Best places to visit in Tamil Nadu in 2023

Tamil Nadu, in south India, is situated between the Nilgiri Hills and the Bay of Bengal. The state offers some amazing beach cities and hill stations for people to come and visit. The state is also an important pilgrimage spot for Hindus and Christians. The historical value of Tamil Nadu also makes it an important destination in India. You will find a variety of monuments here dating back to as late as the 11th century. Tamil Nadu is a must-visit state in India with numerous tourist spots.

 

How to reach Tamil Nadu?

Here’s how you can reach Tamil Nadu:

By Air: To reach Tamil Nadu by air, you can travel to Chennai International Airport from both Indian and foreign cities. The huge airport accommodates several flights a day and is the best way to reach Tamil Nadu’s capital city. You can then avail private taxis and buses to travel to any location within the state.

 

By Rail: Chennai Central Railway Station is the prime point of connection to other Indian cities by rail. The station is connected to almost all major cities in India. Additionally, people can take connecting trains from Chennai to any part of Tamil Nadu.

 

By Road: Tourists can reach Tamil Nadu via a large number of roadways. From Bangalore, you can take the NH 48 highway to reach Chennai. Similarly, from Hyderabad, you can take the N16 highway to reach Chennai city.

 

Top tourist places in Tamil Nadu

Here is a list of Tamil Nadu tourist places with images to help you plan the perfect itinerary:

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #1: Chennai

 

Chennai is the capital city of Tamil Nadu. Chennai is among the top places to visit in Tamil Nadu, since it contains some of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. The beaches of Chennai are a special attraction. The Marina beach especially is a place of festivities with hundreds of shops selling locally handmade items. The street food stalls here also have some delectable local snacks which can be enjoyed with friends and family. Chennai is also rich with architectural beauties like the Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathyswamy Temple Tiruvallikeni, Information and Public Relations Office Valluvarkottam, Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple, Thousand Lights Shia Mosque, etc. The other notable famous places here include Government Museum Chennai, Santhome Cathedral Basilica, Fort St George Museum, Elliot’s Beach, Vivekananda House, etc. Chennai is connected by an international airport and railway station so tourists can reach the city from any corner of the world.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #2: Rameshwaram

Source: Pinterest

 

Rameshwaram is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus in India. Every year the site receives thousands of devotees who come here and offer worship at the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Tourists usually take the NH38 highway to reach the city from Chennai. The Pamban Bridge, which connects Rameshwaram with the mainland of India, is extremely picturesque and runs over water through 2.345 km. These bridges support the travel route for trains and vehicles. The bridge offers some stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.

Rameshwaram has even found relevance in the Ramayana. The other important Tamil Nadu tourism places here are Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir & Floating Stones, Ramar Patham, and House of Kalam (APJ Abdul Kalam House / Museum), Sri Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Siva Temple, Sangumal Beach, etc.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #3: Kodaikanal

 

Kodaikanal is one of the hill stations in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Located around 2,000 metres above sea level, this hill station with its scenic beauty and marvellous waterfalls is an ideal place to visit in Tamilnadu. Kodaikanal lies between the Parappar and Gundar Valleys and offers an escape from the harsh summer heat of the Indian subcontinent. The place has a large number of resorts which cater to tourists visiting the place for some peace and quiet.

Kodaikanal, one of the most celebrated Tamil Nadu tourist places, has its fair share of sightseeing spots like Kodaikanal Lake, Bear Shola Falls, Coakers Walk, Bryant Park, Kurinji Andavar Temple, Vattakanal Waterfalls, and many more. The Coakers Walk in Kodaikanal is known for its breathtaking sunsets and scenic views of the lush green hills. Travellers can reach the Kodai railway station from any part of Tamil Nadu and then proceed to Kodaikanal.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #4: Ooty

 

Ooty is another hill station in Tamil Nadu famous for its lush green hills and beautiful flower gardens. This town has been a popular Bollywood setting for countless films. The stunning tea gardens and step farming on the hillside are a sight to behold. The place still has some remaining architectural influences from colonial times when the hill station was a popular summer resort. The green hills and abundant waterfalls continue to mesmerise tourists and offer them an escape from concrete jungles. The popular Tamilnadu tourist places in Ooty are botanical gardens, rose gardens, pine forests, St Stephen’s Church, The Tea Factory & The Tea Museum, Murugan Temple, Elk Hill, Doddabetta Peak, etc. To reach Ooty, you have to take a government or private bus from Mysore bus stand and travel through extremely picturesque roads.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #5: Mahabalipuram

 

Mahabalipuram is a popular tourist place due to its rich historical and architectural heritage. This town has been the seat of archaeological interests in the state. Several shore temples from the 7th and 8th centuries have been found by the seaside and excavated by the authorities. These heritage sites have been converted into tourist spots for people to come and marvel at the beautiful temples from the Pallava Dynasty.

This Tamil Nadu tourist place also finds significance in religious texts like the Mahabharata, and people flock to the site to behold the ruins of the old kingdom that once was. The popular tourist spots here are Shore Temple, a group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, Descent of the Ganges, Krishna’s Butter Ball, Varaha Cave, Krishna Mandapam, Nakul Sahadev Chariot, etc. The best way to reach Mahabalipuram would be to take a cab ride from Chennai via East Coast Road. 

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #6: Hogenakkal

 

Hogenakkal is a hamlet in Tamil Nadu. This is now one of the best tourist places in Tamilnadu due to its magnificent waterfall. The Hogenakkal waterfall is truly a sight to behold and is a popular picnic spot among tourists. The falls cover a large area with many separate streams which flow into a single space.

You can opt to have a day tour at the Hogenakkal waterfalls or stay back at the hotels and resorts located nearby. The other popular sites here include Hanging Bridge, Crocodile Park, Krishnagiri Dam, Melagiri Hills, and boating activities on the Kaveri river.You can travel to Hogenakkal via NH48 from Chennai city in Tamil Nadu.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #7: Kanyakumari

 

Kanyakumari is the southernmost point in India. The town opens into the ocean and marks the end of the Indian mainland. This famous tourist place in Tamilnadu, also receives a significant number of tourists every year. The town has close ties with the Indian mythology of Mahabharata, and is a popular pilgrimage for devotees of Shaktism.

Swami Vivekananda has been said to have attained enlightenment on the rock at the sea beach in Kanyakumari. Today the site is known as the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. The other popular places of attraction here are Thiruvalluvar Statue, Kanyakumari Beach, Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam, Sarvani Shaktipeeth Shri Kanya Kumari Bhagavathy Amman Temple, Our Lady of Ransom Shrine, Sunset View Point, and Vattakottai Fort. You can travel to Kanyakumari Railway Station to reach the city. The station has several rail links with other Indian cities.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #8: Kanchipuram

 

Kanchipuram is yet another Hindu pilgrimage site which is among the famous places in Tamilnadu. The town is also the seat of the textile and silk weaving industry. The famous Indian sarees of Kanchipuram are woven here by the local artisans. The city is also known for its old temples and archaeological sites, which deserve a special place in the itinerary. The famous places to visit are Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambaranathar Temple, Shri Chitragupta Swamy Temple, Sri Kachabeswarar Temple, etc. A visit to the local looms and trying out the local cuisines at eateries is also a must when visiting Kanchipuram.Kanchipuram is only a short drive away from Chennai and accessible via Tambaram – Mudichur – Walajabad Road.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #9: Madurai

 

Madurai is located on the Vaigai River and has a rich historical past. This temple city has an impressive number of temples known for their colourful hues and prominent sculpting. The temples and the intricate patterns on its towers are exemplary of the artistic genius of old artisans. The Meenakshi Temple is a favourite among the Hindus of India and receives hundreds of devotees. You need to also visit Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Athisayam, Sri Koodal Azhagar Temple, Arulmigu Kallalagar Temple, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, and Samanar Jain Hills when touring Madurai.Madurai can be reached from Chennai via Chennai – Theni Hwy/Chennai – Villupuram – Trichy – Kanyakumari Rd.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #10: Coimbatore

 

Coimbatore is the second-largest city in Tamil Nadu. Situated between the Western Ghats and the River Noyyal, the city is famous for its cotton textile industry. Coimbatore’s kovai coral cotton is famous all over India and also an important product among Indian exports. The beautiful scenic beauty of Coimbatore is truly unmatched. Additionally, it is one of the safest cities in India and offers perfect residential conditions for settling down.

You can take a short trip to Coimbatore and rejuvenate your mind with all the tourist attractions it has to offer. These include Maruthamalai Arulmigu Subramanya Swami Temple, GD Naidu Museum, Patteeswarar Temple, Arulmigu Eachanari Vinayagar Temple, Black Thunder Water Theme Park, Siruvani Waterfall, Anamalai Tiger Reserve, etc. The recently erected Maha Shiva Adiyogi Statue stands at 112 ft and has become a top tourist place in Coimbatore. A visit to the local looms is also a must here. Coimbatore is connected to Madurai via NH44, and tourists can take buses or cab rides to reach the city.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #11: Thanjavur

 

Thanjavur or Tanjore is another famous tourist destination in Tamil Nadu. Tanjore paintings are world-famous and considered to be one of the finest forms of art. The city also contains some UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely the Great Living Chola Temples. It is also an important Hindu pilgrimage site in Tamil Nadu, especially the Brihadeeswarar Temple. This ancient kingdom from the 11th century was constructed by the Chola kingdom and still continues to mesmerise tourists with its rock-cut structure. There is also the Thanjavur Maratha palace which was the seat of the Bhonsle royal family. The other important places to visit here are Sarasvati Mahal Library, Royal Palace Museum, Punnainallur Sree Maha Mariamman Temple, Sangeetha Mahal, Arulmigu Aiyarappar Temple and Thanjapureswarar Temple. Tanjore can be reached from Chennai by the NH38 and NH32 highways.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #12: Coonoor

 

Coonoor is a small hill station located close to Ooty in Tamil Nadu. This quaint town is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu, because of its scenic beauty. This town is essentially filled with tea estates which can be explored by tourists. The spectacular views of the Nilgiri Hills are also a sight to behold. Nature lovers and photographers will be in awe of the place and capture some great shots from various viewpoints. Additionally, the train ride from Coonoor to Ooty will take you through the most beautiful railway routes in India. The beautiful green tea gardens and the variety of flora and fauna will leave you spellbound. Once in Coonoor, you need to visit Highfield Tea Factory, Tiger Hill Cemetery, Lamb’s Rock, Laws Falls, Kattery park, Dolphin’s Nose Road, Droog Fort, Catherine Water Falls viewpoint, and Wellington Lake. The best way to reach Connoor would be via Ooty Station, which is connected by a toy train to the destination city.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #13: Velankanni

 

Velankanni is a popular Christian pilgrimage site in Tamil Nadu. The city is located in the Nagapattinam district and on the Coromandel Coast of India. This popular tourist spot receives millions of devotees a year who travel to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a Roman Catholic shrine. The church has a mix of gothic and Portuguese architecture, which can be witnessed when one travels to the city. The Basilica is exemplary of the mindful artistry that makes this spiritual place a site of peace and solitude. When visiting Velankanni, the other popular places to explore will be Velankanni Beach, Morning Star Church, Maria Natchathiram Beach Garden, and the Velankanni Shrine Museum.  A cab or bus ride from Chennai via NH32 will be the best way to reach the city for travel.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #14: Kolli Malai

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travelling India ?? (@travelling.india.in)

 

Kolli Malai is a hill station which attracts tourists for its picturesque roads and breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The small town in the Tiruchirapalli district rises 1,300 metres above sea level and contains some beautiful places of interest. The town is a popular gateway where you can spend some quality time at resorts at budget prices.

You can visit Kolli Malai for a day tour or choose to stay back to enjoy the calm of the hills. The popular tourist haunts in the city are Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, Arapaleeswarar temple, Siddhar Caves, and the Tampcol Medicinal Farm. This hill station is the perfect place for relaxation and should be included in the Tamil Nadu itinerary.You can explore the city by travelling here from Madurai via NH44.

Know about: House for sale in Coimbatore 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #15: Yercaud

 

Last but not least on this list of places to visit in Tamil Nadu is Yercaud. Yercaud is a hill station and offers some beautiful lakes and breathtaking sceneries of the hills. Nature photography is a top thing to do in Yercaud.

A popular resort town, Yercaud offers some amazing tourist spots like Kiliyur Falls, Lady’s Seat, Manjakuttai View Point, Children’s Seat, Gowri Woodlands Estate Lake, Sacred Heart Church, and much more. Mountain sports are also among the population things to do in Yercaud and can be enjoyed by thrill-seekers. Tourists can take the NH44 highway from Madurai to easily reach Yercaud within a day.

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #16: Trichi

Source: viharadarshani.in (Pinterest)

 

Trichy, a burgeoning mid-sized city in Tamil Nadu, offers a delightful escape from the extremes of cities solely defined by religion or characterised by endless concrete structures. Trichy’s charm lies in its ability to captivate visitors, not only with its numerous temples and churches but also through the distinctiveness each of these sites possesses. Even after a weekend getaway, Trichy continues to hide intriguing secrets, which you can uncover and cherish for years to come. Trichy is the land of temples. You can visit the Jambukeswarar Temple that is on the banks of river Kaveri. Akilandeshwari is the goddess who is worshipped here. With its airport and railway station, Trichy ensures convenient access for all explorers.

 

Places to visit in Tamil Nadu #17: Pondicherry

Source: Pinterest

 

Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, serves as an idyllic destination for adventurers, beach enthusiasts, and culture aficionados eager to immerse themselves in the unique blend of French culture and architecture. Featuring a wealth of romantic spots, Pondicherry, a Union Territory, exudes a lively and vibrant atmosphere, making it an enticing alternative to Goa. Its increasing accessibility from Chennai has further drawn the attention of the younger generation to this captivating Tamil Nadu tourist hotspot and its pristine beaches, offering the perfect setting for rejuvenation and relaxation. Some of the many attractions of this destination include Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Arulmigu Manakula, Promenade Beach, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Auroville and Paradise Beach.

 

How to prepare for a trip to Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu is widely popular among tourists and pilgrims. Before travelling, tourists must consider a few things to ensure a pleasant trip.

Plan your budget

The budget you have chosen will determine the nature of your trip, including destinations chosen, shopping and the number of days to stay.

Choose the destination

Decide on the places your wish to explore. Some popular cities include Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Rameshwaram, Vellore and Yelagiri. If you are looking for adventure, select places popular for adventure sports.

Consider the climate

Find out the climate of the destination, which will help you in planning for the trip. Check out the places where you will find the best food and accommodation options. Do some carry government documents like identity proof.

 

Best time to visit Tamil Nadu

Best time to visit Tamil Nadu is from March to May and September to November when the climate is pleasant.

Make sure you have packed your luggage for a comfortable stay. Start by packing your essentials, including a mobile phone charger, an extra set of clothes, personal care and medicines, and snacks. If you are visiting hill stations, make sure to pack warm clothing. Further, avoid packing unnecessary items that can increase the weight of your luggage.

 

Also read

Places to visit in Jaipur	Places to visit in Rishikesh	Things to do in Delhi
Places to visit in Mussoorie	Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh	Places to visit in India

FAQs

Which is the best tourist place in Tamil Nadu

Ooty, Kodaikanal, Madurai, Tanjore, Chennai, Rameshwaram, Coimbatore etc. are the best tourist places in Tamil Nadu.

Which city is most visited in Tamil Nadu?

Chennai is the most visited place in Tamil Nadu.

Which is the cleanest city in Tamil Nadu?

Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai feature among the cleanest city in Tamil Nadu.

Is 2 days enough for Kodaikanal?

Yes 2 days is enough to cover Kodaikanal.

Which is richest city in Tamil Nadu?

According to reports, Kanyakumari has a per capita income of more than Rs 81,000, that is the highest per capita income in Tamil Nadu. The second in place is Tirupur.

Is Tamil Nadu worth visiting?

Tamil Nadu is a beautiful state with breathtaking rock-cut temples and serene sea beaches. It is definitely a place worth visiting.

What is the best time to visit Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu has pleasant weather throughout the year. However, March-May and September-November is the best time to visit here.

Which is the best place to visit in Tamil Nadu?

The best places to visit in Tamil Nadu include Rameshwaram, Ooty, Coonoor, Kodaikanal, and Kanchipuram.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]