Tirunelveli is a city in Tamil Nadu. Believe us when we tell you it’s beautiful but highly underrated. Places like Tirunelveli often get overshadowed by popular destinations in the south like Munnar, Alleppey, Hampi, Madurai and others. Tourists overlook it just because it’s less famous, but today we are sharing 10 reasons why this place should be on your list. It’s an absolute full package. Be it its temples or stunning waterfalls, this destination has it all. So, sit back while we talk about the 10 best reasons to visit Tirunelveli!
10 Best Reasons To Visit Tirunelveli
1. Visit The Nellaiappar Temple
The first reason to visit Tirunelveli is the historical Nellaiappar Temple. Known for its Dravidian architecture, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Nellaiappar) and Goddess Parvati (Kanthimathi). It’s beautiful and considered one of South India’s most important temples. The large gopurams and artistic designs of this famous temple are enough reason to visit Tirunelveli.
2. Relish The Famous Tirunelveli Halwa
Tirunelveli halwa is a famous Indian sweet made from wheat, sugar and ghee. But what makes it unique? The water used in the recipe is taken from the Thamirabarani River, which gives it a special taste and texture. It’s also called Iruttu Kadai Halwa, named after the iconic shop selling it since 1900! This world-famous halwa itself is one of the best reasons to visit Tirunelveli.
3. Visit The Manimuthar Dam
It’s the biggest dam in Tirunelveli. The place offers great views of the lush greenery and the nearby Manimuthar Falls. The dam is located in a picturesque, postcard-like spot. The area is also ideal for family picnics and for your Instagram pictures. It’s a perfect, peaceful escape from rushed city life.
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4. Explore The Stunning Waterfalls
Tirunelveli is famous for its several waterfalls. Papanasam Falls and Manimuthar Falls are the two main ones, which are known for their scenic beauty. Papanasam Falls (Agasthiyar Falls) is surrounded by greenery, while Manimuthar is a popular picnic spot. If you plan to visit Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, add these waterfalls to your itinerary.
5. Try The Tirunelveli Parotta
If food is something which attracts you to a place, then start planning your trip to Tirunelveli now. Apart from its melt-in-the-mouth halwa, Tirunelveli is known for its crispy parottas. These flaky and irresistible parottas are sold at many stalls and are traditionally served with mutton curries, eggs and Chicken 65! Sound delish, right?
6. Explore Wildlife Sanctuaries
Wildlife lovers will undoubtedly enjoy Tirunelveli! The city is home to the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, which has leopards, tigers, spotted deer, pigs and many bird species. It’s also home to the Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its mountainous terrain, beautiful landscapes, and its mountain peaks, including the highest point of Sivagiri Mala! So, animal lovers, we think, this is the reason you should plan a visit to Tirunelveli for your next wildlife adventure!
7. Visit The Historical Landmarks
Apart from the Nellaiappar Temple, Tirunelveli has several historical landmarks. These include the Kattabomman Memorial Fort, the Krishnapuram Anjaneyar Temple and the Papanasanathar Temple. Moreover, these temples and structures make the whole trip more memorable. It’s one of the best reasons to visit the underrated Tirunelveli!
8. Watch The Making Of Karupatti Jaggery
Karupatti jaggery, also known as palm jaggery, has many benefits. The traditional method involves collecting sap from palm trees and simmering it over a slow fire. In Tirunelveli, you can watch this whole process. You can also taste the jaggery and take it home. It’s the perfect sweet souvenir in our opinion!
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9. Visit The Manjolai Hill Station
Along with waterfalls, Tirunelveli is known for its hill stations. The most famous is Manjolai, known for its tea plantations. It’s amazingly beautiful and still unexplored because it’s underrated. Its misty weather and peaceful ambience make it ideal for a relaxing break. This hill station is also home to dense forests, and if you love nature as much as you love good food and wildlife, it’s another one of the good reasons to visit Tirunelveli.
10. Explore The Thamirabarani River
We can’t end the list without this. Also known as Tamraparni, the river originates from the Western Ghats and flows through the Tirunelveli district. It’s also the largest reservoir of snakehead fish in the world. The river has 17 species of snakehead, which are locally called Viraal, and are also a food source for many locals.
So these are the 10 reasons to visit the underrated Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. If unexplored places interest you and spark your curiosity, plan a trip soon and let us know how it goes!
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Have you ever visited Tirunelveli? If yes, then how was your experience?
Cover Image Courtesy: Tamil Nadu Tourism/ X and Nellaiappar Temple, Wikipedia/ Theni.M.Subramani