pongal Festival
January - Pongal Festival First Day of the Tamil Month - Thai Pongal is one of those festivals that is celebrated almost everywhere in India but with different names. It is the most important festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu to mark the harvesting of crops. The festival and celebrations are spread over a period of four days. The celebrations are generally confined to people's home and you might not be able to see much activities on the roads but the third day is for thanking and paying homage to natural factors like Sun god, earth and cattle that play a major part in the harvesting of crops and you might just spot locales outside their homes worshiping their cattles. These sights will introduce you to a different kind of relation between man and animal, different than any that you have ever imagined.
Tourist Fair
January - ChennaiWelcome to the colourfull TTDC Trade Fair at Chennai. The exhibition introduces you to Tamil Nadu. It`s cultural wealth, places of tourist interest, economic scenario and much more.
Tea and Tourism Festival
Last week of January - Udhagamandalam/Coonoor A 3-day festival at the Hill Stations. Varieties of tea are on display. Also available for tasting. Cultural extravaganzas, Cuisines of the South and the pleasant climate adds more flavour. For the right blend, Join in.
Natyanjali Festival
February - March /Chidambaram - Natyanjali Dance FestivalA festival dedicated to dance in devotion to Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja is what Natyanjali Dance festival is all about. This is one of the main festival that is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and fervor. The festival is celebrated in Chidambaram every year in the month of February-March. It all begins from the day of Mahashivratri for the next five days. The visitors get a chance to see the performance of all the prominent dancers of India on the same platform. The performances are delivered in front of the Nataraja temple as a devotion to Lord Nataraja. The festival witnesses a large number of spectators so it is advisable that you book your ticket well in advance.
Chithirai Festival
April - MaduraiVenue is the famous Madurai temple, 500 knlS. from Chennai. The festival starts from the Tamil month -Chithirai, and goes on for ten days. The highlight is the procession of Lord `Kallazhagar` (Lord Vishnu) the elder brother of Goddess Meenakshi, who proceeds from his abode - Azhagarmalai 30 kms. from Madurai, to give away his sister in marriage to Lord Sundareshwar. The celebration is filled with pomp and festivity: The `Kallazhagar` entering the river Vaigai is indeed a spectacular sight.
Mango Festival
Last 3 days of June - KrishnagiriKrishnagiri is the venue for the famous mango festival. Valrious mangoes are kept on display. It is also an event for the buyers and sellers to meet. Come, and you`re sure to go mangoes!
Saral Festival
July - CourtrallamThe monsoon brings happiness. And waterfalls at Courtrallam. The water falls on rocks and tiny droplets are sprinkled into the air. Thus, giving a `fog-like` appearance. The breeze carries this `fog` far. The phenomenon is called `Saral` in Tamil. The falls are known for its medicinal value. This is the only `spa` of its kind in the South. Cultural programmes, competitions, fun and frolic make this festival remarkable.
Summer Festival
May - June/Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Elagiri HillsThere are several beautiful Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu. With the Summer Festivals, the hills are even better. Clutural programmes, adventure sports, boat races, flower shows and fruit shows add to the splendour.
Cape Festival
October - KanyakumariKanyakumari is the Southern tip of the Indian Sub-continent, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The Hindus consider a bath in this confluence as very sacred. The Vivekananda Memorial set amidst the sea is a place known to give mental emancipation. The Cape Festival is marked by a series of cultural programmes. Lasts for 3 days.
Dance Festival
December- February / MamallapuramThe Dance Festival starts on the 25th of December every year and is conducted on all Saturdays, Sundays and Government holiday`s, upto February first week. Dancers and n1usicians of repute from India and abroad thrill the crowds every year. Folk dances of India are other added attractions.
Karthigai Deepam
Karthigai Deepam, called the festival of lights, is celebrated in the month of November- December. It is a very big and prominent festival of Tamil Nadu which goes on for a period of nine days. On these days all the houses are lit up with different lights and lamps few of which are made in the house itself. You will be delighted to see so much of lighting every where you gaze. On important days in between, you can witness the grand processions of deities on different types of decorated vehicles which is a real treat for eyes. Also visit the ten day cattle fair which is held in Thiruvannamalai where you will see cattle that are brought here from all parts of Tamil Nadu specifically for this fair.
More Reasons To Visit Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is well connected by road anti rail. All important destinations are accessible by air. Tamil Nadu also has an International Airport. Tourists can directly come to Tamil Nadu from London, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Dubai, Sri Lanka, etc. TTDC offers a wide range of hotels, motels and youth hostels for your comfortable stay. Quality cuisine is another hallmark of Tamil Nadu. What`s more, everything comes at an affordable price.

Dance

Tamil Nadu Dances
Bharatnatyam Dance
Dances of Tamil Nadu - Unbridled Expressions
Tamil Nadu has an invaluable heritage and cultural richness that makes every Tamilian proud of their nationality. Tamil Nadu boasts about its scores of folk and classical dances, each dance a pure ecstasy in itself. Be it a dance, which enacts a story, or a dance performed as a worship to Gods, they have this exceptional aura and presence that enchant and motivate each and every spectator to their deepest. These flawless dances that have been preserved through centuries are now an integral part of our present culture and have become a mirror of Indian cultural richness to the outside world. It has gained such an importance in tourism that many tourist like you visit this land of Tamil Nadu just to watch and experience this flowing poetry right in front of their eyes. When in Tamil Nadu, witness any form of dance and rest assured, you will not leave the theater premises without the tickets for next show.
Bharatanatyam
This is the most famous and practiced dance form in the the state of Tamil Nadu that has fascinated one and all. This is one of the oldest forms of performing arts not only in south India but in the entire country. You will find to your amazement that Bharatanatyam is not just a simple dance that is performed just for the sake of entertainment but it is an amalgamation of many different essences. Few of them are Bhava(expression), Tala (rhythm), and Natyam (dance). Take a close look at the flow of the body and discover new definitions for expressions and rhythm. Though the exact time of origin of Bharatanatyam is not known, but reference even in the Natya Shastra written by the great sage Bharata, confirms it as one of the oldest forms of dance. Along the path of its development it has gone through quite a few changes. Earlier, Bharatanatyam was considered the practice of only devdasis in the temples of south India and was not considered a reputed profession. But then it was taken up by Rukmini devi who learned Bharatanatyam from these devdasis, practiced it and perfected this art. She then started performing this divine art form in public and slowly and gradually, Bharatnatyam started gaining recognition and number of people who wished to get trained in this increased drastically. Bharatanatyam was no longer considered the profession of devdasis. It had now become one of the most sought after dance form in the world. Learn the art in one of the many institutes that specialize in the area of Performing arts like the Kalakshetra, which is the most famous of all institutes.
Bommalattam (Puppet Show)
Locally called Bommalattam, this is a dance form that most of you must have seen and enjoyed from your childhood days. Almost all villages have their own puppet show during fest and festivals but one thing is for sure that you would not have seen a puppet show this colorful and with such variation any where else in the world. You will find the most amazing puppets made up of cloth, wood, and leather that are used here. As is every where else, these puppets are controlled by threads from the backstage and all you see is puppets performing in the front. Stories from Indian mythology and epics are enacted in the shows which are full of ideals and morals that prove to be very useful for little kids and sometimes, probably more relevant for the grown ups. Don't miss the puppet show or Bommalattam as these shows are so marvelously performed that they will virtually leave you hypnotized.
Karagaattam
Karangattam is a folk dance, which is accompanied by music. The dance is performed while balancing a pot of water on the head. It is said that the dance is performed as an offering to rain goddess Mari Amman and to river goddess, Gangai Amman as their praise. You will be amazed to see the huge amount of poise, balance and control that is required to execute the difficult steps of this dance, that too while balancing a pot of water on their head and for all the spectators, this turns out to be a breathtaking display of skills. The dancers exemplify the inherent resilience of our dance traditions to cope with new ideas and changing contexts. The dance is classic and contemporary at the same time. You can enjoy a performance of this dance at any theater that is staging a show.
Mayilattam
This is a joyous form of dance as a symbol of prosperity during the harvest festival 'Pongal', which is performed by girls only. In this dance the performers are dressed like a Peacock from head to toe complete with a beak. When in Tamil Nadu, do try to catch a performance of this wonderfully enchanting dance form. Check out the timings for the show from a local tourist center.
Kavadiattam
More than performing art, this is a religious dance done in devotion to Lord Subramanya. The origin of this dance form is said to have been by devotees on pilgrimage. To remove the boredom during the long journey, pilgrims started to sing and dance and this dance form came to be known as Kavadi Attam. This dance is done by carrying a long stick on which pots filled milk or coconut water is balance d on both the sides of the stick and this stick is carried by men on their shoulders. This dance is only performed by men. You are not likely to witness this dance in any theaters but if you are touring Tamil Nadu during, you might just spot a group of pilgrim moving towards Palani hills, absolutely immersed in their devotion to the Lord Subramanya and performing this traditional dance in complete merriment.

Aerosports

Water & Aerosports
Surfing
Aqua Sports s- Into The Depths of Greatest Mystery Aqua sports are gaining pace in Tamil Nadu, offering much options that one can't stop indulging into these rocking adventure activities. Beach adventure acquires a whole new meaning after you come to the shores of Tamil Nadu. Sports like Snorkeling, scuba diving and angling are the most preferred pastime on the beaches. Surfing and water scooter are the upcoming sports that have already started making ripples in the tourism world.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in the shallow waters with your family definitely is quite an experience that none can afford to miss. Jump into the waters and swim besides the most beautiful and colorful fishes which will no doubt be a memorable moment. If you are not very used to this water sport you can take an informal class that will tell you about all the precautions that should be taken before you indulge in this sport.
Angling
You will be amazed to find incredible number of Places where you can indulge in the activity of angling. There are streams like Aradha Puzha, Peemund, Kalkundi streams that have become famous amongst the tourists as the places are brimming with different species of fishes. So pick up your fishing rod and get ready to pull out the biggest fishes you would have ever caught.
Scuba diving
Adventurers, get ready to explore the never seen world of the ocean core and watch as the magical world unfolds itself to you. Gifted with clear blue water, the beaches of Tamil Nadu prove to be one of the best spots for scuba diving. The most famous beach for Scuba diving in Tamil Nadu is the beach in Rameshwaram. The beaches provide all the basic equipments that are required for this activity. There is also an alert medical team on the beach that makes indulgence in this activity extremely safe.
Surfing
Surfing is one of the most adventurous water sports in the world and its fever is fast catching up in India as well. Almost all major beaches of Tamil Nadu have brilliant facility of surf boards and emergency. Though it is advisable that only people who are quite comfortable with surfing choose this activity as the water on Indian coasts are quite strong and unpredictable. So don't give it a second thought, just pick your surf board and cut through the ocean of waves like a knife through melting butter.
Aerosports - Fly Into Cloud Nine
Be it hang gliding, ballooning, or para gliding, Tamil Nadu offers the best facilities and locations for indulging in aero sports. Places like Ooty and Kodaikanal are considered to be the best where you can enjoy the thrills and kicks of flying into the open skies. You can indulge in aero sports throughout the yeasr except for in monsoon season. Sail over the high peaks and see the world virtually with bird's eye.
Para Gliding
Ooty and Kodaikanal are the best destinations in Tamil Nadu where you can enjoy the activity of para gliding to the most. The government has opened an institution to train the tourist who are interested in learning the how to para glide. So if you are in Tamil Nadu don't miss the golden opportunity to master this art of flying. Para gliding is easier, lighter and safer than many other aero sports. If you are not interested in learning how to fly, no problems, you can sit alongside an professional pilot and experience the thrilling feeling. As the pilot is flying the glide, all you got to do is lay back and feel the intoxicating wind brush past your face.
Hang Gliding
Among all, hang gliding is the most interesting aero sports. Though it is a quite recent entry into the list of adventure activities, it has already made its mark among the tourists as their favorite. A hang glider depends a lot on the climatic conditions for its smooth operations so don't get disappointed if you are not able to enjoy this activity on a particular day, do come back some other day when the climate is just perfect and that day might just prove to be the most memorable day of your life. Hill stations like Ooty, Kodaikanal and Yercaud are the locations that provide the facility of hang gliding.

treaking

Trekking in Tamil Nadu - New Definition For adventure
Adventure in Tamil Nadu has started gathering pace as the Govt. of Tamil Nadu has realized the potential hidden in this sector of tourism and has increased the infrastructure and speed in its promotion. And now adventure tourism has become the most attractive part of a tour to Tamil Nadu. Activities like trekking, hiking and cycling are few of the things that by indulging in, you can experience the most refreshing and rejuvenating feeling.
Ooty - The Nature's Trail
Ooty is the most beautiful and popular hill station of south India. The hill station is located in the Nilgiri hills at 2286 m above sea level and offers several trek routes that vary in distances, altitude and terrain. There is a base camp at Parsons valley which is a perfect spot to start your trekking tour. The major trekking paths in Ooty which are apt for learners as well as for seasoned trekkers are.....
Ooty - Parsons Valley - Mukkurthi Lake - Pandiar hills - Pykara falls - Madumalai Sanctuary
These treks have develop as a perfect trek as well as a scintillating nature walk. You will require around 4 hrs to complete this trek. A fairly simple trek which takes you around the artificial Mukkurthi lake situated on Mukkurti peak and through the pine trees of Pandiar hills. Spot rare species of animal like the lion tailed Macaque and Nilgiri Langurs while you cross through the Madumalai sanctuary. Although the trek is not very hard, it is advisable that you still carry all your trekking gear along with you.
Parsons Valley - Mukkurthi Lake - Western catchment Bangitappal - Upper Bhavani
A steep climb awaits you during this trek which you can complete in around 3 hrs. This few kilometer walk offers you amazing scenery and picturesque views of the Nilgiris.
Kodaikanal - High In Kodaikanal
Set among the gently sloping Palani hills, Kodaikanal is a magnificent summer retreat and an ecological paradise of Tamil Nadu. Kodaikanal offers few of the most ideal sites for trekking, hang-gliding, angling and golf. About a kilometer from the lake, visit the famous Coaker's walk and just limber around the area that offers the most picturesque visuals of the plains. There are lot of view points as well like the Dolphin's nose which is located 2000 m above sea level and to gaze down from this rock calls for steel nerves. Few of the treks that have become famous among the trekkers is.
Kodaikanal - Dolphin's Nose - Vallagavi - Kumabakkarai (8km)
You can cover this trek in around 6 hrs. This is considered to be tough because of the sudden steep climbs and sudden drops. Trekker who are physically strong will find it easier.
Kodai - Thopi Thooki Parai - Periyur - Periyakulam (19 Km)
You will find this track to be fairly simple and that will take around 5 to 6hrs to cover. During the trek, you will come across the beautiful coffee plantation Guar which is your your time spend on this adventurous trek.
Elagiri Hills - Heights of Wonders
Located some 25 km from Jolarpet Junction,this small hill range is situated on the Chennai-Coimbatore rail track. For rookie trekkers, a trek from Elagiri hills to Jalagambarai water falls, takes only a couple of hours and proves to be very entertaining and a good learning curve. For the more experienced counterparts, a trek route to Jalagambarai through villages and through the forests to reach the peak is absolutely challenging. Elagiri hills are a part of Javvad Hills of eastern ghats. By trekking, one can reach the southern part of the Javvad Hills & reach Polur, a taluk headquarters, which is about 30 km from temple town Thiruvannamalai. This steep road also leads to Kavalur, where an old but operational Astronomical observatory is situated.
Annamalai Hills - Close to Clouds
Annamalai Hills are literally a heaven for Nature and wildlife lovers. Situated at an altitude of 740 m above sea level, these hills are perfect for any tourist who is a tyro in trekking and wishes to start. Few that are real fun the trekkers are.
Monkey Fall Trek (5 km)
It is a trek which starts as a gentle slope but becomes a steep slope till the time it is over. This trek takes around 3 hrs to be covered. You will see the nature at its best when you climb through the deciduous forest at the foot hills to the barren rocks on the top in between which you will see a vast stretch of evergreen forest.
Varagaliar - Kurampalliar and Varagaliar Shola - Perumkundru Malai and Return(14 km)
This is a challenge even for the experienced legs as the climb is extremely steep as from 600m it shoots up to 1700 m. So naturally it takes a longer time of around 7 hrs. Definitely the climb will be physically demanding but it won't be tiring as you will have the company of amazing and rare species like the lion tailed Macaque and Nilgiri langur that reside here and are found in good numbers.
Akkamalai - Thanakkamlai - Konnalur Fishing Hut - Akkamalai(30 km)
This trek start from a pretty high altitude of 1500 m and climbs till 2513 m. This is uphill for the first 10 km and the rest is downhill. The trek generally is of 7 hrs in which you will cross through the tropical rain forest. You will also come across herds of Nilgiri Tahr grazing,a sight which takes away all your tiredness.
Beach Walks - Sea Front Fantasy
Chennai might not be famous as an adventure spot but one thing that you can enjoy here is a leisurely walk beside the gorgeous Bay of Bengal on the Marina Beach. This is the most famous beach of south India and is also the second longest sandy beach in the world. Other beaches in Tamil Nadu that you can visit for a splendid beach walk are the Covelong beach, Mahabalipuram Beach, and the famous Kanyakumari Beach.
Temple Walks - Through the Historical Ages
We can safely say that Tamil Nadu is most famous among the tourists for its incredible number of temples that are spread throughout the the state. Its not only the number of temples that astonishes the visitors, but their exceptional architectural beauty is something that captures even the wildest imaginations of the travelers. A walk inside and around these temples can be the most mesmerizing experience you will have from your tour to south India. The main temples that you just cannot miss are Meenakshi temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Brihadiswarar temple and Sri Ranganathaswamy temple which is the largest temple in the entire country.

beaches

Beaches of Tamil Nadu - Nirvana In The Sun
Without a doubt, the beaches of Tamil Nadu are the most exquisite of all the natural gifts that have been bestowed upon the face of Tamil Nadu. Not long ago these beaches that cover around 900 km of coastline wore a deserted look, but now the story is completely different. These beaches are now hosts to possibly the biggest number of tourists in the entire country with Marina beach and Kanyakumari beach being the most famous and visited. These golden beaches with lines of Palm trees, clear skies, clear water are the most picturesque destinations in Tamil Nadu. The Beaches of Tamil Nadu have been christened as the pride of this state and for no reason can a tourist skip these exemplary gifts of nature.
Marina Beach
Sparkling sand, Crystal blue water, magnificent statues, what else is needed to make a beach, a jewel in the crown of a state. Marina beach is the second biggest beach in the world and the biggest in Asia. Located in the heart of Chennai, the beach can be easily accessed by any mode of travel. By evening, this golden sand beach is filled with life with the scores of stalls lining up the entire coastal stretch with numerous tourists gathering on the beach to witness the exceptional sunset on the horizon. Along with drenching yourself in the cool sea breeze, stroll around the beach and marvel at the statue of a Tamil scholar and an aquarium, which is full of exotic collection of tropical and fresh water, fishes. Swimming might not be a good option as the currents here are quite unpredictable, but still you will find people taking a bath in the shallow sea.
Kanyakumari Beach
Kanyakumari beach is situated at the southern most tip of India. It is just few kilometers away from the city center. Water sport activities are not possible here as it has a rocky shoreline and turbulent waves but provides an excellent picturesque vista that can be enjoyed sitting on the beach coast watching the dancing waves.This probably is the most beautiful beach of all that are there in South India if not in the whole country. With sand of different shades and hues that is present here, first glimpse of this beach itself is more than enough to capture all your imaginations. The mesmerizing sunrises and the romantic sunsets keep tourists coming back here again and again. From the beach you will see the exquisite Vivekananda Rock Memorial that in itself is a huge crowd puller. If possible, do come to this beach on a full moon day, and you will know why this beach is considered among the best in the world.
Mahabalipuram Beach
The spectacular beach of Mahabalipuram is one of the main tourist attraction in Tamil Nadu that sees the coming of travelers throughout the 12 month period. This beautiful beach is located just 58 km south of Chennai nestling on the edges of Bay of Bengal. The beach is also famous for the numerous water sports that you can enjoy here like snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing.Just unwind on this scintillating beach by taking a refreshing dip in the shallow waters or by taking a quiet sun bathe. After you rejuvenated, take a calm walk along the beach exploring the many breathtaking monuments like the 7th century Shore temple that line up on the beach. Other places that attract tourist through out the year are a crocodile bank, snake venom extracting center and an art and sculpture school.
Covelong Beach
This is one of the most important and picturesque beaches of Tamil Nadu. This resplendent beach once served as an important port to the Carnatic nawabs. Covelong is a serene fishing village around 40 km form Chennai. The sea here is quite calm and as far as aqua-sports are concerned you are in for a treat. Jump into the inviting waters and enjoy the fun of scuba diving and snorkeling. And it won't be long before this beach also gets equipped for surfing and sailing. Once on this sandy beach, visit the many historical churches and forts that line up on the beach. Do not miss out on the many water sports like snorkeling and surfing that you can indulge in here.

Tamilnadu - Whiff of Paradise
Perched in the Southern most part of Indian Peninsula, the state of Tamil Nadu is situated between Bay of Bengal in the east and Indian Ocean in the south. Tamilnadu is a state that is blessed with all the geographical landforms ranging from beaches like Marina beach, Kanyakumari beach and hill stations like Ooty, Kodaikanal to rain forests and plains. The state is so naturally beautiful that it seems that God himself has handpicked the most splendid spots and assembled them to make this enchanting state of Tamilnadu.Tamilnadu has a very ancient history that dates back to more than few thousands of years. The Dravidians are considered to be the first inhabitants of this state. So you will find the state exhibit the Dravidian culture in its arts and architecture. Infect every dynasty that ever ruled this land, has left an indestructible impression on the state's architecture. The Tamilians were and are considered as the best creators of temples, and you will find the proof when you visit the bewitching temples and monuments in any region of Tamilnadu.Tamilnadu has its capital in Chennai, which is one of the four major cities of India and is the fastest on the path of development. It is major center of South Indian Film Industry - the Kollywood. The state is so obsessed with their big screen stars that they give them honors and positions that are the highest that a civilian can get. Tamilnadu is also famous for its sumptuous and mouthwatering delicacies. The South Indian cuisine is not restricted to just Dosas and Idlis, it has dishes that you might not have ever heard of, but these dishes are definitely the missing parts of your meals that your tongue has been craving for. As a cosmopolitan state also, Tamilnadu has already made its mark and many global companies are choosing this state to set up their business in India.So to enjoy the untamed thrills, to rediscover the lost adventurer in you, come to this land of rustic charms which cater to you the breathtaking views of most exotic nature's gifts and a chance to extol the most refined man's gifts to mankind.

culture

Culture of TamilNadu
Tamilnadu Culture
Tamil Nadu is bounded by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the north and Kerala in the west. The eastern and western tips of the state are defined by the Point Calimere and Mudumalai wildlife sanctuaries while the northern extreme is Pulicat lake and the southernmost tip is Kanyakumari, the land's end. Tamil Nadu is principally washed by the Cauvery, originating in Coorg in neighbouring Karnataka. Chennai is the capital of Tamil Nadu.
The Tamils have an ancient history. Under the Pallava, Chola & Pandya kings art, architecture & literature flourished and reached great heights. Tamil language has a history which can be traced back to the age of the Tolkapiyam, the Tamil Grammar text generally ascribed to 500 B.C. Sangam literature of the Tamils dates back to500 B.C. The Tamils have always been a hospitable race, known for their generous nature.
The People: Tamil, the official state language, is spoken by most of the people. The main religions in the state are Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, and Jainism. Hindu families owe allegiance to a number of sectarian monastic institutions, or maths, of which the most important is the Shankara Math at Kumbakonam. Although Tamil Nadu is one of the most urbanized states of India, it is still a rural land; agriculture is the mainstay of life for about three-quarters of the rural population. Tamil Nadu is rich in handicrafts; notable among them are handloomed silk, metal icons, leather work, kalamkari (hand-painted fabric, using natural dyes), brass, bronze, and copper wares, and carved wood, palm leaf, and cane articles.
Festivals: Pongal festival, Jallikattu-Bull fight in January; Chitthiraj festival, Mamallapuram dance festival, Chidambaram dance festival, Mahamagam festival in Kumbakonam, Arubathimoovar festival at Chennai, Summer festival in Ooty; Courtallm ritual bathing festival, Kanthuri festival, Kavaddi festival on Palani Hills, Velankanni festival, Navarathri, Karthigai Deepam or Tamil Nadu's Festival of Lights, Music festival in Chennai during December.
Climate: The climate is essentially tropical. The temperature in summer seldom 43º C and in winter seldom falls below 18º C. The lowest temperatures are recorded during December and January, and the highest in April to June. 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.

wildlife

Wild-life-of-TamilNadu
Guindy National Park
Guindy National Park is one of the prime visiting spots for those who come to Chennai during vacation period. A recommended picnic spot for the entire family to spend a day amidst nature and return home joyfully in the evening. This National Park encompasses a snake park and a children's park as well.
Guindy National Park is botanically very interesting in as much as it is the only one of its kind to carry even today a derelict vegetation truly representative of the natural thorny scrub jungle of the southern dry zone interspersed with more than 30 tree species which include a number of centuries old gigantic shady banyan trees. This park with a network of road's, footpaths, nature trails, lakes and ponds, all situated amidst sylvan surroundings offers good opportunities for viewing wild life.
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is a marine biosphere, running along with coasts of Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin districts. The entire Gulf of Mannar abounds in distinguished marine life covering 10,500-sq-kms and 21 islands with continuous stretches of coral reef.
Gulf of Mannar is the first Marine Biosphere Reserve not only in India but also in South East Asia. It is full of coral reefs, Dugong, Turtles and Balano- Glossus. Dolphins could create euphoria to the tourists. The presence of coral reef, flora and fauna here are in their virgin form. The coral reefs, which surround the islands in the area are highly productive and are often referred to as "Underwater Tropical Rain Forest" and a treasure house for marine ornamental fishes.
The Marine Reserve :
This unique marine ecosystem of Gulf of Mannar is one of the richest for biodiversity resources in the Indian subcontinent. The richness of its biodiversity can be gauged from the fact that more than 3,600 species of fauna and flora have been recorded in this reserve. Kurasadai Islands, off Mandapam, boasts of a vast expanse of shallow waters.
Moreover, more than 138 villages and towns spread over five districts depend heavily on the fishery resources of the Gulf. Commercial fishing is done in about 5,500 sq. km. and nearly 50,000 people dwelling in 47 villages along the coastline bordering the Gulf of Mannar depend directly on the biodiversity resources of the biosphere reserve for their livelihood.
The establishment of the Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere reserve has enhanced India's position as an environmentally responsible country in the comity of nations.

park

Parks in TamilNadu
Parks in Tamil Nadu -
The population of Arunachal is 1,091,117 according to 2001 census and is scattered over 12 towns and 3649 villages. The State has the lowest density of 13 persons per sq. km. As against decadal growth rate of 21.34% at the national level, the population of the State has grown by 26.21% over the period 1991-2001. The sex ratio of Arunachal Pradesh at 901 females to 1000 males is lower than the national average of 933.Total literacy of the State rose to 54.74% from 41.59% in 1991. The number of literates is 487,796. There are 20 major tribes and a number of sub-tribes inhabiting the area. Most of these communities are ethnically similar, having derived from and original common stock but their geographical isolation from each other has brought amongst them certain distinctive characteristics in language, dress and customs.
Anamalai (Indira Gandhi) Wildlife Sanctuary
Anamalai wildlife sanctuary is about 90-kms from Coimbatore and is situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters in the Western Ghats near Pollachi. The area of the sanctuary is 958-sq-kms. An ecological paradise, this sanctuary encompasses a National Park. It has just recently been renamed as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
The Anna zoological park situated in the outskirts of Chennai was created out of the Reserve Forests of Vandalur. The forests are of dry deciduous and dry evergreen scrub type. It was in the year 1855 the first Zoo in India was established in Chennai; later on in 1979 it was shifted to its present location at Vandalur.

Temples

Temple of TamilNadu
Major Temples Of Tamilnadu -
Thousands of temples with lofty towers dot the skyline of the entire state of Tamil Nadu. The Tamils have been the greatest of temple builders. Successive Tamil rulers, patrons of art and architecure belonging to the Pallava, Chola and Pandya Dynasty have all contributed greatly.
The Chayavaneswara temple is located in Chayavanam (Chaikadu), at a distance of two miles from Tiruvengadu and about a mile from the confluence of River Kaveri with the sea, known as "Kaveripatnam".
Much sanctity is attached to this temple and the pilgrims after ablution at the confluence worship Lord Chayavaneswara and seek his blessings. According to Hindu customary rites a bath at the confluence of a river with the sea is considered religiously meritorious.
Iyarpagai Nayanar
The temple attained legendary importance for its connection with Iyarpagai Nayanar, one of the sixty-three Nayanmars or Saivite saints of the South. The story goes that the Nayanar used to spend all his wealth for temples, feeding sadhus and satisfying their desires.
It so happened that once an old man approached him with the very absurd request to send his (Nayanars) wife to him as a gift. Without hesitation Iyarpagai Nayanar satisfied the desire of the old man. But this created commotion among his relatives, who never appreciated such a gift. However socially degrading it may be, he insisted upon his wife to follow the sadhu and she did so. The old man transformed into Lord Shiva, praised the Nayanar for his unstinted devotion towards Saivite saints and blessed him with liberation. Lord Shiva tests the depth of devotion of his devotees and rewards them when they stand the test
Krishnapuram is a small village in Tirunelveli district at a distance of about six miles from Tirunelveli town. In spite of the innumerable and wonderful temples in Tamil Nadu, Krishnapuram's temple holds its own, as far as sculptural splendour goes. Astonishing is the fact that 300 years later, the figures look alive and young. Interestingly, the Arulnigu Venkatachalapati temple houses statues of deities, as well as scenes from court life. Some of its pillars emanate interesting sounds, when tapped.
Lord Venkatachalapati has been installed here with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Pujas and abhishekam are being conducted to the Lord daily and some important festivals are celebrated every year. There are a good number of images and idols of sculptural interest in the temple, attracting hundreds of visitors.
The whole body of the man is twisted in an agony of pain. It is a marvel where the, sculptor got a model for his work. The other side of the pillar shows the princess's mother consulting a female palmist. The curves of the feminine body, its dress and ornaments have been depicted in luscious glory and with pointed attention to detail. The same affectionate care has been bestowed upon the statue of Rati (Goddess of Love), the eternal beauty, full of an entirely human vanity, admiring herself and bearing a look of mixed self-satisfaction and serene contentment.

Tamilnadu

However, it is certainly not short of attractions for those travellers wishing to escape the well-worn tourist trails of Rajasthan and Kerala. Famed for its ancient temples and detailed rock carvings, Tamil Nadu is a state steeped in tradition. Religion is taken very seriously here and pilgrims pour into the ancient sites of Kanchipuram, Chidambaram, Trichy, Tanjore and Madurai in numbers far exceeding the numbers of tourists visiting these sites. The temple architecture is fascinating; from the brightly coloured and steeply stepped gopurams such as those in Madurai, to the 7th century rock-hewn temples in Mahabalipuram. There is, however, more to Tamil Nadu than just temples, temples, temples.
The area collectively known as Chettinad is an extraordinary blend of rural Indian life and majestic Chettinadu mansions that hark back to a former, more glorious time. These houses are built using Burma Teak, beautiful local tiles, and Italian Marble and have spacious courtyards and large high-ceilinged rooms. On a guided tour it is possible to visit some of these mansions, as well as see local artisans at work producing tiles and pottery, and visit small, rural villages.
The palace in Chettinad is a delightful blend of architectural styles and although predominantly white has some wonderful splashes of colour as well. So wonderful is the palace in fact that Ms. Amrita Gandhi (great-grand-daughter of Mahatma Gandhi) was staying there whilst filming a television series in the area! My colleague Daniel and I were lucky enough to make her acquaintance. Pondicherry is steeped in French influences and is a fascinating place to visit during a journey through Tamil Nadu. Highlights include beautiful French architecture, a windswept promenade, fabulous shopping opportunities, and Auroville, described as an experimental township conceived as ‘an alternative exercise in ecological and spiritual living’.
One of my favourite things to do in Pondicherry is eat dinner at the rooftop restaurant at The Promenade hotel. The food is delicious and the cooling sea-breezes and sound of the waves make for a wonderful dining experience. A journey through Tamil Nadu truly is an eye-opening and memorable experience and one that is only heightened by the incredible warmth and vitality of the Tamil people.”

DELHI: FACTS & FIGURES
Area
:
1,483 sq km
Languages
:
Hindi, English, Punjabi, & Urdu
STD Code
:
011
Altitude
:
216 m above sea level
Best time to visit
:
February-April and August-November
DELHI: THE CITY OF DESTINYHow does one describe Delhi? The capital city of India? The capital of the world's largest democracy? Actually, Delhi is India in miniature. Delhi is India's fantastic variety compressed into 1483 sq km. Over the millennia, it has wooed rulers, attracted plunderers, and tried historians with so many details. Today, even as it preserves an enviable heritage, Delhi is a true cosmopolitan city always on the move.
DELHI: LOCATIONSituated in the northern part of the country, Delhi extends latitude 28.38°N and longitude 77.12°E. It is encircled by the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh in the east and by Haryana in the other three sides. Delhi is an ideal gateway to visit the north Indian states of Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. Delhi is connected to all the major cities in the world by regular flights.
DELHI: VISITING TIMEThe best season to visit Delhi is during the spring seasons of February to April and August to November. It wears a festive look between February and April, the blooming season.
DELHI: THE PASTTo go right back into an era where mythology and history are too closely intertwined, it is believed that Delhi, then known as Indraprashtha, was the scene of action of India's great epic, the Mahabharata. Periodic archaeological excavations bring in more and more evidence to support this contention. Thereafter, historians say there have been seven cities of Delhi. If you count the smaller settlements and forts, the number may touch fifteen. Each city has left behind so much story and material for rumination that it requires many a lifetime to know them all completely. Recorded history exists from the 11th century when Dillika, as this little town was known, found its focal point south of where it is now. This kingdom was known as Lal Kot. The famous ruler of this line of Tomars was called Prithvi Raj Chauhan. He is said to have built many temples and a huge fort called Qila Rai Pithora. However, their 200-year-old rule culminated with the arrival of the first set of invaders-the Slave Dynasty. One of the rulers of this dynasty, Qutub-ud-din Aibak, built the tall Qutab Minar. The Qutab Minar has five floors. It is 72.55-m high with a base diameter of 14.40 tapering to 2.4 m at the top. Time moved on and by the end of the 13th century, the Khilji Dynasty was looking around for the best piece of land on which to build their seat of empire. Today where Delhi's best auditorium stands, the Siri Fort as it is called, was the site the Khiljis had chosen; it is closer to central Delhi than Aibak's kingdom. The living legacy of Delhi is Shahjahanabad. Created by the builder of Taj Mahal, this city, with the Red Fort as the focal point and Jama Masjid as the praying center, has a fascinating market planned to shine under the light of the moon, called Chandni Chowk. An experience of timelessness awaits you at Shahjahanabad. Modern Delhi, or New Delhi as it is called, centers around Rashtrapati Bhawan. It is architecturally a very impressive building standing at a height, flowing down as it were to India Gate. This stretch called the Rajpath is where the Republic Day parade is held. The imposing plan of this area conceived by Lutyens does not fade in its charm with the numerous summers or winters that go past.
DELHI: TOURISM ATTRACTIONS
The best way to know about the glorious heritage of Delhi is to know its monuments, to travel through time back into centuries of history filled with the rise and fall of dynasties that ruled the land. These monuments stretch from Wazirabad in the north to the Qutab and beyond in the south of Delhi. Between these two points, lies scattered the history of this ancient city. The National Museum will let you in on these secrets. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Vedic and pre-Vedic relics, exotic paintings, old manuscripts, and mural paintings from Buddhist shrines in Central Asia. On the bank of the legendary Yamuna, which flows past Delhi, there is Raj Ghat-the last resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. It has become an essential point of call for all visiting dignitaries. Perhaps the most poignant, the most nostalgic feelings that still bring a tear to many an eye are stirred when one visits 1 Safdarjung Road. Once the permanent residence of the prime ministers of India, it now houses the Indira Gandhi Museum. The cool, sylvan environs of the Lodi Gardens, where Lodi kings ambled with their consorts, today witness a new brand of VIP activity along with a daily convergence of people from several walks of life. At the center of the city is India Gate, a memorial raised in honor of the Indian soldiers who were martyred during the Afghan war. The green, velvety lawns at India Gate, particularly, are a popular evening and holiday rendezvous for young and old alike. For lovers of flowers ad beauty, the annual spring opening of the glorious, meticulously tended Mughal Gardens at the stately Rashtrapati Bhawan is a bonanza topped by an amazing assembly of roses in perfect bloom-perhaps the best in the whole of India. Rashtrapati Bhawan was once the imperial residence of the British viceroys. Built on the Raisina hills of Delhi ridge, this 340-roomed structure has an imposing character overlooking India Gate and Rajpath. It is now the official residence of the president of India. Down on earth, there is the sight of Vigyan Bhawan that has hosted some of the most important international events and summits. There is the sense of history, intermingled with pride as you go past Parliament House, the curiosity as you glance at North and South Blocks-the decision-making, bureaucratic heart of India. Birla Mandir, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu situated in the central Delhi, and Lotus Temple, a beautiful white marble building and a place of worship for Bahai's, are two temples worth visiting for those in search of spiritual rejuvenation. The Jantar Mantar, one of the many astronomical observatories constructed by Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur, is situated in the center of the city near Connaught Place.
DELHI: SITES NEARBYMany wildlife sanctuaries, heritage sites, hill stations, and quaint little towns surround Delhi. Take your pick and you can be sure of being far from the madding crowd-if only for a weekend. Agra, 203 km from Delhi is one of India's most visited cities for the simple reason that it houses one of the wonders of the world-the magnificent Taj Mahal. One can spend hours just gazing at the perfection of the Taj Mahal. There are many other sights to see in and around the city-the Agra Fort, Itmad-Ud-Daulah's tomb, the Jama Masjid, the old city bazaars, and Akbar's tomb at Sikandra. Thirty-seven km from Agra is the town of Fatehpur Sikri, supposedly built on the site where the saint Salim Chisti foretold the birth of Emperor Akbar's son. If you are in the mood for a shorter trip, then visit Mathura, 145 km away from Delhi on the banks of the Yamuna. Since ancient times, Mathura has been a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Jain. A few kilometers from Mathura is the temple town of Brindavan-spend a weekend getting to know the spiritual side of India in these two places. Haryana encloses Delhi on three sides and its many tourist complexes are ideal for quick getaways as most of them are quite close. Damdama, just 64 km from Delhi, makes for a nice break from the rigors of city life. Drive past lush fields and quaint villages to arrive at the lakefront Saras Tourist Complex where you can relax and rest to your hearts content. If you can get away for a little longer, escape to the Morni Hills and let the cool air and scenic beauty revive your spirit. If you are an avid wildlife fan, there are many interesting wildlife sanctuaries where you can escape for a few days without going too far from Delhi. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, just 46 km away on National Highway 8, is a birdwatcher's paradise with a sizable population of resident and migratory birds. The Sariska National Park covers an area of 498 square km and is just a four-hour drive from Delhi. Although a great variety of wild animals are present in the sanctuary, the main attraction here is the magnificent tiger. There are many machans or viewing platforms, where one can wait quietly after sunset, for the beast to make an appearance. Bharatpur is interesting both for the Bird Marsh Sanctuary it houses as well as its many ancient monuments. The Keoladeo Ghana National Park, once a great marsh famous for duck shoots held by the raja of Bharatpur is one of India's famous bird sanctuaries-it is the site where the Siberian cranes come every winter. If you want to escape to the hills, especially during the enervating Delhi summer, you do not have to look too far. Mussoorie, 325 km from Delhi and at an altitude of 6,000-7,000 feet, is the favourite haunt of people from Delhi. It's not unusual to find half of Delhi on the Mall on some weekends. Mussoorie, with its cool clime, has a lot to offer-it is, in fact, known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations'. Twenty-five kilometers away from Mussoorie is another enchanting destination, Dhanaulti, at an altitude of 2,400 m, which offers some of the best views of the Himalayas and plenty of trekking opportunities.
DELHI: FAIRS & FESTIVALSDifferent communities who have settled in Delhi celebrate their own festivals with great gusto and add color and variety to the cultural fabric of the megapolis. One cannot imagine Delhi without Durga Puja in Chittaranjan Park or Muharram, Id-ul-Zuha and Id-Ul-Fitr in Old Delhi. As the capital of India, Delhi is centerstage for many national celebrations, the two most prominent ones being Republic Day on January 26, and Independence Day on August 15. Delhi also boasts of festivals unique to it-Phoolwalon-ki-Sair (procession of flower-sellers) is one such celebration. In August, flower vendors from different religions gather at Mehrauli with flowers woven into beautiful sheets called pankhas or fans which are offered at the shrine of Hazrat Bakhtiyar Kaki, a famous Muslim saint and at a nearby temple. This is a centuries old tradition practiced in the hope of bountiful harvest of flowers in the coming season and is aimed at promoting communal harmony. The Urs of Hazrat Nizammuddin Aulia is another festival special to Delhi. His tomb in Nizammuddin is crowded with devotees from all over India and special poems composed in his honor are sung. The streets in the area are transformed into one giant fair with stalls selling special foods, religious artifacts, holy books, and clothes.
DELHI: SHOPPINGDelhi has a great variety of products on offer for a prospective buyer. A favorite haunt of shoppers in Delhi is Chandni Chowk. It started out as a walk for the royal families and had the river Yamuna flowing beside it. The reflection of the moon in these waters gave it its ethereal name-'Moonbeam Square'. Move to the south and you come across Hauz Khas Village. This is one of the many villages subsumed by the growth of Delhi and still maintains much of the village ambience. In the early 1980s, it began its transformation to a chic shopping area when socialite and garment exporter, Bina Ramani, opened her boutique here. Soon, other exclusive stores moved in. The most popular stop is Dastkar that markets goods made by women in villages all across India. The Santushti Shopping Complex, on the edge of Chanakyapuri diplomatic Enclave, opposite the Samrat Hotel, provides an entirely different experience in shopping. A brainchild of the Air Force Officers' Wives' Welfare Association, it is the haunt of Delhi's beau monde-beautifully landscaped. Of course, if it's trinkets and such stuff that interests you, then go to Janpath. Along the pavements, you will find an unending line of shops selling all kinds of trinkets and curios and export-surplus clothes at bargain rates that you can bargain even further! Another place for export-surplus garments is Sarojini Nagar. For clothes, the whole world goes to Lajpat Nagar and Shankar Market. But a trip around Connaught Circus has its own quaint appeal. While you are there, Palika Bazaar, the underground shopping complex, is a place where you can, again, find almost everything under the sun-from antiques to the latest electronic contraptions-but bargaining is essential. For handicrafts, one can visit Dilli Haat and state emporia situated on Baba Kharak Singh Marg near Connaught Place. Bookshops are available all over the city, but for a good bargain visit Darya Ganj and Nai Sarak in Old Delhi. Most of the multinational brands are available in Delhi through their franchises or at shopping complexes.
DELHI: HOW TO REACHBy AirDelhi is conveniently connected to all the major cities of the world with almost all the major airlines operating out of here. Delhi has two airports catering to domestic and international flights, located 4½ km apart in Palam. The international airport (known as Indira Gandhi International Airport) is situated 20 km from the city center. Taxis and coaches are available. The booking offices are mostly situated at Connaught Place and around. By RailDelhi is connected to almost all the cities in the country by super-fast and express trains. The city has three major railway stations at New Delhi, Old Delhi, and Nizamuddin. Luxury trains like the Palace-on-Wheels, Fairy Queen, and Royal Orient Express can be taken from Delhi Cantonment railway station. Rajdhani Express trains connect Delhi from the state capitals. Shatabdi Express trains connect Delhi to the neighboring cities. By RoadNew Delhi is connected to all the major cities of the northern India through road. Buses can be taken from the inter-state bus terminals at Kashmere Gate, Anand Vihar, and Sarai Kale Khan.

Delhi Tourism
One of the most fascinating aspects of Delhi is the "visibility" of its historic past. Were it not for the demands of urbanization, large portions of the city could well be earmarked as archaeological parks. This is because the rulers of successive dynasties between the 13th and the 17th centuries established seven cities in different parts of Delhi. A chronological review of these cities fortunately also serves as a suitable itinerary for tourists and highlights the important monuments amongst the 1300 officially listed.Delhi's history goes much further back in time than the 13th century. In 1955, excavations at the Purana Qila revealed that the site was inhabited 3000 years ago. Ware pottery known as Painted Gray Ware and dated to 1000 BC confirmed this as being yet another site associated with the epic Mahabharata. The excavations also cut through houses and streets of the Sultanate, Rajput, post-Gupta, Gupta, Saka-Kushan and Sunga periods, reaching down to the Mauryan era (300 BC), thus revealing almost continuous habitaion. The association of Emperor Ashoka (273-36 BC) with Delhi has come to light with the discovery of a Minor Rock Edict in the locality known as Srinivaspuri. A clearer picture of the city emerges from the end of the 10th century, when the Tomar Rajputs established themselves in the in the Aravalli hills south of Delhi. The isolated, rocky outcrop facilitated the defence of the royal resort which the Rajputs called Dhilli or Dhillika. The core of the first of the seven cities was created by Anangpal Tomar who is said to have built Lal Kot, which is the first known regular defence work in Delhi. The Chauhan Rajputs later captured Delhi from the Tomars . Prithviraj III, also known as Rai Pithora, extended Lal Kot, adding massive ramparts and gates, and made Qila Rai Pithora the first city of Delhi. Today, only the ramparts arevisible near the Qutub Minar , though the city is known to have had several Hindu and Jain temples. Prithviraj was ruling Delhi when Muhammad of Ghur invaded India, and died fighting the invader at the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192. Ghur returned, but left as his viceroy, his slave Qutbuddin Aibak. In 1206, Qutbuddin crowned himself as the Sultan of the Slave or Mamluk dynasty, and became the first Muslim ruler of Delhi. Qutbuddin, had however, commenced his architectural career even before he chose to become the sultan. The mosque was essential to the Islamic emphasis on congregational prayer, while the burial of the dead, as opposed to cremation, introduced the tomb to India. The earliest of these Islamic structures are to be seen in the Qutub complex and the incorporation of many Hindu elements is due to the ready availability of building material and the use of local craftsmen. Qutbuddin raised the Quwwat-ul-Islam (might of Islam) mosque, which is the earliest extant mosque in India. Within its spacious courtyard he retained the 4th century Iron Pillar, probably the standard of an ancientVishnu temple. The pillar has puzzled scientists, as its iron has not rusted in all these centuries. In 1199, Qutbuddin raised the Qutub Minar either as a victory tower or as a minaret to the adjacent mosque. From a base of 14.32 mtrs it tapers to 2.75 mtrs at a height of 72.5 mtrs. It is still the highest stone tower in India, one of the finest tower Islamic structures ever raised and Delhi's recognized landmark. It was completed by the Sultan's successor and son-in-low, Iltutmish. The tomb of Iltutmish, which he himself built in 1235, is nearby. Its interiors are profusely decorated with calligraphy, thought the dome has collapsed. The Khalji rulers displaced the Slave dynasty in 1290, and when Alauddin Khali ordered renovations of the mosque in 1311, he also raised the impressive Alai Darwaza, the southern entrance to the mosque. It is the first example of a building employing wholly Islamic principles of construction, including the true arch.In 1303, Alauddin, established the second city of Delhi, called Siri, of which nothing remains but the embattlements. He also had dug a vast reservoir, Hauz Khas, to sypply water to his city. Contemporary historians describe the Delhi of that time as being the "envy of Baghdad, the rival of Cairo and the equal of Constantinople". (for the sake of convenience, tourists visiting the Qutb complex could also see the Tomb of AdhamKhan and Zafar Mahal in Mehrauli, and the Tomb of Jamai-Kamali behind the Qutb Minar. These, however, belong to a later date.) The Khalhjis were replaced by the Tughlaq dynasty in 1321. of its eleven rulers, only the first three were interested in architecture and each of them established a new city.