CHENNAI
MARINA BEACH
Fort St. George Fort st.George occupies pride of place and prominence in Chennai. This bastion derived its name form St. George, the patron saint of England. The State Legislature and the Secretariat are located inside this fort . The St. Mary’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in India built in 1680 is situated here. The tombstones in its courtyard are some of the oldest British tombstones in India. The weddings of Robert Clive and Governor Elihu Yale, who later founded the famous Yale University in the U.S.A were solemnised in this ancient prayerhouse.
The Marina Beach, the pride of Chennai is the second longest beach in the world and has a wide sandy shore. Situated on the beach, are the Samadhis or memorials dedicated to C.N.Annadurai and M.G.Ramachandran, both former Chief Ministers of the state. They attract thousands of visitors everyday. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Chennai such as the University of Madras, the Senate House, Chepauk Palace, Presidency College and the Ice House are located on the beach drive.
BESANT NAGAR BEACH
Elliot's Beach (popularly known as "Besant Nagar Beach" or "Bessie") is located in Besant Nagar, Chennai, India. It forms the end-point of the Marina Beach shore and is named after Edward Elliot, Governor of Madras. It has the Velankanni Church and the Ashtalakshmi Kovil nearby.[1] In the colonial era, it was a fairly exclusive place limited to ex-patriates.
The beach is a prominent hang-out zone for most of the college-going crowd in Chennai. On weekends, it becomes quite an experience to find parking space on the beach roads. The beach also has found importance with families, who now no longer travel to the famous Marina Beach. There are many restaurants near the beach.
MUTTUKADU BOAT HOUSE
Muttukadu Boat House, a wonderful picnic spot. The effect caused by the rocking bridge over backwaters is stunning and exciting. It’s a out of the world for people who are connoisseurs of sea food..Its about 30 Kms from Chennai on East Coast road which leads to Mammalapuram.Muttukadu is situated at 36kms in Chennai in the ECR Road. The back waters of Muttukadu have been made used by the Tamilnadu Tourism Department (TTDC) as a adventure sports picnic spot. Located 36 kilometers off Chennai, Muttukadu Boat House is an unusual spot in backwaters for tourists and holidaying families. Also, Muttukadu is a paradise for anglers since prawns and jelly fish are in abundance here. For those who relish seafood being here could prove to be a memorable experience. The backwaters at Muttukadu are also favourable for a couple of adventure water sports like wind-surfing. Last year, in July, four 8-seater speed boats were inducted here.
SANTHOME CATHEDRAL BASILICA
Santhome at the southern end of the Marina gets its name from St.Thomas, the apostle of Jesus who is believed to have come to India sometime during 52 A.D. It is believed he was killed on St. Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD and his remains interred in Santhome beach where a church was later built.
Several years later, another church was built further inland and his mortal remains were transferred here. Chennai’s newest pride is the Tidel Park, the home for the Information Technology Industry. It is spread over 1.28 million sq.ft. of built up area. The Tidel Park is an architectural marvel and houses several large national and international software companies in its premises.
Swami Vivekananda House & Museum
Vivekananda House & Museum The state government had leased this building Sri Ramakrishna Mission. It is an imposing structure on the Marina along the South Beach Road. It was constructed in 1842 to store ice blocks imported from the USA by the Tudor Ice Company and the business continued until 1874, when the ice began to be produced locally. This is why it is called Ice House. Later Bilagiri Iyengar purchased this building in 1885 and called it "Castle Kernon."
FORT MUSEUM
It houses rare exhibits of weapons, uniforms, coins, costumes, medals and other artefacts and memorabilia of the British period. The flagmast at Fort St. George is the tallest in India.
KAPALEESHWARAR TEMPLE
In Mylapore, there is an 8th Century Pallava Temple. The temple ‘Gopuram’ or tower is made in the characteristic Dravidian style of architecture. Dedicated of Lord Shiva, this temple has some beautiful sculptures, among which the bronze idols of 63 Saivaite Saints or the Nayanmars. They adorn the outer courtyard. Also in the courtyard under the old Punnai tree is a small shrine depicting Goddess Parvathi in the form of a peacock, worshipping Lord Shiva. It is from this legend that Mylapore derives its name Mayilmeaning peacock in Tamil and Oor meaning town. Mylapore is the hub of the Arubathumoovar festival dedicated to the 63 Nayanmars held in March-April every year.
ST. THOMAS MOUNT
A top the 76 metre high hill is believed to be the place where St. Thomas was martyred. An old church, built by the Portuguese around 1514 is located here. Among the interesting relics in the church is an old stone cross that the apostle is said to have clutched in his hand while dying. The blood-like stains on the cross have given it the name Bleeding Cross and the mystic stains on it have to this day been found to be too deep to be removed. On the wall above the altar is an oil painting of the Madonna that was brought to India by St. Thomas and is believed to be one of the seven that were painted by St.Luke.
NATIONAL PARK-GUINDY
Guindy National Park, adjacent to the Raj Bhavan, is situated in the Mambalam, Guindy taluk in Chennai. Guindy National Park, The smallest national park in India and one of the few located in a metro. The park is an extension of the grounds surrounding the official residence of the governors of Tamil Nadu.
It spreads over an area of 270 hectares of dry evergreen scrub and thorn forests and is the smallest national park in the country. Black buck, chital, jackal, pangolin, elephant, spotted dear, jungle cat, toddy cat and Indian civet are the major wildlife found. The park also shelters varieties of birds such as black winged kite, honey buzzard and pariah kite. A snake park housed within this park supports various snakes, crocodiles and turtles. This is a place where a lots of tourists are getting are attracted.
NATIONAL ART GALLERY
The Govt. Museum , National Art Gallery & Connemara LibraryThe Pantheon complex was built before 1789 and was a place of assemblage for the British. The Government bought it in 1830 and later several new buildings were added to it. Today this complex houses the Government Museum, the National Art Gallery and the Connemara Public Library.
The Government Museum was established in the year 1857 and has the country’s best collection of South Indian bronzes, both ancient and modern. Among which beautiful bronze icons of Nataraja, Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. The museum also has geology and anthropology sections. The Amaravathi Gallery contains the rare second century marble sculptures, depicting important events in the life of Gautama Buddha. The sculptures were unearthed from the Buddhist ruins at Amaravathi and are housed here. The bronzes from the 10th and 13th centuries and handicrafts from the 11th and 12th centuries also are seen here.
KANYAKUMARI
THIRUVALLUVAR
The Thiruvalluvar Statue Thiruvalluvar, is the author of Thirukkural. Tamils take cognizance of the birth of Thiruvalluvar as a basis of the calendar. Now we are in the 2036 of the Thiruvalluvar Aandu.
Thirukkural is regarded as a renowned work, eulogised as a directory of the code of conduct and ethics to humanity. Through his 1330 couplets, the revered poet not only deals with the general administration, but also codified and gave clear-cut directions to mankind on how they should behave and act in a social, political, religious and family circles.
The work of Thiruvalluvar has been translated into more than 60 languages worldwide. The magnificent 133-foot height statue denoting the chapters in Thirukkural has been opened for tourists visit in the middle of the sea on 1.1.2000 in Kanniyakumari
Thirukkural is regarded as a renowned work, eulogised as a directory of the code of conduct and ethics to humanity. Through his 1330 couplets, the revered poet not only deals with the general administration, but also codified and gave clear-cut directions to mankind on how they should behave and act in a social, political, religious and family circles.
The work of Thiruvalluvar has been translated into more than 60 languages worldwide. The magnificent 133-foot height statue denoting the chapters in Thirukkural has been opened for tourists visit in the middle of the sea on 1.1.2000 in Kanniyakumari
VIVEKANANDA MEMORIAL
Vivekananda Memorial was built on the Vivekananda Rock where the charismatic and philosopher Swami Vivekananda meditated and transformed himself. The unique, structure was built in 1970 and is a blend of various architectural styles of India.
Close to the Vivekananda Rock is another rock called Sripada Parai meaning the rock that has been blessed by the touch of the feet of the goddess.
Both these rocks are fine places to have a view of the land's end of India. Poompuhar Shipping Corporation operates frequent ferry services from the shore to the rock memorial at regular intervals.
Close to the Vivekananda Rock is another rock called Sripada Parai meaning the rock that has been blessed by the touch of the feet of the goddess.
Both these rocks are fine places to have a view of the land's end of India. Poompuhar Shipping Corporation operates frequent ferry services from the shore to the rock memorial at regular intervals.
GANDHI MEMORIAL
Gandhi Memorial The Gandhi Mandapam has been constructed at the spot where theashes of Mahatma Gandhi were kept in an urn for public view before a portion of it was immersed into the confluence of the three seas, in 1948. Every year on Gandhiji's birthday 2nd October, the sun's rays fall at the exact spot where the urn was displayed before immersion. Mahatma Gandhi visited Kanniyakumari twice, in 1925 and 1937. In commermoration of this event, a beauthiful monument has been constructed here its central shape is 79 feet high representing the age of Mahatma.
SUCHINDRUM
Suchindrum is a temple town situated in the southern most district of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu State, India. It is 11 km from Kanyakumari city and 7 km from Nagarcoil town 70 km from adjacent Tirunelveli district and approximately 85 km from Trivandrum city. The town of Suchindrum is renowned for the Thanumalayan Temple and was an important citadel of Travancore.
Suchindram temple is unique in the whole of India in that it is dedicated to three different deities represented by one image in the sanctum and is called Sthanumalayan (Sthanu-Shiva; Maal-Vishnu and Ayan-Brahma) kovil. The temple is rich in sculpture and architecture and a visitor to this temple is amply rewarded with the sight of such exquisite art of hundreds of years old
KAMARAJ MEMORIAL HALL
Kamaraj Memorial at Kanniyakumari : Regarded as the "King Marker of India", Kamaraj influenced many a political event in the country. From a humble background he rose to become the Chief Minister of Tamilnadu through sheer hard work and political acumen. As a tribute to the freedom fighter and "Perunthalaivar" (meaning great leader) this memorial was constructed where his ashes were kept for public to pay homage before immersion into the sea. Visiting Hours : 07.00A.M to 07.00 P.M. Entrance free,
ST, FRANCIS XAVIERS CHURCH
St. Xavier Church is a Roman Catholic Latin Rite shrine located at Kottar, Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu state, India. While Saint Xavier was doing missionary work at Kottar and its neighbourhood, he averted an invasion of Padagas with the help of his cross alone and thus protected the people of Venad kingdom from that attack which was appreciated by the king, Unni Kerala Varma, who became closer to the Priest and befriended him then on. In recognition of Xavier’s services, the king allotted him a piece of land to construct a catholic church, as a gesture of goodwill, as per the church records. There was already a small church, in the same place where St. Xavier’s church stands at present, dedicated to Mother Mary since AD 1544 . Church records show that St. Xavier Church was built in 1600 CE. In AD 1865, the Shrine of Mother Mary was renovated and enlarged. In 1930 CE, the church was raised to the status of a Cathedral. The annual festival is celebrated during November – December lasting for 10 days.
VATTAKOTAI FORT
MATHUR THOTTIPALAM
The Mathoor trough is the tallest as well as the longest trough bridge in Asia, having a height of 115 Feet. Constructed in 1969, this bridge has become a place of tourist importance.
The trough has a length of 384 mtrs and a height of 7 feet with a width of 7 feet and 6 inches. 29 huge pillars are shoulder the canal. The district administration has created tourism infrastructure facilities over here. Entry free.
PADMANABHAPURAM PALACE
Padmanapuram or the City of Lord Vishnu is an ancient historical town is situated 45 kms from Kanniyakumari.It was an ancient Capital of the Travancore rulers until 1798 A.D. There is a palace inside the fort that spreads over an area of 6 acres. The palace is known for it antiques, including the armoury of the royal family. The Ramaswamy temple adjoining the palace has scenes from the Ramayana carved in 45 panels. It provides a visual extravanganza to the visitors. The woodwork in this palace is intricate.
VATTAKOTAI FORT
A granite fort, 6 kms north-east of Kanniyakumari lies on National Highway 7, forms the terminal of the ramparts known as the South Travancore lines built by king Marthanda Varma to serve as protection. It is a fine picnic spot.
PECHIPPARAI DAM
Pechipparai Dam (74 kms) from kanniyakumari and 53kms from Nagercoil. The weather is very pleasant. It is a fine day excursion centre for touristis. A pleasure boat service is available. The dam is surrounded by dense forests with valuable trees, wildlife etc
THANJAVUR
THANJAVUR TEMPLE
Thanjavur rose to glory during the later Chola period between the 9th and 14th centuries A.D. It also flourished later during the rule of the Nayaks and Mahrattas. The headquarters of this district has the same name as the district. It has been the treasure house of art for centuries. It is called the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu. Thanjavur is well-known throughout the world for being the home of the Brahadeeswara temple, the magnificent palace, Rajah Serfoji's Saraswathi Mahal Library, Art Gallery and also for its exquisite handicrafts like the Art Plate, pithwork, bronze icons, Thanjavur paintings and the classical South Indian musical instruments.
POONDI MATHA BASILICA
The imposing structure of the shrine is a blend of Gothic and French architecture. The key aspect of the structure is the row of statues of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Apart from this, the relic of the original cross/true cross (the one on which Christ was crucified) is also kept at the Poondi Madha Basilica.
MANORA
Rajah Serfoji built this 8-storey victory town in 1814 to commemorate the victory of the British over Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo.It is situated on the shore of Bay of Bengal in Sarabendrajanpathinam village about 20 km. South of Pattukottai Town, in Tanjore Dist. Manora is the grand and gregarious old town with lowerly architecture and surroundings. This ancient fort Monument is styled 'Manora' a derivation from "Minors" of North Indian architecture. This historical Monument majestically shooting up in thin air, 140 feet height. Manora is a pleasing blend of Roman pillar architecture a combination very serious and striking to artistic eyes. This hexogen shapped 10 storyed fort represents the 19th Century architectural taste of Maratha king serfoji of Thanjavur. The panosanic views foamler sea, the floating boats, breezy coconut trees, scattered fisherman houses taking different beautiful shaper at every storey.
VELANKANNI MATHA BASILICA
Just 12 kms south of Nagapattinam, is one of the most popular Christian pilgrim spots in this part of India. People of all faiths and religions come to this church to pray at the shrine of Our Lady of Health. Many bring with them small gold and silver replicas of parts of the body to donate to the church. Velankanni is particularly crowded during the festival period in August-September. There is a small church museum which has a display of the offerings made by the faithful who have received favours from visiting the Velankanni Church.
THANJAVUR TEMPLES
Thingalore (18 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Chandran or the moon. It is situated on the Thiruvaiyaru-Kumbakonam route.
Vaitheeswaran Koil (90 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Sevvai An garaha or Mars. It is on the way to Chidambaram.
Thirvenkadu (95 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Buddhan (Mercury). It is nearer to Mayiladuthurai.
Alangudi (36 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Guru.
Tirunallar (95kms) Here is a temple dedicated to Saneeswaran and this temple is dedicated to Saneeswaran or Saturn and it is believed that one could get rid of his/her curses and spells of bad luck if they pray here.
Kanchanur (57 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Sukra or Venus. It is situated on the way to Mayiladuthurai.
Thirunageswaram (47 kms)One of the Navagraha temples in Thanjavur District, dedicated to Lord Raghu. This place is situated 6 kms to east of Kumbakonam. Thirunageswaram takes its name from legend that the serpent Adi Sesha was worshipped Shiva here and the locality is identified with Chaurpakaranya.
Keezhaperumpallam (93 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to lord kethu. It is close to Poompuhar.
Vaitheeswaran Koil (90 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Sevvai An garaha or Mars. It is on the way to Chidambaram.
Thirvenkadu (95 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Buddhan (Mercury). It is nearer to Mayiladuthurai.
Alangudi (36 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Guru.
Tirunallar (95kms) Here is a temple dedicated to Saneeswaran and this temple is dedicated to Saneeswaran or Saturn and it is believed that one could get rid of his/her curses and spells of bad luck if they pray here.
Kanchanur (57 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Sukra or Venus. It is situated on the way to Mayiladuthurai.
Thirunageswaram (47 kms)One of the Navagraha temples in Thanjavur District, dedicated to Lord Raghu. This place is situated 6 kms to east of Kumbakonam. Thirunageswaram takes its name from legend that the serpent Adi Sesha was worshipped Shiva here and the locality is identified with Chaurpakaranya.
Keezhaperumpallam (93 kms) One of the Navagraha temples dedicated to lord kethu. It is close to Poompuhar.
