Tamilnadu is the seat of ancient Dravidian civilisation, religion, literature and artistic accomplishments going back to pre-Christian era. It has witnessed great dynasties—Pallava, Pandya, Chola and Vijaynagar.

Best period to Visit:
November - March

Places to visit:

Chennai-
is the capital of the state and gateway to southern India.
Fort St. Georges is the site of the original British settlement built in 1640.
St. Mary's Church is the oldest Anglican church in India where both Robert Clive and Elihu Yale were married. Basilica of San Thomas is constructed in the neo-Gothic style.
The Government Museum and Art Gallery has the finest collection of 8th-12th century Pallava and Chola bronze sculptures.
Kapaleeswar Temple and Parthasarthy Temple are the renowned temples here. Theosophical Society ought to be visited.
Marina Beach, Elliot's Beach and Guindy Park are worth going to.
Cholamandal Artist's Village, 30 Kms from the city, is home to well accomplished artists, painters and sculptors whose work can be bought.

Mahabalipuram-
is a world heritage site. 'Arjuna's Penance' is a gigantic rock face carved in basrelief. The monolithic five chariots carved in granite, the Shore temple and other rock cut temples are beautiful.

Kanchipuram-
is an ancient temple town. The Kailashnatha Temple, Vaikunth Perumal Temple, Ekambaresvara Temple, Kamaskhi Temple and Vardarajaswami Temple are worth visiting.

Pondicherry-
Pondicherry Raj Niwas is 200 yrs. old and belonged to Marqius Joseph Francois Dupleix. 
The church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Church of Notre Dame des Anges are worth visiting. 
Aurobindo Ashram is an international centre of yoga, spirituality and philosophy.
Aurovilleor the "City of Dawn" is a futuristic town. 
Matri Mandir and 'Hall of Meditation' are some of its notable features.

Chidambaram-
has one of the greatest Chola temples. Thillai Kali Amman and the Kali Shrine stand outside the village.

Gangaikondacholapuram & Darashuram near Kumbakonam are magnificient proofs of Chola temple architecture.

Thanjavur-
Brihadeshwar Temple is the major attraction here.
Other attractions include Saraswati Mahal Library, the Art Gallery and Raja Ram Museum.

Maduari-
The towering 'gopurams' of Madurai are its most distinct landmarks. The Meenaskhi Temple is the major attraction.

Rameshvaram-
Ramanathaswamy temple was built between the 9^th - 16^th century. It is an important pilgrim centre.

Kodaikanal-
is a hill station in Palani hills.

Ooty-
lies in the Nilgiri Hills covered by lush green forests. It is built around a lake and boasts of beautiful Botanical Gardens.

Coonoor-
is a small hill-resort and Sim's Park is a big draw along with Kotagiri the fruit growing region.

Kanyakumari-
Kanyakumari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati.
Vivekanand Rock- memorial was made in the memory of the great saint.

Arts and Crafts:
South Indian Silks, Handicrafts, Bronze icons, Tanjore plates, Tanjore paintings.