Looking for a new tourist destination this holiday season? Visit Tamil Nadu. The place is a perfect blend of culture, history, natural beauty and adventure. Best Places to visit in Tamil Nadu include temples of Madurai, Mahabalipuram shores, Ooty hills, Kodaikanal lakes and much more
Tourists love the golden beaches around the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram, the hill stations covered in tea gardens in Ooty, temples in Madurai and the culture of the place. Tamil Nadu also welcomes adventure and nature lovers. Trek around the Western Ghats, visit centuries-old temples and explore natural valleys and waterfalls. The place’s authentic local cuisines and festive vibe add more colour to the trip.
Fascinated yet? Let’s make this trip easy with the top 10 tourist places in Tamil Nadu you shouldn’t miss!
Top 10 Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu
1. Ooty
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Nilgiri Hills, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Altitude | 7,440 ft (2,240 m) above sea level |
| Best Time to Visit | March – June (Summer), October – February (Winter) |
| Climate | Cool throughout the year (10°C – 20°C) |
| Famous For | Tea plantations, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden |
| Nearby Attractions | Coonoor, Mudumalai National Park, Doddabetta Peak |
| Popular Festivals | Tea & Tourism Festival (Jan), Summer Festival & Flower Show (May) |
Ooty is also called the Queen of Hills and is best known for tea gardens, mountain views and natural scenery. This place is one of the heavens on Earth and has earlier been the favourite summer retreat getaway for the British. Today, many tourists visit this place to explore its natural beauty and culture.
ALSO SEE – Top Hill Stations in South India You Must Visit
Ooty is just 270 km from Bangalore and is perched at 7,440 feet above sea level. Explore the green valleys, serene lakes and forests.
Tourists love to glide across Ooty Lake and the Botanical Garden. Don’t miss out on the ride on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. It is the world-famous toy train and one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
You can also explore the nearby attractions like Coonoor. If you visit during the festive season, you can experience the unique culture of Ooty.
2. Madurai
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Tamil Nadu, India |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 1 Night / 2 Days |
| Nearest Major City | Rameshwaram |
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
| Peak Season | April – June |
| Weather | Moderate |
| Known For | Temples, Culture, History, Architecture |
| Major Attraction | Meenakshi Amman Temple |
Madurai is the third largest city in Tamil Nadu, known for its historic, spiritual and cultural significance. It is located on the banks of the River Vaigai and is also called the Athens of the East.
This place is one of the oldest inhabited cities in India, tracing back to the Sangam period. It’s a few hours’ drive from Chennai (464 km) and Coimbatore (209 km).
Explore the Meenakshi Amman Temple, crafted in Dravidian architecture. It is one of the most visited temples in South Indian with towering gopurams and sculptures. Also visit the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal and Koodal Alagar Temple to experience the local culture and flavours of Madurai.
ALSO SEE- Madurai Meenakshi Temple-Timings And How To Plan Your Visit?
3. KodaikanalÂ
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 2–3 Days |
| Nearest City | Madurai (120 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March (Winter), June – September (Monsoon) |
| Weather | Pleasant & Cool throughout the year |
| Famous For | Kodai Lake, Trekking Trails, Waterfalls, Scenic Views |
| Special Highlight | Blue Kurinji Flowers (bloom once every 12 years) |
Kodaikanal, or the Princess of Hill Stations, is located in the Palani Hills, Tamil Nadu. It’s located 470 km away from Bangalore and 528 km from Chennai. The hill station is filled with mountain views, valleys and landscapes.
Kodai is 7,000 feet above sea level, covered in misty valleys and crystal clear lakes. Trek through the beautiful forests. This place isn’t as commercialised as Ooty and has a peaceful vibe with fewer crowds. Relax and connect with nature, boat on the Kodai Lake, visit Bryant Park, Coaker’s Wali and Pillar Rocks. You can also trek through the famous Dolphin’s Nose and Vattakanal. Explore the famous Bear Shola and Silver Cascade waterfalls.
ALSO SEE – How to apply for kodaikanal e pass? Step by Step guide
4. Rameshwaram
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Island in southeastern Tamil Nadu, India |
| Connectivity | Part of Lord Ram’s Bridge linking India & Sri Lanka |
| Religious Importance | One of the holiest Hindu shrines, linked with Ramayana. |
| Main Temple | Ramanathaswamy Temple |
| Temple Highlights | Long corridors, sculptured pillars, decorated galleries |
| Architecture Style | Dravidian, gopura and pillared halls |
| Significance | Sacred to both Vaishnavas & Shaivas; part of Char Dham |
Rameshwaram is a religious place known for its unmatched spiritual value. It is 562 km from Chennai.
This sacred town is known to be the home of the world-famous Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple. The temple is one of the revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The third corridor of the temple is the longest in the world, made with intricately sculpted pillars. This place is where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva before the epic battle with Ravana. It forms the sacred Char Dhan Yatra with Dwarka, Puri and Badrinath.
Beyond Sri Ramanathaswamy, you can also explore Agnitheertham’s holy waters, Dhanushkodi, Gandamadana Parvatham, and the beaches around.
It’s also a natural beauty with beautiful greenery views and lakes.
ALSO SEE-How To Travel From Kovalam To Rameshwaram
5. Srirangam
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | East-central Tamil Nadu, an island between Kaveri & Kollidam rivers |
| Nearby City | Incorporated into Tiruchchirappalli (Trichy) |
| Main Attraction | Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple |
| Religious Aspect | Primarily Vaishnavite, also revered by Shaivites |
If you want to explore a place that blends history, spirituality, and culture, visit Srirangam. This is a river island surrounded by the Kaveri and Kollidam rivers. It is 13 km from Trichy and 136 km from Madurai.
One of the major attractions here is Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple: the largest Hindu temple in the world. Srirangam is also one of the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu, with temples like Jambukeswarar Temple, Uthamar Kovil, and Samayapuram Mariamman Temple.
Also, explore the festive season here, like Chithirai Car Festival, Vaikunta Ekadashi, and Teppotsavam. You’ll get the chance to try out local delicacies and be part of their colourful celebrations.
6. Kanyakumari
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Southernmost tip of Indian subcontinent, Tamil Nadu |
| Also Known As | Cape Comorin |
| Famous For | Spiritual, beaches, and historical landmarks |
| Key Attractions | Kanyakumari Amman Temple, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Gandhi Memorial |
| Unique Feature | Confluence of Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean |
| Popular Activities | Sunrise & sunset views, cultural exploration, beach visits |
| Â Beaches | Thengapattinam, Sanguthurai, Chothavilai |
Kanyakumari is not just a destination but an experience. Explore this southernmost tip of India, located around the point where the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet.
Tourists recommend experiencing the sunset and moonrise around the beach (they happen at the same time). You can also explore the attractions like Kumariamman Temple, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Padmanabhapuram Palace and Gandhi Memorial.
Beach lovers can visit Thengapattinam, Sanguthurai, and Chothavilai beaches. Also, try out their local seafood and other cuisines.
ALSO SEE-How to reach Kanyakumari?-Flight, Train and Road
7. Mahabalipuram
Overview:
| Category |       Details |
| Location | Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), Coromandel Coast, Tamil Nadu |
| Famous For |
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| Best Time to Visit | November – February (Pleasant winter); Broadly October – March is good. |
| How to Reach |
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| Things to Do | Explore UNESCO monuments & cave temples, beach time and sunrise/sunset at Shore Temple, lighthouse climb, sculpture workshops, Indian Dance Festival (Dec–Jan), seafood, day trips to Crocodile Bank/Muttukadu backwaters/Covelong surf. |
| Top Attractions |
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Another gem on Tamil Nadu’s Coromandel Coast, Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram) is famed for its UNESCO-listed Group of Monuments-especially the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, and vast bas-relief Arjuna’s Penance-built by the Pallavas in the 7th–8th centuries. It lies about 58 km from Chennai and ~95 km from Puducherry along the scenic East Coast Road.
ALSO SEE- Best Time to Visit Mahabalipuram Tamil Nadu
You can also explore Krishna’s Butter Ball, the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and cave temples, plus nearby Madras Crocodile Bank and ECR beaches-great for quick day trips.
The Mahabalipuram (Indian) Dance Festival typically runs late December to late January at the Shore Temple precincts.
8. Kanchipuram
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| How to Reach | – Well-connected by road from Chennai, Pondicherry, and Trichy
– Bus services available nearby – Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (~150 km) – Nearest Railway Station: Chidambaram Railway Station |
| Best Time to Visit | – October to March (pleasant weather)
– Summers are hot and humid – Monsoons bring heavy rainfall (July–September) |
| Highlights | – Nataraja Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva)
– Blend of spirituality, history, and Dravidian architecture – Surrounded by mangrove forests (Pichavaram) |
Kanchipuram or Kanchi is a popular tourist destination in Chennai. It is located 75 km from the city and is one of the most sacred and historic cities in Tamil Nadu. Kanchi is located on the banks of the Palar River and is known for its attractive temples and world-famous silk sarees.
Visit the attractions like Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kailasanathar Temple, Karchapeshwarar Temple, and Ekambareswarar Temple. You can also shop for the handwoven silk sarees that are must-haves.
9. TiruchirappalliÂ
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Nearest City | Tiruchirappalli |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 1–2 Days |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
| Peak Season | December – January & May – June |
| Moderate Season | June – September |
| Off-season | April – May |
| Famous For | Rockfort Temple, Srirangam Temple, historic monuments, Trichinopoly cigars, handloom saris, jewelry |
| Connectivity | Tiruchirappalli International Airport (8 km from city)
Well-connected railway junction Two major bus stations – Central & Chathiram |
Tiruchirappalli is located on the banks of the Cauvery River and is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. It is located 133 km from Madurai and 334 km from Chennai. It is the perfect blend of culture, history and spirituality. Tiruchirappalli is among the top ten cleanest cities in India.
Some of the major attractions include Ranganathaswamy Temple at Srirangam, Rockfort Temple, Jambukeshwar Temple, Uraiyur, Mariamman Temple, St. John’s Church, and the Government Museum. You can also explore and shop for cheroot cigars, handloom saris, stone-studded jewellery, and traditional Pith models.
10. Yercaud
Overview:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Salem District, Tamil Nadu |
| Altitude | 1515 m in Shevaroy Hills |
| Best Time to Visit | October – June |
| Ideal Trip Duration | 1–2 Days |
| Famous For | Hill Station, Coffee Plantations, Scenic Views, Summer Festival |
| Major Attractions | Yercaud Lake, Anna Park, Lady’s Seat, Pagoda Point, Killiyur Falls, Shevaroy Temple |
| Nearest Airport | Coimbatore Airport (185 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Salem Junction (31 km) |
| Nearest Bus Station | Yercaud Bus Station |
| Major Festival | Summer Festival (May) |
One of the charming hill stations in Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is known for its cool climate, scenic beauty and peaceful vibe.
It is one of the top tourist spots located 31 km from Salem, 249 km from Bangalore and 363 km from Chennai. It is perched at an altitude of 1515 m in the Shevaroy Hills.
Tourists recommend exploring Yercaud Lake, Anna Park, Lady’s Seat, Shevaroy Temple, Small Lake, Bear’s Point, Pagoda Point, Killiyur Falls, and the Botanical Garden.
This hill station is also famous for its coffee, oranges, jackfruit, guava, cardamom, and black pepper. Don’t miss out the place around the summer festival- it’s a week-long celebration with flower & dog show, boating races and village fair.
Things To Do In Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is more than just temples and history. It is for all adventure lovers, foodies and shoppers. Make sure to try out these as you explore the top 10 tourist places in Tamil Nadu.
Must-Try Activities
- Ooty Toy Train
Experience the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and get on a 46 km journey through tunnels, valleys, green hills and bridges.
- Go Trekking
Trek on the famous trails like Swamimalai Hill, Sathuragiri Hills, and Kookal Waterfalls. These are perfect for adventure seekers!
- Catamaran Ride in Chennai ECR
Join the ocean cruise, experience the waves and sea adventure.
- Camping in the Hills
Spend a night in camp under the stars at Yercaud or Ooty
- Scuba Diving
Experience underwater life at Chennai’s coastline.
- Historical Tours
Explore spots like Mahabalipuram, Madurai, Thanjavur, and Chettinad.
- Jungle Safaris
Book jungle safaris to Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kalakad Mundanthurai to spot tigers, elephants and exotic birds.
Shopping Hotspots
- Nalli Silks, Chennai
Buy the famous silk Kanchipuram collection from this legendary saree shop.
- Ranganathan Street, Chennai
Buy the best bargain price for clothing, jewellery, utensils, and filter coffee in this market.
- Town Hall Market, Coimbatore
Explore the market for clothes, electronics, books, and delicious street food.
- Jute Cottage, Madurai
Buy the jute goods like handbags, mats, and gifts from here.
Food You Can’t Miss
- Star Biryani, Ambur & Chennai
Taste the famous mutton and chicken biryani from here.
- Â Saravana Bhavan (Chennai, Kanchipuram, Vellore)
Try out the iconic vegetarian South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis and filter coffee.
- Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant (Chennai, Trichy)
Try out the Chettinad dishes like Kadai Chicken and Nattu Kozhi Masala. You’ll find the perfect flavours and spices here.
- Place To Bee, Ooty
This is a cosy cafe best known for its wood-fired pizzas.
Plan Your Tamil Nadu Getaway
Tamil Nadu is a treasure of experiences where you can find the right blend of history, spirituality, adventure, shopping, and food.
From the hills of Ooty and Kodaikanal, beaches in Kanyakumari to the spiritual charm of Rameshwaram and Madurai and greenery of Yercaud; Tamil Nadu doesn’t disappoint.
But where to start the trip? Let the experts guide you. Iris Holidays makes your trip effortless with the best tailor-made tour packages. Get benefits like hassle-free bookings, comfortable stays and guided tours with the best itineraries in budget-friendly rates.
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