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Tamil Nadu, one of the oldest places of the Dravidian region, has a history dating back to more than 4000 years. This region was great in Naval science and the Chola empire which ruled this region expanded their kingdom over the entire east coast of India stretching towards Burma, Vietnam, Java, Sumatra, Philippines and Pegu Islands. DNA of few Australian ancient tribes matches with the DNA of the Tamil people and through which researchers confirmed that a group of Tamilians settled in Australia 4000 years ago.
Cholas were great in architecture and this reflects in the number of temples in Tamil Nadu. These temples and similar architecture can be seen in all the above countries mentioned which had the Chola rule in the past. As they ruled the coastal areas, they are great with sea trade and Naval science. Currently, Tamil Nadu is one of the seven developed states in India and is the 3rd largest economy state in India.
Visitors can see well built ancient temples, religious sites, 8 UNESCO world heritage sites and hill stations. Tamil food cuisine is considered one of the most healthiest in India and it dominates in taste too.
Language: Tamil
Dance Forms in Tamil Nadu: Bharatanatyam
Interesting Sightings: Ancient Temples, 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, hill stations
Important Festivals/Fairs in Tamil Nadu:
Putandhu (Tamil New Year) - April
Pongal - January
Natyanjali Dance Festival - February, March
Thaipusam - January
Mahamaham - Celebrated for every 12 years depending on Astrological facts
Thiruvaiyaru Singing Festival - January
Karthika Deepam - November, December
Christmas - December
Ramzan - April, May, June
Easter - March, April
Bakrid - August
Tourist Fair - January
Mallapuram Dance Festival - January
Sivarathri - February, March
Chitthirai - April
Vaikunta Ekadhasi - December
Summer Festival in hill stations Ooty, Kodaikanal - Summer months
Krishna Janmastami - August, September
Vinayaka Chavithi - August
Navrathri - September October
Velankanni Festival - September, October
Kanthuri Festival - July, August
Deepavali - October, November
Rama Navami - March, April
Saral Vizha - August
Tamil Nadu is a religiously diverse place and the mix of religions gives a chance to the locals and the visitors to enjoy wide range of festivals.
Traditional Food in Tamil Nadu:
Tamil Nadu has been great with food right from the ancient times. The cuisine of Tamil Nadu has been a well researched for nutritional levels and has been under practice from several centuries. Food here is the best medicine for the body! Few must try food items from Tamil Nadu are,
Snacks/Appetizers:
Coimbatore Bun
Breakfast Items:
Idly
Dosa
Vada
Poori
Pulka
Main Dishes/Curries:
Sambhar
Rasam
Vadacurry
Ambur Biryani
Baby Potato Podi Curry
Pickles:
Avakai
Gongura
Desserts/Drinks:
Macaroons
Arisi Thirukkannamudhu (Payasam)
Jigarthanda
Arcot’s Makkan Peda
Ooty Chocolates