Tamil Nadu is a state rich in both cultural and natural aspects. It has been home to one of the oldest civilizations and was ruled by many ancient dynasties. Surrounded by the Western and Eastern Ghats and the Nilgiris, the place is thriving with flora and fauna.
Coonoor
Coonoor is a lovely hill station. It’s neighbour, Ooty just 17 kilometres away is more famous and touristy, but that’s why we love Coonoor so much more. It has lovely English villas, manors, cute names for streets, a small hill station feel and best of all, it’s full of gorgeous tea gardens.
It’s a beautiful drive once you are in the mountains, tall trees flanking the mountainside, and tea plantations springing up every now and then. There are some absolutely beautiful villas and houses built in the traditional English style with gorgeous gardens, and flowers peeking over walls. The streets are named in the British style, and you can go for a walk in Sims Park or just around town.
Drive to two beautiful view points – Dolphins Nose and Lambs Rock. You can see the whole mountainside from here, panoramic views of the hills. Walk in these beautiful environments, smell the tea leaves, take pictures in the tea gardens, sit on a rock in the middle of the tea gardens and soak in the clean fresh air, lose yourself in your thoughts and the beautiful surroundings, and just live in the moment.
Kanyakumari
The phrase “Kashmir to Kanyakumari” is so popular that there is even a song on it. After all who woudn’t want to visit this coastal town which sits on the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. The Bay of Bengal merges here with the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. Known as “Triveni Sangam”, you will see one of the best sunsets here. In fact Kanyakumari is the only place in India where you can observe the sunrise and sunset at the same beach. I would love to spend the night at the beach lying under the stars, and wake up with that first ray of sun.
Ever since ancient times, Kanyakumari has been one of the major centres of religion, art and culture. The Kanyakumari temple, also known as the Bhagvaty Amman Temple is one of the major Hindu temples all across India and is frequented by thousands of pilgrims.
There are many waterfalls around the area. You should also visit one and take a dip in the cool water. Some of the famous waterfalls are Thirparappu falls, the Courtallam Falls, and the Olakaruvi falls. Surrounded by mountains and bordered by vibrant sea shores, Kanyakumari is the perfect destination.
Kodaikanal
Love is in the air of Kodaikanal. This picturesque lakeside town is nestled amidst the rolling slopes of the Palani Hills. Kodaikanal means ‘the gift of the forests’. Adorned with dense forests, huge rocks and beautiful waterfalls, this place is definitely a gift for us.
The town is nestled into the densely forested Western Ghat mountains northwest of Madurai. This is a place you can go to take a break from the rigours of daily city life. There are many biking and trekking trails to explore. And if you want a slow paced hoiday, a stroll through the forests will be perfect. Kodaikanal lets you sit back and connect with nature.
Click here to check out some of the best cafes in Kodaikanal!
Hogenakkal
Hogenakkal is a small village that is known because Kaveri river splits into multiple streams of waterfalls here. The waterfall is located in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. The two Kannada words ‘Hoge’ means ‘Smoke’ and ‘Kal’ means ‘Rocks’ give meaning to the word Hogenakkal as Smoky Rocks. The falls has about 14 channels with the water forcefully gushing down the rocks. The effect is extremely dramatic and many people refer it as the “Niagara Falls of India.
You can ride around in the coracle boats, go fishing, visit the temples in the area, and absorb the beauty around.
Mahabalipuram
The town of Mahabalipuram is famous for its intricately carved temples and stunning beaches. It is an ancient historic town and was a bustling seaport during Pallava kings in 7th Century AD. One of the famous temples is Shore Temple. Built in 8th century, it consists of three temples built in one single complex. Then there is Pancha Rathas – a group of five temples sculpted in the form of chariots. You can spend an entire day marveling at the architecture.
The beaches are beautiful and famous among the backpackers. You will see people surfing or just chilling by the beach.
Click here to read about India’s most dangerous and exciting bridge, Pamban.
Click here to know about Chettinad Cuisine in detail!
