For many, Tamil Nadu evokes the picture of elaborate stone-sculpted temples intrigued in a forgotten past. Some of its temples have earned the status of World Heritage Monument. But there are many other tourist attractions in Tamilnadu. In its idyllic hill stations, spectacular beaches, scenic planes, and variegated wild lives and not to mention numerous temples, the state offers a heady mix.
The temples in Tamil Nadu represent the quintessence of Dravidian culture. Several dynasties like: Cheras, Cholas, Pallavas and Pandyan have ruled over the land and left indelible mark on it in their marvelous creations. Master craftsmen have etched in stone the tales from myths and legends, epic battles, demons with intricate details on the temple facades, which have defied time. Tamil Nadu is deservingly called The Land of Enduring Heritage. Some important temples are:
Mahabalipuram: Built in 7th century AD, it is now a world heritage destination. The most famous are the Five Chariots, the shore temple and Arjuna's penance.
Kanchipuram: 75kms from Chennai, The city is one of the seven most sacred temples of the Hindus. The most renowned is the Kailasnatha Temple.
Madurai: Known as the Athens of the East, Madurai traces its past to 4th century BC. It is the land of huge Meenakshi Temple.
Tanjore: Gangaikondacholapuram, Thiruvarur (world Heritage Monument) and the Brihadeeswarar Temple are located in this scenic city, which are some major tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu.
The hill stations in Tamil Nadu would overwhelm you if the temples have already charmed. Nestled in the Western Ghat ranges, these places promise breathtaking views of green-coated valleys, cascading waterfalls and thick woods. Hill stations remain major tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu because of the salubrious climate and serene ambience.
Ooty: Often referred to as the Queen of Hill Stations, is by far the most beautiful in the state.
Kodaikanal: 120kms away from Madurai, Kodaikanal fascinates with its wooded slopes and beautiful lakes.
Tamilnadu boasts of a few picturesque beaches and as many as 5 national parks and 17 wildlife sanctuaries. At the southern tip of India, Kanyakumari is located right on the confluence of three seas - the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. If you are a wild life freak, visit the Mudumalai Wild Life Sanctuary. Sprawling over an area of 103spkms, it is home to a variety of animals like: Elephant, Gaur, Bonnet, Macaque, Common langur, Tigers and Leopards, Chital, Panther, Sloth Bear, Python to name a few.
Cities like Chennai, Trichy have a rich history to their credit and house many tourist attractions in Tamil Nadu.
Tamil cuisine is also a major draw for the visitors to the state. Tamilnadu boasts of a fantastic tradition of cuisine that captured many hearts across the world through the stomach. The specialties of Chettinad are real gastronomic delights.
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