Nestled on the fertile banks of the perennial Thamirabarani River in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, the Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple at Cheranmahadevi stands as a profound testament to the artistic and political synthesis of South India’s golden eras.
Unlike the more commercialized temple circuits of Madurai or Kanchipuram, Cheranmahadevi offers a serene, scholarly, and deeply spiritual encounter with history. This is not just a place of worship; it is an architectural archive preserved in granite.
1. Historical Context: A Legacy Carved in Time
The name "Cheranmahadevi" itself tells a story. Legend and historical records suggest the town was named after a Chera Princess who married into the Chola dynasty, symbolizing a period of diplomatic peace and cultural exchange between the two warring powers.
The Confluence of Dynasties
While the temple’s foundations are rooted in the Pandya and Chola eras (roughly the 11th to 12th centuries), it saw significant patronage during the Vijayanagara and Nayak periods. According to the inscriptions in the temple, the temple was built by Rajendra Chola I (1012 to 1044 AD).
Chola Influence: The precision of the central shrine and the early inscriptions reflect the administrative excellence of the Chola monarchs.
Vijayanagara Artistry: The mandapams (halls) showcase the flamboyant, high-relief carvings typical of the 15th and 16th centuries.
2. Architectural Grandeur: Where Granite Breathes
The Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple is a textbook example of Dravidian architecture, specifically the transition from the mid-Chola style to the more ornate Vijayanagara style.
The Garbhagriha (Sanctum)
The presiding deity, Lord Bhaktavatsala Perumal, is depicted in a majestic standing posture (Nindra Kolam) with four arms, flanked by his consorts, Sridevi and Bhoodevi. The iconography here is focused on the concept of Bhakta-Vatsala—the Lord who is "affectionate toward His devotees." The main shrine has all the sections as per the South Indian temple architectural style – garbha griha, ardha mandapa, maha mandapa and the exterior mandapa. Garuda is found to be facing the main shrine.
The Maha Mandapam and Its Pillars
The true highlight for heritage enthusiasts is the Maha Mandapam. The pillars here are carved from monolithic granite blocks. Look closely and you will find:
Yali Pillars: Mythical creatures that are part-lion, part-elephant, symbolizing strength and protection. The base of the pillar has a lotus pedestal and above that a seated yali is intricately carved.
Miniature Bas-Reliefs: Panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, carved with such detail that even the jewellery on the figures is discernible. Unique feature of this temple is a lady sculpture illustrating the ornaments, dress, hair style, makeup, aesthetic sense and beauty concept of the bygone era. The temple is full of various patterns of lion motifs. And the splendid architectural pattern of the inner precincts is comparable to the famed Hoysala temples of Karnataka.
The Vimana and Gopuram
The Vimana (the tower over the sanctum) is relatively modest in height compared to the towering Gopuram at the entrance, a hallmark of earlier architectural styles where the focus remained on the inner sanctum.
3. Top Highlights and Hidden Gems
The Inscriptional Wealth
For historians, this temple is a goldmine. The walls of the prakaram (outer courtyard) are etched with Vatteluttu and Tamil inscriptions. These records detail:
a) Land grants given to the temple by local chieftains.
b) The meticulous management of irrigation systems from the Thamirabarani River.
c) Donations of "perpetual lamps" (Nanda Vilakku) to ensure the deity was never in darkness.
The Thamirabarani Connection
The temple is part of the "Nava Tirupathi-adjacent" spiritual landscape. A ritual dip in the nearby Thamirabarani River before entering the temple is a tradition that has survived for a millennium. The river air provides a natural cooling system to the stone structures, making the atmosphere inside ethereal.
The Musicality of Stone
While not as famous as the musical pillars of Nellaiappar, certain sections of the mandapam at Cheranmahadevi produce distinct metallic sounds when tapped, showcasing the ancient Sthapathi's (architect's) knowledge of stone density.
Temple Artwork and Bas Reliefs
The high bas relief of seated Vishnu (as Yoga Narasimha or Ugra Narasimha) holding a sankha and a chakra in each hand and and with a five hooded Kalinga snake with a canopy behind is the top highlight in terms of rich artwork. You can peep at this bas relief through a window on the outside of the temple. You can also see these bas reliefs up close when you do a circum-ambulation around the main shrine. Sculptures of apsaras in different poses, gods, goddesses, demigods, devotees, animals, birds, etc. are depicted on the temple walls and pillars and these are excellent specimens of Chola art.
4. Why It Matters Today
In an age of rapid urbanization, the Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple remains an anchor of identity for the people of Cheranmahadevi. It represents a time when art, governance, and spirituality were not separate entities but a single, woven fabric of life. For the traveler, it offers a rare moment of stillness—a chance to walk through a corridor of time where the only sound is the rustle of the wind and the echo of ancient chants.
Heritage Note: If you are visiting, keep an eye out for the exquisite stone chains often found in the corners of the ceiling—a miracle of craftsmanship where a single stone is carved into interlocking, moving links.
5. Experiential Travel: What Makes This Temple Special?
Unlike major pilgrimage centers thronged by crowds, Cheranmahadevi offers a deeply contemplative experience:
1) Soft river breezes
2) Temple bells echoing across granite halls
3) Fragrant incense drifting through corridors
4) Chanting priests preserving ancient liturgical rhythms
This atmosphere makes the temple ideal for spiritual retreats, heritage walks, and meditative exploration.
6. Popular Festivals
The temple remains a vibrant center of ritual life, with festivals that blend devotion, art, and community celebration.
1) Brahmotsavam (March–April): The grand annual festival spans 10 days, featuring elaborate processions, vahanams (divine vehicles), temple chariot (ther) festival, vedic chanting and classical music.
2) Vaikunta Ekadasi (December–January): One of the most sacred Vaishnavite observances, drawing thousands of devotees seeking moksha blessings.
3) Garuda Sevai: During this spectacular event, the deity is mounted on Garuda Vahana, symbolizing divine liberation and cosmic movement.
7. Visitor Information and Travel Tips
Temple timings
The temple is open every day from 8 AM to 11 AM. On festival days, the temple might be kept open for a bit longer. The temple remains closed during the evening hours.
Best time to visit
October to March, when the weather is pleasant. The temple is especially vibrant during the Margazhi month (December–January).
Dress Code
Traditional attire is recommended (Dhoti/Formal pants for men, Saree/Salwar for women).
How to reach there
The nearest large railway station is Tirunelveli, about 24 kms away. This railway station is best for long distance trains. From here, one can take the connecting passenger train to Cheranmahadevi.
The nearest airport is Tuticorin airport, about 75 kms away.
If you are traveling from Tirunelveli, head on the Tirunelveli – Ambasamudram road till Cheranmahadevi. At Cheranmahadevi circle, turn right and head straight. After you cross the bus stand and the bridge over the canal, turn right as soon as you see a temple arch. Turn left and then right and then take the second left all the way till the final point on the river.
Where to stay:
If you are looking for a simple hotel to stay, Cheranmahadevi, Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram would offer you a few options.
If you wish to stay in a traditional homestay inside the Brahmin agraharams, Kallidaikurichi (about 17 kms away) would be your nearest option.
If you wish for luxurious accommodation or a place with more rooms and catering to a wide range of budgets, Tirunelveli, about 24 kms away, would be your best bet.
Where to eat:
If you want basic tiffin items, tea/coffee and/or snacks, you can find them at Cheranmahadevi town and Melapalayam. For a proper sit down kind of vegetarian meals, the nearest option would be Hotel Annapoorna at Melapalayam.
For a much wider variety with different kinds of restaurants catering to different budgets and palettes, the city of Tirunelveli would be your best bet.
8. Other Nearby Tourist Attractions
1) Karisoolnthamangalam Chakrathalwar Temple: Scenic 1000 year old Vishnu temple located on the banks of the Thamirabharani river
2) Athalanallur Gajendra Varadharaja Temple: The location of the Gajendra moksham legend
3) Thiruppudaimarudur Naramboonathar Temple: 6th century Shiva temple located on the banks of the Thamirabharani river
4) Cheranmahadevi Ammainathar Swamy Temple: A Nava Kailayam temple dedicated to the moon god that is surrounded by lush paddy fields and the Thamirabharani river
5) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village
6) Manjolai: The unknown hill station gem of India
7) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats
8) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India
9) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon
10) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
11) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve
12) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river
13) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu
14) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
15) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded
16) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south
17) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
18) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana
19) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India
20) 1000 Year Old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away
21) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season
22) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli
23) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder
24) 10th Century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu
25) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route
26) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi
27) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village
28) Festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village
29) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu
30 Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature
31) Kallidaikurichi’s Sannadhi Street: Prettiest hotspot for Karthigai Deepam festival rural bonanza
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Bhaktavatsala Perumal Temple: The Whispering Stones of Cheranmahadevi
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Top 10 Offbeat Hoysala Temples: Karnataka’s Hidden Architectural Masterpieces
While the UNESCO-listed ensemble of Belur, Halebidu, and Somnathpura rightfully commands global attention, the Hoysala Empire (10th–14th century) was far more prolific than a three-stop itinerary suggests. In the hinterlands of Karnataka, the Hoysala kings and their generals commissioned over 1,500 structures, of which around 100 remain in remarkable condition today.
These "offbeat" temples offer something the famous sites cannot: the luxury of silence. In 2026, as travel pivots toward "Slow Heritage," these sites allow you to hear the whisper of the chisel on soapstone and witness the evolution of an architectural style that turned stone into lace.
For the heritage enthusiast and the seasoned traveler, here is a definitive guide to the top 10 offbeat Hoysala temples, complete with historical depth and travel logistics from Bangalore.
1. Veeranarayana Temple, Belavadi: The Architect’s Symphony
If Belur is about intricate detail, Belavadi is about grand perspective. This is arguably the most symmetrical and "complete" Hoysala temple in existence.
Historical Context: Built in 1176 CE by King Veera Ballala II, this temple was constructed in phases, showcasing the transition of Hoysala style from simple to complex.
Architectural Detail: It is a Trikuta (three-shrine) temple. The unique feature here is the massive Mahamandapa (grand hall) featuring 108 lathe-turned, mirror-polished pillars.
Top Highlights: The 8-foot-tall idol of Veeranarayana in the central shrine is a marvel of Vaishnava iconography. The two other shrines house equally stunning idols of Venugopala and Yoganarasimha.
Distance from Bangalore: ~222 km (4.5 hours via NH75).
2. Lakshmi Narayana Temple, Hosaholalu: The Miniature Somnathpura
Often overshadowed by its cousin in Somnathpura, Hosaholalu is a masterclass in the "Stellate" (star-shaped) plan, offering a level of detail that feels almost surgical.
Historical Context: Dating back to 1250 CE, this temple represents the "Late Hoysala" period, where ornamentation reached its absolute zenith.
Architectural Detail: This is a Trikuta temple built on a high Jagati (platform). The walls are divided into six horizontal friezes at the base, depicting a literal parade of elephants, horses, and floral scrolls.
Top Highlights: The wall images are "signed" by the master sculptor Mallitamma. Look for his signature etched into the pedestals.
Distance from Bangalore: ~160 km (3.5 hours via NH75 and SH7).
3. Ishvara Temple, Arasikere: Geometry in Motion
For fans of sacred geometry, Arasikere is the ultimate destination. It boasts the most complex floor plan of the entire Hoysala era.
Historical Context: Built around 1220 CE, it is dedicated to Shiva (Ishvara), a slight departure from the largely Vaishnava masterpieces of the period.
Architectural Detail: The temple features a 16-pointed star-shaped open mandapa. The geometric precision required to align these points in the 13th century remains a mystery to modern engineers.
Top Highlights: The interior ceiling of the dome—a multi-layered, inverted lotus that acts as a stone kaleidoscope.
Distance from Bangalore: ~165 km (3 hours via NH75).
4. Lakshmi Devi Temple, Doddagaddavalli: The Chatuskuta Anomaly
This temple is an outlier. It is one of the earliest Hoysala structures and follows a plan that was rarely repeated in later centuries.
Historical Context: Built in 1113 CE by a merchant named Kullahana Rahuta, it predates the famous Belur temple.
Architectural Detail: It is a Chatuskuta (four-shrine) temple. Unlike later temples, it lacks a Jagati, sitting directly on the ground beside a serene lake.
Top Highlights: The shrine dedicated to the Goddess Kali. While most Hoysala temples focus on serene Vishnu forms, this shrine features a fierce, skeletal Kali that is hauntingly brilliant.
Distance from Bangalore: ~200 km (4 hours via NH75).
5. Chennakeshava Temple, Arlaguppe: The Hidden Jewel
Arlaguppe is a tiny village that hides one of the most artistically significant ceilings in South India. It is small, unassuming, and breathtakingly intricate.
Historical Context: Built in the mid-13th century, it was likely commissioned by a local chieftain under King Narasimha III.
Architectural Detail: An Ekakuta (single shrine) temple, its exterior is notable for its rhythmic arrangement of the 24 forms of Lord Vishnu.
Top Highlights: The Ceiling of the Navaranga. It features a central panel of Tandava Ganesha surrounded by the Ashta-dikpalakas (guardians of eight directions) with depth that appears 3D.
Distance from Bangalore: ~140 km (3 hours via NH75).
6. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Nuggehalli: The Narrative Canvas
Nuggehalli is a double-treat, housing two temples, but the Lakshmi Narasimha is the showstopper for its storytelling prowess.
Historical Context: Built in 1246 CE by Bommanna Dandanayaka, a high-ranking commander.
Architectural Detail: A Trikuta temple where only the central shrine has a tower. The wall carvings are exceptionally dense, covering every square inch of the exterior.
Top Highlights: The Krishna Leela panels. The life of Krishna is carved with such narrative fluidity that it reads like a stone graphic novel.
Distance from Bangalore: ~140 km (2.5 hours via NH75).
7. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Javagal: The Art of Proportions
Javagal is often skipped on the way to Belur, but its triple-shrine complex offers a perfect study of Hoysala spatial harmony.
Historical Context: Constructed in 1250 CE, it is a contemporary of the Hosaholalu temple.
Architectural Detail: Another Trikuta masterpiece. The exterior walls are decorated with a double row of sculptures—a feature usually reserved for the most prestigious royal commissions.
Top Highlights: The idols of Sridhara, Venugopala, and Lakshmi Narasimha. Each is carved from high-quality chloritic schist that has retained its sharp edges for centuries.
Distance from Bangalore: ~225 km (4.5 hours via NH75).
8. Brahmeshwara Temple, Kikkeri: The Feminine Grace
Situated on the banks of a large reservoir, the Brahmeshwara temple has a fluid grace that distinguishes it from the more "military" Hoysala structures.
Historical Context: Commissioned in 1171 CE by a wealthy lady named Bammare Nayakiti during the reign of Narasimha I.
Architectural Detail: It features a unique bulging Navaranga, where the hall walls curve outward, creating a spacious, circular interior effect.
Top Highlights: The Madanikas (bracket figures). While Belur has 42, Kikkeri’s figures are carved with a softness and anatomical accuracy that is breathtaking.
Distance from Bangalore: ~165 km (3 hours via NH75).
9. Bucesvara Temple, Koravangala: The Victory Monument
Built to celebrate a coronation and a victory over the Cholas, this temple is a masterclass in the "staggered square" plan.
Historical Context: Built in 1173 CE by a high-ranking official named Buci to mark the coronation of King Veera Ballala II.
Architectural Detail: A Dvikuta (two-shrine) temple. It is famous for its exterior wall decorations, which are significantly more elaborate than other temples of its size.
Top Highlights: The "Sala" emblem (the boy slaying the tiger) which is exceptionally crisp here.
Distance from Bangalore: ~190 km (4 hours via NH75).
10. Panchalingeshwara Temple, Govindanahalli: The Architectural Rarity
This is perhaps the most unique temple on this list. It is the only surviving Panchakuta (five-shrine) temple of the Hoysala era.
Historical Context: Built around 1238 CE, it is a rare example of the Hoysalas experimenting with grand, linear layouts.
Architectural Detail: Five identical shrines are aligned in a single row, all opening into a common, massive, pillared hall.
Top Highlights: The Interior Perspective. Standing at one end of the hall and looking down the row of polished pillars towards the five shrines is an experience unlike any other.
Distance from Bangalore: ~165 km (3 hours via NH75).
Practical Travel Tips for the Hoysala Trail
Base Yourself in Hassan: Most of these temples are within a 30-60 km radius of Hassan city.
Timing: Reach the temples by 8:00 AM. The morning light is perfect for photography, and the soapstone platforms won't be too hot for bare feet.
Respect: These are active places of worship. Dress modestly and always ask for permission before photographing the inner sanctum.
Thursday, February 19, 2026
Cheranmahadevi’s Countryside: A Spring Photo Story
Two mornings back, I visited the 11th century Bhaktavatsala Perumal temple by the banks of the Thamirabharani river just outside of Cheranmahadevi in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu in India. Cheranmahadevi is just 15 kms away from my ancestral village of Kallidaikurichi and a relaxed 15 minute motorcycle ride brings you to this gorgeous village that is located on the banks of the Thamirabharani river. While the town of Cheranmahadevi is bustling with growth and development, it’s countryside is pristine and is overflowing with agricultural abundance owing to the fertile plains of the Thamirabharani river and perennial water supply from the river and its canals. This photo story brings to you these countryside scenes as I made my way from the town to the Bhaktavatsala Perumal temple by the river.
Above photo: The entire landscape wore shades of gold and green. In another couple of weeks, the paddy fields will get ready for harvest. The paddy simply shone golden in the morning sun.
Above photo: The perennial Thamirabharani river is the backbone of this entire region. And Cheranmahadevi is no different. From kingdoms to today’s villages, towns and cities live off its waters. People use its waters for bathing, agriculture, cattle and so much more. A lot of ancient temples can be found by the banks of the Thamirabharani river.
Above photo: Early mornings on these country roads are nothing but pure bliss. There is a cool breeze that is blowing and the sun has just started to shine on the rich paddy and banana haven. And locals are going about their local chores of cattle herding, agriculture or washing.
Above photo: The Cheranmahadevi countryside is so pretty that many South Indian movies have been shot at its various scenic locations, including this one. The road here is flanked on both sides by golden paddy fields and at the end of the road lies the 11th century Bhaktavatsala Perumal temple and the Thamirabharani river.
Above photo: Time literally stands still here. As I made my way to the Bhaktavatsala Perumal temple, these goats and sheep blocked my way and I happily let them do it. The beauty of village life is this slow pace of life and the best way to destress is live this slow pace when you get the opportunity.
Above photo: Life is simple here. People work hard, earn less, but are very contented. You can always see them with a smile on their faces and eager to strike a conversation with you or answer your questions about them or the region.
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Karisoolnthamangalam Chakrathalwar Temple: Scenic 1000 year old Vishnu temple located on the banks of the Thamirabharani river
This is a 1000 year old Pandya era temple that is located at a scenic location by the banks of the Thamirabharani river. Large native trees, palm trees, paddy fields and banana plantations surround this temple and this lush environment with abundant water attract lots of birds all year round. The temple is fairly small in size, but it enjoys a lot of rich history and many unique highlights. One special feature of this temple is that all the devotees who worship here get conferred with long life and a healthy body. I am talking about the Chakrathalwar temple at Karisoolnthamangalam village near Pattamadai in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
The presiding deity or the moolavar of this temple is Chakrathalwar (He is also believed to be the athipathy of Shukhran, making this temple a Shukra Parihara Sthalam) who is seen with 16 hands. Behind him is Lord Yoga Narasimha with four hands holding Sudarshana Chakra in each hand and no Sangu. It is said that the moolavar possesses the characters of Varaha and Narasimha avatars. The processional deity or the utsava moorthy is Venkatachalapathy with Sri Devi and Bhoo Devi. Usually in Vishnu temples, it is the moolavar who is Venkatachalapathy and here it is the opposite, which makes it quite unique and rare. The temple has sub shrines for Hanuman, Garudan and the Alwars.
As per the inscription of 1250 AD dating to the rule of Sundara Pandya II, this temple was referred to as ‘Then Thiruvengadam’ and the place itself was called ‘Kali Say Mangalam’, which over time became Karisoolnthamangalam. Romana Rishi undertook penance at this temple and performed pooja thus invoking the blessings of Lord Venkatachalapathy.
While the temple holds rich historical and spiritual significance, the Chakrathalwar temple at Karisoonlnthamangalam enjoys fabulous location. Access to the temple is only via gorgeously green paddy fields and banana plantations and sleepy villages. The road reaches a dead end at the temple and beyond lies the beautiful expanse of the Thamirabharani river that looks more like a wide lake here rather than a rocky flowing river that can seen upstream. This temple is a beautiful mix of stunning nature, rustic countryside and an ancient pilgrimage destination. And these are three top reasons to visit the Karisoolnthamangalam Chakrathalwar Venkatachalapathy temple.
Popular festivals:
1) Garudai Sevai festivals, especially the ones held on Saturdays and in the Puratassi month
2) Margazhi Vaikuntha Ekadasi Festival
Temple timings:
Morning Hours: 6 AM to 11 AM
Evening Hours: 4 PM to 5:30 PM
How to reach there:
If you are traveling from Tirunelveli direction, head on the Tirunelveli – Ambasamudram road till Pattamadai. At Pattamadai main circle, turn right and head towards Karissolnthamangalam on single lane village roads flanked by paddy fields and banana plantations.
Where to stay:
If you are looking for a simple hotel to stay, Cheranmahadevi, Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram would offer you a few options.
If you wish to stay in a traditional homestay inside the Brahmin agraharams, Kallidaikurichi (about 20 kms away) would be your nearest option.
If you wish for luxurious accommodation or a place with more rooms and catering to a wide range of budgets, Tirunelveli, about 20 kms away, would be your best bet.
Where to eat:
If you want basic tiffin items, tea/coffee and snacks, you can find them at Pattamadai, Cheranmahadevi and Melapalayam. For a proper sit down kind of vegetarian meals, the nearest option would be Hotel Annapoorna at Melapalayam.
For a much wider variety with different kinds of restaurants catering to different budgets and palettes, the city of Tirunelveli would be your best bet.
Other nearby tourist attractions:
1) Athalanallur Gajendra Varadharaja Temple: The location of the gajendra moksham legend.
2) Thiruppudaimarudur Naramboonathar Temple: 6th century Shiva temple located on the banks of the Thamirabharani river
3) Harikesavanallur Ariyanatha Swamy Temple: A powerful Shiva temple that is a Guru Sthalam, a Kubera Sthalam and a Maandi Sthalam
4) Cheranmahadevi Ammainathar Swamy Temple: A Nava Kailayam temple dedicated to the moon god that is surrounded by lush paddy fields and the Thamirabharani river
5) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village
6) Manjolai: The unknown hill station gem of India
7) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats
8) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India
9) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon
10) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
11) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve
12) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river
13) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu
14) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai tiger reserve
15) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded
16) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep South
17) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
18) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana
19) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India
20) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple:Where you can wash all your sins away
21) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season
22) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli
23) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder
24) 10th Century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu
25) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route
26) Garudai Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi
27) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village
28) Festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village
29) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu
30) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature
31) Kallidaikurichi’s Sannadhi Street: Prettiest hotspot for Karthigai Deepam Festival Rural Bonanza