Tamil Nadu
Introduction

The
state of Tamil Nadu in southern India is a fascinating mosaic of traditions,
customs, cuisines and culture. It has witnessed the rise and fall of some of
the most powerful kingdoms of southern India like the Cheras, Cholas,
Pallavas and the Pandyas. As you enter the boundaries of the state, you will
come to observe a wonderful amalgamation of the old and the new. There are
as many as 30,000 temples in the state with countless festivals associated
with them. From heart-stirring scenes and awe-inspiring artistic
capabilities to pristine flora and fauna, Tamil Nadu is a destination to
cherish all your life.
Climate
Like its other southern counterparts, Tamil Nadu too has a tropical kind of
climate. Temperature rises to a maximum of 43 degrees centigrade during
summers whereas during winters it plummets to 18 degrees centigrade. May and
June show the maximum summer temperature. January happens to be the coldest
month of the year. July, August and September are the major monsoon months.
You can plan your trip during winter from October to February.
Important Cities & Towns
The state has a wide-ranging panorama with its numerous cities and towns.
Chennai, the state capital, is famous as the 'Gateway to the South'. Over
the years, the city has seen much of advancements and economical growth.
Kancheepuram, another important city, once served as the capital of the
Pallava Dynasty. Kanyakumari lies at the southernmost tip of the peninsular
India. Other famous cities and towns of the state include Madurai,
Mamallapuram, Rameshwaram, Thanjavur, Vellore, Coimbatore, Coonoor,
Kodaikanal, Kumbakonam, Ooty, Trichy etc.
People & Culture
Tamil Nadu's population is a mix of religions like Hinduism, Christianity,
Islam and Jainism. The people of the state have a long cultural tradition of
art, festivals and literature. They have been known for their courteousness
and friendly attitude for ages. Agriculture is the main source to earn a
livelihood. Tamil has the distinction of being the state's official
language. People partake in the festivities regardless of their caste and
creed. Pongal is the most important harvest festival here. Navaratri,
Karthigai Deepam, Kavaddi and Velankanni are the other important festivals
of the state.
Famous Travel Attractions

Temples
with sky-hugging gopurams are the biggest attractions for tourists here.
Mamallapuram, a seaside hamlet, is the best option to start your temple
tours in Tamil Nadu. The Meenakshi Temple of Madurai is one of the finest
examples of temple architecture in India. In fact, the state can aptly be
termed as a living museum, showcasing the temple styles that flourished
during the seventh century. Important pilgrimage centres cum beach, the
towns of Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari are worth visiting for tourists and
pilgrims alike. Kodaikanal and Ooty are frequented hill stations of the
state. For wildlife lovers are the Annamalai Sanctuary and the Mudumalai
Wildlife Sanctuary to get an eyeful view of a variety of animal species.
Air/ Rail/ Road Links
sAnna International Airport of Tamil Nadu lies 16 km south of Chennai. There's a domestic terminal as well, connecting to the major cities of the country. Chennai is a major railway station and has regular mail and express trains from different parts of the country. Through road routes, Chennai has links with important destinations like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangalore among others.
Sanna International Airport.