Tamil Nadu can justly be called the "Temple state" - with almost every important city, town or even village possessing its own temple. The most famous of these are Mahabalipuram, Kanchipuram, Madurai, Thanjavur, Trichy, to name a few.

This state has, over the centuries, protected the traditional art forms of Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance. The Kalakshetra at Chennai stands as a guardian institution for these art forms and imparts Gurukul based training in these fields.

Tamil Nadu is India's Dravidian heartland. Traditionally protected by distance and the military might of the Southern Deccan kingdoms, this region has, over the centuries been less exposed to northern influences. With the result the powerful dynasties dominating the South - The Cholas, Pallavas & the Pandayas were able to develop their unique image, largely unmolested by marauding invaders.

The most visible legacy is the crop of astounding temples, with their gigantic gateway towers or Gopurams.

This state combines its ancient culture with the modern lifestyles mostly in its urban cities. The sea, offering beautiful beaches along, lines the eastern border of the state. The state is also famous for its rich brocaded Silk Saris and dress materials, which are unique in design, colour and texture.

Must sees at Tamil Nadu: Chennai - The vibrant state capital, combining the old Chola culture, passing through British influences & impressions, to the present day modern bustling city. The beachlines at Marina & San Thome should not be missed. Chennai - The vibrant state capital, combining the old Chola culture, passing through British influences & impressions, to the present day modern bustling city. The beachlines at Marina & San Thome should not be missed.

Mahabalipuram - famous for its rock cut temples, Kanchipuram - for the Kanchi Kamakshi temple & picking up rich brocaded silk sarees, Madurai - for the Madurai Meenakshi temple, Thanjavur - The Brihadeshwara temple with its imposing granite Gopuram.

Time permitting, a visit to Kanyakumari (the land's end) and Rameshwaram would be worthwhile

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