Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Situated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, the city of Tirunelveli is a wonderful mix of past, present, and nature. There are numerous things to do in Tirunelveli for spirituality and adventure seekers in and around Tirunelveli City, right from the towering Nellaiappar Temple to the tranquil vistas of Courtallam Water Falls. Streets are clogged with people all year round. It is even described by Marco Polo as an artist’s muse filled with ancient temples, sprawling foliage, and magnificent waterfalls, as is the beauty of the ‘South India’ spirit.
Top 10 Things To Do In Tirunelveli
Some of the most popular things to do in Tirunelveli for a fulfilling experience for visitors are:
1. Visit Nellaiappar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
An architectural jewel of the Dravidian style, the Nellaiappar Temple is one of the most important temples for the Hindus as it is devoted to God Shiva. One can explore the detailed sculpting, magnificent gopurams, and various festivities that occur in every season. The temple premises provide a peaceful ambience, making it ideal for meditating and contemplating. Be sure to check the timeless beauty of the religious activities carried out by the priests in the chorus, which enhances the spirituality of the temple.
Location: Tirunelveli city centre
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Experience Courtallam Waterfalls
Photo: Adi K / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cascading in svelte layers, the Courtallam Waterfalls is popularly referred to as the “Spa of South India.” Situated among the surrounding lush hills, spectacular views can be cherished from several distance vantage points. The water is considered to have healing powers, thus drawing many people seeking peace and restoration. Thanks to the annual rains, the beautiful scenario of the falls will be advanced even more, awning water sceneries and, of course, those who crave beauty and loads of fun and enjoyment.
Location: Courtallam, Tirunelveli district
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: June to September
3. Explore Thamirabarani River
Photo: Baskin Creative Co. / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Through Tirunelveli, the Thamirabarani River passes and has some good places for picnics and other recreational activities. People are offered boating services or can simply sit along the banks of the river and enjoy the serenity of the place. This river holds great importance in the local context as it is generally connected with celebrations and practices. The scenic beauty of the riverbanks also serves as a perfect spot for relatives and friends to come together, thus making it an apt place for relaxing and appreciating nature.
Location: Flows through Tirunelveli city
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: November to February
4. Seek Blessings At Tenkasi Temple
Photo: pandiaeee / Wikimedia Commons
Tenkasi Temple, known as Kasi Vishwanath Temple, has a magnificent architectural work devoted to Lord Shiva. The temple is placed beautifully amongst the hills, and its remarkable look and peaceful surroundings make it irresistible for disciples. The temple organises several festivals every year, which draw people from all sections of the region, making it more colourful. The calmness of the surroundings comes in handy for engaging in prayers and spirituality, encouraging the visitors to self-healing. Visiting the temple is one of the best religious things to do in Tirunelveli.
Location: Tenkasi, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Chill Out At Vanatheertham Waterfalls
Photo: Shekhar Bhat / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are looking for calm places in South India, then the Vanatheertham Waterfalls near Tirunelveli is an incredible, undiscovered waterfall. This beautiful waterfall is surrounded by greenery and provides a great outlet for relaxation. People can hike up to the falls and take a cool bath in the natural bath form. The splashing of water and the sweet sound of wind and birds around soothe the nerves and are particularly appealing to nature lovers who prefer quiet places away from staring crowds.
Location: Near Vanatheertham village, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to February
6. Visit Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons
The Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is one such place that is rich in biodiversity and therefore brings excitement to wildlife lovers. The visitors can go on accompanied excursions to see various plants and animals, including the great Indian Bengal tiger. In addition, bird-watching is quite common here, as the reserve sustains a good number of bird species. Thanks to the beautiful scenery and diverse ecosystems attractive to nature, eco-tourism and adventure activities in this area are highly appreciated and considered.
Location: Near Kalakkad, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: ₹50
Best Time To Visit: November to March
7. Seek Blessings At Sankarankovil Temple
Photo: AswinAnimator / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sankarankovil Temple, devoted to Lord Subramanya, is known for its splendid architectural style and calming environment around the temple. Apart from this, the temple also revels in the popularity of many annual festivals, which bring in a lot of people seeking to get blessed. Tourists can stroll around the artistically carved halls rich in sculptures and serenity. The culture and history surrounding the shrine are reasons that helped turn it into a centre of spirituality and cultural appreciation.
Location: Sankarankovil, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to March
8. Explore Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary
Photo: P Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
As far as bird watching is concerned, Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary can be described as the perfect place, given its innumerable species, both migratory and native. Hence, the tourists here can walk inside well-maintained paths, looking out for the various species of birds. In addition, the sanctuary offers the best opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing, more so in the obvious migrating season when people and activities in the region are at their peak. Such a place is very relaxing for all the enthusiasts of nature, but also it’s hard not to appreciate the wildlife here.
Location: Koonthankulam, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: ₹20
Best Time To Visit: November to March
9. Shop At Tirunelveli Market
Photo: Rachel Claire / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Trails and roads are not enough! This dynamic market in Tirunelveli is a tourist attraction that all travellers looking for the real place culture must visit. The market is painted with fresh vegetables, various kinds of spices, beautiful clothes, and crafted artefacts. It is a busy place, perfect to understand how the locals live and also taste their street food. It gives a different visual to the riches of culture and customs of the place by letting its people interact with the local market and its people.
Location: Tirunelveli city centre
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: Morning hours
10. Explore Papanasam Dam
Photo: Sunciti _ Sundaram’s Images + Messages / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated on the banks of the Tamiraparani River, the Papanasam Dam is encircled by tall, green hills that are very picturesque. This site is one of the top things to see in Tirunelveli, offering people a stroll around the dam, and enjoying the peaceful environment. This dam is also of great significance for irrigation and water supply purposes in the region; thus, it has an important place in local activities. While planning what to do in Tirunelveli, anyone in search of inner peace and nature needs to include a trip to the Papanasam Dam.
Location: Papanasam, Tirunelveli
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Tirunelveli emerges as a Flamingo’s hub for all those who are keen on soaking up every bit of Tamil Nadu’s culture. The diversified landscape of spiritual temples, beautiful waterfalls, and bustling shops presents something for everyone in the city. Plan your next vacation with TripXL and enjoy some of the best things to do in Tirunelveli.
Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
