CULTURAL & COASTAL CONCOCTION

Home to many undiscovered gems, Tamil Nadu has a lot more to its name than what it’s given credit for!

Gracing the eastern coast is Tamil Nadu, where cultures, food, and languages come together and co-exist. This amalgamation of geography, topography and everything in between is what brings character to the soul of the state. It is here that ancient mythological stories come alive, coastal fare takes the front seat and a cosmopolitan vibe does its magic. The state is also peppered with gifts that are uniquely Tamil Nadu and influenced by different cultures, that it loves to flaunt. The state seems modern and ancient, all at once.

History

Tamil Nadu’s rich history has left behind many wonders for the average traveler. Right from the capital city to the lesser-known destinations such as Tranquebar or Tharangambadi to Chettinad and Keezhadi, the state boasts of remnants from various time periods.

The state’s capital, Chennai, or Madras as it was called during the British Raj continues to retain its legacy and was given utmost importance when it came to developing a culture in the city, as is evident from the early British settlements and the old cityscape laced with Indo-Saracenic structures. It is here in Chennai that the gifts left for the city by the erstwhile colonial overlords become prominently noticeable.

Tranquebar, on the other hand, is famous for its ancient structures in the form of the Danish Museum, Danish Fort, Sri Masilamaniswara Temple, beautiful churches, and vintage homes. While the museum houses many traditional artifacts, the two-storeyed fort was used as a prison in the early times. Although the village is tsunami-prone, constant efforts are being made to retain its historical legacy. As for a history-laced accommodation, a 150-year-old building has been converted to a heritage hotel.

Coming to Keezhadi, one can unravel the secrets of the oldest civilization that celebrated women. With recent excavations coming to fruition, it has been found that ancient civilizations thrived along the Vaigai river. The art and text findings found here also reveal the artistic qualities of the tribe.

Culture

When talking about Tamil Nadu, one can never get enough of the unique cultural finds and the contemporary day blend. The state is home to culturally iconic cities. The state paints a uniquely different picture while resting still in time. Almost like a city within a city, a culture within another.