Top 10 Tourist Places In Tamil Nadu-The Complete List

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. Kodaikanal 

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
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	UNESCO-listed Group of Monuments (Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas, rock-cut caves & bas-reliefs), Pallava stone carving, Mahabalipuram (Indian) Dance Festival.
Best Time to Visit	November – February (Pleasant winter); Broadly October – March is good.
How to Reach	Nearest Airport: Chennai (MAA), ~55–60 km. Rail: Nearest major station—Chengalpattu (CGL), ~30 km; frequent connections via Chennai region. Road: On the scenic East Coast Road (ECR); well connected by TNSTC/private buses from Chennai & Puducherry.
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	Shore Temple Pancha Rathas (Five Rathas) Arjuna’s Penance / Descent of the Ganges bas-relief Krishna’s Butter Ball Mahabalipuram Lighthouse & nearby cave temples (Varaha, Mahishasuramardini)

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. Tiruchirappalli 

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.

•  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.