Pilgrimages of Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is called the land of Temples and Tamils, the greatest temple builders. And after you complete a tour through Tamil Nadu, you will say, for quite obvious reasons. The state of Tamil Nadu is dotted with more than a thousand temples and each a wonder in itself. There are temples that date back to pre-Christian era and there are temples that are as recent as twentieth century but all of them reflect the same gracefulness and wizardry of hands. Almost all temples of the past are build of brick and mortar. Tamil Nadu has been ruled by different dynasties and it is visible in the different monuments and temples. Some of the important temples in Tamil Nadu include Meenakshi temple, Ranganathaswamy temple, and Shore temple. Come and explore these wonders of time and experience the feeling of a walk through the bygone era.

Meenakshi Temple

If you are anywhere near Madurai and do not visit Meenakshi temple, consider your tour incomplete. We can safely affirm that this temple is the most important and most beautiful of all that are there in Tamil Nadu. This temple is more than 2000 years and you will see amalgamation of many styles of architecture of different dynasties that once ruled this part of the country. The moment you enter this temple from any of the four massive gopurams, you will be left speechless by the first glimpse itself of the exceptional carvings, art and sculptures that are sprinkled throughout the premises. Do not forget to explore the thousand-pillared hall which is one of the biggest in India. You can visit this temple between 4.30 am to 12.30 pm and 4.00 pm to 9.30 pm on any day.

Ranganathaswamy Temple

This temple is the most important temple in India for all Lord Vishnu devotees. The temple is located in Tiruchirapalli on the banks of river Kaveri. This temple is considered to be the largest temple in the entire India, which makes it an important tourist destination as well. You will be awe struck by the sheer size of its premises and the exemplary work of carvings which you will find in almost all nook and corners of the temple. Also find magnificent paintings kept inside the many halls inside the temple.

Kapaleeswarar Temple

An epitome of Dravidian culture and their mastery is how this temple can be described. This 350 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in Mylapore in Chennai Suburbs. This is the biggets temple in Chennai and also the most visited. Here you will be astonished to see the remarkable carvings that are done inside the temple, which depicts tale from Indian mythology and 13th century inscriptions. The Teppam festival (float festival) which is held every year and the Paradosham festival which is celebrated every two weeks, are a real treat for eyes and are spiritually very uplifting.

Shore Temple

This 8th century temple is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in the entire country. More than its architectural brilliance, perhaps its the location of the temple that attracts such large number of tourists. It is located on the Mahabalipuram beach right adjacent to Bay of Bengal. Try to visit this temple at dusk when it is resplendently lit up and stay till late in the evening because on a full moon day, the sight of this Shore temple is as breathtaking as a glimpse into paradise.