Do as the Tamils do!

Ranging from scenic waterfalls to beaches, to temples, hill stations and a highly exotic cuisine, Tamil Nadu offers a wholesome experience — not just for travellers from other parts of the worlD. We have gathered some of the most iconic places to visit (and things to do) to get the true essence of the state and its rich culture. What are you waiting for already?

‘Aravanai’ at the Ranganathaswamy Temple
If you're looking for a divine experience — coupled with a chance to explore a rare delicacy — the Ranganathaswamy Temple in the island of Srirangam should be your destination.

Right from the Rajagopuram to its marvellous interiors, the temple is nothing short of an architectural marvel. A tradition which makes this temple extra-special is a delicacy called aravanai  prepared here  — is made of rice, ghee and milk and jaggery. It's a unique dish that can be found only in this temple (along with two other temples which come under this administration). This is served everyday, when the temple closes.

Masinagudi
Masinagudi, which is a part of the Nilgiris in Western Ghats, is one of the five ranges of Mudumalai National Park. Surrounded by a hilly terrain, the area is a haven for wildlife lovers. You can take up an early morning trek and stroll through the banks of river in Singara — and if you're lucky, there are high chances that you can spot wild animals and also migratory birds. Apart from this, you can also stay in a jungle hut and become one with nature!

Thirparappu
Situated just 34 kilometers away from Nagercoil, the Thirparappu waterfall is relatively less prominent, compared to other tourist hotspots in the state. Hence, when you plan for a trip to the southern-most tip of the country, make sure that Thirparappu is on your itinerary. This waterfall offers a stunning view, as the water falls from a height of nearly 50 feet!

Karaikudi
The municipality of Karaikudi is not only known for its Chettinad cuisine, but also for its uniquely-constructed houses. You can take an architectural tour across this quaint town and also visit some very old temples here. In Karaikudi, there is also a palace called Aayiram Jannal Aranmanai, which has 1000 windows — we urge you to visit this stunning sight without a miss!

Madurai
You might visit popular places like Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal in Madurai, but your tour wouldn't be complete unless you taste the lip-smacking street food. You should definitely try dishes like the kari dosai and kothuparotta, apart from having popular drink jigarthanda at the Famous Jigarthanda shop. Also, as Virudhunagar is only an hour away from Madurai, a visit is recommended, especially to try the poricha parotta (fried parotta).

Courtallam
Situated on the Western Ghats, this panchayat town is flocked by tourists during the peak season (approximately from June to September). Multiple waterfalls including Old Courtallam, Main Falls and Five Falls provide an adventurous experience. Also make sure that you try hot parottas with chicken/ mutton gravy at the renowned Border Rahmath Kadai after a long shower in the falls!

Vattakanal
Though Kodaikanal still remains the most popular hill station, Vattakanal, a relatively less explored part of the Kodai hills is steadily becoming a hotspot for the Gen Y. You can have a fantastic experience trekking here as it is known for its rich biodiversity. Experts state that if you do a 10 km trek (which could last for three to four hours), you can witness fascinating flora when you pass through the Shola Nursery. Apart from that, the Pambar falls is also a picturesque spot during the expedition.