Heritage

A Walk Through Tamil Nadu's 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

These world heritage sites represent Tamil Nadu's diverse roots through its architectural splendour, heritage train rides and ancient temples, offering a mix of nature, culture and educational retreat

Airavatesvara Temple in Darasuram, Thanjavur district Photo: TN tourism board
info_icon

Brimming with history and culture, Tamil Nadu draws tourists with its ancient temples, scenic escapes and architectural marvels. The glory of these iconic attractions has earned them the UNESCO World Heritage Sites accreditation. Be it marvelling at the finely shaped rock temples or sculptures as old as the 7th and 8th centuries AD, these places qualify for tourists of every taste, from leisure travellers and nature lovers to history mavericks. 

Take, for example, the architectural brilliance of the Chola dynasty. Its three revered temples — Airavatesvara in Dharasuram, Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Ariyalur district known as the 'Great Living Chola Temples,' are a testament to artistic brilliance on the many pillars and walls of these sacred spaces.

These structures tell tales of a bygone time through meticulously inscribed designs. Furthermore, nature enthusiasts can discover tranquillity aboard the Nigiri Mountain Railways' heritage toy train ride. History buffs can explore the Mamallapuram group of monuments, while those seeking natural wonders can venture into the Western Ghats, renowned for their biodiversity and scenic beauty. Take a look at the UNESCO sites which widen the tourism prospects of this heritage-infused State:

Advertisement

Advertisement