Monuments Archives - Tamil Nadu Tourism Info

Tamil Nadu UNESCO Sites: 2025 Guide to Must-See Heritage Destinations

Tamil Nadu, often called the “Land of Temples,” is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural marvels. Among its many historical gems, some have earned global recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making them must-visit destinations for history lovers and travelers alike.

1. Great Living Chola Temples in Tamil Nadu

Brihadeeswarar Temple, Thanjavur

Built in 1010 AD by Raja Raja Chola I, Brihadeeswarar Temple is an architectural masterpiece. Its 216-foot Vimana (tower), built entirely out of granite, remains one of the tallest temple towers in the world. The temple’s Nandi statue, carved from a single stone, and the stunning frescoes inside make it a must-visit.
📍 Location: Thanjavur
⭐ Why Visit? Architectural brilliance, intricate sculptures.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple, constructed by Rajendra Chola I, was meant to rival Brihadeeswarar Temple. The deity inside is a massive Shiva Lingam, and the temple walls have some of the finest stone carvings from the Chola period.

📍 Location: Ariyalur District
⭐ Why Visit? Stunning Dravidian architecture.

Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram

Smaller than the other two, this temple is known for its musical steps—when tapped, they produce different sounds. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it reflects the exquisite artistry of the Chola period.

📍 Location: Near Kumbakonam
⭐ Why Visit? Unique musical steps, intricate carvings.

2. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram: The Pallava Wonder

Dating back to the 7th and 8th centuries, Mahabalipuram (or Mamallapuram) is home to incredible rock-cut temples and sculptures built by the Pallava kings. This site, located along the Coromandel Coast, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite among history and photography enthusiasts.

Five Rathas

These monolithic rock temples are each carved from a single stone, dedicated to different Hindu gods. They are named after the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.

Shore Temple

One of the oldest structural temples in South India, the Shore Temple stands against the backdrop of the sea. The temple has withstood centuries of storms and continues to be an architectural marvel.

Arjuna’s Penance & Krishna’s Butter Ball

These are two of the most famous rock carvings in Mahabalipuram. Arjuna’s Penance is a massive open-air relief, while Krishna’s Butter Ball is a giant rock that mysteriously balances on a slope.

📍 Location: Mahabalipuram | ⭐ Why Visit? Rock-cut temples, beachside views.

3. Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A Scenic UNESCO Ride

The Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR), part of the UNESCO-listed Mountain Railways of India, is one of Tamil Nadu’s most scenic travel experiences. This toy train, which connects Mettupalayam to Ooty, runs through lush tea plantations, misty hills, and charming tunnels.

Built in 1908, it still operates with steam and diesel locomotives, making it a nostalgic journey for train lovers.

📍 Route: Mettupalayam – Coonoor – Ooty
⭐ Why Visit? A historic train ride with breathtaking views.

Other Notable Heritage Sites in Tamil Nadu

Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

One of India’s most visited temples, the Meenakshi Temple is famous for its towering gopurams (gateway towers) decorated with thousands of colorful sculptures.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, Madurai

A stunning 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak, blending Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. The light and sound show in the evening narrates the history of the palace.

Chettinad Mansions, Karaikudi

The Chettinad region is famous for its ornate mansions, built by the wealthy Chettiar community. These palatial homes feature Italian marble, Burmese teak, and intricate Athangudi tiles.

Preserving Tamil Nadu’s Heritage

Tamil Nadu’s heritage is not just about monuments—it’s about the stories, traditions, and culture that have been passed down for centuries. The UNESCO recognition helps in preserving these sites, but it’s also important for travelers to respect and protect these places.

How can you contribute?

✔️ Follow eco-friendly travel practices.
✔️ Respect temple rules and dress codes.
✔️ Support local artisans and traditional crafts.

Final Thoughts

From the grandeur of Chola temples to the intricate carvings of Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu’s heritage sites are windows into the past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, exploring these UNESCO-listed wonders will leave you awe-inspired.

📌 Planning your trip? Visit the official UNESCO website for more details.

Ashta Lingams Temple is situated around the Arunachala Hill in Thiruvannamalai. Each of these temples is located around the octagonal perimeter reflected by the four cardinal and four inter-cardinal points. As per legend, it is believed that the cardinal points represent the vital aspects and qualities of life.

The Eight Temples

Arunachala hill is surrounded by eight Lingam Temples, each temple built in one of the eight directions. Moopanar Swamy played a vital role in the renovation and restoration of the Ashta Lingam Temples.

Temple located at the Cardinal Points:

North – Kubera Lingam Temple
East – Indra Lingam Temple
West – Varuna Lingam Temple
South – Yama Lingam Temple

Temple located at the Intercardinal Points:

North West – Vayu Lingam Temple
North East – Esanya Lingam Temple
South West – Niruthi Lingam Temple
South East – Agni Lingam Temple

Each of the Lingam is dominated by Navagrahas (the nine planetary deities) to whom they are associated with. It is believed that, by worshipping a particular Lingam, devotees receive blessings that are associated with the respective Navagraha. Here’s a look at each of the Ashta Lingam.

Kubera Lingam (North)

The Kubera Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Kubera (The God of Wealth) and is located on the north side.
The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path around the Arunachala Hill.
Kubera Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Brihaspati (Guru or Jupiter).
Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind and economical growth on worshipping this deity.

Indra Lingam (East)

The Indra Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Indra (The God of Heaven) and is located on the east side.
The temple is found on Car Street close to the eastern tower of Arunachaleswarar Temple.
Indra Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deities – Lord Surya (Sun) and Lord Shukra (Venus).
Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and prosperity on worshipping this deity.

Varuna Lingam (West)

The Varuna Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Varuna (The God of Water and Rains) and is located on the west side.
The temple is located on the outer girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi – Annamalai.
Varuna Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Shani (Saturn).
Devotees are believed to be cured from illness, freed from committed sins on worshipping this deity.

Yama Lingam (South)

The Yama Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Yama (The God of Death) and is located on the south side.
The temple is located beside the cremation ground on Chengam Road.
Yama Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Mangal (Mars).
Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and to get rid of financial constraints on worshipping this deity.

Vayu Lingam (North West)

The Vayu Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Vayu (The God of Wind) and is located on the north-west side.
The temple is located on the girivalam or circumambulation path about one kilometer before the village of Adi Annamalai.
Vayu Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Kethu (Neptune).
Devotees are believed to find relief from illness on worshipping this deity.

Esanya Lingam (North East)

The Esanya Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Esanya (one of the Rudra forms of Lord Shiva) and is located on the north-east side.
The temple is located on the old girivalam path beside the cremation grounds.
Esanya Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Budha (Mercury).
Devotees are believed to be blessed with peace of mind on worshipping this deity.

Niruthi Lingam (South West)

The Niruthi Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Niruthi (The Lord of Asuras/Demons) and is located on the south-west side.
The temple is located on the girivalam path near to Shantimalai compound.
Niruthi Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Rahu.
Devotees are believed to be blessed with health, wealth and fame on worshipping this deity.

Agni Lingam (South East)

The Agni Lingam temple is dedicated to Lord Agni (The Lord of Fire and Knowledge) and is located on the south-east side.
The temple is located on the right side of girivalam path, close to Seshadri Ashram on Chengam Road.
Agni Lingam is believed to be dominated by the Navagraha Deity – Lord Chandra (Moon).
Devotees are believed to be blessed with long life and better health on worshipping this deity.

Sathanur Dam, one of the major dams in Tamil Nadu, is located around 30 kilometers from Thiruvannamalai. The dam is constructed across the Pennaiyar or Thenpennai River in Thandrampet Taluk of Tiruvannamalai District.

Image Attribute : Jeganila

More about the Sathanur Dam

The dam was constructed in the year 1958.
The dam is 119 feet high, and the water is used primarily for irrigation purposes.
There is a fish grotto and a crocodile farm near the dam.
Botanical garden, Children’s Park, mini zoo, flower park and swimming pool add to the attraction of the place.
The dam and its picturesque surroundings offer a visual treat to the tourists.

How to reach Sathanur dam

Sathanur dam is well connected on the road from Thiruvannamalai. The nearest railways station is at Thiruvannamalai (around 39 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Chennai (around 203 kilometers away).

Beemanmadavu Waterfalls also known as Bheema Falls, are the most prominent and frequent waterfalls in Javadu Hills. The falls are located 5 kilometres from Jamanamaruthur village and 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai.

Reference to Mythology

Beemanmadavu is believed to have been named after one of the Pandavas brother Bhima. Bhima is said to have worshipped the Sun God at this location. According to legend, Pandava brothers (of the epic fame Mahabharata) had visited this region during their exile from kingdom.

More about the Waterfalls

The altitude of the Beemanmadavu Falls ranges from 300 to 1000 meters. The water in the falls cascades for more than 8 months in a year. The falls is at its best during the rainy season. To reach the falls one has to trek for about 12 kilometres in the thin forest. The trail leading upto the falls is a great place for hiking, trekking and photography. Tourists are allowed to take a refreshing bath in the pool under the cascade.

How to reach Beemanmadavu Waterfalls

Beemanmadavu Falls is located at a distance of 80 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 218 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Thiruvannamalai (79 kilometres away) Katpadi (89 kilometres away) and Villupuram (140 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (209 kilometres away).

The Javadu Hills spread across parts of Vellore and Thiruvannamalai districts in the northern part of Tamil Nadu. The Javadu Hills is a total of about 3600 to 3800 feet above sea level. The hills exhibit a purple colour due to the colour of the bluish-grey granite. The hills are sparsely populated with some spectacular views to offer.

Why should you visit Javadu Hills?

It is a far less crowded place when compared to other hill stations in Tamil Nadu.
The dense forests cover a wide variety of flora and fauna that include some rare and endangered ones. It’s a perfect place for wildlife lovers and photographers to explore.
Tranquil villages, silent streams, water bodies and perceptible trails are some of the striking features of Javadu Hills.
Venture into the distinct landscape of Javadu Hills by travelling through the river, jungle and finally the rocky cliffs.
Trekking through the rocky cliffs, enjoying a bath in the falls and climbing up the rocks affirms a wholesome experience for nature lovers.
The region is home to numerous indigenous tribes that are involved in growing plantations that include gooseberry, coconut, jackfruit, tamarind, guava and mango. We can also find beautiful farm fields enroute.
Be it the tranquility of the forest or the innate sounds of nature, Javadu Hills in the Eastern Ghats is a trail worth exploring.

Nearby Attractions

Beemanmadavu Waterfalls – Near to Javadu Hills and 5 kilometres from Jamanamaruthur village is the Beemanmadavu Waterfalls. It is the most frequented waterfalls in Javadu Hills.

Kavalur Observatory – It has Asia’s largest telescope, the Vainu Babu Telescope, named after the famous astronomer Vainu Babu. The telescope offers a view of the baffling horizon of sky.

Amrithi Forest – It has some very intriguing places for trekking.

Komutteri/Kolappan Lake – A perfect place for having a picnic and enjoy a boat ride. There is a man-made island in the center of the lake.

How to reach Javadu Hills

Javadu Hills is located about 75 kilometres from Thiruvannamalai and about 208 kilometres from Chennai. The nearest railway stations are at Katpadi (around 78 kilometres away) and Villupuram (around 145 kilometres away). The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 198 kilometres away).

Virupaksha cave is one of the ancient caves in India with its history dating back to the 13th century. The cave is located on the eastern slopes of the Arunachala Hill. The history of the cave dates back to the time when it was the abode of Sage Virupaksha Deva. It later gained importance after Sri Ramana Maharshi stayed in the cave for 16 years.

History of Virupaksha Cave

The cave derives its name from Virupaksha Deva, who was a renowned 13th century saint. It is believed that Saint Virupaksha spent most of his life in this cave and its surroundings. It is also said that his body turned into ashes just after his Samadhi (a state of complete oneness). The holy ash is supposed to be preserved here on the altar.

Sri Ramana Maharshi & the Cave

Sri Ramana Maharshi spent 16 years in the cave from 1899 to 1916. Many significant events took place in his place during his stay in the cave. While at Virupaksha, Sri Ramana Maharshi also wrote in prose a Tamil translation of Vivekachudamani, a sacred scripture composed by Adi Sankara. He also wrote ‘Self-inquiry’ and ‘Who am I’ while residing in the cave.

More about the Virupaksha cave

Virupaksha cave is protected by constructed premises that also allow its visitors to have a peaceful time and a spiritual experience. Many devotees come here to meditate and feel the spiritual vibrations within. The Ashram is open at 8:00 AM. The cave is a year round destination and one of the popular places for Sri Ramana Maharshi devotees. It gets really hot during the day and hence it is advisable to climb up to the cave before daybreak. It is also advisable for tourists to wear trekking shoes. From the cave surroundings, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Thiruvannamalai Temple.

How to reach Virupaksha cave

The cave can be reached through two routes. One is through Ramana Ashram and the other is by walk from Thiruvannamalai Temple. The area also has some trekking routes. Thiruvannamalai town is well connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu through roadways. Thiruvannamalai Railway Station is connected to cities including Chennai, Madurai, Pondicherry, Vellore and Tirupati. Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport to Thiruvannamalai (around 155 kilometres away).

Sri Ramanasramam was home to Sri Ramana Maharshi, a master of Advaita Vedanta (a school of Hindu Philosophy). He stayed in the Ashram from 1922 until his death in 1950. The Ashram is located at the foot of Arunachala hill in Tiruvannamalai District.

Image Attribution : Vyacheslav Argenberg

The Ramanasramam

The Ashram has a huge courtyard bounded by shady trees. To the left, stands two towers built in the traditional Dravidian style of architecture. One of these towers leads to the Matrubhuteswara Shrine and the other tower over the New Hall.
The New Hall was used by Sri Maharshi for a few months leading to his Mahanirvana. The hall has a life-sized statue of Sri Maharshi and a large couch that was used by him. This hall was built to accommodate the increasing number of devotees. The hall is open everyday from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Towards the west of the New Hall is the Matrubhuteswara Shrine. The impressive shrine was constructed under the supervision of the famous temple sculptor, Vaidyanath Stapati. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a Shiva Linga and a Sri Chakra Meru consecrated by Sri Maharshi, with Nandi facing the entrance of the sanctum sanctorum. The outer walls of the sanctum sanctorum are the sculpted images of Dakshinamurthi, Lingodbhava Murthi, Lord Vishnu and his consort Goddess Lakshmi. The temple also has little shrines of Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan. The Navagrahas and Chandikeswara shrine find their place on the northern side. The temple is open everyday from 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
Through the northern wall of the temple, one reaches the Samadhi Hall. This hall consists of a raised platform or Mandapam with a tower above it. The Mandapam has a Shiva Linga installed in it and is surrounded by a large marble-floored meditation hall. This hall is open everyday from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
A door on the north side of the Samadhi Hall leads to the Old Hall. Sri Maharshi spent almost all his time here until about a year before his passing. The hall is open from 4:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
To the north of this hall is a large open area with some shady trees, a flower garden, a large dining kitchen block to the east, a dispensary on the west and a path leading to Skandasramam on the Arunachala Hill.
To the east of the New Hall is the small Nirvana Room. This is the room where Maharshi spent his last days.
Guest rooms are available in and outside the Ashram.
A dispensary providing free medical aid for the ashram inmates and local people is found within the Ashram.
Sri Ramana Library has Sri Ramana literary works, photographs, souvenirs, audio-tapes and videos. An extensive collection of books on spirituality is also available in many languages.

How to reach Ramanasramam

The town of Tiruvannamalai is connected to various cities in Tamil Nadu through roadways. It is located on the Villupuram-Katpadi branch line. The Ashram is at a distance of 3 kilometres from Tiruvannamalai Railway Station. The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 175 kilometres away).

The monuments at Mahabalipuram are monolith beautiful sculptures depicting our rich history and culture. The monuments and temples at Mahabalipuram including the Shore Temple complex were collectively classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

The Mahabalipuram stone sculptures carved in stone have been inspired by the Pallava style of art. Each of the monuments at Mahabalipuram is dedicated to a deity or character from Hindu mythology and thereby represents Shaivism, Vaishnavism and Shaktism.

The monuments include – Rathas (chariot shaped temples), Mandapas (cave temples), Rock Reliefs, Structural Temples and Excavations.

The monuments at Mahabalipuram have lots in store for art lovers and history buffs. Mahabalipuram falls in Kanchipuram District and is well connected to all major cities through road. The nearest airport is at Chennai (around 60 kilometres away).

Kunthukal Beach, Vivekananda Memorial Hall, Pamban, Rameswaram

Kunthukal beach is located in a small fishing village named Kunthukal, which is nearly about 12 km from the Rameswaram. The crystal clear blue sea water with moderate tides makes this beach awesome.

Vivekananda Memorial Hall is located on the shores of Kunthukal Beach near Pamban. The Memorial was built to commemorate the return of Swami Vivekananda (to India on January 26, 1897 after his participation in ‘The Parliament of World Religions’ held in Chicago. Swami Vivekananda or Swamiji was the Indian Hindu monk who was the disciple of Indian mystic Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa.

More about the Vivekanda Memorial Hall

The Memorial was inaugurated on January 26, 2010. Before the memorial was built, the place had a pillar in remembrance of Swami Vivekananda.
The memorial houses a 6-foot statue of Swami Vivekananda with Ramanathapuram King Baskara Sethupathi who had sponsored his visit to Chicago.
The Memorial also has a spiritual library and meditation hall.
The Memorial is located close to Kunthukal sea beach, around 15 kilometres from Rameswaram bus stop.

How to reach Kunthukal beach

Kunthukal is located at a distance of 12 kilomeTres from Rameswaram. Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.

Tourist Attractions near Kunthukal Beach:

Overview of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the temple city of Rameswaram is the memorial of India’s renowned scientist, great leader and former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam National Memorial was inaugurated by Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi on 27th July, 2017.

The APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Memorial is spread over 2.11 acres of land and has been constructed on the gravesite of Dr. Kalam where his mortal remains were laid to rest on July 27th, 2015. With an investment of Rs. 20 crore, the construction of the Memorial was completed in just 9 months.

More about the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial

An Initiative of DRDO: The initiative to construct a memorial for Dr. Kalam was taken by The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), with which Dr. Kalam was associated for several years of his life.
Symbol of National Integration: The Memorial is a symbol of India’s diversity and national integration, something that Dr. Kalam had always admired. The entrance to the monument depicts the India Gate with its door resembling the entrance door of the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur. The main dome of the building depicts the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The monument is a fine blend of Mughal and Indian architecture. The construction materials, plants and flowers for the garden etc were sourced from different parts of the country.
The Memorial’s Inside: The Memorial reflects the teachings and beliefs of Dr. Kalam. The interior of the Memorial encompasses four halls that reflect the various facets of Dr. Kalam’s life. Information about Pokhran nuclear test, replicas of rockets and missiles have been displayed to celebrate the priceless contribution of the late ace scientist to space science.
Statue of the Missile Man of India: Another primal attraction of the Memorial is the life-size statue of Dr. Kalam that was inaugurated in 2016. This statue of Dr. Kalam playing the musical instrument Veena is placed in the center of the memorial. There are two other silicon statues of Dr. Kalam, in the presidential suit, in sitting and standing postures.
The Garden: The garden around the Memorial has a resemblance of the Mughal gardens. Plants for the garden were bought from different states and flowers were handpicked keeping in mind the likes of Dr. Kalam. A model of the Agni missile has been placed in the garden, at the backyard of the Memorial.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Opening Timings:

The Memorial is open in the morning from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

How to reach Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial

The memorial is less than 3.5-kilometers distance from Rameswaram Bus stand. Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.