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Situated on the banks of the river Thamirabarani, the city of Tirunelveli has an illustrious past dating back to the reign of the Pandyas and a grand history of more than 2,000 years. A key city in the state of Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli contributes to the agricultural, economic, cultural and educational activities of the state in a big way. It is also an interesting travel destination in South India. As with many travel destinations in Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli is also known for its many exquisite temples.
The main attractions of the city include the Shiva, Parvati and Vishnu temples. The city also provides to be a gateway to the many attractions that dot the region ranging from waterfalls and dams to trekking trails and wildlife sanctuaries. Here is a list of the top places to visit in and around Tirunelveli.
Nellaiappar Temple
A must-visit place in Tirunelveli is the Nellaiappar Temple, which is located at the very heart of the city. Among the biggest temples in the region, the Nellaiappar temple is a popular symbol of Tiruneveli. The temple is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu Gods Shiva and Parvati. The temple complex has many interesting features such as the Golden Lily Tank and Thousand Pillared Hall. The temple complex has exquisite sculptures. The annual Car Festival that takes place at the temple attracts devotees from all over the country.
Photo Courtesy: Arun P Nair
Krishnapuram Vishnu Temple
Among the places to visit around Tirunelveli is the Krishnapuram Vishnu Temple, dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu, the temple is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures. Located between Tirunelveli and Tiruchendur, the temple is a must-visit place for all art lovers. The miniature carvings done with finesse will amaze visitors. Other fascinating features include the monolith stone sculptures.
Photo Courtesy: Simply CVR
Thirupudaimarudur Kovil
Located at a short distance of 40 km from the city is another place to visit around Tirunelveli, the Thirupudaimardur Temple. The temple situated on the banks of river Tamiraparani is not just beautiful but also an educational experience in temple architecture. The temple structure is a confluence of various styles including the Pandya, Chola, Chera and Nayak ways of temple construction.
Photo Courtesy: Prakash
Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve Wild Life Sanctuary
Located at a distance of 48 km from Tirunelveli is a popular tourist place; the Mundanthurai Tiger reserve. Started in the year 1988 and spanning an area of over 817 sq km, the beautiful sanctuary has a combination of both dry and wet forests at varying altitudes. The animals that can be sighted include tigers, panthers, jungle cats, hyenas, elephants, Nilgiri Tahr, etc. There are many trekking trails within the reserve that provide a great opportunity for adventure enthusiasts.
Photo Courtesy: Zwoenitzer
Agasthiar Falls
Among the tourist places to visit around Tirunelveli is the Agasthiar Waterfalls in Papanasam, located at a distance of 50 km from the city. The beautiful waterfall dropping from a height of 120 mt is an ideal visit in the post-monsoon season. Flowing down from the Western Ghats, the falls are considered to have curative powers.
Photo Courtesy: Prakash
Thamirabarani
The sparkling waters of river Thamirabarani or Tamiraparani finds mention in many ancient scripts including the Mahabharata. The sparkling river originates in the Western Ghats and flows down through Papanasam and then through Tirunelveli. Rivers are as much a source of joy for travellers as they are a necessity of life for the locals. The many waterfalls, dam and streams of the river make for scenic picnic spots around Tirunelveli.
Photo Courtesy: Sankara Subramanian
Papanasam Dam
Among the tourist places to visit near Tirunelveli is the Papanasam Dam. Constructed to hold the waters of river Thamirabarani, the dam was constructed to serve the irrigation purposes of Tirunelveli and Tuticorin. Papanasam located at a distance of just 50 km from the city has many attractions ranging from temples to waterfalls. The Karayar dam is a beautiful place where travellers can go boating and enjoy the surrounding vistas. The boats even take you to the Banatheertham Falls, which is popular a spot where many movies were shot.
Photo Courtesy: Sunciti Sundaram
Food and Stay
Feast on authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine in Tirunelveli at various restaurants such as Nellai Saravana Bhavan, Sri Janakiram, etc. The Arasan bakery is popular in Tirunelveli for its sweets and savories. Make sure to buy the popular Tirunelveli halwa.
For the best hotel deals in Tirunelveli, click here.
Photo Courtesy: Balamurugan Natarajan
How to Reach Tirunelveli
By Road: A good network of roads including both national highways and state highways link Tirunelveli to various parts of the country. Buses both private and state owned are available from all major cities and towns in the region.
By Rail: The Tirunelveli Railway Junction is well-connected by direct and regular trains to various cities and towns in the country.
By Air: The nearest airports are located in Tuticorin (56 km) and Madurai (158 km)
Photo Courtesy: Prakash
