If you want to grasp and experience true serenity then visiting Tamil Nadu is a must. The tranquil nature of this lush green state is a blessing to India. The hillock like mountain ranges with channelling rivulets set a picturesque view. Besides the popular religious tours, travelers and wayfarers have started exploring other parts of this untouched and undefiled state. From Kodaikanal to Kanyakumari, Mahabalipuram to Madurai, here are the top tourist places that are a must visit when in Tamil Nadu.

The capital of Tamil Nadu and home to Marina beach, Chennai is a melange of modernism and tradition. The ancient architecture and the traditional vibrancy of the city make a treat for the eyes. Breaking the monotony of the hustles and bustles of metropolitan cities, Chennai exudes a peaceful nature and a tranquil lifestyle. The residents of Chennai are laidback and offer a homely welcome to all the visitors.

Known as the second largest city in Tamil Nadu, Coimbatore is an industrial neighbourhood. Nestled on the banks of River Noyal, Coimbatore was home to royalty in the days of yore. Coimbatore has a pleasant climate throughout the year. Clear skies and breezy atmosphere rejuvenates your mind and soul.

Full of splendour and a real spectacle, Kanyakumari is a jewel of the South. It harbours a confluence of three giant oceans namely, the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean. The tip of Peninsular India, Kanyakumari is a dainty place once upon a time known as the Alexandria of the East. A pastiche of culture, history, heritage and tradition, Kanyakumari is also popular for its trade and commerce realms.

Known as the most quiescent and peaceful hill station in Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has rightfully earned its name. It is one of the most visited hill stations in the country. Stationed along the foothills of Palani, Kodaikanal is a secluded hill station and gives you a break from the busy city life. Known as the gift of the forest, Kodaikanal is popular for its shopping outlets, Astrophysical Observatory and filter coffee.

The only place in India surrounded by the rathas of Pandavas, Mahabalipuram is the most frequented hotspot of devotees. Completing the golden tourism triangle of the south, Mahabalipuram is home to the Shore temple. Every nook and cranny of Mahabalipuram has a telltale. There is history behind every stone left unturned in this area. The rock monoliths are a spectacle and the Dravidian architecture is the crux of attention.

Called the ‘Athens of the East’ Madurai has been captivating the minds of wayfarers for years. An architectural enigma, this mystical state is a traveller’s paradise. Madurai is home to several temples which are decked with intricate architecture. These marvels look divine and have an otherworldly appeal. If you want to track down the history of Tamil Nadu then Madurai would be a perfect place to start.

Situated on the Gulf of Munar, Rameswaram is a scared island. Known as the ‘Benaras of the South’ Rameswaram is visited by thousands of devotees every year. It is a popular Hindu belief, that whoever visits Rameswaram attains Nirvana and peace. The Ramanatha Swamy Temple is the most renowned and brandishes the biggest corridor. Rameswaram is an exemplar of Dravidian architecture.

An abode of lush greenery and misty Nilgiri hills, Ooty is euphoria for travellers. The chilly weather with tranquil atmosphere provides solace to the mind and soul. Ooty is visited by tourists throughout the year. The pleasant climatic conditions make ooty a hot spot duing summer. Etched with tea plantations and the fragrance of eucalyptus in the air, Ooty paints a truly beautiful picture of nature. The lifestyle is laidback and has a hint of British influence. Chocolates, rolled cigars and cheese available here add to charm of Ooty.

Situated in the Nilgiris, Coonoor is a pleasant and cool hill station of Tamil Nadu. Deriving its name from the aboriginal tribe called Coon, this hill station encompasses picturesque valleys and milky waterfalls. The snake-like ravines channel through the hills and enhance the beauty of Coonoor. There are many interesting places to visit in Coonoor including the Lamb's Rock, Droog, Sim's Park, Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint, the Pasteur Institute and Law's Falls. Traipsing and trekking are popular activities in Coonoor.

Occupying the banks of River Kaveri, Tiruchirapalli common known as Trichy is a hotspot for travellers. A confluence of modern and ancient architecture, Trichy has devoted its architecture to Jain monks. Trichy literary means ‘the town of the respected monk’ and is thus home to famous Shiva temples. Hundreds of devotees travel to Trichy to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Thiruanaikka, an abode of Lord Shiva is situated in Trichy and attracts devotees of Lord Shiva from across the world.

The old Indian city, Vellore sits just on the banks of River Palar, like a scroll of past dynasties. From historical sites to ruins to pilgrimages, Vellore holds it all in its lap. It makes for one great tourist delight when in Tamil Nadu. When here, some of the most significant sites to visit include Vainu Bappu Observatory, Goddess Mahalakshmi Temple, Science Park, Government Museum, Kavlavur and the verdant Yelagiri Hills. The Periyar Park nearby is also a good place to spend some time wildlife watching.

This is a hill station hidden in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri hills, ripe with waterfalls, forests, streams and rivers. There is a wildlife sanctuary here too. For nature lovers, photographers, bird watchers and backpackers, Masinagudi is a place to fall in love with. From Mudumalai National Park to Pykara Falls, Maravakandy Dam to the banks of Moyar River, you are in for treat after treat. The best time to visit is in the transitional months between winter and summer, i.e February to April.

Thanjavur is located in the fertile Cauvery Delta. It is a city of bright culture, woven in beautiful literature and steeped in history. The city is as old as a thousand years old, and existed during 10th Century Chola reign. When here, visit the Brihadeshwara Temple, Saraswathi Mahal, Vimana Tower and Thanjavur Palace. This city is also known for its paddy fields, the largest in all of South India. Also, don’t forget to shop from local markets — terracotta dolls, coffee powders, paintings and stone studded wares.

Popular as the blue mountains of South India, the Nilgiris have been a hub of tourism since the time of the British. Or probably even before them. The blue tint of these hills, hanging mist on the peaks, acres and acres of rolling thick forests — the site itself is wonderful for parched eyes. One of the most coveted places in Nilgiris is the Doddabetta Peak, where you can find elephants roaming freely. You can also wander around Shola forests, picnic beside Catherine Falls and enjoy some time walking through Silent Valley National Park and its tea gardens. For more prettiness, check out Emerald Lake, and for some fun, board the vintage Nilgiri Toy Train!

Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is a place for those who love exotic plants and animals. Trekkers too find this park a delight. Madumalai is home to some endangered species, more than 34 reptile species, around 200 bird species and numerous animal species. With its deep valleys and lush gorges, lakes and waterfalls and rivers, it also makes for a beautiful spot to just relax.

So enjoy some eco tourism while in Tamil Nadu and head to Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Located in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is verdant and alive with the fragrance of green meadows and forests. The villages around are rustic, food typically south Indian, and hilly markets all set up right outside coffee and cardamom and cinnamon plantations. You can visit orchards, check out lakes, trek up hills, or just enjoy this jewel of South India with a coffee in hand outside your hotel room. Some of the best places to visit around include Emerald Lake, Anna Park and Rose Garden, Tipperary Point and Kiliyur Falls.

A scenic paradise in Tamil Nadu, did you know that Krishnagiri existed even during the Palaeolithic Age? It has rocks dating to that time to prove it. With its lush forests, gardens, ancient temples and museums, Krishnagiri is rapidly becoming quite coveted for visitors travelling to Tamil Nadu. You get to enjoy sightseeing in places like Hero stones, Krishnagiri Museum, KRP Dam and of course, the 2000-year-old temple — Kattuveera Anjaneya. If that’s not enough, you also get to live in a tent, with all the bonfire shenanigans, and enjoy the outdoors with all the amenities! The best of both worlds.

Yelagiri is a hill station in the Vellore region of Tamil Nadu. Surrounded by hamlets and valleys and rose gardens, Yelagiri has become a famous getaway for those who prefer some quaint alone time, You have mountains to climb here, fruit orchards to explore, exotic spices to pick and great food to eat. What also makes Yelagiri interesting is that it hosts a unique summer festival that puts out the culture of the region to visitors — dog shows and flower exhibitions, food stalls and music and loads of hospitality!

A little hamlet, quaint and quiet, lies right in the ranges of Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu — Theni. 27 forests come together, meadows roll past, tea estates spread the fragrance far and wide as you explore Theni. Some very attractive places to visit here are Kumbakarai and Suruli Falls, Bodi Mettu, Meghamalai Hills, Devadanapatti Kamakshi Amman Temple, Gowmariamman Temple, Vaigai Dam etc. If you are a tea lover then Kolukkumalai Tea estate should not be missed.