Nagapattinam Travel Guide
Located 320 kilometres from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, Nagapattinam has one of the most thriving harbours in the country. The coastline stretches for nearly 200 km along the Bay of Bengal.
The name of the town is derived from its ancient name 'Nagore' which in turn was taken from 'Nagurs', an almost extinct aboriginal race that inhabited this place. This place has a great historical and cultural significance. Nagapattinam is renowned for its beautiful ancient temples and the ten churches built by the Dutch in the 17th century. The city has a great significance in Buddhism as well. It is mentioned as Padarithitha in ancient Buddhist literature.
Nagapattinam suffered a major setback after being hit by tsunami in 2005. However, wide scale relief and state government initiative ensured restoration of most of the monuments and buildings of historical and cultural importance.
Places to see:
Nagapattinam has a homogenous amalgamation of monuments pertaining to different cultures and religions. This place offers a beautiful example of religious harmony in this part of the country. This is one of the most important places covered in South India cultural tours. Some of the important places to be seen are:Temples in Nagapattinam:
- Shri Kayahorana Neelayathatchi Amman Temple
- Sowriraja Perumal Temple
- The Arokiya Madha Church or the Velankanni Basilica, Velankanni
- The Shrine of the Sufi saint Hazrat Meeran Sultan Syed Shahabdul Hammeed, Nagore.
- Koothanur
- Point Calimere, Bird Sanctuary and Backwaters of Kodikkarai
- Rajagopalaswamy Temple, Mannarkudi
- Thygaraja Swamy Temple and Angalamman Temple, Thirukkuvalai
- Vedaranyewarar Temple, Vedaranyam
- Shri Singaravelan Temple, Sikkal
- Tranquebar
Shopping:
Nagapattinam isn't exactly a shopper's stop. There is no spectacular item or commodity that pertains to the region or highlights the significance of the area. But, many intricately designed effigies of temples and deities carved in stone can make for perfect memorabilia or souvenirs.Where to stay:
Staying in Nagapattinam is a wonderful experience. The modest climate especially in winters ensures a pleasant stay. Most of the hotels are near places of tourist interest thereby making sightseeing easy. Apart from hotels having nice locations, there are some luxury hotels as well which tend to every need of an individual. The hotels and lodges have a nice reputation for cleanliness and hospitality.We recommend:- Comfort Inn MGM Resort
- Bethesdaa Inn MGM Vailankanni
- Hotel Chilambu
How to reach Nagapattinam:
By Air: Thiruchirapalli at a distance of 141 kms is the nearest airport. There are regular flights to Chennai and other places in the south. The airport in Chennai is well connected to all parts of the country. Taxi service at the airport is easily available.By Rail: Railway Station in Nagapattinam offers trains to Thanjavur, Thiruchirapalli, Nagore and Chennai. The trains are available at regular intervals and are convenient.
By Road: Bus services from Chennai, Thiruchirapalli, Nagore, etc. connect Nagapattinam to other places in the south. The road network is commendable.
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