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Tiruchirappalli, The Heart of Tamil Nadu

By Anusha

Trichy or Tiruchi or the more traditional Tiruchirappalli is located at the heart of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Among the ancient towns of India, Trichy has a lot to offer an avid traveller. Similar to other towns such as Thanjavur, Madurai and Kumbakonam, Trichy also saw the influential rule of the Cholas, Pandyas, Vijayanagar empire and the Nayak dynasty. History has gifted the town with many statuesque monuments and temples.

The city is also popular as an educational and manufacturing hub of Tamil Nadu, with many institutes and factories co-existing among the past glory and culture of Tiruchirappalli. Here is a look at some of the places to visit in Trichy.

Kallanai Dam

Kallanai Dam

Also known as Grand Anicut, the Kallanai Dam is an ancient structure, speculated to be around 2,000 years old and built during the Chola reign. The dam splits the river Cauvery into four streams and is a popular place to visit in Trichy, owing to its scenic beauty.

Photo Courtesy: Thangaraj Kumaravel

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple

The temple dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Vishnu, Sri Ranganathaswamy temple is among the popular places to visit in Trichy. The temple built as per Dravidian temple architecture is also among the 108 Divya Desams. Built on a small island on the Cauvery river, the temple spans an area of 156 acres and is the largest temple complex in India and among the biggest in the world. Among the notable features are the 21 Gopurams, of which the main entryway (Rajagopuram) is second tallest in Asia. Also observe the finely detailed sculptures and the Hall of Pillars.

Photo Courtesy: Ajith Kumar

Ucchi Pillayar Temple

Ucchi Pillayar Temple

Ucchi Pillayar, the ancient 7th century temple is also known as the Rockfort Temple and is a must visit place in Trichy. Dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Ganesha, the temple located atop a rock has a height of 272 ft. It is a stellar example of Pallava style of rock-cut architecture and provides stunning views of the city.

Photo Courtesy: Santhoshj

Srirangam Island

Srirangam Island

The Srirangam Island in the city of Trichy is most popular for the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple. The island is bounded by river Cauvery and Kollidam. Tourists and devotees from across the country flock to Srinrangam to visit the temple and other attractions here. The festival season sees an increase in the number of people visiting Srirangam.

Photo Courtesy: FlickreviewR

Jambukeshwara Temple

Jambukeshwara Temple

Built in the worship of the Hindu god Shiva, the Jambukeshwara temple in Trichy is an ancient temple, built nearly 1,800 years ago. It is one of the five 'Panchabhoota Sthalams', which represent the five elements of nature. This temple represents the element water (neer). The temple has many interesting legends associated with it, some directly connected with the fascinating feature of the entrance of the Jambukeswara sanctorum. The entryway is only 4 ft high and 2.5 ft wide!

Photo Courtesy: Varun Shiv Kapur

Vayalur Murugan Temple

Vayalur Murugan Temple

Yet another interesting example of early Chola architecture is the Vayalur Murugan Temple, which is around 1,200 years old. The temple is dedicated to the worship of the Hindu god Murugan and is an important place to visit in Trichy.

Photo Courtesy: Jean-Pierre Dalbera

Puliyancholai

Puliyancholai

Located at the foothills of Kollimalai, Puliyancholai is a popular place to visit in Trichy because of its scenic setting. Rich with tamarind trees and other vegetation, the place also has a little stream passing through, making Puliyancholai a great picnic spot. The stream water is even said to have medicinal properties.

Photo Courtesy: Simply CVR

Mukkombu

Mukkombu

Located 18 km from Trichy city, Mukkombu offers travellers many attractions such as the nearby dam, other options include the amusement part, children's garden, sports park, boating and fishing activities. After dragging kids to temple complexes, this will be a welcome break for families with irate children!

Photo Courtesy: Balajiviswanathan

Food and Shopping

Food and Shopping

Travellers can explore authentic vegetarian dishes of South India at popular hotels such as Vasanta Bhavan near the Rockfort temple. Trichy is also popular for mangoes in the summer season. To shop in Trichy, head over to the local Chinnar Bazaar or make a visit to the government run emporiums for some great Tamil Nadu art and craft.

Photo Courtesy: kifo

How to Reach Trichy

How to Reach Trichy

By Road: The NH-45, NH-45B and NH-227 connect the city of Trichy with most major destinations in India. Bus services both state run and private are aplenty in Tamil Nadu as well as the neighbouring states.

By Rail: The Tiruchirappalli Railway Junction has trains to all major cities in the country. It has frequent and direct services to all destinations in South India.

By Air: The Tiruchirappali International Airport has regular flights to all major cities in the country and to important international destinations.

Photo Courtesy: Bombman

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