Place

Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Nearest City

Chennai

Marina Beach, Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Cultural Hub

October-Ma rch

Self

Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Museum

October-Ma rch

Madurai

Coimbatore

Marudamalai Temple, Isha Yoga Center, Siruvani Waterfalls

October-Ma rch

Coimbatore

Ooty

Nilgiri Hills, Ooty Lake, Botanical Garden, Rose Garden

April-June

Coimbatore

Kanyakumari

Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, Sunset Point

October-Ma rch

Nagercoil

Rameswaram

Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge

October-Apr il

Rameswaram

Tiruchirappalli (Trichy)

Rock Fort Temple, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, Kallanai Dam

October-Ma rch

Trichy

Thanjavur

Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur Palace, Art Gallery

October-Ma rch

Thanjavur

Pondicherry

Promenade Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Auroville

October-Ma rch

Pondicherry

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker’s Walk, Bryant Park

March-May

Dindigul

Hampi

Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Hampi Bazaar

October-Ma rch

Dindigul

Chidambaram

Nataraja Temple, Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

October-Ma rch

Chidambaram

Kanchipuram

Ekambareswarar Temple, Kailasanatha Temple, Silk Weaving

October-Ma rch

Kanchipuram

Srirangam

Ranganathaswamy Temple, Kaveri River, Wildlife Sanctuary

October-Ma rch

Tiruchirappalli

Vellore

Vellore Fort, Golden Temple, Sripuram Temple

October-Ma rch

Vellore

Nainital

Naina Devi Temple, Naini Lake, Snow View Point

March-June

Nainital

Alagar Koil

Alagar Koil Temple, Hillside Trekking

October-Ma rch

Madurai

Coonoor

Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose

April-June

Coimbatore

Dhanushkodi

Abandoned Town, Pamban Bridge, Beaches

October-Ma rch

Rameswaram

Vellore Fort

Historical Fort, Museum, and Temple

October-Ma rch

Vellore

Tiruvannamalai

Arunachaleswarar Temple, Girivalam, Trekking

October-Ma rch

Tiruvannamalai

Cuddalore

Kattumannar Koil, Beaches, Historic Sites

October-Ma rch

Cuddalore

Nagapattinam

Vedaranyeswarar Temple, Nagore Dargah, Kottaiyur Beach

October-Ma rch

Nagapattinam

Kanchipuram

Historic Temples, Silk Weaving Workshops, Handicrafts

October-Ma rch

Kanchipuram

Tirunelveli

Nellaiappar Temple, Papanasam Waterfalls

October-Ma rch

Tirunelveli

Vedaranyam

Vedaranyeswarar Temple, Untouched Beaches

October-Ma rch

Vedaranyam

Place

Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Nearest City

Vattakottai Fort

Historical Fort, Quiet Beach Views

November-M arch

Kanyakumari

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brihadeeswarar Temple

October-Marc h

Thanjavur

Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

Mangrove Boat Tours, Bird Watching

October-Marc h

Chidambaram

Tiruvannamalai

Temple of Arunachaleswarar, Hill Trekking, Spiritual Retreats

October-Marc h

Tiruvannamalai

Meghamalai

Tea Plantations, Nature Trails, Wildlife Spotting

October-Marc h

Theni

Kolli Hills

Hills, Waterfalls, Trekking Trails

October-Marc h

Namakkal

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve

Wildlife Safari, Conservation Efforts

October-April

Erode

Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Largest Zoological Park in South India

October-Marc h

Chennai

Thiruvakkarai Beach

Quiet Seaside, Historical Temples

November-M arch

Villupuram

Tiruchendur

Lord Subrahmanya Temple, Beaches

October-Marc h

Thoothukudi

Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary

Migratory Birds, Fishing Villages

October-Febr uary

Tiruvarur

Vedaranyam

Beach, Dunes, Bird Watching

November-M arch

Nagapattinam

Sundarban Wildlife Sanctuary

Tiger and Crocodile Watching, Boating

October-April

Kanyakumari

Aruppukottai

Ancient Temples, Cultural Sites

October-Marc h

Madurai

Chengalpattu

Weekend Escapes, Outdoor Sports, Boating

November-M arch

Chengalpattu

Pulicat Lake

Bird Watching, Boating, Remote Beaches

October-Marc h

Chennai

Azhiyar Dam

Dam, Greenery, Trekking Trails

October-Marc h

Pollachi

Vallanadu Blackbuck Sanctuary

Wildlife Safari, Scenic Nature

October-Marc h

Tuticorin

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

River Views, Elephants, Trekking

October-Marc h

Bangalore

Pondicherry

Colonial Architecture, Auroville

October-Marc h

Pondicherry

Chidambaram

Nataraja Temple, Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

October-Marc h

Chidambaram

Nellore

Ancient Temples, Quiet Beaches, Village Tours

October-Marc h

Nellore

Mettur Dam

Boating, Historic Significance, Forest Trekking

October-Marc h

Salem

Palani Hills

Palani Murugan Temple, Trekking

October-Marc h

Dindigul

Activity

Best Places

Best Time

Highlights

Remarks

Trekking

Kolli Hills, Meghamalai, Agasthyakoodam

October-M arch

Trekking trails through forests, hills, and waterfalls

Perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Safari

Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, Mudumalai National Park

October-Ap ril

Spot tigers, elephants, and diverse wildlife

Wildlife safaris in these protected areas are unforgettable.

Water Sports

Marina Beach, Covelong Beach, Baga Beach

November- March

Parasailing, Jet Skiing, Windsurfing, Banana Boat Rides

Popular at beaches with ample equipment rentals.

Yoga & Meditation

Kodaikanal, Rishikesh Center, Ooty

November- March

Yoga retreats, serene environments, and spiritual wellness

Best combined with wellness treatments.

Cycling Tours

Ooty, Coimbatore, Kodaikanal

October-M arch

Scenic routes, hill stations, cultural immersion

Ideal for exploring nature and local attractions.

Cooking Classes

Madurai, Chennai, Pondicherry

All Year

Learn to cook traditional Tamil dishes

Perfect for food lovers who want to take a piece of Tamil culture home.

Boat Rides

Kodaikanal Lake, Vaigai Dam, Ooty Lake

October-M arch

Pedal boating, rowing boats, scenic views

Tranquil lake rides in picturesque surroundings.

Fishing

Rameswaram, Muttom Beach, Chennai Coast

November- March

Deep sea fishing, traditional fishing techniques

Experience traditional Goan fishing on these shores.

Beach Volleyball

Marina Beach, Kanyakumari, Covelong Beach

November- March

Fun beach sports like volleyball and football

A great way to engage with locals and other tourists.

Wildlife Watching

Mudumalai National Park, Valparai

October-M arch

Spotting wild elephants, tigers, and birds

Guided wildlife walks offer immersive experiences.

Pilgrimage Tours

Kanchipuram, Rameswaram, Palani

October-M arch

Visit sacred temples, experience cultural rituals

A must for spiritual travelers.

Cultural Shows

Chennai, Madurai, Kanchipuram

November- March

Classical dance performances, music, temple rituals

Explore Tamil Nadu's cultural heritage through traditional art forms.

Rock Climbing

Yelagiri, Salem, Kolli Hills

October-M arch

Scaling the cliffs of the southern hills

A thrilling adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Elephant Rides

Mudumalai, Thekkady, Kanchipuram

October-M arch

Ride elephants through forests or temple grounds

A unique experience for wildlife and nature lovers.

Golfing

Coimbatore, Ooty, Kodaikanal

October-M arch

Enjoy scenic views on some of the best golf courses in India

Most golf courses in Tamil Nadu offer world-class facilities.

Dish

Description

Key Ingredients

Best Places to Try

Chettinad Chicken Curry

A spicy, aromatic curry made with roasted spices and chicken.

Chicken, Dried Red Chilies, Tamarind, Coconut

Madurai, Chennai

Idli and Sambar

Steamed rice cakes served with spicy lentil soup.

Rice, Lentils, Coconut, Tamarind

Chennai, Coimbatore

Dosa

Thin crispy pancake made from rice and lentil batter.

Rice, Lentils, Mustard Seeds

Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore

Pongal

Savory rice dish served with ghee and sambar.

Rice, Moong Dal, Ghee, Spices

Madurai, Coimbatore

Biryani

Flavorful rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables and spices.

Rice, Meat (or Veg), Spices

Chennai, Coimbatore

Appam and Stew

Soft, lacy pancakes served with

coconut-based curry.

Rice Flour, Coconut, Chicken/Vegetables

Kottayam, Chennai

Kothu Parotta

Shredded parotta mixed with meat, vegetables, and spices.

Parotta, Meat, Vegetables, Spices

Madurai, Coimbatore

Mutton Sukka

Dry mutton dish cooked with aromatic spices.

Mutton, Spices, Coconut

Madurai, Coimbatore

Chettinad Fish Fry

Fish marinated with Chettinad spices and fried to perfection.

Fish, Spices, Coconut Oil

Madurai, Coimbatore

Sundal

A healthy snack made from boiled lentils, coconut, and spices.

Chickpeas, Coconut, Mustard Seeds

Chennai, Coimbatore

Rasam

Tangy soup made with tamarind and spices.

Tamarind, Tomato, Spices

Chennai, Madurai

Vadai

Deep-fried lentil doughnuts served with chutney.

Lentils, Rice, Mustard Seeds

Madurai, Coimbatore

Kozhukattai

Steamed rice dumplings filled with coconut and jaggery.

Rice Flour, Coconut, Jaggery

Chennai, Coimbatore

Paruppu Thogayal

Lentil chutney served with rice or idli.

Lentils, Tamarind, Spices

Madurai, Coimbatore

Banana Chips

Deep-fried crispy banana slices.

Raw Banana, Coconut Oil

Madurai, Coimbatore

Restaurant/Cafe

Specialty

Location

Remarks

Sangeetha Restaurant

South Indian Thali, Dosas, Idlis

Chennai

A classic spot for traditional South Indian meals.

Saravana Bhavan

Dosas, Sambar, Idli, Pongal

Chennai

Famous for its vegetarian meals and iconic South Indian breakfasts.

Annalakshmi Restaurant

Traditional South Indian Thali, Sweets

Chennai, Coimbatore

A traditional restaurant serving authentic Tamil dishes in a heritage setting.

Buhari Hotel

Biryani, Mutton Sukka, Chettinad Specials

Chennai

Known for its Chettinad-style biryani and spicy dishes.

The Raintree

South Indian Buffet, Seafood

Chennai

A great place for seafood lovers and buffet enthusiasts.

Kailash Parbat

North and South Indian Cuisine, Dosas, Snacks

Chennai, Coimbatore

A popular multi-cuisine restaurant offering the best of both worlds.

Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Thali, Dosa, Vadai, Chettinad Specialties

Madurai

Famous for its iconic South Indian meals and snacks.

Hotel Shree Sweets

Sweets, South Indian Snacks, Sambar Dosa

Coimbatore

A great place for those looking to sample South Indian snacks and sweets.

Chidambaram's

Traditional South Indian meals, Biryani, Sweets

Chennai, Madurai

A family-friendly restaurant specializing in South Indian vegetarian meals.

Bhaati Tadka

Biryani, Kebabs, Tandoori Dishes

Chennai, Coimbatore

A great fusion restaurant known for its Biryani and kebabs.

Chennai’s MTR

Dosas, Idlis, Sambar, Thali

Chennai

A historic restaurant that specializes in traditional South Indian breakfast.

Aasife Biriyani

Biryani, Mutton Curry

Chennai

Famous for its flavorful and aromatic biryani.

Dakshin

Tandoori, Chettinad Specials

Chennai

Offers authentic Chettinad and South Indian delicacies.

Kedai Restaurant

Traditional Tamil Meals

Madurai

A local favorite for homemade Tamil meals and snacks.

Tandoor

North and South Indian Cuisine

Coimbatore

Famous for its tandoori specials and regional delicacies.

Hotel Name

Features

Location

Price Range

Remarks

The Leela Palace Chennai

Beachfront, Spa, Swimming Pool, Fine Dining

Chennai

INR 15,000+

A luxurious stay offering world-class amenities and beachfront views.

ITC Grand Chola

Pool, Spa, Fine Dining, Heritage Architecture

Chennai

INR 12,000+

A blend of modern luxury and traditional heritage.

The Oberoi, Chennai

Luxurious Rooms, Fine Dining, Golf Course

Chennai

INR 18,000+

A five-star experience offering impeccable service and amenities.

Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa

Beachfront, Spa, Water Sports, Seafood

Covelong, Chennai

INR 12,000+

Ideal for families and beach lovers, offering luxury and comfort.

GRT Grand

Premium Rooms, Swimming Pool, Restaurants

Chennai

INR 7,000+

Known for its luxurious rooms and excellent service.

Holiday Inn Express

Budget-Friendly, Cozy Rooms, Fitness Center

Coimbatore

INR 4,000+

Convenient and affordable for short stays and business trips.

Radisson Blu Resort

Beachfront, Spa, Dining Options, Swimming Pool

Mamallapuram, Chennai

INR 8,000+

Famous for its scenic beachside location and luxurious amenities.

The Park, Chennai

Urban Oasis, Rooftop Bar, Contemporary Rooms

Chennai

INR 10,000+

Perfect for urban tourists who want a trendy and lively stay.

Suryaga Beach Resort

Private Beach, Beachfront Views, Outdoor Pool

Mahabalipuram

INR 5,000+

A peaceful stay with luxurious amenities by the beach.

Radisson Blu, Madurai

Spacious Rooms, Pool, Restaurants

Madurai

INR 7,000+

Offers excellent facilities for both leisure and business stays.

The Gateway Hotel

Spacious Rooms, Golf Course, Premium Dining

Vellore

INR 6,000+

Great for those seeking a comfortable and well-rounded experience.

Ananda Inn

Heritage Rooms, Restaurant, Massage Center

Pondicherry

INR 5,000+

A great option for those looking for a blend of comfort and tradition.

The Residency Towers

Rooftop Bar, Swimming Pool, Gym

Coimbatore

INR 6,500+

Ideal for both leisure and business travelers.

The Western Ghats

Eco-Friendly, Organic Farm, Family-Friendly

Ooty

INR 5,000+

A perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Vivanta by Taj

Beachfront, Swimming Pool, Spa, Dining

Chennai

INR 10,000+

Famous for its excellent location, luxury services, and world-class dining.

Homestay Name

Features

Location

Price Range

Remarks

Thekkady Homestay

Nature Views, Organic Farming, Bird Watching

Thekkady

INR 5,000+

Perfect for nature lovers looking to stay in a peaceful setting surrounded by lush greenery.

Vandana Homestay

Beachfront Views, Fishing, Quiet Atmosphere

Kanyakumari

INR 4,500+

Ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat by the beach.

Thanjavur Homestay

Traditional Architecture, Organic Meals, Cultural Retreat

Thanjavur

INR 3,500+

Offers cultural immersion with a glimpse into local life.

Ramaswamy Homestay

Rural Atmosphere, Village Tours, Homely Meals

Coimbatore

INR 4,000+

Offers a warm and traditional homestay experience.

Coonoor Homestay

Scenic Views, Organic Farming, Cozy Rooms

Coonoor

INR 6,500+

A beautiful homestay located in the Nilgiri Hills, perfect for a quiet getaway.

Sundaram Homestay

Heritage House, Village Life, Traditional Cuisine

Madurai

INR 3,000+

A lovely homestay providing an authentic Tamilian experience.

Kanthalloor Homestay

Tea Gardens, Scenic Views, Organic Produce

Munnar

INR 5,500+

Located amidst tea plantations, offering a serene environment.

Coorg Homestay

Coffee Plantation, Adventure, Relaxing Atmosphere

Coorg

INR 5,000+

Perfect for coffee lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Kodaikanal Homestay

Hill Station Views, Trekking,

Family-Friendly

Kodaikanal

INR 7,000+

Ideal for families and those seeking adventure in the hills.

Ramanagaram Homestay

Organic Farming, Bird Watching, Peaceful Location

Ramanagara m

INR 4,500+

Offers a relaxing stay with scenic views and nature trails.

Festival Name

Month

Location

Highlights

Pongal

January

Statewide

Celebrates the harvest season with family gatherings, feasts, and kolams (rangoli).

Tamil New Year

April

Statewide

Celebrates the Tamil solar calendar with prayers, traditional meals, and rituals.

Karthigai Deepam

November-De cember

Thiruvannamalai, Statewide

A festival of lights celebrated with oil lamps and prayers at temples.

Chidambaram Natyanjali

February

Chidambaram

A classical dance festival offering performances in honor of Lord Nataraja.

Aadi Perukku

July-August

Statewide

A river-based festival celebrated with offerings to the river goddess.

Mahashivaratri

February-Mar ch

Statewide

A night dedicated to Lord Shiva with temple rituals and fasting.

Dussehra

September-O ctober

Statewide

Celebrates the victory of good over evil with processions, rituals, and fairs.

Navaratri

September-O ctober

Statewide

A festival dedicated to Goddess Durga with dance, music, and prayers.

Deepavali

October-Nove mber

Statewide

Festival of lights, celebrated with firecrackers, lamps, and sweets.

Onam

August-Septe mber

Statewide

Celebrates the harvest season with traditional dances, meals, and boat races.