Things To Do In Tamil Nadu: Discover Temples, Nature, And Adventure

A picture of Tamil Nadu’s iconic attractions, including ancient temples and scenic beaches

Rich in history and spirituality, Tamil Nadu is home to numerous astonishing tourist spots that showcase the great richness of its culture and the attractive nature around it. Thrill-seekers can get the chance to go to the unique Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, while worshippers can go to the simple Dhyanalinga Temple and the immense Adiyogi Shiva statue for serenity. With such things to do in Tamil Nadu, every nook and cranny is a glimpse of the rich traditions and lovely scenery that the state of Tamil Nadu offers.

Top 15 Things To Do In Tamil Nadu

From relaxing at pristine beaches to seeking blessings at holy temples, here are some of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu:

1. Seek Blessings At Meenakshi Amman Temple

An image of the Meenakshi Amman Temple with colourful gopurams and detailed sculptures

Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons

Visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the best things to do in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is famous for the Dravidian style of architecture, has steep gopurams and exquisitely carved columns. It is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and her husband Sundareshwarar. The colourful carvings and their reform rituals draw in thousands of pilgrims and tourists. The beauty of the temple, as well as its religious importance, makes it obligatory for anyone looking to experience the traditions of Tamil Nadu.

Location: Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001
Best Time To Visit: October to March

Suggested Read: Weekend Places Near Coimbatore

2. Explore At The Snow Kingdom

An image of people having fun in the Snow Kingdom, one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu

Photo: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons

Chennai has no shortage of winter-themed entertainment options with the presence of Snow Kingdom, an interesting indoor snow park. It boasts features such as slides made of snow, snowball clogging, skating on ice, and many more, which provide a welcome break from the summer heat for families and friends alike. A fully controlled environment makes it convenient as there is no need to worry about how the weather outside will be. For the dreamers who wish to take some adventures around the city but do not want to travel out, this is perfect.

Location: SH 49, next to VGP Universal Kingdom, Injambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115
Entry Fee: ₹600
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

3. Seek Blessings At Kapaleeswarar Temple

An image of the gopuram of Kapaleeswarar Temple, surrounded by market stalls

Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons

Located in Mylapore, Chennai, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a Lord Shiva temple famed across the land for its beautiful Dravidian-style architecture. The temple boasts active carving work as well as a high temple tower, which attracts people a lot. The entire environment is filled with a mixture of soothing sounds, prayers, and chants that elevate one’s spirits. To the side, a busy bazaar introduces culture through hand-made works of art and street food, making it a great place for both praying and wandering.

Location: 234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004
Best Time To Visit: October to March

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Tirunelveli

4. Chill Out At Marina Beach

An image of Marina Beach, which is one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu

Photo: Abinayasekar357 / Wikimedia Commons

Marina Beach is a part of the Bay of Bengal and extends for 13 km, which makes it one of the longest city beaches in the world. It is an ideal place for early walks, casual walks, and tasting chaat. Attendees may bask on the sand, engage in beach sports, or simply stare at gorgeous sun dips. The cultural aspect of the beach, alongside the amenities, helps to have memorials and sculptures. When thinking about what to do in Tamil Nadu, visiting Marina Beach is imperative for anyone looking to enjoy some leisure and the local atmosphere.

Location: Marina Beach, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005
Best Time To Visit: November to February

5. Seek Blessings At Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple

An image of the grand corridors of Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple are filled with devotees

Photo: K S ARAVINDA Kashyap / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple in Rameswaram is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts several pilgrims every year. The temple is famous for its beautiful corridors and for having 22 holy ponds within it. The temple has a lot of myths associated with it. People can perform some activities of worship, enjoy the peace of the place, and be amazed at the numerous designs of the temple. This temple is very significant to the worshippers, hence making it a central area for religious and cultural interaction.

Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
Best Time To Visit: October to March

Suggested Read: Bungee Jumping In Chennai

6. Visit Adiyogi Shiva

An image of the Adiyogi Shiva statue, set against a backdrop of hills and greenery

Photo: Siva Seshappan / Wikimedia Commons

Near the city of Coimbatore lies an immensely magnificent statue of Adiyogi Shiva, which towers over the ground to a height of 112 feet and signifies yoga and meditative state. This statue is surrounded by picturesque views and acts as a centre of religion where people can practise yoga and meditation. The resort is intended for quiet rest and self-knowledge and therefore is frequented by people who want to purify their spirituality.

Location: Velliangiri Foothills, Mahashivaratri Grounds, Ishana Vihar, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641114
Best Time To Visit: October to March

7. Chill Out At Besant Nagar Beach

An image of Besant Nagar Beach, one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu

Photo: Sridharan Chakravarthy / Wikimedia Commons

Besant Nagar Beach is one of the most frequented seashores in Chennai due to its easy going atmosphere and beautiful views. It is perfect for a stroll, tasting street food, or gazing at the sunset. The beach offers various types of fun and entertainment for families and friends who wish to relax. This tranquil and beautiful place makes the experience worthwhile. Considered among the top things to see in Tamil Nadu, Besant Nagar Beach is a calm and scenic place that is worth experiencing whether one is a resident or a tourist.

Location: 34, Elliot’s Promenade, Odaimanagar, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600090
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: November to February

Suggested Read: Best Food In Kanyakumari To Satisfy Your Taste Buds

8. Seek Blessings At Dhyanalinga Temple

An image of the Dhyanalinga Temple, one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu.

Photo: zhai zhai / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Situated close to Coimbatore, the Dhyanalinga Temple is a calm zone that is meant for practising spirituality. The temple is set in beautiful greenery and contains a big linga, which encourages meditation and contemplation among the visitors. As a plus, there are sessions for guided meditation, which makes it a perfect spot for people who are in search of calmness and self-realisation. The peaceful surroundings further enhance the spiritual experience; thus, it should be visited by all who enjoy meditating.

Location: Tamil Nadu 641001
Best Time To Visit: October to March

9. Visit Dhanushkodi Beach Point

A scenic view of Dhanushkodi Beach Point with ruins in the foreground and ocean waves

Photo: Tom Fisk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Dhanushkodi Beach Point, located at the Pamban Island southeastern sig, is an abandoned city that is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. This abandoned settlement has remnants, which visitors can view more impressive beaches forming a great background for picture taking. The peaceful environment and the striking visuals create an adventure destination ideal for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Location: Dhanushkodi, Pamban Island
Best Time To Visit: October to March

Suggested Read: Famous Street Shopping In Pondicherry

10. Visit Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

An image of a boat ride through Mangrove Forest, one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu

Photo: KARTY JazZ / Wikimedia Commons

Pichavaram Mangrove Forest, close to Chidambaram, has one of the largest mangrove forests in India, allowing tourists to explore its calm waters. Mangrove forests are simple but provide an insight into the workings of such complex ecosystems and the diverse animal populations that inhabit them. It is a great place for hobbyists as well as ornithologists and nature lovers. The forest is calm and tranquil, reinforcing the need, beauty, and significance of mangroves to the environment. If you are looking for the top things to see in Tamil Nadu, you can consider this as one!

Location: Chidambaram, Killai, Post, Pichavaram, Tamil Nadu 608102
Entry Fee: ₹50-₹100
Best Time To Visit: November to March

11. Relax At Yelagiri

Visiting Yelagiri is one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu for every traveller.

Photo: Akash R / Wikimedia Commons

One of the hidden gems in Tamil Nadu, Yelagiri is an enchanting hill station tucked in the Eastern Ghats. It offers the perfect blend of natural charm, peace and a cool climate, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. The lush green surroudings of this hill station combined with untouched raw beauty creates a magical landscape you will never forget. Situated at an altitude of 1,110 metres, this hill station offers breathtaking panoramic views of rolling hills, lakes and vibrant flora. Visiting Yelagiri will be one of the best things to do in Tamil Nadu for every traveller.

Location: Tamil Nadu 635853
Best Time To Visit: November to February

12. Witness Cultural Festivals At Kumbakonam

A breathtaking landscape of a temple in Kumbakonam with a woman in front during the day.

Photo: Kamakshi subramani / Unsplash

Fondly known as “Temple Town,” Kumbakonam is one of the best places in Tamil Nadu for a culturally rich experience. This town is famous for its ancient temples and vibrant festivals, drawing locals and tourists alike. Attending these festivals is one of the best ways to learn about the rich historical, cultural and religious significance of this town. One such festival is the Mahamaham Festival, which occurs once every 12 years. It is believed that pilgrims attend this festival to cleanse their sins by taking a bath in the Mahamaham Tank. There are many more festivals in Kumbakonam you must attend when visiting Tamil Nadu.

Location: Tamil Nadu 612001
Best Time To Visit: November to February

13. Stroll Around Manapad Beach

Manapad Beach is one of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu with azure waters.

Photo: Perumalism / Wikimedia Commons

If you want to experience the enchanting beauty of Tamil Nadu, then head to Manapad Beach. It offers a peaceful and refreshing getaway away from the city chaos. It is ideal for those seeking peace, soltitude and calm while enjoying endless views of azure waters. You can soak in the serene atmosphere of this beach, indulge in exciting water sports or enjoy the sound of waves crashing. Mandapad Beach is perfect for nature and photography enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for every traveller.

Location: Manapad Beach Rd, Manapad, Tamil Nadu
Best Time To Visit: November to February

14. Visit Ooty Rose Garden

Visiting Ooty Rose Garden is one of the most amazing things to do in Tamil Nadu.

Photo: N. Vivekananthamoorthy / Wikimedia Commons

Visiting the Government Rose Garden is one of the most mesmerising things to do in Ooty, Tamil Nadu​. Dominated by natural beauty, colourful flowers and lush green meadows, this garden is any nature lover’s dream come true. It is home to a wide variety of roses including miniature roses, hybrid tea roses, floribunda and many more. This five-terraced garden enchants any photographer as it is dotted with breathtaking views at every corner. You can also have glimpses of the rare black and green roses at this Rose Garden.

Location: Bombay Castel, Ooty, Tamil Nadu 643001
Best Time To Visit: April to June

15. Offer Prayers At Kailasanathar Temple

Kailasanathar Temple is one of the most amazing places you cannot miss out on.

Photo: SriniGS / Wikimedia Commons

A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, visiting Kailasanathar Temple is one of the best things to do in Salem, Tamil Nadu​. The temple has rich historical and cultural significance other than being an important religious site. With the lush Western Ghats in the background, this temple offers a refreshing escape to pilgrims and travellers alike. You can enjoy the Dravidian style architecture of the temple with stone carvings and pillars. You can seek blessings at the temple, enjoy lush green views and spend some time in peace.

Location: Pillaiyarpalayam, Karuppadithattadai, Tamil Nadu 631501
Best Time To Visit: November to February

Tamil Nadu is an interesting tourist spot, where religion, culture, and nature borrow from one another quite well. While visiting ancient temples, lounging on the picturesque beaches, or going into the thick mangrove forests, there is always something for everyone. A visit to Tamil Nadu is not merely a journey but rather a thorough exploration of Indian culture that one does not forget easily. So plan your next vacation with TripXL and explore different things to do in Tamil Nadu.

Cover Photo: Zoshua Colah / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The Meenakshi Amman Temple is famous for its exquisite Dravidian architecture and complex sculptures. In addition to this, it incorporates a lot of mythological stories, making it one of the most religious and culturally vibrant places.
At Marina Beach, swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents and pollution, although the beach is famous for some other activities. Other than this, the beach is very good for lounging, eating local fast foods, and watching beautiful sunsets.
Dhanushkodi Beach Point is a picturesque and windswept ghost town of a bygone era at the tip of the country where the Bay of Bengal converges with the Indian Ocean.
Yes, Pichavaram Mangrove Forest provides boat tours, which help to discover the deeper and wider portions of the forest and its diversity.
The Adiyogi statue is located at the Isha Yoga Center near Coimbatore. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in yoga programs, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings of the centre.
You can visit Tamil Nadu throughout the year. However, the ideal time to explore the natural beauty of this place is from November to February due to cooler temperatures ideal for sightseeing.
Tamil Nadu cuisine is famous for its variety of vegetarian dishes, including dosa, idli, sambar, pongal, and chettinad cuisine, known for its spicy and aromatic dishes.
Snow Kingdom in Chennai is an indoor snow park offering a variety of activities such as snowball fights, ice skating, sledging, and snowboarding. It’s a fun destination for families and children, providing a winter-like experience.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month