Journey south to the country to enter a world filled with ancient Dravidian-style temples, pilgrimage sites and verdant hill stations. One of the few places where the classical arts are still studied, Tamil Nadu is incredibly rich in culture and tradition. If there’s one destination that can take you back in time, it’s this southern-most state. From engaging in exciting city tours of Chennai to heading out on leisurely trips to the misty hill stations, there is a lot of fun to be had in Tamil Nadu. Full of hustle and bustle though Chennai may be, no trip to the South Indian state is compete without a stop here. Spend at least a day or two exploring Chennai’s best sights, and don’t miss out on the street food either. It will prove to be a rewarding and memorable experience, and you will truly touch the pulse of the state’s culture and traditions by doing so.
After spending a few days in Chennai, you can continue your Tamil Nadu trip by paying visits to the lush hill stations and small towns that beautify the state. You could head to the cool hill station of Ooty for a day and visit the stunning Rose Garden and Thread Garden. For a taste of the French colonial period, go to Pondicherry and explore the quaint markets and French Quarter. History buffs eager to witness the beauty of Tamil Nadu’s temples can head to the old city of Madurai and Thanjavur, both famed for their architecture and art. Iconic religious sites such as the Meenakshi Amman and Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal will take your breath away with their craftsmanship. Set out on a sightseeing tour in Tamil Nadu and immerse yourself in the many facets of life in this incredible region.
- 2D/1N
- Kodaikanal
- 2D/1N
- Ooty
- 2D/1N
- Ooty
- 11H
- Yelagiri
Tamil Nadu Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Tamil Nadu
Aurobindo Ashram or the Sri Aurobindo Ashram is a spiritual group (ashram) situated in the union territory of Pondicherry. The ashram was a small community that expanded over some time as more and more disciples of Aurobindo Ghose gathered around to seek spirituality. Aurobindo Ghose founded this ashram after he left his political career and aspired to inherit spiritualism in his life. A few followers of Aurobindo joined him in the ashram with the same aim of seeking spirituality. Located in eastern Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo Ashram has become a hub of tourists who are inclined towards divinity and simplicity in their lifestyle. The ashram is popular not only in India but also in other countries because of the work put forth by the community towards the healing of humanity. The ashram in its initial days only had a few buildings but later, as more and more people joined, the ashram grew bigger and presently, it consists of many small buildings that are adjacent to each other. The ashram provides all the basic needs of its members for living a healthy and simple life. There is a library in the ashram where members can read and learn about the history and teachings of the place. Also, there are various cultural facilities like dance, theatre, music, arts, and sports for the all-round development of the members. The ashram is managed by a board of five trustees who make sure that the legacy and vision of Aurobindo Ghose remains in the ashram.History of Aurobindo Ashram:After quitting politics, Aurobindo Ghose spent most of his time writing and meditating in the ashram. From 1910 to 1920, the ashram had a few members alongside Aurobindo who all lived a simple life involving reading, writing and doing their daily chores. In 1920, Mirra Alfassa or “The Mother” who was regarded as the “spiritual collaborator” of Aurobindo returned to Pondicherry and lived in the ashram. Soon, more and more people came in the ashram and it gradually became a community under the umbrella of Aurobindo and the Mother. In 1926, the formal foundation of the ashram was done and this resulted in more and more people coming to the ashram. From just 24 people in 1927 to 150 in 1934, the ashram started to grow like a community. Over the years, as the ashram grew in numbers more and more departments were formed and the sadhaks looked after the departments as a part of their sadhana. Today, the ashram is spread throughout the town in around 400 buildings and houses more than 2000 sadhaks. Highlights of Aurobindo Ashram:-Aurobindo Ghose founded the ashram in 1926 after quitting his career in politics -Mother (Mirra Alfassa) companion of Aurobindo carried on the legacy of the ashram after Aurobindo’s death in 1950.-One of the biggest Ashrams in India, Aurobindo Ashram housing more than 2000 people living and serving each other. -Auroville, the city of dawn was the brainchild of Mother. Auroville is associated with the ashram in its ideological structure and well-being.-Aurobindo Ashram publishes many periodicals about the essence of spirituality and peace in life-It takes around 2-3 hours to see the entire ashram
The Raj Niwas building is constructed on the foundation of a hotel named Hotel De La Compagnie. This is the government house of the Pondicherry and is a blend of both Indian and French architecture. The previous name of this Raj Niwas is Palais du Government. The Raj Niwas isn’t open to public but it is one of the attractions in Pondicherry. Most of the people who went on a trip to Pondicherry will surely pay a visit to this Raj Niwas to enjoy the Indo-French architecture. The monolithic pillars, fountain are the biggest asset of this Raj Niwas. They enhance the look of the construction as well as add royalty too. The public can go into the Raj Niwas on some special days and occasions only.Location:White TownPondicherry 605001Best Time To Visit:The Best Time To Visit: Raj Niwas will be between 12 pm and 1:30 pm as you will be allowed into the house. The point to remember here is the passes are limited to 40 per day.TimingsThe Raj Niwas will be open between 12pm and 1:30 pmDistance Between Pondicherry Bus stand and Raj NivasThe distance from Pondicherry bus station to Raj Nivas is 2.6 kms which can be travelled in 4-5 mins.Image Credits: thehindu.com
About the Place:This church, one among the 21 basilicas in India, is a famous pilgrimage for roman catholic Christians and considered one of the best places to visit in Pondicherry.It was built in 1908 by French missionaries. The sacred heart Basilica, a 100- years- old structure represents gothic architecture. It is 50 meters long, 48 meters wide and 18 meters high. Inside the church, there are 28 glass paintings which are a depiction of the life of Christ and saints of the church. The church has a huge area on the exterior too.Location:The church is located on the south boulevard of Pondicherry. Its address is 132, Subbaiah salai, Pondicherry, 605001.Best Time To Visit:This sacred abode of Jesus remains open throughout the year. People visit the church in masses during the Christmas festival. Though there is no specific time of the month to visit, a large number of outsiders can be seen here during winters considering the climatic condition of Pondicherry.Timings:Monday-Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PMSunday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PMDistance From Pondicherry Bust-StandThe church is situated 2.5 Km away from Pondicherry bus stand towards south boulevard.
Popular Sightseeing Destinations
