Tranquebar, or Tharangambadi as it was formerly known, is a town in Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district. Tharangambadi literally translates to "land of the singing waves”. Formerly a Danish Colony from 1620 to 1845, it is still referred to as Trankebar in Danish.
Tranquebar’s days of glory were during the early 17th to middle 19th century, the time when it was an important port under the control of the Danish. It was sold to the British in the year of 1845 and was in British control between 1808 and 1814, as a result of the Napoleonic wars that were going on in Europe. Its importance as a port ended around the time a railroad was laid to Nagapattinam.
Tourist Places In And Around Tranquebar
The Tranquebar of today is a town juxtaposed against the sea, and with the slow rhythm of its singing waves. Here, time seems to slow down. The place still remains pristine and is one of the most under-explored spots along the Tamil Nadu coastline.
Another reason one should visit Tranquebar, is to see some fine examples of Danish architecture. Fort Dansborg (Danish Fort) is one of the highlights of Tranquebar, a perfect example of Danish architecture that is hard to find elsewhere in India.
Tranquebar is also home to many churches, owing to the fact that many Christian missionaries originally settled in Tranquebar. The other attractions include a Danish Museum and Tranquebar beach.
How To Reach Tranquebar
The town is well-connected and is also very close to Chennai.
Tranquebar Weather
Tranquebar’s weather, much like the weather of rest of Tamil Nadu, is hot and humid during most times of the year, except for the monsoon season.