Meenakshi Amman temple, Madurai:

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pPc6xzTsCjg/TrqnG39lBxI/AAAAAAAAARA/gcHCwZDdaxk/s640/DSC00628.JPG

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https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OF1NQvOpPN4/Trqn8fBPVuI/AAAAAAAAARY/IR_auc4tKo4/s640/DSC00730.JPG

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https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0Qyun-E9-Hk/Trqnwu6fQrI/AAAAAAAAARQ/samK_dj7BwU/s640/DSC00728.JPG

excellent pics.. thanks subbu..

Mahabalipuram:

Shore temple
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xE58tSJ4vek/SHOIe0NZIJI/AAAAAAAAGL4/qDr4o1lvh-M/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520008.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-69SYibx82wY/SHOPwZ6yWnI/AAAAAAAAGL4/vZr2xUWqEn0/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520040.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-E8CCCz4RZhI/SHOQLmtzPPI/AAAAAAAAGL4/6gaYh2xmS9Q/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520042.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MG4StiiSASo/SHOb6UU55JI/AAAAAAAAGL4/-fHUMAtJm3U/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520083.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-tdRIGdhtx40/SHOQ0UMEVgI/AAAAAAAAGL4/aNwMgaGfjCo/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520045.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OVdoSe4yh-E/SHOc_qF1G5I/AAAAAAAAGL4/9iBZFzZOfqU/s640/MAHABALIPURAM%252520TRIP%252520085.jpg

http://epaper.dinakaran.com/pdf/2011/11/09/20111109a_005106013.jpg

-MRR/Trichyportal.com

Superb pics Subbu. Kalakuringa ponga.. :cheers:

Not exactly tn tourism but for tidbits about tn


Shilpa Nair Anand travels to Kerala’s ‘cradle of wind’ and describes the view from there

A gentle slope leads to Kuruvan mount at Ramakkalmedu. The climb is easy. On a sunny bright day vehicles can go up further, the driver says. Half way through the climb (not more than 200 metres) a shape materializes from what seems to be the other side of the hillock. And then suddenly there is a huge sculpture, in what seems to be the middle of nowhere. Step in front for a closer inspection and what a view!

Welcome to Ramakkalmedu, Kerala’s ‘cradle of wind’. The name suggests a legend and the sculptures another. The obvious one is to do with the Ramayana. There are a couple of versions of it. One says Rama came here looking for Sita, and is said to have set foot on the tallest rock (‘kal’ is stone or rock in Malayalam). Another is that Rama and Sita came there during their exile and rested on the said rock. The Kuruvan and the Ramakkal mounts face each other.

Now about story behind the sculptures or rather the couple depicted in the sculpture: the sculpture is of a Kuruvan and Kuruvathi (tribal or hill folk) and is of very recent origin, 2005 actually. Fatumma (or Fatima), who is employed at Ramakkalmedu to pick up plastic bottles and other garbage left behind by visitors, enlightens the interested tourist. “The Kuruvan and Kuruvathi showed the British the site for the Idukki dam. And then when the dam didn’t ‘sit’ properly,” she lowers her voice by several notches and whispers, “they were sacrificed. And the dam ‘sat’. This ‘statue’ is for them.” The sculpture has a tribal couple and child looking at the plains of Tamil Nadu. The sculptures look pensive and sad – or is it the effect of Fatumma’s story?

More than legends or the stories, it is the view that is amazingly wow-inspiring. Ramakkalmedu is on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. On one side you can see Theni and the windmills beyond it; on a clear day with binoculars maybe the Vaigai dam and Madurai. On the other side there is Cumbam. It is a place to feel ‘on top of the world’. Although folks recommend Ramakkalmedu on a bright and sunny day, getting there on a day of moderate rain is recommended. You can see the mist rolling in, literally. It gets misty but wait a while and it clears up quick (on a day of moderate rain, not when it pours). One minute you see everything and the next you may well be the only person on earth!

There are a couple of shelters, ostensibly to take shelter from the rain. The shelters are like mantapams, open on all sides except the roof. Ramakkalmedu is a place which has winds blowing at around 25-30 kmph – constantly. So even if there is a drizzle you get wet, shelter or no shelter. Look right from Kuruvan mount and it looks like Tamil Nadu has a farm of windmills, look left and on the Kerala side too there are wind mills. Atop hills and lush green forests they stand, majestically going round and round.

Ramakkal mount is for the adventurous. You can trek up the hillock: the climb won’t be more than a kilometre or so, but worth your while. Fatumma calls out to a couple of youngsters and warns, “Be careful. If you fall off from there, neither will we get you nor will Tamil Nadu.” The view from Ramakkalmedu at night is like standing above the sky and looking down on the shimmering sky. City lights twinkle like stars on a clear sky.

Fortunately, unlike other ‘hill stations’ there are practically no shops here, which is why the place is clean. Fatumma and her assistant keep an eye on visitors and any waste they might leave behind. It seems like a good time to declare the area a plastic-free zone, considering what plastic has done in other places.

Getting there

Ramakkalmedu is around 45 km from Thekkady and 80 km from Munnar. The nearest railway station is Kottayam (140 km). The nearest airport is at Kochi (190 km). There is a hotel at Ramakkalmedu. You can also stay at either Kattapana (20 km) or Idukki and drive up to Ramakkalmedu.

http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/travel/article2614936.ece

accompanying pic omitted

http://img.dinamalar.com/data/uploads/WR_778021.jpeg

Lightening arresters being installed in Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple

http://img.dinamalar.com/data/albums/large/1611114ec3be54e3018.jpg
Pic Source: Dinamalar

Rough sea at Pamban...waves were kissing the ongoing trains..

Metros continue to remain popular with travellers: Study

The metros continue to hold attraction for tourists as these big cities are among the 10 most popular destinations preferred by travellers, according to a study. "New Delhi is the preferred destination for both domestic as well as overseas travellers. In fact, each of large cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore hold identical positions as popular destinations -- both in the preferred list of global as well as domestic travellers. "Apart from the leading metros, Goa, Jaipur and Hyderabad also feature in both the lists," says a report by Hotels.com's hotel price index report. Goa comes in as the fifth most preferred destination for domestic travellers, it says. Hill stations like Manali in Himachal Pradesh and Ooty in Tamil Nadu continue to lure domestic travellers by ranking seven and 10, respectively. Jaipur comes sixth for domestic travellers, while international tourists show more preference for the pink city at fifth and Agra at the seventh position. Hyderabad seems to be more popular with foreign travellers at the sixth place in the international list and at the eighth position in the domestic travel list. While travelling abroad, Indians tend to choose South Asian destinations over Europe and the Americas as nine Asian cities are among the top 20 global destinations for outbound tourists. Singapore topped overseas destination followed by Bangkok, London, Hong Kong, New York and Dubai.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/metros-continue-to-remain-popular-with-travellers-study/908699.html

Tourist arrival to Thanjavur on the rise


http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/7466/ce2411mn15tnjl.jpg

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above was kumbakarai.

meghamalai falls

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suruli falls

MEGAMALAI (THE HIDDEN PARADISE) TRAVEL GUIDE:
Popularly called High Wavy Mountains, is a cool and misty mountain range situated in the Western Ghats in Theni district, Tamilnadu, South India. It is a place of natural beauty dotted with cardamom plantations and tea estates. The place is situated at an elevation of 1,500 m above sea level and it is rich in flora and fauna. This area, now mostly planted with tea, includes Cloudlands, Highwavys and Manalaar estates, the access to which is now largely restricted. It still includes large untouched remnants of evergreen forest

Megamalai is located on the slopes of the Western Ghats, amidst the lush green Tea plantations and Cardamom estates. It is popularly called 'High Wavy Mountains'. It is a cool and misty mountain range and lies at a distance of 130 km from Madurai. A perfect place for nature lovers, its altitude is 1,500 m above sea level. The vegetation of the Meghamalai hills includes scrub forests at the foothills, stretches of tea and coffee estates, spice plantations of pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and the dense evergreen forest cover.

Being very close to the forest, a number of wild animals can be seen roaming here. Megamalai is also host to a wide variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and butterflies. The most commonly seen animals are Tiger, Leopard, Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar, Porcupine, Nilgiri Langur, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Common Langur, Bonnet Macaque, Sloth Bear, Grey Jungle Fowl, Smooth-Coated Otter and Flying Squirrel. Resident and migratory elephants can also be seen wandering in groups here.

It is also an ideal place for bird watching. In the forests over 100 species of birds have been identified. The Meghamalai ranges are also the birth place of the Megamalai fall. This fall descends from a stream originating from the hills. It is also known as the Clouds Land Falls and serves as the rendezvous of many wild animals. Megamalai falls are round-the-year falls that do not run dry. Another important range around Megamalai is Vellimalai, also known as the Silver Mountain.

At an altitude of 1650 m, Vellimalai forms the heart of Meghamalai. Silver-lined clouds gently resting on green hilltops is a common sight here. This region is also the abode of river Vaigai. The hill range also provides a wonderful view of the entire range of Varusanadu Hills. With tea and coffee estates, houses of plantation workers and an artificial lake, there is plenty of scope for enjoying the natural beauty.

The originating place of Suruli Theertham (Suruli falls near Cumbum town) are popular attractions for tourists. Tamil Nadu Forest Department is planning to establish the Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary in an area of 600 sq km of the forest in the division. The Sanctuary will serve as an excellent buffer to the Periyar Tiger Reserve and will also help in strengthening the conservation efforts in the South-Western Ghats.

We walked together 2km to explore the new nature world. The climate is changing just like that between a minute, It was a most memorable for me to explore this experience. It's a first tourist spot never seen a beggar, polluted tourist spot/vehicles
Mr.Murugan business center which is next to the Highwavys town panchayat cottage, A single day accommodation cost Rs.500 with the neat environment in a new building. Those who needed to stay at the cottage can be contacted to Mr.Murugan. We have taken good home made food from Murugan Business centre with great hospitality and thanked his family.

The Roads are witnessed completely damaged, came to know that roads were laid by private concerns from the Tea estate. 18 Hair Pin Bends are leads to the Megamalai and found no safety pillars and brigades.

Routes:

Bangalore-salem-Dindigul-Theni-Chinnamannor-Magamalai-Highwavys

Chennai - Trichy --Dindigul --Theni --Chinnamanoor -Megamalai-Highwavys

Chinnamanoor is located in between Theni and Cumbam
Distance from:

Madurai-185KM Dindigul-165KM

Chinnamanoor to Highwavys, Magamalai --45KM --3 Hours travel .

Bus Timings: For UP Hill 3:30am-From Theni 4:00am-From Chinnamannor 4:30am-From Theni 5:00am-From Chinnamannor 9:30am-From Chinnamannor For Down Hill 3:00, 8:00, 9:00, 15:00,17:00, 18:00hrs Bus timings are subject to change, due to very bad Road condition.

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text and video to uploader

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vellimalai

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Thanks Kumar for the info and videos.

I like these locations so much and I have gone there many times.

Comparatively less spoilt by Tourism culture of TN.

Amaravathi reservoir brimming to its full level...

http://img.dinamalar.com/data/albums/large/2811114ed38340d3a85.jpg

Pic courtesy: Dinamalar

Kumbakarai Falls & Suruli Falls pakkumbothu Gyabagam Varudhe - Gyabagam Varudhe.

We had our NCC (Junior) camp near Periyakulam Forest range. I, being the company seargent (for the whole camp) was tested to the brink by fellow cadets. They would simply vanish into the nearby forest for a few hours and it was my job to keep them on leash.

The real military trainers who were with us were more interested in exploring the nearby areas for Nattukkattais.

We had some war Game exercises with dummy bullets but real 0.22 Rifles near Kumbakkarai & Suruli Falls.

We marched the entire distance and it was a welcome change to jump into the water.

While taking the Sarukkan Parai (sliding) my shorts got torn and had a very embarrassing moment as I had no other dress to wear.

I do not know whether still NCC is a popular Extra Curricular activity in schools and whether they go on these types of training camps.

I got selected for Delhi Republic Day parade (1977) mainly because of the points I earned at this camp. Golden Days.

(P.S. Sorry for the digression)

I got selected for Delhi Republic Day parade (1977) mainly because of the points I earned at this camp. Golden Days.


This was always my dream, but never came true :( - Cadet - 1(TN) Comp Tech Coy :)

This was always my dream, but never came true :( - Cadet - 1(TN) Comp Tech Coy :)

Oh! I never knew that they have a Comp Tech Coy now.

During our days all electronics & communication used to be under Signal Corp Coy.

I underwent a 7 day program in Signalling ( I did not pass though - as my English & Hindi were bad / not enough).

My son's school does not even have NCC. :bash:

I wish our edu system includes military training in the curriculam. One can experience many aspects of practical Life here.

^^ Well, I am talking about early 90's. Our OC was in Anna University, love those days.. especially when we have firing camps and free breakfast twice a week :)

Every time we wore the uniform, it instilled a sense of pride. I would spend hours and hours just polishing the boots and the belt. :)

Many private schools don't have NCC or even Scout these days. :bash:

http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/373837_245835798812150_100001571956908_694859_158396760_n.jpg

^^TN Govt. should promote this water-falls atleast for its season b/w September - February..

Really A wonderful entertaining location for Madurai people in just 30 Kms distance..:cheers:

If there ever was a feast for sore eyes, it has to be Meghamalai, popularly known as the ‘High Wavy Mountain,’ nestled in the Western Ghats in Thenai district.
When I set out on this trip I never had an inkling that it would turn out to be such a serene and scenic journey, given that the weather really got to me at the check post. But the adventurist in me kept me going and I continued to climb to the top of the range.
The roads could not possibly get any narrower for a motor road, I thought, but they were surprisingly well maintained and two vehicles could cross with a bit of caution.
As I climbed higher the cool misty mountain range revealed its hidden beauty to me and the clouds descended as if to pat me on my back for finding total bliss up in the heavens. The roads became broader and forest more silent and the chill in the air intensified. There were times when I could not see the sky through the thick canopy of the forest.
The silence of the forest was broken only by some sounds from the nearby tea estates and the scuttling sound of an animal now and then.
The people are mostly occupied in the plantations and surprisingly climb up and down the steep mountain slopes daily to and from work, trekking 20 km on an average every day.
The range itself is 2,000 meters above sea level with a view of the valleys and permanent and temporary waterfalls decorating the mountainside. The dam at the summit creates a pristine lake that looks like a pearl in the mountains, giving them the final touch of beautification. It’s a sight that cannot be described by words alone.
Accommodation and food options are hard to come by. However, there are very few private bungalows that offer the basic requirements for a hardened adventurist like me and the place is quite suitable for hiking and bird watching.
Location: Meghamalai is located in Theni district. It can be reached via two routes from Madurai. Theni (via Chinnamanoor) and from Andipatti (via Kandamanayakanoor).
Meghamalai delights
It’s not enough to go to Meghamalai and just drive to the top of the mountain peak. There are a variety of sights and sounds that are worth indulging in. Here’s a list of some of the nicest things to do in and around
Meghamalai falls:
A beautiful 190 feet high waterfalls is special as it embodies a twin-waterfall that flows throughout the year.
Vellimalai:
Vellimalai or silver hills is in the heart of Meghamalai, where silver seem to come down to caress the humans who collect there. It is here that the river Vaigai originates and is also where one can see aesthetically and scientifically designed tea estates.
Forests:
Upper Manalaru, Maharaja Mettu and Iravangalaru are fringed by forests with rich flora and fauna.
Dams: The hill is home to six dams. From Manalar dam, one can view the deep Cumbum valley and the villages in Theni.
Shopping bag
The mountain range of Meghamalai is well known for its tea and cardamom plantations. Spread for acres, these plantations don’t just make for great picnic spots but also provide the prefect gift to take back home for near and dear ones.
Hop in to any one of the stores close to the plantations and indulge in some good-quality tea leaves and fragrant cardamom to take back home.
Top tip
It’s back to start back from the range around 4 pm as the roads and lighting conditions are very bad due to the thick and dense forest.
It is advisable to drive carefully in these dirt paths. Recently TN tourism took over the tourism in this mountain range and better accommodation and better facilities can soon be expected.
The writer is a travel
photographer and an
adventure junkie

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/lifestyle/wanderlust/meghamalai-blissful-retreat-772

cross post of maduraikaranda from mdu thread

TN: Enchanting destination

The Tamil Nadu Government is engaged in implementing various infrastructure schemes under the public-private partnership model to promote Tamil Nadu as an international tourist destination. Infrastructure development includes improving roads and connectivity and providing basic facilities across the State. The State Tourism Department is also keen to impart soft skills to the local community to make a livelihood through tourism.

Tamil Nadu ranks No. 2 in India (after Maharashtra) in attracting foreign tourists and No. 3 in domestic tourism (after Tirumala and Agra), says Mr V. K. Jeyakodi, Principal Secretary to Government, Tourism and Culture Department, Tamil Nadu Government.

The tourism industry in Tamil Nadu has been growing at 10-12 per cent every year. Last year, the State attracted 28 lakh foreign tourists and 10 crore domestic tourists.

The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) raked a total business of Rs 100 crore last year. TTDC today operates 53 hotels, nine boat houses and 25 luxury buses across the State. Tamil Nadu is keen to promote eco-tourism, rural and heritage tourism, says Mr Jeyakodi. “We are promoting Kolli Hills as an eco-tourism paradise, to decongest Ooty and Kodaikanal. Yelagiri, Mudumalai and Yercaud also offer eco-tourism potential,” says Mr Jeyakodi. In co-ordination with the forest department, the State is also trying to popularise Kalakkad and Mundanthurai tiger reserve (in Tirunelveli) among eco tourists.

“We have identified villages in each district in the State under rural tourism. We will improve roads and basic facilities here. We also want to provide capacity development training to the local community with the help of NGOs, so that self-help groups can market the local handicraft,” says Mr Jeyakodi.

Heritage, pilgrimage

As part of its heritage tourism drive, the State Government is endorsing the Danish Fort at Tharangambadi, Thanjavur Palace and the Chettinadu region for its palaces and the tile-making centre at Athangudi.

For the religiously inclined, the ‘Navagraha circuit' presents a rich offering of nine planet temples. The Navagraha temples are situated within 60-km radius from Swamimalai.

Then there are the temples in Kumbakonam, Thanjavur (big temple), Madurai (Meenakshi temple) and Kancheepuram, with their striking gopurams and soaring heights.

“Mamallapuram has become a must-visit destination for foreign tourists,” says Mr Jeyakodi. This small town is dotted with historical monuments, rock carvings and temples, the most famous being the Shore Temple.

For a serene retreat amid soothing backwaters, there's the Pichavaram Mangrove forest.

The Department will spend close to Rs 60 crore on various activities to showcase Tamil Nadu as a vibrant tourist spot.

Dance festival at Mamallapuram, daily hop-on hop-off tours to Mamallapuram, week-long trips and customised tours such as the Amman Temple tour are some of the activities the Tourism Department is engaged in.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-others/tp-editorial-feature/article2692974.ece

http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/1444/71099512.jpg

View from Kolli hills

Namakkal in distant far.


http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6429225299_9538986a35_b.jpg

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6059/6429293285_39a7a43969_b.jpg

Source-Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71102111@N06/)

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Kolli Hills - Namakkal

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4061/4704710980_391f489b2f_o.jpg

Flickr-Source (http://www.flickr.com/photos/chubbychandru/)

^^ Nice... :) :cheers:

Beautiful.. :cheers:

There are plans to make the Kolli hills as an eco-tourism spot. Looks like a lovely place!
But, they should ensure proper infra before that.. Plastics should be banned outright.

Kolli Hills used to be our regular week end destination during my REC (NIT) Days.

A small piece of advice for the Folks who trek.

Please do not take Biscuits (flour based snacks also) while trekking. You may get choked.

One may tend to breath through mouth more while trekking at higher altitudes or climbing.It may happen that these foods choke your wind pipe.

Even the quantity of water for thirst should be just enough and certainly not excess.

Avoid Alcohol on the previous night. I find most of us take Beer / alcohol even during the treks. It is very dangerous as your body may get dehydrated quickly. It may also affect your split second decisions during any emergency.

Kannan sir,

Idhuvum experiencu?:lol::rofl::rofl:

:jk:

Breathtaking pics! Thanks for sharing.

TN: Enchanting destination

The tourism industry in Tamil Nadu has been growing at 10-12 per cent every year. Last year, the State attracted 28 lakh foreign tourists and 10 crore domestic tourists.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-others/tp-editorial-feature/article2692974.ece

Any one know how this is calculated? Especially foreign tourists, by the number of foreigners that arrive through one of the airports? If so, how are the tourists that arrive through other means accounted?

Vivekanandar rock and thiruvalluvar statue to get more illumination in night from main land.

http://epaper.dinakaran.com/pdf/2011/12/15/20111215a_006107012.jpg

Is it possible to build a small airports at ooty and kodai which can handle small aircrafts? if so, this will be a great boost to tourism.
For ex: If any corporate is planning to have offsite meeting outside Chennai, but in India with not more than 1hr – 1.30 hrs flight travel - the first place preferred is cochin, wellington island, Vaitri resort etc, else some where in Bangalore .
If we have very good 5* resorts in & around CBE, Ooty, kodai & Yercaud with easy accessability these can be chosen as apt venues.

amam helipadukke vali kannum. otherwise kodanad trip would have been easy activist will be up in arms and envi minstry will cry foul.

சுற்றுலா தலங்கள்:முதல்வர் உத்தரவு

சென்னை, டிச.18:சுற்றுலா பயணிகளை கவரும் வண்ணம் சென்னை மற்றும் திருச்சியில் சிங்கப்பூரில் உள்ள சென்டோசா பூங்காவைப் போன்ற சுற்றுலா பூங்காக்கள் தலா 50 கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில் அமைக்கப்படும் என்று முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா உத்தரவிட்டுள்ளார்.
.
இதேபோல காஞ்சிபுரம், கடலூர், தஞ்சாவூர், மதுரை, விருதுநகர், திருநெல்வேலி, கன்னியாகுமரி உள்ளிட்ட மாவட்டங்களில் உள்ள முக்கிய ஆன்மீக தலங்களை 450 கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில் மேம்படுத்துவதற்கும் முதலமைச்சர் உத்தரவிட்டுள்ளார்.

ஊரக சுற்றுலா தொகுப்பு மேம்பாட்டு திட்டத்தின் கீழ் செட்டிநாட்டு பகுதிகள் மற்றும் தஞ்சை, திருநெல்வேலி, கன்னியாகுமரி, கோவை உள்ளிட்ட மாவட்டங்களில் உள்ள முக்கிய பகுதிகள் சுற்றுலா தலமாக உருவாக்கப்பட வேண்டும் என்று அவர் உத்தரவிட்டுள்ளார்.
இது தொடர்பாக தமிழக அரசு இன்று வெளியிட்டுள்ள செய்திக்குறிப்பு வருமாறு:

சுற்றுலா என்பது ஒரு நாட்டின் வளர்ச்சிக்கு உந்துகோலாகவும், ஒருமைப்பாட்டிற்கு உறுதுணையாகவும், இளமை காலத்தில் அறிவை யும், முதுமைக் காலத்தில் அனுபவத்தையும், தரக்கூடியதாக விளங்குகிறது. பொருளாதார வள மைக்கான ஊக்க சக்தியாகவும், சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகளின் மனதிற்கு புத்துணர்ச்சி மற்றும் மகிழ்ச்சி அளிப்பதோடு புதிய அனுபவங்களை சுற்றுலா அளிக்கிறது. வான் வழி, ரயில், தரை வழிப் போக்குவரத்து மற்றும் கடல் வழிப் போக்குவரத்து, தங்கும் விடுதிகள், தொலைத் தொடர்பு மற்றும் பல்வேறு துறைகளிலும் பன்முக பொருளாதார வளர்ச்சிக்கான தாக்கத்தினை சுற்றுலா ஏற்படுத்துகிறது.

சுற்றுலா நேரடி வேலை வாய்ப்பினை உருவாக்குவதோடு, அதன் மறைமுக தாக்கமாக உள்ளுர் மக்களின் மேம்பாட்டையும் உறுதிப்படுத்துகிறது. சேவைத் துறை என்ற நிலையிலிருந்து, ரத்தினங்கள் மற்றும் ஆபரணங்கள் தொழில், தகவல் தொழில் நுட்பம் மற்றும் பொறியியல் சாதனங்கள் உற்பத்தி போன்ற தொழில்களைப் போல, முன்னணி ஏற்றுமதி தொழிலாக உருவாகி வரும் சுற்றுலாத்துறைக்கு, முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா தலைமையிலான அரசு ஆக்கமும், ஊக்கமும், முன்னுரிமையும் அளித்து வருகிறது. உலகத் தரம் வாய்ந்த சுற்றுலா உள்கட்டமைப்பு வசதிகளை உருவாக்குதலுக்கும், சுற்றுலாத் தலங்களை சந்தைப்படுத்துதலுக்கும் ஒரு புதிய ஊக்கம் அளிக்கப்பட்டு வருகிறது.

சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகளுக்கு போக்குவரத்து, தங்குமிடம், உணவு போன்றவை எளிதாகவும், நல்லமுறையிலும் கிடைக்க ஏற்பாடுகள் செய்வதன் மூலம், அவர்கள் பயணம் செய்த இடத்திற்கே மீண்டும் வருகை புரிவதற்கும், அவர்களின் நல்ல அனுபவத்தை பிறருக்கு பகிர்வதன் மூலம் கூடுதல் பயணிகள் வருகை புரிவதற்கும் வழிவகுக்கும்.

இந்த ஆண்டு சுற்றுலா பூங்கா மேம்பாடு, ஊரக சுற்றுலாத் தொகுப்பு மேம்பாடு, சுற்றுலா சுற்றுகளின் ஒருங்கிணைந்த உள்கட்டமைப்பு மேம்பாடு, திறன் மேம்பாடு, சாலை யோர சுற்றுலா வசதிகள், தமிழ்நாடு சுற்றுலாவின் தூய்மை கழிப்பிட விழிப்புணர்வு திட்டம், ஹெலிகாப்டர் சுற்றுலா, சொகுசுக் கப்பல் சுற்றுலா மற்றும் கம்பி வழி சுற்றுலா (ரோப் கார்) திட்டம் என
7 முக்கிய பரிமாணங்களுடன் தமிழகத்தில் சுற்றுலாவை மேம்படுத்த திட்டங்களை வகுக்குமாறு மாண்புமிகு தமிழக முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா ஆணையிட்டுள்ளார்.

சுற்றுலா பூங்காக்கள் அமைத்தல் என்ற திட்டத்தின்படி, சிங்கப்பூரிலுள்ள சென்டோசா பூங்காவைப் போன்று இரண்டு பூங்காக்கள், ஒன்று சென்னையிலும், மற்றொன்று திருச்சியிலும், சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகளை கவரும் வண்ணம், எல்லாவித பொழுதுபோக்கு அம்சங்களுடன் ஒவ்வொன்றும் 50 கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில் அமைக்கப்படும்.

ஊரக சுற்றுலா தொகுப்பு மேம்பாட்டு திட்டத்தின் கீழ், தனித்துவம் வாய்ந்த கைவினைப் பொருட்கள், பராம்பரியக் கலைகள் ஆகியவற்றைத் தன்னகத்தே கொண்ட, 5 முதல் 7 கிராமங்களைக் கண்டறிந்து, அவற்றை ஒரு சுற்றுலா தொகுப்பு கிராமமாக உருவாக்கி, வர்த்தக யுக்தியாக மேம்படுத்தும் வகையில், சிவகங்கை மாவட்டம், காரைக்குடி, பிள்ளையார்பட்டி, கானாடுகாத்தான், ஆத்தங்கடி ஆகிய செட்டிநாட்டு பகுதிகள்; தஞ்சாவூர் மாவட்டத்தில் கும்பகோணம், சுவாமி மலை, தாராசுரம், பட்டீஸ்வரம், நாச்சியார் கோவில் பகுதிகள்; திருநெல்வேலி மாவட்டத்தில் கல்லிடைக்குறிச்சி, அம்பாசமுத்திரம், பாபநாசம், முண்டந்துறை பகுதிகள்; கன்னியாகுமரி மாவட்டம், சுசீந்திரம், திற்பரப்பு, திருவட்டார், உதயகிரி, தேங்காய்பட்டினம் பகுதிகள்; மதுரை மாவட்டம், அழகர்கோவில், பழமுதிர்சோலை, மேலூர், நரசிங்கம்பட்டி பகுதிகள்; கோயம்புத்தூர் மாவட்டம், பொள்ளாச்சி, ஆனைமலை, ஆழியார் பகுதிகள்; நாமக்கல் மாவட்டம், கொல்லிமலை ஆகிய பகுதிகள் சுற்றுலாத் தலமாக உருவாக்கப்பட முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா உத்தரவிட்டுள்ளார்.

ஒருங்கிணைந்த உட்கட்டமைப்பு மேம்பாடு திட்டத்தின் கீழ், ஆசிய வளர்ச்சி வங்கியின் கடன் உதவி திட்டத்தின் கீழ், தமிழ்நாட்டில் இரண்டு முக்கிய சுற்றுலா சுற்றுகள், கிழக்கு கடற்கரை சுற்றுலாச் சுற்று (ஆன்மீக மற்றும் பாரம்பரிய சுற்று) காஞ்சிபுரம், கடலூர், நாகப்பட்டினம், திருவாரூர் மற்றும் தஞ்சாவூர் மாவட்டங்கள் மற்றும் தென்னக சுற்றுலாச் சுற்று (ஆன்மீகம் மற்றும் சுற்றுச் சூழல் சுற்று) மதுரை, ராமநாதபுரம், விருதுநகர், திருநெல்வேலி, தூத்துக் குடி மற்றும் கன்னியாகுமரி ஆகிய மாவட்டங்களில் சுற்றுலாவுக்கு உகந்த தலங்கள் கண்டறியப்பட்டு, அவைகளை 450 கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில் 2011 முதல் 2020 வரையிலான பத்து ஆண்டுக ளில் மேம்படுத்த முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா உத்தரவிட்டார்.

முதற்கட்டமாக, கிழக்கு கடற்கரை சுற்றுலாச் சுற்று 2011ஆம் ஆண்டு தொடங்கப்பட உள்ளது. இதனை தொடர்ந்து தென்னகச் சுற்றுலா சுற்றும் விரைவில் தொடங்கப்படும் ,திறன் மேம்படுத்தல் திட்டத்தின் கீழ், 28 வயது வரையுள்ள எட்டாம் வகுப்பு தேர்ச்சி பெற்ற 3,500 இளைஞர்களுக்கு, உணவு மற்றும் பானங்கள் தயாரிப்பிலும், உணவு வழங்கும் சேவைப் பிரிவிலும், பயிற்சி அளிக்கப்படும். 500 இளைஞர்களுக்கு, தனியார் ஒட்டுநர் பயிற்சி மூலம் வாகன ஒட்டுநர் பயிற்சி வழங்கவும் நடவடிக்கை எடுக்கப்படும்.

சாலையோர சுற்றுலா வசதிகள் திட்டத்தின் கீழ், தமிழ்நாட்டிலுள்ள அனைத்து முக்கிய சுற்றுலாத் தலங்களையும் இணைக்கும் வகையில், தேசிய மற்றும் மாநில நெடுஞ்சாலை பகுதிகளில் 25 இடங்களில் சாலையோர சுற்றுலா வசதிகள், அரசு மற்றும் தனியார் பங்களிப்புடன் உருவாக்க நடவடிக்கை எடுக்கப்படும்.

மேலும், தமிழ்நாட்டிலுள்ள அனைத்து சுற்றுலாத் தலங்களிலும், தரம் வாய்ந்த தூய்மையான கழிப்பிடங்கள் மற்றும் ஓய்வறைகள், அரசு மற்றும் தனியார் பங்களிப்புடன் உருவாக்கப்படும். இவையன்றி, சுற்றுலா பயணிகளை கவருவதற்காக நவீன முறையில் ஹெலிகாப்டர் மற்றும் சொகுசு கப்பல்கள் மூலம் தமிழ்நாட்டிலுள்ள சுற்றுலாத் தலங்களை இணைக்க நடவடிக்கை எடுத்திடவும் முதலமைச்சர் ஜெயலலிதா உத்தரவிட்டுள்ளார். இதேபோன்று மலை வாசஸ்தலங்களில் உள்ள சுற்றுலாத் தலங்களை இணைத்திடும் வகையில் அரசு மற்றும் தனியார் பங்களிப்புடன் கம்பி வழிச் சுற்றுலா (ரோப் கார்) திட்டம் செயல்படுத்தப்படும்.

இந்த புதிய சுற்றுலா திட்டங்கள் மூலம், தமிழகம் உலக சுற்றுலா வரைப்படத்தில் முக்கிய இடத்தை அடைவது மட்டுமல்லாமல், அதிக அளவில் உள்நாட்டு மற்றும் வெளிநாட்டு சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகளை கவரவும் இது வழி வகுக்கும்.

http://www.maalaisudar.com/newsindex...0&%20section=1 (http://www.maalaisudar.com/newsindex.php?id=37716%20&%20section=1)

Chennai, Dec 18 (PTI) In an ambitious programme to boost the tourism sector in the state, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has asked officials to prepare a seven-point porgramme covering various aspects of tourism, allocating Rs 500 crore for this purpose. The seven-point programme would cover cruise and helicopter trips, rope car facilities at hill stations, developing rural tourism by way of a village cluster programme and infrastructure development among others, a state government release here said. The government would spend Rs 50 crore in developing modern tourist parks on the lines of Sentosa Park in Singapore, at Chennai and Tiruchirappally, it said. The village cluster tourism would involve creating a cluster of 5 to 7 villages based on the arts and handicrafts of their native land and this plan will cover various rural parts in the state. Besides these measures, tourist circuits with integrated infastructure development, religious, environmental and heritage tours have to be identified and developed in districts including Madurai, Tirunelveli and Virudhunagar among others over a period of ten years from 2011-2020, the release said. A sum of Rs 450 crore had been sanctioned for this purpose. Further, road-side amenities will be provided at 25 places on state and national highways on public-private mode. The abovesaid measures would boost the tourism industry of Tamil Nadu and 4,000 youth would be trained in various vocational courses including food and beverages and driving, the release said.


http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/tn-to-follow-7point-programme-to-boost-tourism/935478.html

^^

Let us wait and see the implementation.

7 new plans to promote and develop tourism in TN

http://img269.imageshack.us/img269/4888/21327343.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/269/21327343.jpg/)

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அறிவிக்கப்பட்டு 20 ஆண்டுகள் ஆகியும் பறவைகள் சரணாலயமாக செயல்படாத வடுவூர் ஏரி
அறிவிக்கப்பட்டு 20 ஆண்டுகள் ஆகியும் பறவைகள் சரணாலயமாக செயல்படாத வடுவூர் ஏரி
பதிவு செய்த நாள் : 12/19/2011 12:37:40 AM
கருத்துகள் கருத்துகளை தெரிவிக்க

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/135/tamildailynewspaper8196.jpg

மன்னார்குடி : பறவைகள் சரணாலயமாக அறிவிக்கப்பட்டு 20 ஆண்டுகள் ஆகியும் செயல்பட துவங்காத வடுவூர் ஏரியை சீரமைக்க வேண்டும் என்று அப்பகுதி மக்கள் கோரிக்கை விடுத்துள்ளனர். திருவாரூர் மாவட்டம் மன்னார்குடியில் இருந்து தஞ்சை செல்லும் சாலையில் வடுவூர் ஏரி உள்ளது. 128 ஹெக்டேர் பரப்பளவு கொண்ட இது தமிழகத்தில் 3வது பெரிய ஏரி. இந்த ஏரிக்கு ஆண்டுதோறும் வெளிநாட்டு பறவைகள் வந்து செல்வதால் கடந்த 1991ம் ஆண்டு இது பறவைகள் சரணாலயமாக அறிவிக்கப்பட்டது.

இந்த சரணாலயத்திற்கு மத்திய ஆசியா, திபெத், லடாக், ரஷ்யா போன்ற நாடுகளில் இருந்து நாரை, நீர்காகம், புள்ளிமூக்கு, கூழக்கடா, ஊசிவால் நாத்து, நாமக்கோழி, சிறவி, பவளக்கால் உள்ளான் உள்ளிட்ட 40 வகையான பறவைகள் வந்து செல்கின்றன. டிசம்பர் மாதத்தில் இச்சரணாலயத்தில் பறவைகள் சீசன் துவங்கும். தற்போது சீசன் துவங்கியும் சுற்றுலாத்தலமாக மேம்படுத்தப்படாமல் உள்ளதால் இங்கு சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் அதிகளவில் வருவதில்லை.

வடுவூர் ஏரியில் கடந்த 50 ஆண்டுகளாக மிகப்பெரிய தூர் வாரும் பணி எதுவும் நடைபெறவில்லை. அவ்வப்போது பறவைகளுக்காக மணல் திட்டுகளை அமைக்கவும், காடுகளை அதிகப்படுத்தவும், காட்டாமணக்கு செடிகளை அழிக்கவும் தற்காலிக பணிகள் மேற்கொள்ளப்படுகின்றன. ஏரியை நிர்வகிக்கும் பொதுப்பணித் துறை மற்றும் வனத் துறையினர் தூர் வாருவதில் மெத்தனம் காட்டிவருகின்றனர்.

ஆற்றில் தண்ணீர் வரும்போது ஏரி நிறைந்தும், தண்ணீர் வரவில்லை என்றால் ஏரி வறண்டும் போய்விடுகிறது. இதனால் ஆண்டு முழுவதும் பறவைகள் இருப்பதும் இல்லை. இதனால் சீசன் காலத்தில் கூட சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் வருவதில்லை. பறவைகளை பார்த்து ரசிப்பதற்காக போடப்பட்ட பார்வையாளர் மாடமும் பயன்படுத்தப்படாமல் சிதிலமடைந்துவிட்டது. எனவே, ஏரியை தூர் வாரி தண்ணீர் தேக்க வசதி செய்தால், சரணாலயத்திற்கு பயனுள்ளதாக இருக்கும் என்கின்றனர் இப்பகுதி மக்கள்.

ரூ.1.75 கோடி திட்டம்

வடுவூரை சேர்ந்த ராமச்சந்திரன் என்பவர் கூறுகையில், கடந்த 2 ஆண்டுக்கு முன் முழுமையாக தூர் வாருவதற்காக ஸீ1.75 கோடியில் திட்டம் தயாரிக்கப்பட்டு, கோப்பு நிலையிலேயே உள்ளது. கட்டுமான பொருட்களின் விலையேற்றம் காரணமாக அத்திட்டத்தை புதுப்பித்துதான் அனுப்பவேண்டும் என அதிகாரிகள் தெரிவிக்கின்றனர். எனவே தூர் வாருவதற்கு பொதுப்பணித்துறை நடவடிக்கை எடுக்கவேண்டும் என்றார்.

இளங்கோவன் என்பவர் கூறுகையில், ஏரியின் இந்த நிலை தொடர்ந்தால் வடுவூரை சுற்றியுள்ள கிராமங்களின் நீராதாரம் குறைந்துவிடும். கரைகளை பலப்படுத்தி, நடைபாதை அமைத்து சுற்றுலா பயணிகளுக்கு ரம்மியமான சூழலை உருவாக்கித்தர வேண்டும். படகு சவாரிக்கு ஏற்பாடு செய்ய வேண்டும். பறவைகள் சரணாலயத்தை பற்றி தஞ்சையிலேயே சுற்றுலாத்துறை மூலம் விளம்பரம் செய்ய வேண்டும் என்றார்.

MK says tourism saw growth only in his rule.

இது தான் சுற்றுலா வளர்ச்சியா? அரசுக்கு கருணாநிதி கேள்வி

சென்னை:"தி.மு.க., ஆட்சியில் தான், தமிழகத்தில் சுற்றுலா வளர்ந்தது' என, அக்கட்சித் தலைவர் கருணாநிதி தெரிவித்துள்ளார்.



அவரது அறிக்கை:தமிழக சுற்றுலாவை மேம்படுத்துவதற்காக, ஏழு முக்கிய பரிமாணங்களுடன் புதிய திட்டங்களை வகுக்குமாறு முதல்வர் ஜெயலலிதா உத்தரவிட்டிருக்கிறாராம். சுற்றுலாவை வளர்க்க புதிய அவதாரம் எடுத்துள்ள ஜெயலலிதா, அண்ணாதுரை நூற்றாண்டு நினைவாக 200 கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில், ஆசியாவிலேயே மிகப் பெரிய அளவுக்கு எழுப்பப்பட்டுள்ள நூலகத்தை மாற்றப்போவதாக அறிவித்தாரே, அது சுற்றுலாவை வளர்க்கிற செயலா?



உலகத் தமிழ்ச் செம்மொழி மாநாடு நடந்ததன் நினைவாக, சென்னை அண்ணா மேம்பாலம் அருகில் ஒரு மிகப் பெரிய பூங்காவை, "செம்மொழிப் பூங்கா' என்ற பெயரில் அமைத்து, அன்றாடம் நூற்றுக்கணக்கானவர்கள் கண்டு மகிழச் செய்தது, சுற்றுலாவை வளர்க்கும் காரியமாக ஜெயலலிதாவுக்குத் தெரியவில்லையா? அந்தப் பூங்காவைத் திறந்து வைத்த என் பெயரைக் கூட, சிறுமணி கொண்டு மறைக்கச் செய்தது, சுற்றுலாவை வளர்க்கும் பணியா?சென்னை அடையாறில், மாணவர்கள் பெரிதும் பயன் பெற வேண்டுமென்ற எண்ணத்தோடு, "தொல்காப்பியப் பூங்கா' அமைக்கப்பட்டது, சுற்றுலாவை வளர்க்க வேண்டுமென்ற நோக்கத்தோடு தானே.



அந்தப் பூங்கா, இந்த ஆட்சியினரால் பராமரிக்கப்படுகிறதா? இவற்றை எல்லாம் அழிக்கிற முயற்சியில் ஈடுபட்டு விட்டு, சுற்றுலாவை வளர்ப்பதற்காக 100 கோடி ரூபாயில் திட்டம் என்பது, யாரை ஏமாற்றுகிற செயலாக ஜெயலலிதா கருதுகிறார்?கடந்த 2005ன் இறுதியில், ஜெயலலிதா ஆட்சிப் பொறுப்பை விட்டுச் சென்றபோது, தமிழகத்துக்கு வந்த சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகள் வருகை 7.7 சதவீதமாக இருந்தது. 2010ல் பயணிகள் வருகை 32 சதவீதமாக உயர்ந்தது. தமிழகத்தில் சுற்றுலா திட்டங்களுக்காக 2004ல் ஒதுக்கப்பட்ட தொகை 31.29 கோடி ரூபாய். 2009ல் இந்தத் தொகை 65.54 கோடி ரூபாயாக உயர்ந்தது தி.மு.க., ஆட்சியில் தான். எனவே, சுற்றுலா திட்டம் வளர்க்கப்பட்டது தி.மு.க., ஆட்சியில் தான்.இவ்வாறு கருணாநிதி தெரிவித்துள்ளார்

http://www.dinamalar.com/News_detail.asp?Id=370562

cross post http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00859/08dec_tyramns01_Bir_859764e.jpg

Bird species from different habitats, including some endangered ones, were recorded during a pilot bird survey conducted in the reserve forests of the scenic Pachamalai hills in the district recently.

The three-day study involving ornithologists, bird researcher, bird call specialist, bird photographers and field biologist besides Forest Department officials was carried out to estimate bird species composition, distribution, diversity and their abundance in Pachamalai hills, which are part of the Eastern Ghats.

The first phase of the survey was conducted by the Tiruchi Forest Division with technical support from Dr. G. Christopher of the Advanced Centre of Environmental Studies, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, from December 3 to 5.

Notable among the 28 species of migratory birds recorded in the green hill range were the Common Rose Finch, Warbler, Asian Paradise, Greenish leaf, Fly Catcher and Common Buzzard.

Eight nocturnal species including Brown Fish Owl, Jungle Owlet, Collared Scops Owl; 13 species of Raptors such as Rufous-bellied Hawk Eagle; White- eyed Buzzard; Short-toed Snake-Eagle and Booted Eagle were also recorded.

Birds of evergreen forest such as Bronze Drongo; Yellow-browed Bulbul; Tickell's Leaf Warbler; Large-billed Leaf Warbler and the Yellow-throated Bulbul, a threatened species endemic in Peninsular India, have also been recorded. Western Ghats endemic bird - Rufous Barbler and Emerald Dove, the State bird of Tamil Nadu, were also sighted during the study.

Two camps were set up - one at Sobanapuram and the other at Top Sengattupatti - to carry out the survey and 10 transects were surveyed each representing different attitudes and habitat types. The survey was based on species encounter method and transect walks were taken up in the mornings and evenings at a pace of two kilometre per hour, the District Forest Officer I. Anwardeen told The Hindu here. The second phase of the survey would commence shortly, he added.

Among those who formed part of the team that carried out the survey were Akashdeep Baruah, Conservator of Forests, Tiruchi; Prasanth Narayanan, a bird researcher; Santhian Mepaiyur, a bird call specialist; Prof. E. Kunhi Krishnan of the Department of Zoology, University College, Thiruvananthapuram; Vinayan, an Ornithologist and Kumaraguru, a Wildlife Biologist.

-MRR/T.P.

Better amenities to greet pilgrims

Devotees visiting renowned temples in the pilgrim towns of Thirukkadayur, Thirukkostiyur, Rameshwaram, Palani, Srivanchiyam, Aykudi and also Navagraha shrines will soon be greeted with better amenities including rest houses to make their sojourn comfortable and memorable, thanks to the state tourism department which has come forward to fund the infrastructure.

The temples attract a large number of devotees annually. Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) regularly operates package tours to the Navagraha temples and certain other important temples.
Accepting the department’s proposal, the government sanctioned about Rs43.6 lakhs to take up the work.

These places would also have cloakrooms and civic amenities. Accordingly, about Rs29.5 lakh would be spent to create accommodation facilities for tourists, Rs8.3 lakh for basic amenities, Rs2.5 lakh for electricity facilities andRs3.3 lakh for constructing over-head water tanks.

The project was taken up as per instructions from chief minister J. Jayalalithaa to ensure better facilities at famous pilgrim centers. While, moving the demand for grants for the department, tourism minister S. Gokula Indira announced that the department would formulate a scheme.

Accordingly, tourism commissioner Santosh K. Misra formulated the scheme. He also pointed out that the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment Department wanted to take up similar project as the facilities were lacking at there.

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/better-amenities-greet-pilgrims-252

Kanyakumari - HDR

http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4092/5205083012_9f34939f07_b.jpg

source: Flickr-Amaar ravi (http://www.flickr.com/photos/raavi/5205083012/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Nice view of aerial view of Tiruchendur temple from Gopuram with sea in back ground

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2614/4177868061_3f33fcfd2f_b.jpg

Flickr-Sampathkathiravan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/44677324@N02/4177868061/sizes/l/in/photostream/)

Mannapad Church

http://i42.************/8vorya.jpg

Source: Panaromia, Leo Fernando

Mannapad - coast

http://i43.************/xpbwgp.jpg

source: panaramio, Rosario Pane

@ Arul:

Which flight is that with Orange & Irattai Ilai ??? :lol:

@ Vaduvoor Eri:

I have been to this Eri many times

Though I have poor ornithology knowledge and can not stand the birds droppings (esp on my car), I enjoyed seeing them in natural surroundings.

Morning time, it used to be so cold. Eerie atmosphere. Suddenly the birds will wake up and start flying.

Movie Directors would have loved those moments.

I miss them now (my wife's grand dad who used to live nearby the Eri is no more)

^^

should be some foreigner chartered flight

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No bigger picture is available

Aralvaimozhi-Wind farm

Flickr-Nglkuttapan & Neelan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/20403467@N04/page2/)

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3460/3294733194_7bf1d244e2.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3633/3357199120_3a9e960f23_z.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3409/3294732618_a952c465b4_z.jpg

Posted in Kanyakumari Thread also.

Amazingly beautiful, meeting point of AVM Canal, Thamirabharani River and Arabian Sea. One side of the Estuary is Erayumanthurai Village and other side is Thengappattanam Village. Photos taken yesterday from Erayumanthurai side

Distances to Erayumanthurai.

16 Km from Marthandam
48 Km from Nagercoil
44 Km from Trivandrum


https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-C6QkSkjIj2M/TvlcP5rInNI/AAAAAAAAIMU/PMr-EA1ijfU/s800/26122011158.jpg
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HR9lAiOn6Uk/TvlcYbMoZ_I/AAAAAAAAIMY/HWw92qUpOuc/s800/26122011159.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-JJeGhXTcgwQ/TvlceQRh9iI/AAAAAAAAIMc/di9VhMuZoio/s800/26122011160.jpg
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AWdT19gmahQ/Tvlcpuq1PVI/AAAAAAAAIMg/xSFYenh8IzY/s800/26122011161.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-SLSWpHdIcyo/Tvlc0s1gmvI/AAAAAAAAIMk/3Dt013IFmKM/s800/26122011162.jpg

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-gabnXtvT82Y/TvlbdqzJUEI/AAAAAAAAIL8/4YHdMIwpjsw/s800/26122011152.jpg
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6_2Aj_nCtkE/TvlcImc6VEI/AAAAAAAAIMQ/1lI3ohqdpsI/s800/26122011157.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-12RJNF4f7Bo/TvlbZKRgLhI/AAAAAAAAIL4/sBTHe7ROmwU/s800/26122011151.jpg

^^

thanks for pictures. But Thamirabharani river?? Do we have two rivers with same name Thamirabharani?

^^

thanks for pictures. But Thamirabharani river?? Do we have two rivers with same name Thamirabharani?

Yes. One Thamirabharani in Tirunelveli District, and this one in Kanyakumari district. Dont know why both are having same name.

http://tm.dinakaran.com/pdf/2011/12/27/20111227a_004101012.jpg

One of my favorite regions in Tamilnadu. Courtallam, Tenkasi, Shenkottai, Achan kovil and Manalar kumbha vurutti falls :) One can have a great time here.

The Thamirabarani river in Kanyakumari Dt is locally called Kuzhithuraiar. This is the major river in the district. It originates in western ghats and flows from Pechiparai Dam to Thengapattinam in Arabian sea. Kodayar and Paralayar are the major tributaries of this river. Pechiparai, perunchani, Chittar 1(Kodayar River) and Chittar 2 (Kodayar River) are the dams in the river system.

Tourist arrivals to Tamil Nadu up 6%


Tourist arrivals in Tamil Nadu in the first 10 months of 2011 has surpassed the total tourist arrivals into the state in the full year of 2010, according to the state government.

Speaking after the inauguration of Indian Dance Festival 2012 at Mahabalipuram, near here, S Gokula Indira, state tourism minister, said TN had seen a total inflow of 112.3 million tourists in 2011, till October, while it was around 105. 8 million in the 12 months in 2010.


Domestic tourists accounted for around 109.8 million of the total tourists who visited the state between January and October, 2011, while the number of foreign tourists stood at 25,74,051 during the period.
Compared with this, the domestic tourists in 2010 were around 103 million and foreign tourists 28,04,504.

The department of tourism is taking various steps including development of infrastructure facilities at tourist destinations through various schemes. These include state funded schemes for Rs 11.92 crore, development of road in tourist centres for last mile connectivity with around Rs 10 crore and a central financial assistance schemes of around Rs 21.78 crore.

Chief minister J Jayalalithaa had recently announced a seven-point programme to develop infrastructure and other amenities for the tourism sector in the state with an estimated expenditure of Rs 550 crore.

http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/tourist-arrivals-to-tamil-nadu6/460040/

Not sure where to post, so posting it here..

Near Dhanushkodi
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6031/6375406505_9cbf4a5d7e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6375406505/)
"The fear of death follows from the fear of life." (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6375406505/) by Premkumar_Sparkcrews (http://www.flickr.com/people/prem_sparkcrews/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6048/6211560488_06e57a9371_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6211560488/)
The lonely walker... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6211560488/) by Premkumar_Sparkcrews (http://www.flickr.com/people/prem_sparkcrews/), on Flickr
cc: Premkumar.S

Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram
http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6162/6222594693_1c571de35f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6222594693/)
Pamban Bridge,Rameshwaram (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6222594693/) by Premkumar_Sparkcrews (http://www.flickr.com/people/prem_sparkcrews/), on Flickr

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6127/6207182416_dde33b5657_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6207182416/)
Pamban Bridge|Rameshwaram.... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prem_sparkcrews/6207182416/) by Premkumar_Sparkcrews (http://www.flickr.com/people/prem_sparkcrews/), on Flickr
cc: Premkumar.S

Gingee Fort

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0dPE75Tmo58/TwE7FZlMCqI/AAAAAAAABwo/DJT88rhbZ8M/s800/Gingee_pan2.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ISgGDQdd_q8/TwE3vmc2L5I/AAAAAAAABtc/43YwWNtgPxk/s800/IMG_2205_UC.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vBk21Bos7bg/TwE3tRQH8gI/AAAAAAAABtY/Wf9OEaa63hs/s800/IMG_2230_UC.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-BeZ4gz9s3Y0/TwE3rAU5A0I/AAAAAAAABtU/HBXLDyYrfgI/s800/IMG_2346.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wWuiqJ92LQs/TwE3pWFDjiI/AAAAAAAABtQ/H_rzNLuT2Wk/s800/IMG_2382_fhdr.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D3-BuKg9UAE/TwE7GbVkPMI/AAAAAAAABws/zq6Qt4EkCAc/s800/IMG_2274.jpg

Full album (https://picasaweb.google.com/hackerlives/GingeeForts?authuser=0&feat=directlink)

Ceeznic,

Great work as usual covering spots in N.TN areas. If time permits also try to put in your experiences/observations into a small blog. Will help you remember details and will help future travellers to those spots as well.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wWuiqJ92LQs/TwE3pWFDjiI/AAAAAAAABtQ/H_rzNLuT2Wk/s800/IMG_2382_fhdr.jpg

Endha name yaludhuna " Ezhil" kai kedacha . Chappel penju pora alavuku adikanum . Idiot fellow.

Cauvery at Hogenakkal

http://www.dailythanthi.com/thanthiepaper/212012/slm0201fe12pgokk02.jpg
thathi

chinna chinna asai - roja movie location.

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_horizontal/article-images/04PULICATE.jpg.crop_display.jpg

Wildlife activists and bird watchers are enthralled over the recent sighting of a bar-headed goose, one of the highest flying migratory birds, and the red-crested Pochard (a migratory duck) at Pulicat Lake, sayiing that the abundant northeast monsoon had brought the rare winter visitors to the Pulicat sanctuary near Chennai.

“The best thing about migratory birds, whether they are highly endangered or not is that they visit the sanctuaries whenever a conducive habitat is provided to them,” said V.N. Singh, the chief conservator of forests.

“There is need for more awareness among the public to protect birdlife,” he said.

“The biodiversity-rich Pulicat lagoon in Tiruvallur district in coastal Tamil Nadu on the border with Andhra Pradesh has a lot of civic and ecological problems but has never failed to enthral bird watchers,” says K.V.R.K. Thirunaranan, founder of The Nature Trust.

People have to travel all the way to Koonthankulam in Tirunelveli to track bar-headed goose that migrate from central Asia. Several ornithologists have recorded the bird in Pulicat, but sighting them is always rare, said Thirunaranan.

“Besides Tirunelveli, I have only once sighted bar-headed goose near a wetland in Mysore. Bird trackers often confirm their presence in Tirunelveli district.

Their sightings in other areas should be documented in detail”, says a former principal chief conservator of forests, Suburayulu Naidu.

“What we lack in India is indepth research and more observation of wildlife,” he said.

Source (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/others/pulicat-lake-attracts-rare-ducks-752)

Plea for tourism advisory panels

Madurai, Jan. 3: The Tamilnadu Foodgrains Merchants Association has urged the creation of Tourism Advisory Committee in every district in the State.

The association met and submitted a memorandum recently to the Minister for Tourism, Ms S. Gokula Indira, urging for the constitution of the committees in every district under the chairmanship of respective District Collectors, to promote tourism.

The memorandum submitted by the Association President, Mr S.P. Jeyaprakasam said that a one-day sight-seeing tour to all temples and Jain centres in and around Madurai city would draw tourists and the Department of Tourism could operate additional buses for the purpose.

The proposed committee could meet once in two months and review development works related to tourism and requested that the association be given representation in such a committee along with other stakeholders, he added.


http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/economy/article2772140.ece?ref=wl_industry-and-economy

We can see green everywhere in Kanyakumari DIst

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/1658/dscn4734f.jpg

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53 lacks tourists visited Thanjavur in 2011

53 லட்சம் சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் தஞ்சை மாவட்டத்துக்கு வருகை

தஞ்சாவூர்: தஞ்சை மாவட்டம் திருவையாறு யூனியன் தில்லைஸ்தானம் பஞ்சாயத்தில் சுற்றுலாத்துறை சார்பில் பொங்கல் சுற்றுலா விழா நடந்தது. கலெக்டர் பாஸ்கரன் தலைமை வகித்தார். சிறப்பு விருந்தினராக பங்கேற்ற வீட்டுவசதித் துறை அமைச்சர் வைத்திலிங்கம் பேசியதாவது:
தஞ்சை மாவட்டம் கலைகளின் இருப்பிடமாகவும், கட்டிடக்கலையின் சிறப்பிடமாகவும், ஆன்மீக சுற்றுலா தலங்களில் முக்கிய இடமாகவும் விளங்கி வருகிறது.
தஞ்சையில் உள்ள பாரம்பரியமான அரண்மனை, உலக புகழ்பெற்ற சரஸ்வதி மஹால் நூலகம், சிற்பங்கள் நிறைந்த கலைக்கூடம் ஆகியவை சுற்றுலா பயணிகளை பெரிதும் கவர்ந்திழுக்கிறது. யுனெஸ்கோ நிறுவனத்தால் உலக பாரம்பரிய சின்னமாக அறிவிக்கப்பட்ட தஞ்சை பிரகதீஸ்வரர் கோவில் மற்றும் தாராசுரம் ஐராதீஸ்வரர் கோவில், நவக்கிரக சுற்றுலாத்தலங்களான திங்களூர், சூரியனார்கோவில், திருநாகேஸ்வரம், கஞ்சனூர், அறுபடை வீடுகளில் ஒன்றாக சுவாமிமலை, திருவையாறு, கல்லணை, மனோகரா கடற்கரை,உப்பிலியப்பன் கோவில், கும்பகோணம் நாச்சியார்கோவில் ஆகிய முக்கிய சுற்றுலா சிறப்பிடங்கள் உள்ளன.
கடந்த, 2010ம் ஆண்டில் வெளிநாட்டு மற்றும் உள்நாட்டு சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகள், 50 லட்சத்து 14 ஆயிரத்து 178 பேரும், 2011ம் ஆண்டில் வெளிநாட்டு மற்றும் உள்நாட்டு சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகள் 53 லட்சத்து 23 ஆயிரத்து 734 பேர் தஞ்சை மாவட்டத்துக்கு வருகை புரிந்துள்ளனர்.
கலைகளின் பிறப்பிடமாக விளங்கும் தஞ்சையில் பொங்கல் சுற்றுலா விழா கொண்டாடுவது மிகவும் பொருத்தமானது. இவ்விழா மூலம் தஞ்øகு வருகை தரும் உள்நாட்டு மற்றும் வெளிநாட்டு சுற்றுலாப் பயணிகளின் வருகை பெருமளவில் அதிகரிக்கும். நம்நாட்டு கலைகள் உலகமெங்கும் பரவ இது ஒரு அரிய சந்தர்ப்பமாக அமைந்துள்ளது. இவ்வாறு அமைச்சர் பேசினார்.
விழாவில் பிரான்ஸ், சுவிட்சர்லாந்து, இஸ்ரேல், அயர்லாந்து, பிரேஸில், இங்கிலாந்து, ஜப்பான், அர்ஜென்டினா ஆகிய நாடுகளை சேர்ந்த சுற்றுலாப்பயணிகள் பங்கேற்றனர். அயர்லாந்தைச் சேர்ந்த சுற்றுலா பயணி ஷாரன் கூறுகையில், ""விருந்தோம்பல் இங்கே சிறப்பாக காணப்படுகிறது. இங்குள்ள மக்களின் பண்பும், அன்பும் இந்த விழா மூலம் ஏற்பாடு செய்து என் மனதை மகிழ வைத்துள்ளது,'' என கூறினார்.

Foreigners in desi avatar

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charming stunt:Foreign tourists giving a shot at Karakattam during the Pongal celebration in Thanjavur on Monday.Photo: B.Velankanni Raj
Clad in traditional attire, they set their feet loose, tried their hands on festive dish, and feasted their eyes on rural landscape from the bullock carts. They were neither on an expedition nor trying out the methods to explore mystery of the wonderland. It was a lifetime experience for the foreign tourists to jump for joy at the Pongal celebration organised by Department of Tourism at Thillaisthanam near here on Sunday.

Visitors from France, Switzerland, Germany, USA, Israel, Ireland, Brazil and England were accorded a traditional welcome on their arrival in the village. R.Vaithilingam, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, and K.Baskaran, Collector, received them with garlands. Then they were taken in bullock carts to the village.

Later, they cooked pongal along with village women at Thillaisthanam in front of the temple.

Some of the tourists dressed in sari and dhoti, shared the stage with Karakattam, Mayilattam, artistes . Saffine, a girl student of history from Switzerland, said it was amazing to watch the festival. "I visited Tamil Nadu for the first time and feel happy to participate in the Pongal festival. In Switzerland we have many festivals, but this one is unique." Another tourist enjoyed the parrot astrology by hearing from the chit the parrot picked about her life and future.

The Minister said Thanjavur, cradle of art and culture, draws a large number of tourists every year. In 2010, a total of 50,14,175 tourists (both domestic and foreign) visited Thanjavur whereas in 2011, the figure went up to 53,23,130. The major attractions are the Big Temple, palace and the art gallery. “It is our duty to offer them hospitality. We honour them during Pongal, and expose our rich cultural heritage to them," he said.

Children of Marabhu Foundation of Thillaisthanam performed Kolattam and danced to patriotic songs. M.Rangasamy and M.Ranthasamy, both MLAs; C. Suresh Kumar, District Revenue Officer; Ramamoorthy, tourist officer; Uma Maheswari, principal, Government Music College, Tiruvaiyaru; Rama Kausalya of Marabhu Foundation; and S. Muthukumar of India National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), participated in the function.

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00895/17MA_COCMDU_895430f.jpg
Foreign tourists witnessing a cock fight at a function organised by the Tourism Department at Thirumalpuram village near oomatchikualm in Madurai district on Monday to celebrate Pongal. Photo. R. Sairam


For Pongal celebrations, villagers usually entertain relatives and guests but this year, Thirumalpuram village in Chettikulam panchayat union near Oomatchikulam in Madurai district hosted guests from overseas for the celebrations.

The village was chosen by the Tourism Department and from the moment the guests stepped out of the buses, they were swept off their feet by the hospitality and warm affection of the villagers.

Starting off with a traditional welcome encompassing the ‘aarthi,' garlands and a nagaswaram performance, the foreign tourists had the ride of their life in bullock carts. Some even tried to steer the cart, with help from the locals. Upon arriving at the venue, several foreigners tried their hand in cooking ‘pongal' dish with great eagerness.

Showcasing culture

Tim Ruff (25), a student from Germany who is in India on an internship, said, “The event is a good way to showcase local culture. The martial arts and the other performances were really exciting.” He added that this was his first visit and he would like to return for next year Pongal celebrations.

Terming the elaborate welcome arrangements as very enjoyable, Rose May (45), from Germany, said that the dances and other events were fabulous. Appreciating the amount of work gone in organising these performances, she also lauded the hospitality of the locals.

While the event started off with folk arts and dances, what followed had the audience in the edge of their seats as the artistes performed some daring tricks with fire. After the events, the foreigners were treated to a sumptuous lunch served on banana leaves.

Performances

According to District Tourist Officer K. Dharmaraj, the event included performances like ‘Oyilattam' by Sri Chakkarathalwar Troupe; ‘Karagattam' by Othakadai Raju; ‘Tappattam' by Panaiyur Raja, martial arts performance by ‘Madurai' Ravi and other performances by ‘Maddapuram' Karupiah troupe. A local woman self-help group also put up a ‘Villupattu' performance. Madurai East MLA K. Tamilarasan took part in the celebrations.

Over 200 foreign tourists from countries such as Italy, France, Germany, England, Australia, Canada, Holland, Israel, Belgium, New Zealand and Austria came for the event.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/article2808225.ece

Pongal festival turning out to be a good crowd puller. Way to go guys! Hope this turns out to be a major trend and supports lot of rural economies.

If Jallikattu is organised properly it can draw huge crowd. Any such kind of event in the west would been big crowd puller.

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Me and Madurai gilli went on a roam around Madurai a while back and I took these pics. :)

The beautiful place has now become a place for anti social elements' activities it seems. The park that was created for entertainment of kids is now in a very poor state. Something should be done seriously at the moment.

But, even now, one could have a nice time here. I know personally KLN polytechnic (Class cutters) and Velammal college students use this place as a hangout :cheers:

Foreigners celebrate India Tourism Day

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Rajagopalaswamy Canon premises here (Beerangi Medu), where an old Canon is mounted, was a hub of activity on Wednesday. For 62 foreign tourists who witnessed the India Tourism Day celebration organised by the Thanjavur Chapter of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and Centre for Traditional Performing Arts (CTPA), it was a chance to experience India at her cultural best.

Talents to the fore

Tourists from countries such as Israel, Sweden, France, Italy and USA, witnessed Thappattam by A.John Peter and group of Reddypalayam and Karagattam, Kavadi, Mayilattam and Poikaal Kuthiraiyattam, performed by ‘Kalaimamani' Banumathi Rajarethinam and group.

A unique feature of the celebration was Thappattam performed by girls, an art form that is usually dominated by male performers.

Some of tourists even took the instrument and started performing with the Thappattam artistes.

Tamil Selvi, a karagam artiste, showed off her prowess in the dance form by balancing two tumblers with her legs with a ‘tambalam' under her feet. While the colourful splendour of peacocks came alive during the Mayilattam performance, Rajarethinam and Banumathi swept the audience off their feet with their Poikaal Kuthiraiyattam performance.

The artistes riding in dummy horses exhibited the majesty of a king and queen riding the animal. The tourists were garlanded by C.Suresh Kumar, District Revenue Officer.

K.Manikandan, vice chairman of Thanjavur Municipality, P.Rajeswaram, Municipal Councillor of ward 26 in which the Canon premises is located and who is also a member of INTACH and S.Muthukumar, Founder of CTPA participated in the celebration. Hundreds of local people also witnessed the events. Catherine from France appreciated the artistes.

An article in japantimes on the culture and tourism of TN... :cheers:

Cultural treasures for all to see

There are outstanding tourist attractions throughout Tamil Nadu, and visitors to the gorgeous coastline can boost the local economy and enjoy themselves while learning a lot from locals about their post-tsunami experiences.

Mahabalipuram, right on the Bay of Bengal, is one place it's especially easy to linger while exploring the temples, carvings and caves at this alluring UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is a friendly fishing village with incredibly well-preserved ruins from the 6th to 9th centuries that attract many domestic tourists. It is easy to walk around the town, but hiring a tuk-tuk to buzz between sights is cheap and helps beat the heat and rain. There are guides at each site who make visits more worthwhile and are great value.

In particular, Mahabalipuram's must-sees include the early 8th-century Shore Temple out on a point at the end of the beach. This features two enchanting towers dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva — destroyer of the ego and ultimately of the universe — and a courtyard flanked by a long wall topped with reclining bulls. The carvings have been eroded by the elements over the past 1,300 years, but the softened details amid the sound of pounding surf are still mesmerizing.

Not far away is the world's largest bas-relief (29 × 13 meters), the 7th-century Penance of Arjuna. Carved on two adjacent boulders, this portrays numerous figures and scenes from the Bhagavad Gita — and remains remarkably intact. Don't overlook the Krishna Mandapan, one of the nearby cave temples, that has a beautiful depiction of a cow being milked.

Down the road, the 7th-century Pancha Rathas (Five Chariots) is a complex of unfinished temples, each carved in its entirety from granite outcrops set around a courtyard with a large bull, elephant and lion, where families gather and pose for portraits.


Meanwhile, visible from all directions in this flat landscape is the Lighthouse atop a hill that is a convenient natural safety zone, and the place to where many locals evacuated to escape the 2004 tsunami.

Recalling that tsunami, shopkeepers and fisherman generally said that it was not too terribly destructive — and that post-disaster aid helped many people to rebuild their houses and businesses. So, habitations that had been flimsy wooden shacks with thatched roofs have been rebuilt in concrete right along or near the beach. Nobody seems too worried about a recurrence.

Mahabalipuram is a good place to arrange tours to other parts of Tamil Nadu. Southward is the restored Danish colonial town of Tranquebar with a long enticing beach, Dansborg Fort (1620) and a splendid hotel in a charming former colonial home right on the beach. Only a day before the 2004 tsunami hit, a religious ceremony had been held to celebrate the property's completed renovation, but extensive wave and water damage then required an additional several months of repairs.

From Tranquebar, head inland to two exquisite 11th-century temples from the height of the Chola era, which stretched from the 3rd century B.C. to the 13th century. Named Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram, these amazing gems oddly attract few visitors. That's likely because most are hurrying on to dine in the remarkable Chettinad district, which is renowned for its piquant cuisine.

This small, quiet area centered on the town of Karaikudi exudes a faded charm and past glory evident in the massive, stone-built palaces that are scattered about town. Several have more than 100 rooms and some are restored for accommodations and are also used by Bollywood because these antique teak and marble marvels ooze period charm.

Chettinad comprises a number of hamlets that were settled by members of the Chettiar trading castes of South India, who today make up 14 percent of Tamil Nadu's population. The merchants moved there from the coast after a devastating tsunami in the mid-19th century, and, though they were far from the menacing ocean, they were also removed from the nexus of commerce. Consequently, the merchants left their families behind while making their fortunes elsewhere, then eventually built plush, sprawling mansions.


In many cases, scions have had trouble maintaining these palatial residences and have had to sell off their furnishings and let rooms. Sadly the wrecking ball has claimed many of these relics from halcyon days, but India's rise has generated increased wealth and an interest in heritage architecture that bodes well for the remainder.

Since you are in Chettinad, it would be unforgivable not to continue southward to the amazing Madurai, home of the Meenakshi Temple devoted to Shiva's eponymous consort, the fish-eyed goddess. This is an awe-inspiring holy site that attracts throngs of pilgrims and devotees. There, chanting, music and prayers resonate through the whole day and lively processions wend through the Thousand Pillar Hall just as they have for centuries. The streets around are laid out in concentric squares with the temple at their common center, as dictated by religious tradition, and are often used for raucously devout processions in a city where the past looms pleasantly over the present.



http://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/fl20120129x2.html

^^ Good report. But, it could have had details on Tirunelveli, Rameswaram areas and west TN tourism attractions also and some more details on Meenakshi amman temple. Six abodes of Lord Murugan, palaces, forts of TN also.

Vellore Fort

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

Jalakandeswarar temple inside Fort



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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

Museum

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-01-28

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Plans for tourist places like kuchanur, suruli falls, sothupaarai falls, vaigai dam, highwavis to be provided with basic amenities like toilets, rooms to stay, change rooms and shops at a cost of rs. 16 crores is ready

http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/431534_319997784704769_267258756645339_828085_2021958300_n.jpg

Madurai meenakshi amman temple - Lord Natarajar (Picture courtesy : "daeeee naanum Madurai karen thnda" facebook page)

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/404674_310025212368693_267258756645339_811058_1599313965_n.jpg

Foreign tourists enjoying a cycle rickshaw ride in Madurai :)

(Picture courtesy : "daeeee naanum Madurai karen thnda" facebook page)

http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/304262_287613847938391_560719652_n.jpg

Madurai Tirumalai Naicker mahal during sound and light show :) (Picture courtesy : "daeeee naanum Madurai karen thnda" facebook page)

Kanyakumari Gets a New Protected Bird Area

The wetlands around Suseendram, Therur and Manakkudikayal in Kanyakumari district attracts a wide range of bird species and has now been declared as a Bird Sanctuary. This recognition as a bird protection zone for these wetlands not only further protects the area for wildlife conservation and local agriculture, but the Tamil Nadu state government also plans to develop this place as a tourist destination.

The areas of Suseendram and Therur are fresh water wetlands, while Manakkudikayal is located on the coastal side of Kanyakumari district. Since birds are largely attracted to water body areas, all the three areas attract a large number of migratory birds during the months of winter from November to February. About 90 different bird species can be spotted here, and this includes 50 bird species from the Artic region alone.

Cotton teal, spot-billed duck, lesser whistling teal, phesant-tailed jacana, bronze wing jacana, coot and Indian moorhen are among the few bird species that are spotted here in large numbers. The flamingoe bird on the other hand is mainly spotted at Manakkudikayal due to the presence of small crustaceans and plants in the soil, which are their main source of food.

Most of the migratory birds are attracted to these areas are due to large water bodies and the availability of food. The resident bird species found here are comparatively smaller in number. Manakkudikayal has a large spread of elephant grass along its expanse and this serves as a nesting and breeding ground to small birds such as warblers.

The government has allotted funds of 1.61 crore for the development of these wetlands as a bird sanctuary and to ensure the protection of avian and wildlife species here from poachers especially, the salary of the anti poaching group too will be increased to Rs. 4000 from Rs. 2126 to Rs. 3500.

In addition to the development as a bird protection zone, this reservation will also help the farmers in their local agriculture scheme. The creation of a safe haven for birds would also mean the water, in which bird droppings and such other things dissolve, could prove greatly beneficial to agriculture,” said P Dhandapani, retired senior scientist of the Zoological Survey of India.

http://www.rang7.com/news/tourism/kanyakumari-gets-new-protected-bird-area-1010.htm

VADUVOOR BIRD SANCTUARY

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I would like to share a recent interaction happened between myself and tourist information centre in Wales, UK. We planned to go for some unexplored places, so I sent an email to the local govt. tourist office regarding the location and niche unexplored places suitable for trekking and photography.

Guess what, they replied me back immediately. They even said they will pass on the maps and information to the hotel where we will be staying overnight. Just an excerpt from our conversation.


....... continued from my email


From: ****@gmail.com

Subject: RE: Three cliffs area & Other places in Gower - Reg.


Hi

As I mentioned in my first email we are travelling this weekend. However I would appreciate if you could send me the scanned copy of the same through email.

Kind Regards
***
-------

Their reply...

from: Swansea Tourism tourism@swansea.gov.uk

to: me

Sorry about that, we will try and get a copy of the map to the hotel for you as we don’t have the computer facilities to scan maps.



We have spoken to the hotel and they are happy to pass it on to you

Regards

*****

Swansea Tourist Information Centre

Plymouth Street, Swansea, SA1 3QG


If we achieve half of this in TN, we would be top tourist destination in Asia, if not the whole world. I just wish the aapicers work inside out to make such things a reality.

Its not just the tourist office, even the hotels have a proper co-ordination with them. Together we win is their success formula and they follow it..

I used to go and see the birds in the morning & evening during our trips to Vaduvur. Since my wife's grandpa had a house there, we did not have any problem wrt over night stay. Tanjore is the nearest place with decent lodging.

TN Tourism Dept has not done anything to promote this place.

TN Tourism Dept has not done anything to promote this place.
I am from Tanjore only. Even i did not know about this Eri..
only famous temples only written by TTDC everywhere. Even till few years back, in tanjore palace also , TTDC did not mention about this..
first TTDC has to promote Tanjore Palace, Big temple, ..
There few scenic places on the river beds along Vennaru, Cauvery..
By building few cottages on Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, they can promote navagraha tour, dharasuram temple architecture, etc..

I used to wash my car on the banks of the Eri and spend the morning by watching the birds.

Many times, the rogue birds will drop their shit on the car after washing - again and again. :lol:

Initially I though that it was a co incidence. But after a few trips, I understood that it is their form of protest. (Dont come near our nests, or else....) :)

My son was very young and he used to talk to these birds. They used to respond.

My in laws used to mock at him " Russian Language kathukko". - Birds come from even Russia & Ukraine)

I miss all these now. Vedanthangal is ok, but much less activity now. :bash:

I used to wash my car on the banks of the Eri and spend the morning by watching the birds.

Many times, the rogue birds will drop their shit on the car after washing - again and again. :lol:

Initially I though that it was a co incidence. But after a few trips, I understood that it is their form of protest. (Dont come near our nests, or else....) :)


:lol:

Rock Fort

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

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By ceeznic (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic) at 2012-02-25

Some aerial views of the city posted in Trichy cityscapes thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=228636&page=21)

Cross Posting From Coimbatore Thread

Photos from my Outing with Buddies to Kovai Koutralam

To reach here catch a Sadivayal/ Siruvani Bus from Gandhipuram. One can also go to Karunya but its an 20 minutes walk to the entrance and further another 30 minutes walk to the Falls

Entrance Ticket - 10rs
Camera - 25(I didn't pay took in Mobile:))
No Video Camera

Can go by Two Wheeler or Car, Parking is Available, From Town Hall -> Perur -> Karunya - > Sadivayal (Entrance) -> Take a Left Turn on the Siruvani Road (2 Km) (Siruvani Road Entry Restriction board was there with guards)

And further Everyone to Walk around 1.5 Km inside to reach the Falls.

Security Persons would Check your Vehicles and may be you So avoid any Liquor and plastic items.

Entrance Board

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/2333/290120120311.jpg

Children Park with electric fencing

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Ticket Counter

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Shops

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Can some one say details regarding the Forest departments mentioned in this one

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Can find lots and lots of trees on the way. Its really superb to walk in the mid of such natural vegetation.

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Boards

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An hanging bridge built for an attraction on one way, there is also a normal way to walk.

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A small Tower

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View from the tower.

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When i went there i saw only Few vehicles and on returning a huge lot was created. Since its weekend Lots of Couples were there and also many family guys with children came in Vehicles. Many cars too.

http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/8750/290120120451.jpg

Actual Falls - Unsuitable for Bathing

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A Bridge here dividing the Actual and Artificial Falls

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Artificially Made for Bathing - Separate layers for Family/Women and Men

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A pond like Formation - Everyone Ride on a Slope to dip into it.

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Entire View

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Took To show how they are following the rules.

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/9469/290120120427.jpg

There are dress changing rooms but not in proper maintenance. Only for women they are allowing/using. Men use the open air to change dress.

:applause: Deepu

^^Thanks


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^^ Nice pics deepu :cheers: The pond and the trees around looks like the falls near the Manalar, Kumbhavuruti falls in Achankovil near Shencottah :) Kannan sir, have you been to the Manalar and Kumbhavuruti falls? (You are a native of Shreevi so you would have gone there i suppose)

Yeah!

I have roamed around these places many times.

Oru manasu - TN evvalavu azagu !!! Yaen TNTDC thoongaranga ?

Rendavadhu Manasu - Nalla velai. Indha idamellam innum Popular agala. Appuram TN evvalvu Azhukku nnu solra madhiri panniduvanga.

Unless Eco Tourism concept is developed and the people are taught / advised accordingly, our people keep raping / polluting all tourist places.

Tourism development has not happened due to poor Infra . At the same time, these places stay beautiful because of the same reason - poor infra. :)

Yeah!

I have roamed around these places many times.

Oru manasu - TN evvalavu azagu !!! Yaen TNTDC thoongaranga ?

Rendavadhu Manasu - Nalla velai. Indha idamellam innum Popular agala. Appuram TN evvalvu Azhukku nnu solra madhiri panniduvanga.

Unless Eco Tourism concept is developed and the people are taught / advised accordingly, our people keep raping / polluting all tourist places.

Tourism development has not happened due to poor Infra . At the same time, these places stay beautiful because of the same reason - poor infra. :)

Yes, some places like Meghamalai and Vaalpaarai remain unexploited and are very clean and green. In the existing scenario, TN could go for ticket sales like the KL does it for the Manalar and Kumbhavuruti falls (I hope kudimahans that spend good amount for liquor should be made to pay for entry into the falls, this doesn't mean permitting those under influence of liquor to the falls) in places like Courtallam and all. Entry to the falls should be a paid one and maintenance should be given to a third party pvt one for which tenders could be floated.

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00939/02th_tourism_final__939700f.jpg

Tamil Nadu remains an all-season destination for tourists – backpackers heading for the beaches, the city-bred searching for that rural experience, the devout seeking spiritual solace in myriad temples, the ones bound for hill stations to escape the blazing sun, or those arriving for treatment.
More than 14 crore tourists visited Tamil Nadu during 2011, marking a 42.34 per cent increase over the previous year in which the State played host to 10.58 crore visitors.
According to the State Tourism Department's data, the flow of foreign tourists into the State was 33.08 lakh last year as against 28.04 lakh in 2010. Domestic tourists accounted for 13.67 crore in 2011 against 10.30 crore the previous year. Since 2008, the domestic tourists' arrivals have doubled while that of foreign visitors has gone up by 50 per cent.
“The number represents a 10 per cent increase over the corresponding period in the previous year. It could have been much more but for the fact that the State faced Assembly and civic polls, frequent change of officers in the tourism department and delay in announcing tourism-related promotional activities,” said a senior official.
Talking to The Hindu, some of the leading travel operators said: “These figures reinforce the fact that Tamil Nadu is an all-season destination whether for beach tourism, rural tourism, health tourism or leisure tourism. If we continue to post 30 per cent growth in tourists' arrival, we can definitely reach the topmost slot in tourists' arrival.”
Out of the 14 crore tourists, Chennai received about 1.29 crore, including 6.68 lakh foreigners, followed by Rameswaram 97.58 lakh, Madurai (84.93 lakh), Tiruvannamalai (81.05 lakh) and Kodaikanal (79.10 lakh).
Well-known hill stations such as Udhagamandalam and Coonoor played hosts to 77 lakh visitors. Interestingly, lesser known tourist spots are getting more number of domestic and foreign tourists. Yercaud was visited by 39.33 lakh, Yelagiri received 5.90 lakh visitors and Hogenakkal played host to 56.68 lakh people.
Mamallapuram has been receiving a steady flow of foreign tourists throughout the year. About 300 foreigners visited Mamallapuram daily to witness the December-January Music and dance festival. In all, the shore temple collectively received 32.47 lakh visitors.
Secondary cities such as Tiruchi received 63.25 lakh, Coimbatore 60.35 lakh and Salem 64.34 lakh visitors.
Foreigners also visited temple towns in big numbers. Rameswaram and Madurai were the preferred destination for the local and foreign visitors.
Due to improved rail link, Tiruchendur received 77.99 lakh pilgrims, followed closely by Thanjavur that received 57.12 lakh visitors. The other destinations were Palani (57.59 lakh), Kumbakonam (53.90 lakh), Kancheepuram (44.41 lakh), Velankanni, Chidambaram, Nagore and Tirutani.
Kanyakumari was visited by 73.25 lakh visitors. Poompuhar, Panchalankuruchi, Pichavaram, Mudumalai and Courtallam were also frequented by visitors.
Tourism-friendly measures
“The State government has been announcing tourism-friendly measures at several pilgrim centres. But their implementation has to be speeded up. Though the tourism department runs boat-houses in different parts of the State, it has to promote adventure and water sports too, on the lines of its neighbours, to attract more tourists to lesser-known spots. Currently, the void is filled by private operators in and around Chennai,” a leading tourist operator said.
In all probability, Tamil Nadu may retain its second spot in the country in attracting foreign tourists. However, the official rankings will be released only after a few months.

src: http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2951346.ece

^^

surprising stats among corporation cities!!!

Chennai - 1.29crores
Madurai - 84.93lakhs
Salem - 64.34lakhs
Trichy - 63.25lakhs
Coimbatore - 60.35lakhs

I couldn't believe that Salem/CBE can have such huge no. of tourist visitors.. and Salem having more tourist than Trichy is quiet un-believable. Trichy has famous and iconic rock fort and srirangam temple, but there is no such iconic spot for both CBE/Salem.. and further on what basis the visitors are counted is still mystery.

^^

surprising stats among corporation cities!!!

Chennai - 1.29crores
Madurai - 84.93lakhs
Salem - 64.34lakhs
Trichy - 63.25lakhs
Coimbatore - 60.35lakhs

I couldn't believe that Salem/CBE can have such huge no. of tourist visitors.. and Salem having more tourist than Trichy is quiet un-believable. Trichy has famous and iconic rock fort and srirangam temple, but there is no such iconic spot for both CBE/Salem.. and further on what basis the visitors are counted is still mystery.

Guess Yercaud, Yelagiri, Coonoor and Ooty gave this big numbers?

^^

surprising stats among corporation cities!!!

Chennai - 1.29crores
Madurai - 84.93lakhs
Salem - 64.34lakhs
Trichy - 63.25lakhs
Coimbatore - 60.35lakhs

I couldn't believe that Salem/CBE can have such huge no. of tourist visitors.. and Salem having more tourist than Trichy is quiet un-believable. Trichy has famous and iconic rock fort and srirangam temple, but there is no such iconic spot for both CBE/Salem.. and further on what basis the visitors are counted is still mystery.

Some where ,you worked out that Daily Bus Passengers in TN are over 2.4 Crores.

I used to wonder why so many people keep travelling everyday in TN.? If most of the people are in organised or semi organised employment, such a trend is not possible.

May be most people travel to meet relations,business and now, you realise tourism

Figures may be taken from arrivals thro' trains,buses and flights.

Anyway, people have money and willing to spend , it is very good for the local economy.Cheers.

I can take my company as example.

We get leave requests from our employees for the following reasons
Grandma / Grandpa death
Relative's death
Pongal at native place Kula Deivam temple
Family Functions (Mottai, Kadhu Kuthu, Poopeidhudhal, anniverseries)
Annual Festivals like Pongal, Deepavalai, Pudhu Varusham, Christmas, Ramzan
Holiday Tours around Qrly, Half Yrly & Annual holiday season

On an average, each employee goes to his / her native place at least once a month.

Newly married in the first year have extra functions to attend.

In addition, we have sales, service team travelling through out the year.

At any time we have at least 10 - 15 people on travel within the state and 40 -50 outside the state.

Calculating in totality, our company contribution itself is so huge towards travel economy.

Imagine thousands of (rather lakhs of) companies like this. Huge Travel Economy.

Tamil Nadu Tourism to launch 10 special tour packages

Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation Limited will soon launch 10 special tour packages in an attempt to give tourists visiting Tamil Nadu a chance to experience religious architecture and soak them in divine fervour in Hindu religious sites in the state.

Carrying forward the idea of launching a one-day tour to all important temples in the state as announced by Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister Gokula Indira in the state Assembly last year, TTDCL has come up with 10 special packages that includes visits to notable religious sites in the state.

The packages include

- a tour to nine Nagarathar temples in Sivaganga district -Illaiyathangudi, Illupaikudi,Iranikoil, Mathur, Nemam, Pillaiyarpatti, Soorakudi, Vairavankovil, and Velangudi temples near Karaikudi.

- Another tour includes visit to Divya Desam temples in Kancheepuram and Thiruvallur districts and a tour to Thirukkadaiyur temple in Nagapattinam district.

TTDCL also has tours to Yelagiri Hills and Kolli Hills for those interested in hiking and trekking.

Another interesting package in the bouquet of tours is exclusively organised around places that held importance during the nation's freedom struggle.

Named 'Freedom Fighters' Circuit Tour,' it takes tourists around places associated with the freedom struggle and memorials and birthplaces of freedom fighters from the state.

These packages will be launched this month, going by the government order passed on February 29 in this regard, TTDC sources said.


http://www.ndtv.com/article/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-tourism-to-launch-10-special-tour-packages-181825

:cheers:

Kannan sir sonnathu work koottam. I have seen big rush of people every weekend to go to their natives from Dindigul to Madurai, Tiruchi, Kovai, Theni, Nellai and other such districts and I travelled daily from Madurai to Dindigul for studies. I had a similar group with me and i have come across many people travelling to KLU, MEPCO Schlenk, etc for studies. So this also contributes to the local tourism economy i hope?

Some where ,you worked out that Daily Bus Passengers in TN are over 2.4 Crores.

I used to wonder why so many people keep travelling everyday in TN.? If most of the people are in organised or semi organised employment, such a trend is not possible.

May be most people travel to meet relations,business and now, you realise tourism

Figures may be taken from arrivals thro' trains,buses and flights.

Anyway, people have money and willing to spend , it is very good for the local economy.Cheers.

With the government able to calculate the numbers of foreign tourists through charter arrivals and scheduled flights statistics, how does Goa calculate the number of domestic tourists that it receives?

"Every hotel or guest house has to submit a form to the department of tourism at the end of the month. The form must contain details such as the number of rooms and number of beds which are available, and its occupancy by tourists during the month," a tourism department official said. The form also contains details on whether the guests were Indians, Goans or foreigners

=====================================================

so I guess, TN also might be adopting the same forumla to count the foreign and domestic tourist arrival i.e based on hotel information.

Calculating tourist arrival via bus/train is simply impossible.

Guess Yercaud, Yelagiri, Coonoor and Ooty gave this big numbers?

If the article was read fully, one can find place for Yercaud, Yelagiri, Coonoor, Ooty separately.

If the article was read fully, one can find place for Yercaud, Yelagiri, Coonoor, Ooty separately.

I read it fully and i thought that high numbers are due to those staying in Salem and Coimbatore to visit Hogenakkal, and the above mentioned places?

^^I think the count can not be based on hotel accomodation.

Can the tickets sold in the tourist place can also be used as a count. In many tourist place there is seperate rates for foreign tourist. So they can easily split up with the ticket sale as they are done by TTDC only.

I have seen Foreigner tickets sold in Madurai Meenakshi amman temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace. But I have never seen such a collection in Salem/Coimbatore. So how did they arrive at the numbers?

Actually keeping count on the foreigners (even Tamil origin but with Foreign passports) is relatively easy as they have to submit their passport for almost all.

I think MTC or TNSTC ticket sales data and the Private / Omni Bus submitted data ( may not be accurate since they show suppressed income only) and train / flight booking data and Hotels register will give almost 90% true figures. Personal vehicle users may be counted now based on toll Fee (not accurate).

cross posting

Jaya inaugurates Mettur dam tower

PTI | 07:03 PM,Mar 03,2012

Chennai, Mar3 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa today inaugurated a tower at Mettur built to commemorate the completion of 75 years of the Mettur Dam, which caters to the water needs of 11 districts of the state. Built at a cost of Rs one crore, the 75 ft tall structure will house a museum, pictures and books depicting the dam's early history, among others, a government release here said. Visitors can enjoy the sight of the Mettur dam from the sixth floor of the tower which is equipped with lift, it added. Jayalalithaa inaugurated the tower via video conferencing.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/jaya-inaugurates-mettur-dam-tower/970628.html

^^

Tower at night

http://epaper.dinakaran.com/pdf/2012/03/05/20120305e_016104013.jpg

DKN

cross posting

What is there inside the tower? Telescope?

http://img.dinamalar.com/data/uploads/WR_142571.jpeg

What is there inside the tower? Telescope?

Not sure!! But from here one can see the full water storage capacity of Mettur dam, power plant and down stream of Cauvery.

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve may be closed (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2951436.ece) - It will be the saddest day:bash:

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00939/01THMUDUMALAI_939713f.jpg
A primate and a pachyderm looking for food in a dry part of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Photo: M. Sathyamoorthy

Dry conditions cause concern

With dry conditions becoming a source of concern at the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) near Udhagamandlam, a proposal has been sent to the government to close it. Deputy Director, MTR, Ameer Haja, told the The Hindu on Wednesday that a detailed report with inputs from Range Officers had been submitted to the Field Director, MTR Raghuram Singh. It had been sent by the Field Director to the Chief Wildlife Warden along with a recommendation to close the reserve.

If approved, the MTR would be closed around the first week of March and would remain closed till the situation improved.

Tourists would not be allowed and elephant and van safaris would be suspended. During the period of closure, maintenance works would be stepped up.

Reliable sources say that the recent major fires in the Nilgiris forests are not natural but man made.

The resorts guys and plantation guys seem to be the culprits.

The forest dept officers also seem to be in hand in glove with them. :bash:

Mudumalai Tiger Reserve may be closed (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2951436.ece) - It will be the saddest day:bash:

Why feel sad? It is closed only for people.

The article states "If approved, the MTR would be closed around the first week of March and would remain closed till the situation improved".

I feel this could be the precursor to close it permanently.

The article states "If approved, the MTR would be closed around the first week of March and would remain closed till the situation improved".

I feel this could be the precursor to close it permanently.

no, you've misunderstood.

The sanctuary is to be closed to protect it and its wildlife.. It was closed last summer too.

read this ..
http://wildlifenews.co.uk/2012/drought-could-lead-to-tiger-reserve-closure/

oh thanks...good to know this is being done regularly.

Last time when I visited Masinagudi, People were protesting(with black flag hoisted in every house) due to the announcement of Mudumalai as Tiger reserve. Now the forest department may evict people from Mudumalai. Any updates on eviction? Already night traffic to Mysore via Muduamalai is banned. Still this sanctuary requires more stringent action like removal of resorts, encroachment especially in the elephant corridor to prevent and make this region a heaven for tigers, the moyar valley and sigur plateau extending upto Sathyamangalam is one of the best place in South India for the habitat and can act as a catalyst for the growth of tigers. again this is the region which boast a good number of critically endangered Indian Vultures. Stringent actions can prevent frequent forest fire.

Don't worry the Sanctuary will be open to public on onset of monsoon by June or if there is a rain in summer.

^^

It is quiet normal to see forest fire and dry scenes on western and eastern ghats from Feb to April. From June it will back to normal green.

Peak summer starts in Chennai by April and extends till June 1st week, whereas in west part of state peak summer starts by end of Feb and it will be over by April early i.e before agni natchathiram.

கொடைக்கானலில் "ரோப் கார்'இயற்கை எழிலை ரசிக்கலாம்

திண்டுக்கல் :சுற்றுலா பயணிகள், இயற்கை காட்சிகளை ரசிக்கும் வகையில், கொடைக்கானல் ஏரி பகுதியில் "ரோப் கார்' அமைக்கப்பட உள்ளது.
கொடைக்கானல் பிரையன்ட் பூங்கா, ஏரியில் படகு சவாரி, பில்லர் ராக், கோக்கர்ஸ் வாக் போன்ற பகுதிகள் பயணிகளை அதிகம் கவர்ந்தவை. கோடை கால "சீசனில்' படகு சவாரிக்கு வரும் பலர், அதிக கூட்டத்தால் ஏமாற்றத்துடன் திரும்புகின்றனர். பொழுதுபோக்கு அம்சங்களை அதிகரிக்கும் விதமாக, இங்கு "ரோப் கார்' அமைக்கப்பட உள்ளது.
கோல்கட்டாவை சேர்ந்த தனியார் நிறுவனம் இப்பணியை மேற்கொள்கிறது. இதற்காக நகராட்சியிடம் அனுமதிகோரியுள்ளது. "பில்ட் அன் ஆப்பரேட் டிரான்ஸ்பர்' அடிப்படையில் ஒப்பந்தம் மேற்கொள்ள, விருப்பம் தெரிவித்துள்ளது. தனியார் நிறுவன நிதியில் கட்டுமான பணி நடக்கும். "ரோப்கார்' இயக்குவது, கட்டணம் வசூலையும் இந்நிறுவனமே மேற்கொள்ளும். குறிப்பிட்ட காலத்திற்கு பின், நகராட்சியிடம் ஒப்படைக்கப்படும். வசூலாகும் தொகை 60:40 என்ற அடிப்படையில் நகராட்சிக்கு கொடுக்கப்படும்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/district_detail.asp?id=424925

^^ Rope car to be implemented in Kodaikanal in PPP model :cheers: I don't know why there is no thread for Kodai in SSC

Mega Tourism Projects

The Ministry of Tourism (MOT), at present, has identified 53 Mega Destinations/Circuits for development in the country, including Maharashtra and Goa, in consultation with the concerned State Governments/Union Territories (UTs) on the basis of footfalls and their future tourism potential. Out of the 53 identified projects, 35 have already been sanctioned.

For each identified mega destination and circuit, the Ministry of Tourism contribution as central financial assistance is capped at Rs.25.00 crore and Rs.50.00 crore respectively under the scheme of “Product/Infrastructure Development for Destinations and Circuits”.

3 Projects in TN

1) Mahabalipuram-destination - sanctioned in 2002-03 - Rs 10.39 crores

2) Pilgrimage Heritage Circuit (Madurai-Rameshwaram-Kanyakumari) - sanctioned in 2010-11 - Rs 36.48 crores

3) Thanjavur - sanctioned in 2010-11 - Rs 14.75 crores

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=81028

Also, for Pondicherry, Rs 45.11 crores sanctioned in 2010-11..

Few more light on point numbers 2 and 3?? :cheers:

whether materialized?

I dug up the details :

It is here (http://www.tn.gov.in/gosdb/gorders/inftour/tour_e_142_2010.pdf)

Screen shot :

http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/5159/tourismi.jpg

Out of these plans for Madurai,

* The Complex in Central Market site has not yet been started because the Corporation did not allot funds for it. (Last update on it in Madurai thread here (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=89059385&postcount=10275))

* The Kunrathur Choultry (moving out of shops from Pudhumandapam) is slowly progressing (Update here (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=88806585&postcount=10240))

* Points 3, 4, 5 and 8 has been completed and now parks around Meenakshi amman temple is very nice and green.

* Teppakulam beautification happened and its state now is here (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=88270999&postcount=10140)

Rolling meadows, bronzed ferns, 165 species of butterflies, 204 varieties of birds … Soma Basu discovers a paradise of flora and fauna in Mannavanur

All through this journey, the mist tiptoes around mysteriously wrapping everything in it. The forests and the mountains often disappear and the 35 km drive from Kodaikanal to Mannavanur takes almost two hours. The bad road adds to our woes but the dip in mercury keeps our tempers cool.

As we drive past groves of eucalyptus and pine trees, wattle and shrubs, the forests morph into meadows and the hills with terraced farms on their slopes appear closer. And you know you have reached your destination when silver and bronze ferns mingle with multiple hues of green; when the landscape is dominated by grasslands and shola patches; when silence reigns supreme at 7,000 ft. above sea level.

It is noon and there is a lot of activity on the village main road. Women walk in a file along the roadside with logs of wood on their head. Tourist vehicles zip in and out of the village. There are many kiosks and small eateries and the village even boasts of a high school and electricity supply.

Chennai-based ‘The Nature Trust' that promotes eco-tourism has joined hands with the Kodaikanal Forest Office to “protect, maintain and retain” the picturesque landscape of Mannavanur.

It is said Mannavanur's landscape takes on different colours during different seasons. It turns brown during summers and a blinding green after the rains. During spring, colourful blooms run riot on the hills. Primarily an agrarian hamlet, most of the inhabitants are farmers growing potatoes, broccoli, carrots, French and butter beans, peas, cauliflowers and cabbage. The ‘malai poond' grown here is famous and finds takers across the State and beyond.

The best way to discover Mannavanur is by walking around the lake. It is easy to cover the six- to seven-km stretch as a cool wind continuously caresses, and a variety of beautiful birds flies over you. We are joined by forest guards Annappan and Balasubramani who excitedly blurt out, “There was a leopard here just last week.” Mannavanur is otherwise known as Bison Valley. Annappan takes out his digital camera and shows photos of a horse carcass and points to a particular site. “You can also see other wildlife such as sambar, barking deer, Nilgiri langur, wild dogs, jungle cats and the gaur,” he says. The place is also home to 165 species of butterflies and 204 varieties of birds.

As we walk past the bare stone houses skirting the village, and along the small intercepting stream, we find a group of men dancing on a bed of carrots. They are actually cleaning sacks of carrots under a mini water fall. We soon reach the Mannavanur lake, bordered by mountains, reflecting the cloudy sky above and the distant hazy forest in its sparkling waters. You can sit here endlessly, and soak in the panoramic view of the rolling meadows — butterflies flutter around and birds scoop down and sing to you.


http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/travel/article3143132.ece?homepage=true

:cheers:

Invitations of EoI from Consulting firms for Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) and a Project Management Consultant for:

Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (Tamil Nadu)

Guess they are going to take 2 corridors for this ECR and SCR (State Capital Region illa :lol: South Circuit Region). From the document, ECR DSC unit is going to be attached in Chidambaram and SCR DSC unit is going to be attached with Madurai :cheers: (2 units but under a single DSC only)

File 1 : http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70778_eoi_dsc-tamil_nadu-march_2012.pdf

File 2 : http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70778_eoi_pmc-tamil%20nadu-march%2012.pdf

Duration 36 months for preparing and estimated budget : 1,550,000 USD :banana: Great to read these documents!! I dn know how it would be to see the DPR!! Hope everything goes well!!

Fingers crossed guys!! A step toward 'Vision 2023' wrt 'Tourism development'?

SSC Guys, if you need some help/information from my side (i.e local) as you did for Vision 2023, please let me know. I would love to become a part!

Tenders out for:

* DPR preparation for Infra facilities for Tourism in Alagarkoil - Madurai

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70953_rfp.1.alagarkoil.%2027.3.12.pdf

* DPR preparation for Infra facilities for Tourism in Meghamalai, Theni dt

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70953_rfp.4.%20megamalai.27.3.12.pdf

* DPR preparation for Infra facilities for Tourism in Tiruchendur

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70953_rfp.2.tiruchendur.27.3.12.pdf


* DPR preparation for Infra facilities for Chettinad rural tourism cluster

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd70953_rfp.3.chettinad.%2027.3.12.pdf

Yercaud will now have a new tourist attraction (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/article3271271.ece)

Tourists flocking to Yercaud can now enjoy a panoramic view of the adjoining hills, with the district administration proposing to develop an eco-tourism spot at Thalaisolai, about 7 km from Boat House.

Salem District Collector K. Maharabhushanam, here to review the 20-Point Programme, said that visitors enjoy a boat and conclude their trip in this hill resort.

“But there is lot more to enjoy, especially the scenic beauty of the hill from Thalaisolai”, he added.

The proposed spot lies near Annamalaiyar Temple. Once developed as a tourist spot, visitors can view the Servarayan temple from a distance, coffee plantations, spice trees and orange groves. A children's park with playground equipment would also be set up at the spot, he added.

Mr. Maharabhushanam said that roads will be re-laid, basic facilities like toilets, parking lot, roof shelter and drinking water facility will be made available. “Funds are a constraint and the public, estate owners and industrialists should contribute to the development of the area”, he said. Based on the availability of funds, the district administration plans to complete the work before May.

The spot would be a plastic-free zone and visitors can enjoy both its beauty and serenity.

“No plastic material would be allowed and the spot would be promoted as an eco-tourism centre”, the collector added.

With summer festival expected to begin in May, works have been expedited to establish the Kurinji Park and the new Government Botanical Garden in Yercaud.

People in Yercaud hope that the proposed tourist spot and the existing tourist places of interest would boost the economic activity and promote the place as a global tourist destination.

Government of India (GOI), Asian Development Bank (ADB) and States of Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand sign a $ 43.84 Million Loan Agreement for the Second Tranche of Infrastructure Development Investment Program to boost Tourism in two States

The Government of India (GOI), Asian Development Bank (ADB) and States of Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand today signed a $ 43.84 million loan agreement for the second tranche of Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism. This agreement aims to enhance tourism environment in Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand States with a view to draw increased volume of national and international tourists. The Program was approved in 2010 for $ 250 million as multi-tranche financing facility to assist in developing tourism-related infrastructure in the four participating states - Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu. The First Tranche for $ 43.42 million involving states of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh is under implementation.

The objective of Tranche-II under the Investment Program is to support the up-gradation and construction of tourist facilities through improvement of urban infrastructure and connectivity to the tourist attractions in the participating states of Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu. The program will promote sustainable development of tourism with a provision of levying appropriate fees or user charges to pursue cost recovery.

The loan portion of the Tamil Nadu State would flow on back-to-back basis to the State Govt. while loan portion of the Uttarakhand State would flow in the ratio of 90 (grant) : 10( loan) as Uttarakhand is a special category state.

The signatories were Shri Venu Rajamony, Joint Secretary (Multilateral Institutions), Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, on behalf of the Government of India, and Shri Narhari Rao, ADB Deputy Country Director for India. Shri V.K. Jeyakodi, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture Department on behalf of Government of Tamil Nadu and Dr. S. S. Sandhu, Secretary, Tourism Department on behalf of Government of Uttarakhand.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajamony said that the Project includes development of eco-tourism, boat house areas, tourist support infrastructure & beach resort complex in various cities of Tamil Nadu and development of gardens, fountains & water support facilities along banks of Ganga canal and adventure tourism centres/tourism support infrastructure in various cities of Uttarakhand. He further added that upgrading urban infrastructure and improving water supply, sanitation and solid waste management will improve the experience of travelers, potentially leading to longer stays and a greater likelihood of exploring local communities. Shri Rajamony said that the Program will enhance economic growth and provision of livelihood opportunities for local communities including women through sustainable development of tourism infrastructure with a focus on preservation and development of natural and cultural heritage and incidental services. The program will promote private sector participation through use of unutilized/underutilized heritage sites/buildings and promotion of adventure/eco-tourism and thus, will serve as an effective bridge between the local community and the private sector, Shri Rajamony added.

Shri Narhari Rao, ADB Deputy Country Director for India said that the project will improve basic infrastructure around natural and cultural heritage sites to enhance quality of tourism attraction and strengthen participation by local communities in tourism-related economic activities. This will provide new livelihoods and incomes, particularly for poor, rural dwellers.

http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=82042

Government of India (GOI), Asian Development Bank (ADB) and States of Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand sign a $ 43.84 Million Loan Agreement for the Second Tranche of Infrastructure Development Investment Program to boost Tourism in two States



http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=82042

Will the projects be funded on ratio basis as it is done already now something like CG:SG:Corporation/Municipality = 50:30:20 ?

This line says how the funding would be... But, What does this line mean?

loan portion of the Tamil Nadu State would flow on back-to-back basis to the State Govt

This line says how the funding would be... But, What does this line mean?


From Wiki :

A Back-to-back loan is a loan agreement between entities in two countries in which the currencies remain separate but the maturity dates remain fixed. The gross interest rates (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interest_rate) of the loan are separate as well and are set on the basis of the commercial rates in place when the agreement is signed.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Back-to-back_loan



I guess one entity is ADB and another is TN Govt. This is about funds to TN govt alone I think. No specific detailing on how the projects are going to be taken up but CG is also a part of this MoU. So, there must be some kind of detail (i.e whether the local bodies will play a role in these) the media coverage missed I guess. :(

$43.84 m ADB loan for Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand tourism

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/article3274898.ece

Minister promises a boost to spiritual tourism

The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation is gearing up to give a boost to spiritual tourism, Tourism Minister S. Gokula Indira said here on Thursday.

Talking to reporters, the Minister said that the government was keen on promoting spiritual tourism for the benefit of domestic tourists wishing to go on pilgrimage as well as foreign tourists wanting to explore the architectural, cultural and sculptural heritage of the State. Saying that some of the religious and pilgrimage tours promoted by the TTDC had elicited good response, Ms. Indira said it was proposed to add some more religious and pilgrimage tour packages in the list of such tours offered by TTDC.

Further, the Minister said, efforts were being taken to improve or augment accommodation in hotels run by the TTDC under the brand name Hotel Tamil Nadu at various important places.
http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article3284787.ece

திருச்சியில் இருந்து திருத்தல பஸ் உலா சுற்றுலாத்துறை ஏற்பாடு செய்கிறது

திருச்சி: சென்னைக்கு அடுத்தபடியாக திருச்சியில் இருந்து முக்கிய கோவில்களுக்கு செல்லும் திருத்தல பஸ் சுற்றுலா திட்டம் செயல்படுத்தப்படவுள்ளது.

சுற்றுலாப்பயணிகள் மற்றும் வெளிநாட்டினரை கவரும் வகையில் சென்னை யில் இருந்து திருக்கோவில்கள் மற்றும் சுற்றுலாத்தலங்களுக்கான ஒருநாள் பயணத்திட்டத்தை சுற்றுலாத்துறை செயலாற்றி வருகிறது. ஒரு நாளில் நவகிரக கோவில்கள் தரிசனம், ஒரே நாளில் திருப்பதி ஆகிய ஆன்மீக சுற்றுலாப் பயணங்கள் வாரம் 2 முறை செயல்படுத்தப்பட்டு வருகின்றன. அதேபோல் சுற்றுலாப்பயணிகளுக்காக ஒருநாளில் சென்னைகாஞ்சிபுரம்மகாபலிபுரம் இன்பச்சுற்றுலா பயணம் மேற்கொள்ளப்பட்டு வருகிறது. இதேபோல் சென்னையில் இருந்து திருச்சி, மதுரை, ராமேஸ்வரம், கன்னியாகுமரி எனும் 8 நாள் சுற்றுலா பயணத்தையும் தமிழக சுற்றுலாத்துறை மேற்கொண்டு வருகிறது. இந்த திட்டங்கள் அனைத்தும் சென்னையில் இருந்தே இயக்கப்பட்டு வருகின்றன.

இந்த நிலையில் திருச்சியை மையமாக வைத்து ஒரு நாள் திருத்தல பஸ் பயணத்திட்டத்தை செயல்படுத்த சுற்றுலாத்துறை திட்டமிட்டுள்ளது. இதன்படி பக்தர்கள் மற்றும் பொதுமக்கள் ஒரே நாளில் திருச்சி மாவட்டத்தின் முக்கிய திருத்தலங்களான மலைக்கோட்டை, திருவானைக்கோவில், ஸ்ரீரங்கம், வயலூர் மற்றும் குணசீலம் கோவில்களுக்கு சென்று சாமி தரிசனம் செய்து விட்டு திரும்பி வரலாம்.

வாரத்திற்கு 3 நாட்கள் என திட்டமிடப்பட்டுள்ள இந்த ஆன்மீக பஸ் பயணம் திருச்சியில் இருந்து காலை 9 மணிக்கு பஸ் கிளம்பி மதிய உணவுடன் அனைத்து கோவில்களின் தரிசனங்களை முடித்து விட்டு மாலை 5 மணிக்கு மீண்டும் திரும்பும் வகையில் பயணத்திட்டம் தயாரிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. இதற்கான கட்டணம் இதுவரையில் இறுதி செய்யப்படவில்லை.

ஏசி பஸ்சுக்கு ஒரு கட்டணம், தனிநபர்களுக்கு ஒரு கட்டணம் மற்றும் 30 பேர் கொண்ட குழுவினராக வந்தால் ஒரு கட்டணம் என 3 பிரிவுகளாக கட்டணத்தை நிர்ணயம் செய்ய சுற்றுலாத்துறை அதிகாரிகள் முடிவு செய்துள்ளனர். மேலும் இந்த பஸ்சில் கோவில்களின் சிறப்புகள் குறித்து விளக்கம் அளிக்க கைடு ஒருவரை நியமிக்கவும் முடிவு செய்யப்பட்டுள்ளது.

வானில் இருந்தப்படி ரசிக்கலாம்

இதேபோல் ஹெலிகாப்டர் மூலம் ராமேஸ்வரம் மற்றும் கன்னியாகுமரி பகுதிகளை பார்வையிடும் ஒரு திட்டமும் சுற்றுலாத்துறையின் பரிசீலனையில் உள்ளது. இதன்படி ஹெலிகாப்டரில் மதுரையில் இருந்து கிளம்பி ராமேஸ்வரம் சென்று வானில் இருந்தபடியே ராமசுவாமி கோவிலின் அழகை ரசிக்கவும், பாம்பன் பாலம் உள்ளிட்டவைகளை பார்வையிடலாம். அதேபோல் மதுரையில் இருந்து ஹெலிகாப்டரில் கிளம்பி கன்னியாகுமரி அம்மன் கோவில் மற்றும் திருவள்ளுவர் சிலை, விவேகானந்தர் பாறை உள்ளிட்ட கன்னியாகுமரின் அழகுகளை ரசித்து விட்டு மீண்டும் மதுரை திரும்பும் திட்டம் ஆகியவையும் சுற்றுலாத்துறையின் பரிசீலனையில் உள்ளது.


http://www.dinakaran.com/District_Detail.asp?Nid=30734&cat=504

One day tourism scheme going to be implemented by TTDC in Trichy and

Heli tourism to enjoy view of Paamban, Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram and Tiruvalluvar statue, Vivekanandar rock in Kanyakumari with Madurai as a starting point is also on the cards. (Dn know why they skipped Kodaikanal which they usually say)

Nava Graha tour by TNTDC & Pondu Tourism are both very popular and bookings are done even in other cities due to high patronage.

Pilgrimage Tourism may actually fetch more income round the year as it is not seasonal like normal tourism.

Life time tax on tourist cars (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Life-time-tax-on-tourist-cars/articleshow/12604223.cms)

CHENNAI: Along with the road tax hikes, the government, for the first time, also plans to levy life time tax on tourist cars and maxi cabs. Lifetime tax for vehicles carrying up to seven people will be 10% of the cost of vehicles if it is below 10 lakh and 15% in case the cost of the vehicle exceeds 10 lakh. For old vehicles, the proposed tax is 8.5% and 14.5% respectively. Similarly, new maxi cabs with 13-seater capacity also will be levied 10% of the cost of vehicle as lifetime tax in case the cost of vehicle is less than 10 lakh and 15% in case it exceeds 10 lakh. As of now, such vehicles are levied annual or quarterly tax.

Tax will be increased for long route omni buses (private luxury buses) and sleeper coaches too. For a seven-day temporary permit, the fee will be doubled from 300 to 600 per seat. For one month permit it will be revised from 1,000 to 1,500 per seat and for three months permit, the fees will be hiked from 3,000 per seat to 3,500 per seat.

Nava Graha tour by TNTDC & Pondu Tourism are both very popular and bookings are done even in other cities due to high patronage.

Pilgrimage Tourism may actually fetch more income round the year as it is not seasonal like normal tourism.
+100..
navagraha tour should be from Thanjavur, Trichy also.
navagraha tour, big temple and Dharasuram temple. it will be awesome for people from bangalore, down south to come upto TPJ/TJ and get this TTDC package.
on Saturday, Sunday .. thingalur(chandran ) padara paadu irukke.. very narrow road..but how many buses.. how many cars..
good old days..we start in the morning 6 am and come back at 11 pm...

cross posting from Trichy thread.. (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=90325958&postcount=15)

some old site with loads of information about TN attractions. (http://www.vegetarian-restaurants.net/India/IndianStates/Tamil-Nadu/Tamil-Nadu.htm)

MEGHALAI THE PARADISE HIDDEN IN TAMIL NADU (http://indiantraveldestinations.wordpress.com/2012/04/14/meghalai-the-paradise-hidden-in-tamil-nadu/)

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-11.jpg?w=328&h=218

Meghamalai, popularly called High Wavy Mountains, is a cool and misty mountain range situated in the Western Ghats in Theni district, Tamilnadu, South India. It is a place of natural beauty dotted with cardamom plantations and tea estates. The place is situated at an elevation of 1,500 m above sea level and it is rich in flora and fauna. This area, now mostly planted with tea, includes Cloudlands, Highwavys and manalaar estates, the access to which is now largely restricted. It still includes large untouched remnants of evergreen forest.

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-22.jpg?w=295&h=221

Once the exclusive preserve of a group of plantations, Meghamalai today has become the cynosure of every tourist. The largest plantation, the Highwavys Group, is a tea plantation owned previously by Hindustan Lever and today run successfully by the Woodbriar group.

Flanked on one side by the Periyar Tiger Reserve and on the other by the proposed Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Highwavys group of Estates lie ensconced in a geographic depression shaped like a bowl, bordered by rising mountain ranges on all sides with a 7 kilometer lake winding across itself.

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-33.jpg?w=374&h=280

Meghamalai is also home to rare species of birds, flora and mammal life. Wild Gaurs and Elephants are commonly sighted across the few plantations but more so within the Highwavys Group of Estates.

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-44.jpg?w=352&h=193

The rare Great Indian Hornbills are found here. The Great Indian Hornbills are one of the largest hornbills and these are found on sea level up to 5,000 feet (1,500 m) above ground. Great Indian Hornbills like to eat various types of berries. Hornbills swallow most of their food whole instead of breaking it down first. Hornbills are famous for their nesting ritual. Now these beautiful hornbills are becoming rare, mainly due to their large hunting for their meat and destruction of their natural habitat. Protection and restoration of destructed forest areas food-tree resources, will aid the conservation of hornbills in the region.

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-55.jpg?w=335&h=250

As the name suggests, Meghamalai is the kingdom where the clouds meet the mountains. It is arguably the most beautiful hill station in South India , known to a selective few and seen by even fewer people.

Amidst the natural beauty, it is also about wildlife sightings, treks, and picturesque walks, playing billiards or table tennis, sitting around a bonfire, camping out on a mountain cliff or bathing in a waterfall.

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-66.jpg?w=490

Highwavys is a view point that will afford a wonderful view of the entire mountains range of Varusanadu Hills. There few large private tea, spices and coffee plantations all around, notable include The Highwavys Estates owned by The Woodbriar Group, Ananda Plantations, Ponsiva Plantations and Feildmede Estate have the largest holdings of plantations in Meghamalai, an artificial lake and plenty of scope for making leisurely walks. Kardana Coffee Estate is situated in the High Wavy Mountains at 9°42′N 77°24′E.[5]

http://indiantravelplaces.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4-14-77.jpg?w=394&h=295

Six dams on the hill and originating place of Suruli Theertham (Suruli falls near Cumbum town) are popular attractions for tourists. From Manalar dam, one can view the deep Cumbum Valley and the villages of
Theni district. The Department of Tourism has planned to introduce boat or ferry service to enable tourists to enjoy the pristine beauty of the hill

Steps are being taken to make this place a tiger reserve and DPR preparation underway for which tenders were called by TTDC to improve tourism infra here. :cheers:

Unexploited yet a great place they say!!

Cross post :


சுற்றுலாத் தலமாக மாறவுள்ள மதுரை சாத்தையாறு அணை

பாலமேடு : மதுரை மாவட்டம் பாலமேடு அருகேவுள்ள சாத்தையாறு அணையை, சுற்றுலா தலமாக மாற்ற கலெக்டர் சகாயம் நடவடிக்கை எடுத்து வருகிறார். இதற்காக மத்திய சுற்றுலா வளர்ச்சி மேம்பாட்டு நிதியில் இருந்து ரூ.4.14 கோடியை ஒதுக்க, கலெக்டர் வலியுறுத்திஉள்ளார்.
சாத்தையாறு அணையில் 26 அடி வரை தண்ணீர் தேக்க முடியும். 700 ஏக்கர் நீர்ப்பிடிப்பு பகுதியாகும். சிறுமலை, வகுத்துமலை, காட்டுநாயக்கன்ஓடை உள்பட பல இடங்களிலிருந்து அணைக்கு நீர்வரத்துள்ளது.
அணையில் இருந்து வெளியேறும் உபரி நீர் கோணப்பட்டி, எர்ரம்பட்டி, பாலமேடு, அலங்காநல்லூர் உள்பட 11 கண்மாய்களுக்கு செல்கிறது. இதன் மூலம் 2,000 எக்டேர் நிலம் பாசன வசதி பெறுகின்றன.

கலெக்டர் சகாயம் ஆய்வு: சோழவந்தான் சட்டசபை தொகுதியிலுள்ள இந்த அணையை சுற்றுலா தலமாக்க நடவடிக்கை எடுப்பதாகவும், தூர்வாரி நீர்மட்டத்தை உயர்த்துவதாகவும், அரசியல் கட்சியினர் அடிக்கடி கூறினர். ஆனால் அதற்காக எந்த நடவடிக்கைகளையும் எடுக்கவில்லை. அணையை
சுற்றுலா தலமாக்க கலெக்டர் சகாயத்திடம் மனு அளிக்கப்பட்டது. அதை தொடர்ந்து கலெக்டர் அணையை ஆய்வு செய்தார்.
சுற்றுலா தலமாக்குவதற்கான சாத்தியக்கூறுகள் குறித்து அதிகாரிகளுடன் ஆலோசனை நடத்தினார்.

சுற்றுலாத் தலமாகிறது: அதன்படி, வைகை அணைக்கு இணையாக, சாத்தையாறு அணையை சுற்றுலா தலமாக்கப்படவுள்ளது. அணையை தூர்வாரவும், அணையில் படகுகள் விடவும், சிறுவர் பூங்கா, நீர் விளையாட்டு மற்றும் பொழுது போக்கு அம்சங்களை அமைக்கவும், அணைக்கு வரும் வழித்தடங்களை அகலப்படுத்தி தார்சாலை அமைக்கவும் நடவடிக்கை எடுக்கப்படவுள்ளது. இதற்காக, மத்திய சுற்றுலா வளர்ச்சி மேம்பாட்டு நிதியில் இருந்து ரூ.4.14 கோடியை ஒதுக்க, மத்திய சுற்றுலா வளர்ச்சித்துறைக்கு
கலெக்டர் வலியுறுத்தினார்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/district_detail.asp?Id=447420

Saathaiyaar dam to become a tourist spot with infra worth Rs. 4.14 Crores with children park, water park and entertainment infra and roads leading to this place is going to be widened and improved.

Cross post :

மேகமலை வனவிலங்குகள் சரணாலயத்திற்கு "திடீர்' சிக்கல்

கம்பம்: மேகமலை வனவிலங்குகள் சரணாலயம் செயல்படுவதில் திடீர் சிக்கல் ஏற்பட்டுள்ளது. தேனி மாவட்ட வனக்கோட்டத்தில் கூடலூர், கம்பம், சின்னமனூர், மேகமலை, ஹைவேவிஸ் ஆகிய வனச்சரகங்களின் ஒரு பகுதியை பிரித்து, மேகமலை வனவிலங்குகள் சரணாலயமாக அரசாணை வெளியிடப்பட்டது. மத்திய வன அமைச்சகத்தின் இந்த உத்தரவால், இப்பகுதியில் உள்ள வனவிலங்குகள் பாதுகாக்கப்படும் என கூறப்பட்டது. இதனால், கண்ணகி கோயில் பகுதியில் காணப்படும் வரையாடுகள், மேகமலை பகுதியில் வாழும் சிங்கவால் குரங்குகள் வேட்டையாடப்படுவது தடுக்கப்படும்.

சுருளியாறு மின்நிலைய ரோட்டின் இரண்டு பக்கங்களிலும், தற்போது தடுப்பு கம்பிகள் அமைக்கப்பட்டு பொதுமக்கள் நடமாட்டம் கட்டுப்படுத்தப்பட்டு உள்ளது. வனவிலங்கு சரணாலய பிளக்ஸ் போர்டுகள் வைக்கப்பட்டுள்ளன. இந்நிலையில், ஏப்.,16 முதல் முறைப்படி செயல்படத் துவங்கும் என்ற அறிவிப்பு, தற்காலிகமாக ஒத்திவைக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. வருஷநாடு மலைப்பகுதியில் வாழும் ஆயிரக்கணக்கான மக்கள் சரணாலயத்திற்கு எதிர்ப்பு தெரிவித்து வருகின்றனர். ஆண்டிபட்டி எம்.எல்.ஏ., தங்கதமிழ்செல்வனும், துறை அமைச்சரிடம் பொதுமக்களின் கோரிக்கையை எடுத்துக் கூறியுள்ளார்.இதனால், சரணாலயம் செயல்படுவதில் சிக்கல் ஏற்பட்டுள்ளது.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=447666

Meghamalai Tiger reserve plan is going to be at stake due to natives protests.

Cross post :

மதுரை : ""மதுரை திருமலை நாயக்கர் மகாலில், லேசர் மூலம் ஒலி ஒளிக் காட்சி அமைக்கப்படும்,'' என, தொல்லியல் துறை துணை இயக்குனர் கணேசன் தெரிவித்தார்.
அவர் கூறியதாவது: தொல்லியல் துறை கட்டுப்பாட்டில் உள்ள வரிச்சியூர், அரிட்டாபட்டி, கொங்கர் புளியங்குளத்தில் உள்ள சமணர் கல்வெட்டுகள், படுக்கைகள், கோவலன் பொட்டல் பகுதிகளை இணைத்து, தனிச் சுற்றுலா தலமாக்க உள்ளோம்.
சமணர் குகைகளில் உள்ள படுகைகளை விட, அதில் எழுதப்பட்டிருக்கும் செய்திகள் முக்கியம். மாங்குளம் கல்வெட்டின் மூலம் தான், முற்கால பாண்டியர் பற்றிய கல்வெட்டு செய்திகளை அறிய முடிந்தது. இத்தகைய சிறப்பு வாய்ந்த இடங்களை இணைத்து, சுற்றுலா தலமாக்க
அரசுக்கு பரிந்துரை செய்யப்பட்டது.
தற்போது மகாலில் உள்ள ஒலி ஒளி காட்சியை, லேசர் மூலம் அமைக்க உள்ளோம். ஐதராபாத் மியூசியத்தில் நவீன தொழில்நுட்பத்துடன் லேசர் மூலம் துல்லியமான ஒலி ஒளிக் காட்சி அமைக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. அதேபோல் இங்கும் அமைக்கப்படும். தொல்லியல் துறை, சுற்றுலா துறை இணைந்து இதில் முடிவெடுக்கும்,
என்றார்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=445330

Plans for Sound and Light show using LASER technology in Tirumalai Nayak Palace. The sites under control such as Varichiyur, Arittapatti, Kongar Puliankulam where Jain sculptures and other such are to be made tourism points.

Cross post :

The DHAN foundation guys have done a commendable job on preparing a Powerpoint presentation on the heritage sites in Madurai :cheers:

Click the below links to download and view

* Aanamalai (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Aanamalai.ppt)

* Alagarmalai (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Alagarmalai.ppt)

* Arittapatti (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Arittapatti.ppt)

* Karadipatti (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Perumalmala.ppt)

* Meenakshipuram (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Meenakshipuram.ppt)

* Samanarmalai (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Keelakuyilkudi.ppt)

* Tiruparankundram (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Tirupparamkundram.ppt)

* Tiruvaadhavoor (http://www.developmenttourism.in/docs/Thiruvadavur.ppt)

:applause:

Their website : http://www.developmenttourism.in/

@MK- Good Luck with your IT blog.:)

@MK- Good Luck with your IT blog.:)

Thanks :) I am a novice in blogging. Most information I give in the blog is what I get from SSC or the data what I look for from sezindia.nic.in to post in our forums.

Kanyakumari:

Vattakottai Fort (Circular Fort) is a seaside fort built in 18th century as a coastal defence-fortification and barracks in the erstwhile Travancore kingdom. It was constructed under the command of Captain Eustachius De Lannoy during the reign of Travancore King Marthandavarma (1729-58) in the 18th century.
It is rectangular in shape and covers an area of about three and a half acres. The fort is enclosed by walls 25 to 26 feet high, including the parapet, 29 feet thick at the front, 18 feet at the corners and 6 feet at the rear.
The fort is made of granite blocks and, today, a part of the fort extends into the sea. It is a protected site under the Indian archaeological department. A major renovation of the fort was undertaken recently by the department, and the site is now a popular tourist spot.
Vattakottai Fort is about 7 km from Kanyakumari. The sea is so calm and ideal for a refreshing dip. The small river by the side of the fort, and the green vegetation all around add to the scenery of the fort. Vattakottai Fort is also famous for the black sand beaches that is situated across its coast.

http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/6745/31826830593265614455929.jpg

Patmanatha puram palace .:king marathanda varma palace

http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/1174/40528629328320740950429.jpg

http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/8771/48591729172591756523329.jpg

Can anybody tell what is the name of this fruit?.. Its called as Aiyini Pazham. very good taste.. get easily in Kanyakumari west regions..

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/3813/53561530040084669774029.jpg


About Mathoor Hanging Bridge
Mathur Hanging Trough is a bridge trough that is situated over the river of Pahrali. However, what makes Mathur Hanging Trough so interesting is the fact that Mathur Hanging Trough is the longest and also the highest aqueduct that can be found in the continent of Asia. Although Mathur Hanging Trough was constructed as a drought measure, it was kept in place due to its qualities and historical attraction that it offere

http://img853.imageshack.us/img853/5166/48093629174259089689929.jpg

The Kanyakumari's View with Kumari Amman Temple in 1925.

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/1206/57616230593115281137629.jpg

^^ Nice pics Jegan Sir...:)

51 things to do in chennai (http://www.travelbeings.com/2012/04/51-things-to-do-in-chennai.html)

The best way to explore the tradition and cultural diversity of southern India is to explore the biggest metropolitan of the Region. Here is a list of things to do in Chennai while visiting the place

Contd in the blog....

Pilavakkal Periyar Dam park and recreation works project caught in red tape after DPR preparation.

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/7480/24317839.jpg

View of Vevekandar Rock at Night :

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/5856/37894532074920126862322.jpg

Erachakulam, Kanyakumari District

http://img850.imageshack.us/img850/160/40895637677736566580622.jpg

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/2715/42191137677733566580922.jpg

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2844/42274137146804619673822.jpg

மாத்தூர் தொட்டிபாலத்தில் கூடுகட்டியுள்ள தேனீக்களை அப்புறப்படுத்த வேண்டுமென சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் கோரிக்கை விடுத்துள்ளனர். கன்னியாகுமரி மாவட்டத்தின் முக்கிய சுற்றுலாதலங்களில் ஒன்றாக மாத்தூர் தொட்டிபாலம் விளங்குகிறது. இங்கு தினமும் நூற்றுக்கணக்கான சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் வந்து செல்கின்றனர். தொட்டிபாலத்தின் ஒரு பகுதியில் தேனீக்கள் கூடு கட்டியுள்ளது.
கடந்த சில நாட்களுக்கு முன் மாத்தூர் தொட்டிபாலத்திற்கு சுற்றுலா வந்த ஒரு குடும்பத்தினர் பாலத்தின் ஒரு புறத்தில் இருந்து மறு புறத்திற்கு நடந்து சென்று கொண்டிருந்தனர். பாலத்தின் நடுபகுதியை கடந்து வந்த சிறுவர்கள் திடீரென கூச்சலிட்டு திரும்பி ஓடினர்.
இதைகண்ட மற்ற சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் விசாரித்த போது சிறுவனின் கையில் தேனீ கொட்டியதும், வலியுடன் சிறுவன் ஓடியதும் தெரிய வந்தது. பின் பாலத்தை சுற்றி பார்த்த சுற்றுலா பயணிகள் பாலத்தின் நடுப்பகுதியில் தேனீக்கள் கூடு கட்டி இருப்பதை கண்டனர்.
மூன்று மாதங்களுக்கு மேலாக இப்பகுதியில் தேனீ கூடு இருப்பதாக தெரிகிறது. சம்பந்தப்பட்ட நிர்வாகம் இங்கு கூடு கட்டி வாழும் தேனீக்களை அப்புறப்படுத்த வேண்டும் என்பதே சுற்றுலா பயணிகளின் எதிர்பார்ப்பாகும்.

some tasty fruits in this area:
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/9683/42974039269307740756822.jpg

http://img864.imageshack.us/img864/5045/42243639269298407424422.jpg

Monday Market, Kanyakumari District:
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/1504/39353534447378222949822.jpg

Monday Market, KK district
http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/7366/42701838879480113072922.jpg


Near Nagercoil:

http://img577.imageshack.us/img577/7683/55994840981646236189622.jpg

Pleasure boat service to islands in Gulf of Mannar in offing

The Tamil Nadu forest department was mulling launching pleasure boat service from here to a few uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar as part of tourism promotion, state Forest Minister K T Pachamal said today. Talking to reporters here, he said he would discuss with Chief Minister J.Jayalalitha the possibilities of launching the pleasure boat service. He said the state government was taking up a mega project to develop Rameswaram as thousands of pilgrims and tourists from all over the country and abroad visited the Island town. The boat service to some islands like Kurusadai Theevu and Muyal Theevu out of the total 21 uninhabited islands in the Gulf of Mannar would attract more tourists. "Hence, I will speak to the Chief Minister seeking her permission to operate the boat service through the Forest department," he said. He said the mega project was aimed at developing Rameswaram and its peripherals, besides beautification of the holy town and to provide tourist-friendly amenities. Pachamal said efforts would be taken for planting mangroves in coastal towns around Rameswaram to protect them during the natural calamities like tsunami and cyclones. Similarly, the forest officials were instructed to cut only fully grown casurina trees planted along the coasts between Pamban and Dhanushkodi for auction. The casurina trees were grown by the Forest department to prevent sea erosion. Similarly, the forest officials were instructed to take stern action against those who illegally poach sea cucumbers, an endangered marine species. Answering a query, he said the government would consider issuing pattas to about 300 fishermen families living at Puduroad near Dhanushkodi. Minister for Handlooms and Textiles S.Sundararajan, who was also present, said the state government had given permission to construct Under Ground Drainage (UGD) for Rameswaram at a cost of Rs 36.26 crores.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/pleasure-boat-service-to-islands-in-gulf-of-mannar-in-offing/988969.html

Ramanujar birthplace on tourism map (http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/ramanujar-birthplace-tourism-map-649)

Not many may be aware that Sriperumbudur is the birthplace of the Vaishnavite saint Sri Ramanujar. Many may remember Sriperumbudur as the place where the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was killed.

But the antiquity of the town located on the Chennai-Bengaluru highway, about 40 km from here, dates back hundreds of years before an Indian PM was assassinated there in 1991.

Sriperumbudur houses a temple for the ‘Acharya’ who was the first religious guru to introduce free meals to fight against social discrimination.

Cashing in on the tourism potential, the state tourism department is determined to put this place on the religious tourism map of Tamil Nadu.

Accordingly, it has taken up infrastructure creation work with assistance from the Centre. The temple town, which would be developed under the destination development scheme of the Centre, will see more facilities at an outlay of Rs 5 crore.

According to sources, the Ramanujar temple, having the tallest Rajagopuram with shrines for Adhikesava perumal and Yethirajavalli thayar, is the first temple in south India to have a golden vimanam erected as far back as in 1912.

Ramanujar was born in 1017 AD on 12th day of the Tamil month of Chithirai. His birthday is celebrated in a grand manner in Sriperumbudur during a 10-day utsav.

“Sriperumbudur is strategically located and is rapidly getting industralised. Its proximity to Chennai and Bengaluru attracts a good number of people.

The proposed scheme would not only facilitate better amenities but also highlight the importance of the place,” an official said.

New projects to boost tourism in TN


Tamil Nadu has decided to further exploit its potential to draw tourists by formulating specific packages combining pilgrimage, heritage and ecology. The packages being planned include a mega circuit connecting several temple towns of central Tamil Nadu; an East Coast circuit (pilgrimage and heritage) and a Southern circuit (pilgrimage and eco circuit), tourism minister S. Gokula Indira told the State Assembly on Wednesday.

The mega circuit programme, aimed at improving tourism infrastructure in temple towns, will be implemented at a cost of Rs. 50 crore during this financial year. This will be funded under the Central Financial Assistance programme. The circuit would connect Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai, Sirkazhi, Chidambaram and Vriddhachalam. Destinations along this mega circuit would be developed, the minister told the Assembly.

The minister said that the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation is planning to launch 10 new tours this financial year. They include tours to Nagarathar temples, Divya Desam temples in Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur district, Thirukkadayur temple, Thiruvudai Amman, Vadivudai Amman and Kodiyudai Amman temples, to Madurai , Tiruchi , to Courtallam and nearby areas, to Yelagiri hills, to Kolli hills and to the freedom fighters' circuit.

The Helicopter Corporation of India and heli taxi operators have been contacted to operate heli taxi connecting important tourist destinations such as Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal and Rameswaram. Cruise tourism will be promoted in association with Chennai and Tuticorin Port Trusts. Besides this, water sports and water taxis will be promoted along the Marina, she said.

Medical tourism will also be promoted in co-ordination with the leading hospitals in the state. Similarly, wellness tourism, comprising yoga, meditation, ayurveda, spa and nature cure will be promoted in co-ordination with reputed institutions. The Government has issued orders constituting a core committee for promotion of medical and wellness tourism.

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-tamilnadu/article3354772.ece

^^ Any SSC guys into this core committee? :)

Rural tourism cluster planned to showcase Chettinad (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article3355427.ece)

Open-deck buses to ferry tourists in major centres

A rural tourism cluster showcasing the culture and heritage of Chettinad, projects to improve infrastructural facilities in temple towns and introduction of open-deck buses in major tourist cities are some of the important decisions taken by the government to promote tourism.

Prominent among the places that found space in announcements made in the Assembly by Tourism Minister S. Gokula Indira on Wednesday were Sriperumbudur (birthplace of Sri Ramanuja and the abode of Adhikesava Perumal Temple); Azhagarkoil (houses a noted Murugan shrine and also Sundararaja Perumal Temple); Tiruchendur and Tiruttani, popular Murugan shrines.

All these towns will get a facelift apart from a number of basic amenities at a cost of Rs.5 crore each.

Replying to a debate on the demands for grants for her department, Ms. Indira unveiled a plan to promote the rural tourism cluster for showcasing the cultural splendour of Chettinad. Various facilities will be provided for tourists at places such as Pillayarpatti, Vairavanpatti, Kaanadukathan, Maathur, Aathankudi, Ilayankudi and Nemam at a cost of Rs.11 crore.

The objective of the circuit is to make tourists stay in such villages and see for themselves how the rural folk live. Besides, these villagers will be given training so that they can be gainfully employed in their villages.

Ms. Indira said that Mukkombu, a tourist spot on the banks of the Cauvery in Tiruchirappalli district, would be improved at a cost of Rs.5 crore. Apart from beautifying parks, illumination, lodging facilities, public convenience, parking lot and water sports facilities would be provided.

Megahmalai in Theni district was developing into a prominent hill station. The Suruli falls in the vicinity drew a large number of tourists. Apart from various basic amenities, the ghat roads would be improved at a total cost of Rs.5 crore.

Courttalam, a major tourist spot that attracts thousands of tourists, especially from June to September, would get a major facelift, including entertainment facilities, at Rs.5 crore.

Under the Clean India project, environmental hygiene in places that attract a large number of tourists would be improved at a total cost of Rs.5 crore. This programme would benefit the Marina beach, Besant Nagar beach, important temples, memorials, falls, hill stations and boathouses. Sixteen “not-so-popular” tourist spots would be improved at a cost of Rs.10 crore. An interesting feature would be the introduction of open-deck buses in Chennai, Madurai and Tiruchirappali, where a number of spots attract tourists.

An audio guide would be introduced at Mamallapuram.

I am sure we have lot of tourism places around each big cities of TN.
TTDC can explore this huge potential by planning 1 day or 2 day package tours based out of cities like Trichy, Madurai, Nellai, Salem, CBE...

Friends, shall we discuss about possible package tour ideas here ?

Ada, tea aathurathuku thaampa indha tea kadaiye iruku. Begin with Tanjore Kris. Let me post details on Madurai, Tuticorin, Ramnad and Nellai region tomorrow.

If possible, can we(SSC forumers) plan for tours on every district on the weekends. We choose a district/place, we gather at the destination on Saturday morning, tour around for two days and start back to their places on Sunday night. What say guys?

Ada, tea aathurathuku thaampa indha tea kadaiye iruku. Begin with Tanjore Kris. Let me post details on Madurai, Tuticorin, Ramnad and Nellai region tomorrow.

Some of the packages that TTDC can operate with very good profits based on Tanjore(Delta)..

Package 1:
6:30 AM : Departure from TTDC hotel or railway station
6 :30 - 9 AM: . Scenic drive between Vennar Bank, Vellam perambur, Grand Anaicut,
9-3: Thiruvaiyaru, Swami malai, Dharasuram,
3-4: Thittai Gurusthalam, Punnai nallur mari amman temple
4-9: Palace, Mani mandapam, Big temple & Garden

Package 2 A& 2 B (Navagraha Tour)-2 buses on 2 different directions.
6:30 AM-9 AM: Thingalur, Suriyanarkoil, Kanchanur(Breakfast)
9 AM-1 pm: Vaitheeswaran koil, Thiruvenkadu(Lunch)
2-5: keezhaperumpallam, thirunallar
5-9: thirunakeswaram, Oppliappan koil(additional), Alangudi

Package 3 (Architectural tour)
Grand anaicut, Gangai konda cholapuram, Dharasuram temple, Big temple.

package 4(temple tour)
1. thiruvaiyaru , swami malai, Govindapuram, Kumbakonam Kumbaswaran koil, perumal koil, thiruvidaimaruthur temple, oppliappan koil, Ayyavadi prathyangaradevi temple, thirukarukkavoor karbaratchambigai, thittai Gurusthalam, thanjavur mari
amman temple.

package 5(temple tour)
1. Swami malai 2. Darasuram 2a. Kumbakonam kumbeswaran temple 3.Mayuranathar temple(mayiladuthurai) 4.vaideeswaran koil 5. Sirkazhi Temple, 6. Chidambaram temple 6a: Pichavaram mangroove forest trip 7. Tirunallar 8.Sikkal 9.tiruvarur 10.Mannargudi Raja gopalaswamy temple. 11. Vaduvoor Lake.

weekend trips for delta people (Starting from Kumbakonam/Thanjavur),
1. Madurai, Courtallam, Nellai, papanasam
2. CBE, pollachi, top slip
3. Theni, munaru
4. Delta-Kodaikanal
5. Delta-Ooty
6. Hogenakkal, Salem, Yercaud, Kolli hills,.(tremendoue response for this tour by pvt operators in Thanjavur due to wholesale purchase of food grains in Kolli hills)
7. (Tanjore-Kumbakonam)-thirupathi , (tanjore-Trichy)-thirupathi...
8. Delta-Bangalore/Mysore tour: 2 days..(huge potential). yet to be tapped even by the private operators realized.

I started collecting the details on the Trails less travelled in TN which are outside the ambit of TNTDC.

These are based on my travels to these places and the data research I did before visiting these places.

I may publish them after a year or so when I may be relatively free. The name would be TANTALIZING TAMIL NADU

Right now, I am mired in mundane day to day issues running around like a headless chicken. :bash:

Right now, I am mired in mundane day to day issues running around like a headless chicken. :bash:

:lol:

Tenders out for :

* Consultancy assignment for preparation of DPR for Development of Rameswaram Madurai Kanniyakumari under Mega Tourism Project

See here : http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd71691_rfp.mega%20tourism.ram.madu.kan-2-corrected.pdf

* Consultancy assignment for preparation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for providing Wayside amenities and facilities at National Highways 45, & 7 at two locations for implementation under Infrastructure Development for Destination Scheme of Ministry of Tourism Government of India.

See here : http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd71691_rfp.16.4.12-wayside%20amenities-corrected.pdf

Details on the location are also there :

a. Tiruchirappalli – Chennai National Highway – NH 45 – 4 Km from Samayapuram Mariamman Temple (S.F. o.216-10, Irungalur Village, Manachanallur Taluk , area – 2.47 acre)
b. Virudhunagar – Virudhunagar National Highway – NH 7 – Kooraikundu Village (S.F. No. 27/2 and 22/2, area – 4 acre)

* Consultancy assignment for preparation of DPR for the Development of Tourist Destination at Mukkombu in Tiruchirappalli District

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd71691_rfp-%20muukkombu-corrected.pdf

Tenders out for:

* Consultancy assignment for preparation of DPR for Destination Development Scheme for Tranquebar in Nagapattinam District

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd71565_rfp-tranquebar.pdf

* Consultancy assignment for preparation of DPR for Destination Development Scheme for Poompuhar in Nagapattinam District

http://www.tenders.tn.gov.in/pubnowtend/uploaded/TD_ttd71565_rfp%20-%20poompuhar.pdf

TTDC website looks too dumb. It does not answer precisely what a tourist will look for:

Say take a location like Madurai :

- What to see in Mdu
- Around Mdu
- Where to stay (nothing wrong in providing the list of hotels apart from TTDC ones)
- Distance all major towns/cities in TN (distance calculator in this case is not required as Google maps perform a better job)

K'taka tourism looks better and TTDC can try benchmarking with other state websites...

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01069/30april_tysms06_PA_1069929e.jpg

The State government has planned to augment infrastructure facilities in five noted places of worship, including three temples, in the central region on an outlay of Rs. 2.57 crore.

The infrastructure facilities will be created in Srirangam Sri Ranganathaswami Temple (Rs. One crore), Sri Rajagopalaswami Temple in Mannargudi in Tiruvarur district (Rs. 45 lakh), Sri Siva Temple at Sri Vanjiam in Nannilam taluk of Tiruvarur district (Rs. 43.60 lakh), Adaikalamatha Church at Elakurichi in Ariyalur district (Rs. 44 lakh), and Jambuvanodai Dargah at Muthupettai in Tiruvarur district (Rs. 25 lakh).

These amenities are demand-specific and devotee-oriented.

At Srirangam temple, it will be a one-km long pavement with shelter facilitating the devotees to take bath in river Cauvery at Ammamandapam bathing ghat and reach the temple without any hitch, thus protecting themselves from rain and sun, according to official sources.

At the Mannargudi Rajagopalaswami Temple, a restroom, cloak room and bathroom and toilet block will be constructed. Similar facilities will be created at the Sri Vanjiam Siva Temple.

At the Elakurichi Church, in addition to bathrooms, cloak room, and restroom facilities, steps will also be taken for laying a concrete road, construction of compound wall, holy tank, and providing steps at the tank.

The government has sanctioned Rs. 25 lakh for the construction of a vehicle parking lot and toilets block in the Jambuvanodai Dargah.

These facilities, besides benefitting the devotees, visiting these shrines from across the country round-the-year, will also help in promoting tourism.

The officials hope by providing additional amenities, the influx of devotees and tourists will increase considerably.

Source : The Hindu (http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/article3372386.ece)

Wonders of the world await city residents (http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article3374669.ece)

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01070/TH-WONDERS_1070446f.jpg

one for the album The exhibition is spread over 1.80 lakh sq. ft., and will feature ‘Polar Express’, a simulated snow train Photo: S.S. Kumar
Have you ever thought of taking pictures of your dear ones in front of replicas of some of the historical monuments within a short duration? An event management company offers you a chance to do so at the Island Grounds here.

As part of a 100-day exhibition-cum-entertainment show, the company, Spellbound, has erected replicas of the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, Chichen Itza, the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, the Statue of Liberty, the ancient Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Incidentally, in the last edition of ‘Kodai Thiruvizha' (May 2010) too, a Taj Mahal model was the centre of attraction.

Inaugurating the show on Tuesday, Tourism Minister S. Gokula Indira said Chief Minister Jayalalithaa while finalising the Vision 2023 document for Tamil Nadu had accorded top priority to tourism and Rs.10,000 crore would be earmarked for development of tourism related projects in the State. Private sector would be roped in to achieve the goal.

While congratulating the organiser for putting up large replicas, she said it was bound to attract large number of foreign tourists to the venue over the next few days. “It is a great idea to have the replicas of seven wonders in one place. When they suggested the idea, we immediately said it would provide an opportunity for the tourists to get themselves clicked in front of the heritage sites and would save them the trouble of going to various locations. Private initiatives such as these are likely to attract large number of tourists to Tamil Nadu,” she said.

The exhibition, spread over 1.80 lakh sq-ft, would feature ‘Polar Express', a simulated snow train, games, food courts and stalls selling various products at concessional rates.

Spellbound, CEO, Redin said “We had a great success with the previous edition of Polar Express, a simulated snow train. We are now replicating it at the Island Grounds, in which the visitors can witness classical and modern dances while travelling through the ice. Besides, ice crushing machines would spout slivers of snow. The entire facility will become 100 per cent ready by Friday.”

Views from Palani Temple

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/2741/18032012926.jpg

http://img855.imageshack.us/img855/7131/18032012927.jpg

http://img41.imageshack.us/img41/5646/18032012928.jpg

http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/3821/18032012930.jpg

http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/8528/18032012941.jpg

Policy note of TN Tourism can be found here (http://www.tn.gov.in/policynotes/pdf/tourism.pdf)

3-pronged approach for promoting TN tourism

Full story : http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/steel-strips-wheels-net-sales-in-april35-at-rs-95-cr/164112/

Poompuhar unit to woo tourists


Many would have seen and appreciated the beauty of the bronze work of Swamimalai and Thanjavur. Now, it is possible to witness the making of these arts and scultures as Poompuhar (Tamil Nadu Handicrafts Development Corporation) has decided to develop these production units as tourist centres.
Moving the demand for grants to Khadi and Village Industries in the State Assembly on Wednesday, Minister P Chendur Pandian said the production units of TNHDC at Swamimalai for bronze icons, Nachiarkoil for artistic brass lamps, and Thanjavur for traditional art plates will be made part of the tourists itinerary.
“Processes like amalgamation of copper, brass and silver to make the famous Thanjavur art plates will be showcased to tourists,” he pointed out.
Proposals seeking financial assistance of `90 lakh had been sent to the Thanjavur District Collector to upgrade the production centres at Thanjavur, Nachiarkoil, Swamimalai at a cost of `30 lakh each.
Museum at Showroom
A craft museum will be set up at the Poompuhar showroom in Chennai with a financial outlay of `50 lakh. The museum will be inaugurated during 2012-13.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/poompuhar-unit-to-woo-tourists/254283-60-120.html

Pitchavram, Poombhuhar, Tarangambadi was somehow made popular well known name in TN tourist destination but actually if anyone goes with some expectation then nothing you will get. Pitchavarm is exception due to its natural beauty of mangrove forest but our government has not done anything significantly to these places. when i studied in chidambarm i went to poombhukar with much expectation in line of mahabs but there is nothing and we spent hardly 30min there(anyhow am talking about 13-14yrs before)

Don't know where I should post Chithirai thiruvizha videos. So, I am posting here. (If possible, let us start a new thread on TN festivals and post these type of stuff there)

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y0w7rA8JpSc

to be contd...

contd...

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BYzpXY93dFI

to be contd...

contd...

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RfH4ZcV3dkw

That is it guys :) Enjoy Kallazhagar darshan

We have a French who is working with us and she along with her family has toured almost all parts of India in the last year and finally they have rated Madurai temple and its four "veedhi's" as best!!!

^^ Till now, taking the total number of foreigners that visited Madurai, the French have played the best part. The guides here also speak great French. So, no language problem too. So naturally, there are other reasons too to like Madurai. And they enjoy festivals here. Nowadays, CII and the other trade bodies have started promoting tourism here very aggressively and they take foreigners to local festivals here which they enjoy to a great extent.

Tranquebar on the move

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRwIstqS4Z0&feature=relmfu

சுருளி அருவிக்கு "பேட்டரி' கார்: வனத்துறை நடவடிக்கை

கம்பம்: தேனி மாவட்டம் மேகமலை வனஉயிரின சரணாலயமாக மாற்றப்பட்டுள்ளதால், சுருளி அருவிக்கு செல்ல வாகனங்களுக்கு தடை விதிக்கப்படுகிறது. சுருளியின் நுழைவு பகுதியில் இருந்து அருவி வரை செல்ல பேட்டரி கார் இயக்க வனத்துறை முடிவு செய்துள்ளது. வனத்துறையினர் கூறுகையில்,"வாகனங்களின் ஒலி வனஉயிரினங்களின் நடமாட்டத்திற்கு இடைஞ்சலாக இருக்கும். எனவே, வாகனங்களை குறிப்பிட்ட எல்லைக்குள் நிறுத்த முடிவு செய்துள்ளோம். அதேசமயம், பொதுமக்கள் சிரமம் அடைய கூடாது என்பதற்காக, பேட்டரி கார் ஒன்றை இயக்க முடிவு செய்துள்ளோம். பயணியர் விடுதியில் இருந்து அருவி வரை இந்த பேட்டரி கார் இயக்கப்படும். குறைந்த கட்டணம் வசூலிக்கப்படும். விரைவில் அதற்கான பணிகள் துவங்கும்,' என்றனர்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=467307

^^ Meghamalai has turned a wildlife sanctuary :cheers: And hence visitors of Suruli falls faces some restrictions i.e motor vehicles banned after a certain limit and hence battery car is going to be operated by Forestry department.

மேற்கு தொடர்ச்சி மலையடிவாரப் பகுதியில் புலிகள் சரணாலய திட்டத்தை கைவிட வேண்டும்

சிவகிரி : "தென்காசி தொகுதியில் உள்ள மேற்கு தொடர்ச்சி மலையடிவாரப் பகுதியில் புலிகள் சரணாலயம் அமைப்பதை கைவிட வேண்டும்' என பார்லிமென்டில் எம்.பி.லிங்கம் பேசினார்.

பார்லிமென்டில் கேள்வி நேரத்தின் போது தென்காசி எம்.பி.,லிங்கம் பேசியதாவது: -

தென்காசி தொகுதிக்குட்பட்ட விருதுநகர் மாவட்டம் ஸ்ரீவில்லிபுத்தூரை சேர்ந்த வனப்பகுதி, நெல்லை மாவட்டம் சிவகிரி தாலுகாவை ஒட்டிய பகுதி, மதுரை மற்றும் தேனி மாவட்டத்தை உள்ளடக்கிய மேற்கு தொடர்ச்சி மலையடிவாரப் பகுதிகளில் சுமார் 1 லட்சம் ஹெக்டேர் நிலப்பரப்பை கையகப்படுத்தி புலிகள் சரணாலயம் அமைக்கப்பட இருப்பதாக திட்டம் தயாரிக்கப்பட்டு விரைவில் அமல்படுத்தப்பட இருப்பதாக தெரிகிறது.

இப்பகுதியில் தற்போது எடுக்கப்பட்ட வன இலாகா சர்வேயின்படி புலிகள் இருப்பதாகவும், அதற்கு ஏற்ற வசதியாகவும், புலிகளை பாதுகாப்பதற்காகவும் புலிகள் சரணாலயம் அமைக்கப்பட இருப்பதாக தகவல்கள் வருகிறது. ஏற்கனவே இப்பகுதியில் உள்ள விவசாயிகளும், விவசாய தொழிலாளர்களும் தங்களின் கால்நடைகளை மேய்ப்பதற்காகவும், கூலி வேலை செய்து பிழைப்பதற்காகவும் மேற்கு தொடர்ச்சி மலையடிவாரப் பகுதியை நம்பி வாழ்க்கை நடத்தி வருகிறார்கள். மேலும் இந்த பகுதியில் ஏரளாமான மக்களுக்கு தேவையான விவசாய பயிர்கள் பயிர் செய்யப்பட்டு வருகிறது.

இப்பகுதியில் உள்ள பல்வேறு ஆறுகள் மூலம் கிடைக்கும் தண்ணீரானது குடிநீருக்கு பயன்பட்டு வருகிறது. மேலும் இப்பகுதி சுற்றுலாதலமாகவும் விளங்கி வருகிறது. இந்த மேற்கு தொடர்ச்சி மலையடிவாரப்பகுதியை நம்பி இந்தியாவின் பாரம்பரிய தொழிலான விவசாயம் சிறப்பாக நடந்து வருகிறது. இங்கே புலிகள் சரணாலயம் துவங்கப்பட இருப்பதை கண்டு இப்பகுதி விவசாயிகளும், கூலித் தொழிலாளர்களும் மற்றும் மலையை நம்பி பிழைப்பு நடத்தக்கூடிய பழங்குடியினரும் அச்சுறுத்தலுக்கு ஆளாகியுள்ளனர்.

மேலும் விவசாய தொழில்களை முடக்குவதற்கு மத்திய அரசால் கொண்டு வரப்படும் இத்திட்டம் சட்டத்தை மீறிய செயலாகும். எனவே இப்பகுதியில் புலிகள் சரணாலய திட்டத்தை கைவிட வேண்டுமென மத்திய, மாநில அரசுகளையும் கேட்டுக் கொண்டுகிறேன். இவ்வாறு அவர் பேசினார்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=466828

^^ Srivilli Tiger reserve plan about to go phutttt :(

India: the delights of devotion in Tamil Nadu
(http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/asia/india/9275124/India-the-delights-of-devotion-in-Tamil-Nadu.html)

Is your marriage getting delayed for some reason or the other? Then it is time to visit eleven temples in Tamil Nadu where special poojas are offered to remove the obstacle and pave way for blissful wedlock.

To help the unmarried and their relatives to offer prayers, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation will organise weekend tours to these temples from June 1.

“This specially designed package tour for unmarried will not only showcase the ancient pilgrim spots in the state known for long as centres for performing wedding poojas but also offer an opportunity for the unmarried to perform the poojas,” a senior TTDC official said. The corporation has made arrangements with the temple administration for conducting poojas.

The service leaving on Friday evening from here will cover the temples: Mudichur, Tiruvidanthai, Tirumanamcheri, Tiruveelimazhalai, Nallur Kalyana Sundareshwarar, Nathchiar Koil, Uppiliappan Koil, Madurai Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar temple, Tiruvengadam, Tiruchery and Tirukarukavur, and return Monday morning.

The temples covered are either dedicated to Lord Vishnu or Lord Siva and are known as pilgrim spots where the God gets married.

At Tiruveelimazhalai temple for instance, Lord Siva married Kathyayani. At Tiruvidanathai (in Mahabhalipuram), Goddess Lakshmi is known here as Komalavallithayaru and Lord Vishnu who married 360 daughters of a saint, is called Nithya Kalyana Perumal.

The Gharbharakshambikai temple at Tirukarukavur is also included in the itinerary as the Goddess of this temple grants the boon of children.

The tour, inclusive of accommodation, comes for `2,600 per person.


http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/nation/south/marriage-delayed-tn-offers-temple-tours-606

^^ Good show by TTDC. :cheers:

^^ Nallur Kalyanasundareswarar also very famous temple around delta region..famous for maasi magam

ACK Media, an education and entertainment company for children, will launch its new Amar Chitra Katha title ‘Thanjavur – City of Brihadeeswara’ on Facebook on May 30.


The new title will then be available in all bookstores nationally at Rs. 50 and on Apple iTunes and Amazon Kindle apps for $ 0.99. The launch of Thanjavur on Facebook also brings a unique opportunity for Amar Chitra Katha fans.

They can speak with the author and editor of ‘Thanjavur’ through a “live chat” on May 30 and ask questions about the Amar Chitra Katha comic book series.

“We have a vibrant community of readers of Amar Chitra Katha who engage with us on our Facebook page. Launching our latest title, Thanjavur, on this forum is our way of celebrating this growing community. An online event gives us a chance to include a large group of readers for the launch and we hope to make the event enjoyable and participative”, said Mr. Shubhadeep Bhattacharya, Business Head - Digital, ACK Media.

“We are launching a video on 24th of May, which will give a sneak peek into the new title ‘Thanjavur – city of Brihadeeswara’. This will be followed by a series of engaging activities like quiz contests, fun facts and quests around the tale of Thanjavur that will lead up to the launch on 30th May," he said.

The new title narrates the story of Thanjavur, which is home to the 1000-year-old Brihadeeswara Temple. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Thanjavur was the capital of the Chola empire for many years. The comic book highlights the fascinating history and the large number of myths and local legends associated with it. These stories, put together, make an interesting read for both children and adults. The comic will also interest tourists who wish to know more about the town and its unique identity.

Ms. Reena Puri, Editor Amar Chitra Katha says, “Thanjavur is part of our titles planned on historical cities. It was the capital of the Chola empire and the hub of great political activity. But like most ancient Indian temple cities the historical has merged with the mythological in a fascinating manner. We hope to create at least one comic each year which will tell in a simple way the stories behind some of our greatest cities.”

Ms. Prabha Nair, scriptwriter of Thanjavur says, “Thanjavur is a treasure chest of stories, historical and mythical. To weave the two in a plausible way was a challenge. What I have told is only the tip of the iceberg. There is much more to Thanjavur's art and culture, to its monuments and temples. I hope this comic creates an interest in people to discover these facets for themselves.”

Speaking about the illustration, artist Rakesh C.S. highlights, “It's the first time I'm illustrating a story for Amar Chitra Katha. As Thanjavur is one of the most important temple-towns in South India, the work has been very interesting and challenging. The composition of the pages and panels of this comic was done using pictures of statues and frescoes of the temples as reference. Although, historically, the story is that of the temples of Thanjavur, the comic narrates the story of Shiva from a devotional perspective. I'm very happy to have illustrated the comic and to have brought more of Shiva's illustrations to the Amar Chitra Katha comics.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...&v=8qXEDmuQsFc (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=8qXEDmuQsFc)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?f...type=1&theater (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=390125747695288&set=a.339823519392178.72480.313807031993827&type=1&theater)




^^'Amar Chitra Katha ' - the popular Magazine in India has launched its latest comic called "Thanjavur" with the Big temple and Rajaraja chola on its front page.

History repeats itself .Invincible chola Capital will be spoken for many thousand years.Long live.

Note:Im posting it in many places, Never mind :nuts:

TTDC revives trekking tours (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article3477305.ece)

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/01100/01THTREKKING_1100016f.jpg

With the introduction of about 25 trekking routes to various places, including the Nilgiris, Servarayan Hills and Yercaud, the eco-tourism wing of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is planning to offer trekkers a different kind of experience.

Though the TTDC conducted several trekking tours to Valparai, Top slip, Kolli Hills, Servarayan Hills, Amaravathi Dam, Amrithi forest and Trisulam Hills in Chennai during 2010, it was suspended abruptly last year. The tours are being revived after a gap of 15 months with the maiden expedition to Udhagamandalam, Kern Hill, Avalanche, Lakhdi Top and Kollaripet.

While the scenic Avalanche Valley is the best place for trout fishing, Kern Hills attracts bird watchers. Lakhdi Top is near the Kerala border, where one can enjoy watching wild animals.

Such trips can be undertaken only with the help of trained guides, says a local forest official.

According to sources, while there are several trekking routes, the proposed one is one of the shortest. The distance from Udhagamandalam to Kern Hills is about three km. Avalanche is about 26 km from there.

One has to travel another five to 10 km to reach Lakhdi top and Kollaripet.

As part of the two-day trip, trekkers will be taken to Kern Hills first, followed by Avalanche, Upper Bhavani, Parsn Valley, Lakhdi Top and Kollaripet.

The TTDC set up the eco-tourism wing to lay stress on the significance of conservation among youngsters, create awareness among communities and tourists and prevent the use of non-biodegradable products. It is also aimed at promoting mental and physical fitness among the urban youth.

Talking to The Hindu, a tourism official says: “Most of our trekking tours are an instant hit among youngsters and corporate.

The youngsters are seeking adventurous and exciting trips, whereas older people evince interest in pilgrimages. In some places, we offer a mix of both.

“There are several places in the State, where trekking tours can be conducted for a day or two. However, more people should come forward to take part in it and the TTDC will be happy to organise such tours.”

:cheers:

Tourism sector gets a facelift (http://ibnlive.in.com/news/tourism-sector-gets-a-facelift/263493-60-118.html)

Within a few months after taking over the reins of the State, Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa announced a seven-point strategy for promotion of tourism in the State. The new measures, announced on September 23, 2011 was just a curtain raiser to many more initiatives for the development of tourism in Tamil Nadu.

The seven strategies for the growth of tourism sector are: development of tourism parks, development of rural tourism clusters, integrated development of tourist destinations/circuits/cities, skill development, wayside amenities centres, Clean Toilet Campaign, promotion of heli-tourism, cruise tourism and the cable car project. The CM also called for an action taken report on this strategy. Within a short span of time, many projects for development of tourism under these seven heads have been completed.

On November 8, 2011, it was announced that Kolli hills and its surrounding areas would be made a eco-tourism spot and Rs 2.75 crore was allocated to improve the infrastructure facilities around the place.

The Chief Minister on December 18 earmarked Rs 500 crore for giving a boost to tourism prospects of the State. Two parks on the lines of Sentosa park in Singapore will be established at Chennai and Tiruchy at a total cost of Rs 50 crore. These parks will have special features to attract tourists and they will be developed as entertainment centres.

In January this year, Jayalalithaa announced that the vast wetland along Suseendram, Therur and Manakudikayal in Kanyakumari district will be declared as a bird sanctuary and that the area will be developed as a tourist spot. The CM allocated Rs 1.61 crore for undertaking developmental works in this area. The wetland is a biodiversity zone. Of the 90 species of birds coming to this place, 50 are from Arctic region. Apart from them, 25,000 wetland birds also visit this place.

The CM announced many measures for increasing the fauna and flora in Tamil Nadu on May 15 and said that a zoological park would be set up at 22.5 acres of land at Udayagiri in Kanyakumari district, at an expenditure of Rs 15 crore. It would house 26 species of animals, including spotted deer, sambar deer and ant eaters.

The Infrastructure Development Investment Programme for Tourism was approved by ADB as a Multi-tranche Financing Facility (MFF) for Tamil Nadu. The Investment Programme targets enhanced economic growth and provision of livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism infrastructure development. The investment programme consists of five components - quality enhancement of natural and cultural attractions, urban infrastructure and service improvement, connectivity improvement and signages, community-based activities and capacity development, community participation and project management.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has formulated the Technical Assistance (TA) programme to enhance the capacities of tourism department and other associated implementing agencies in Tamil Nadu.

Those who are interested to do trekking in TN may approach Youth Hostel Association of India, TN Chapter.


http://www.yhaitamilnadu.org/


Family Camping
Each camp 20 familes
Trekking Exp
Each Group 30 to 40 Participants
Date Available Date Available
27 - 04 - 12 20 families 29 - 04 - 12 24
06 - 05 - 12 08 families 30 - 04 - 12 Full
13 - 05 - 12 16 families 01 - 05 - 12 18
20 - 05 - 12 12 families 02 - 05 - 12 22
27 - 04 - 12 02 families 03 - 05 - 12 Full
04 - 05 - 12 Full
05 - 05 - 12 26
06 - 05 - 12 27

Family Camping Nilgiris Hills 2012
29 - 04 - 2012 to 03 - 05 - 2012, 06 - 05 - 2012 to 10 - 05 - 2012, 13 - 05 - 2012 to 17 - 05 - 2012, 20 - 05 - 2012 to 24 - 05 - 2012
Andaman Island - 2011 to 2012



Nilgiris Hills trekking Expedition - 2012
29th April to 10th May - 2012



Contact Mrs.Suraka 9448534808
Contact : Kanna 0423 2447506
Contact Phone : 044-2489 0976 ,

Youth Hostels Association of India. Affiliated to : International YouthHostels Federation, World wide

Youth Hostels Association of India Tamil Nadu State Branch.
State Chairman.
S. Venkatanarayan. Mobile No:09445022312.
State President
Panchakesaven. Mobil No: 09443747568.
State Vice-Presidents
M.Chandrashekar Mobil No: 09449816139.
Mr.Sundram Mobil No:
Mrs.Girijha sasadhari Mobile No:
State Treasurer
Mr.Shreeram Mobil No: 09444924242
Address :
No:2-d, Viswas Flats,Pillayar Koil Street,
Nesapakkam,
West KK Nagar,
Chennai- 600078.
Phone:044-24890976
E-mail:yhaitn@yahoo.co.in.
Family camping contact : -
Kannan 09943035662,
M Chandrasekar 09449816139

Kudumiyanmalai is 20 km from Pudukkottai. Kudumiyamalai is an important site in the district famous for a few old temples of considerable beauty as well as archaeological interest. It is one of the oldest historic townships in the tract. The township was called as Thiru-nalak-kunram is earlier inscriptions and Sikhanallur in later ones. The village had extended all around a hillock, at the foot of which, on the east, is the famous Kudumiyanmalai temple complex. On and near a hillock there are four temples including a fine cave temple and a very large Siva temple, called Sikhanathasvami-koil, containing exquisite sculptures. The musical inscription found on a face of the cave-temple is important in the musical history of India. There are nearly a hundred and twenty inscriptions in Kudumiyamalai.

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/9.jpg?w=640&h=428

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4.jpg?w=640&h=428

On both sides of the corridor from the entrance to the sanctum sanctorum housing ShikhagirIshwarar are pillars having huge, beautiful sculptures.Me at 1000 pillar mandapam Kudumiyanmalai As pre Kailash yatra preparation along with 5 friends we made a mini yatra to some Tamilnadu temples. Among the temples visited were:-

Reaching Kudumiyanmalai

Kudumiyanmalai is at a distance of 20km from Pudukottai, 50 km from Trichy and 59 km from Thanjavur.

Sthala puranam

Before this place was called Kudumiyanmalai, its name was Thirunalankunram. Legend goes that the king used to visit the temple everyday in the evening and it was customary for the priest to give the prasad to the king after the evening puja. One evening, it was getting late and King Sundarapandian had still not come. Since the closing time of the temple was nearing, the priest gave the prasAd to the dasis who danced everyday at the temple. Seeing the king enter the temple just as the dasis were leaving, the priest got worried and took the flowers from the dasis who had already worn it on their hair and gave it to the king. Seeing a strand of hair on the flower, the king became suspicious and questioned the priest about the presence of hair in the flowers. Overcome by fear, the priest lied that it was from Lord Shiva’s head. Angered by the priest’s reply, the king locked him inside the temple, telling him that he would come the next day and check if the Lord did really have hair. Worried, the priest prayed to the Lord.

The next day when the king came, there was indeed a kudumi/shikha (tuft) on the Shiva linga! Becoming suspicious, the king tried to pull it from the Shiva linga, only to see blood coming from the lingam! That’s how the Shiva here got the name ShikhagirIshwarar & the place got the name, Kudumiyanmalai.

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/3aa.jpg?w=640&h=427

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/11.jpg?w=640&h=427

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/17.jpg?w=640&h=427

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/15.jpg?w=640&h=428

Cave temple – Melakkoil

Inscriptions of musical notes

The music inscriptions are to the south of an east-facing rock cut temple also of seventh century origin. This cave temple is called Melakkoil or Tirumerrali. Archaeologist Dr. Kudavayil Balasubramaniam says that in the case of Pandya rock cut temples, the linga was hewn out of the same rock, as the temple took shape, resulting in one big monolith of temple and deity. The Kudumiyanmalai temple is one such monolith, and therefore a Pandya structure, he says. According to Dr. Raja Mohammed, former curator of the Pudukottai Museum, the temple is Pandya, because the linga rests on a square peetam.

Two dwarapalakas at the enterance

Outside the sanctum sanctorum are two dwarapalakas smiling smugly, with none of the sternness one would expect of security guards. The two earliest inscriptions in the cave temple are those of the Pandyas.

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/1a.jpg?w=267&h=400

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/1aaa.jpg?w=267&h=400

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/q11.jpg?w=267&h=400

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/q10.jpg?w=267&h=400

1,000-pillar mandapam

The 9th century temple is a store-house of rare inscriptions and carvings, and an engineering marvel.

Although popularly referred to as the 1,000-pillar mandapam, it has 644 pillars — 322 on the northern side and an equal number on the south of the main prakara leading to the sanctum sanctorum. Over the years, the structure has been weakened, and three years ago the ASI barred the entry of devotees while renovation work is undertaken. “We took care to retain the original order of every stone structure and its beauty. At the time of removal, the pillars and beams were numbered in rows and columns, and the seriatim was maintained in all perfection while re-constructing it,” said Senior Conservation Assistant P. Vasudevan. In all, 29 pillars were replaced.

The work is being done in three stages. In the initial phase, the base stones, pillars, capital, beam and ceiling slabs were removed. Then the structures were re-arranged in the same order and reinforced using `brijally’— comprising powdered brick and `jally’. Finally, the ceiling slabs are reinforced with powdered lime and `brijally.’ The ceiling has been newly provided with a series of brick ventilators to allow sunlight in, adding to the beauty.

“Water-tightening will be followed by fixing of two layers of tiles and the entire ceiling will be plastered using lime and cement,” Mr. Vasudevan said.

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/4a.jpg?w=640&h=428

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/23.jpg?w=640&h=428

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/2.jpg?w=640&h=427

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/14.jpg?w=640&h=428

http://templesinsouthind.files.wordpress.com/2012/04/q14.jpg?w=640&h=428

http://templesinsouthind.wordpress.com/2012/02

-TP Admin

Take a break from the chaotic city life and explore this greenery filled hotspot...

True to its name, Pachamalai looks like a hill covered in lush greenery from afar - located 80 kms north of the city it is a hillock which is famous for its traditional way of living, medicinal value trees, small streams and tribal lifestyle.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/photo/13705284.cms

As you drive towards this beautiful patch in the Eastern Ghats you can experience the gradual progession one makes from the city life to this tiny paradise - the smell, the climate change and the noises. If you are looking for a quick weekend getaway, then this is your best bet. A one day trip would ideally start with a breathtaking sunrise, bird spotting and a small brunch. Later, you can get a bit more adventurous by taking a small trek up the mountains, taking a break near the streams and finishing it up with a packed lunch and a siesta. At the end of it all, you'll feel refreshed and energetic!

A range of mountains like Aathi nadu, Kombai nadu, Thenpara nadu and other places is a treat for trekkers. Pause for a minute and chat up with the locals and you'll know how this hill has proved to be their companion through their lives. They talk excitedly about their many adventures inside the dense forest cover and also inform us about the medicinal value of the plants. Their way of life around these hills seem to be that of a simple one. With changing times, there is eco- tourism being promoted to a large extent - part of which has enabled the government to come up with weekend packages for tourists. Arrange a bike trip with your friends where you can drive for hours, just exploring the wide road, dense forests experiencing the sound of silence that seems to resonate through these lush green valleys.

Fact file :

Route: Trichy to Thuraiyur road.

Travel time: One hour and 30 mins

Activity: Trekking, taking a dip in the stream, learning about traditional way of life and medicinal facts of plants.

Places nearby: Murugan temple, Mythulu falls, Top Sengattupatti.

-TP Admin
A good tourist place to visit in the foot hills of kollimalai

Tamil Nadu govt. aiming at Rs 10,000 crore investment in tourism (http://www.travelbizmonitor.com/tamil-nadu-govt-aiming-at-rs-10000-crore-investment-in-tourism-16634)

The Tamil Nadu government, as part of its Vision Tamil Nadu 2023 programme, is aiming at an investment of Rs 10,000 crore by the private and public sectors for developing tourism in the state. S Gokula Indira, Tourism Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, said recently that Jayalalithaa, Chief Minister, Government of Tamil Nadu, was aiming at the investment with an objective to develop the industry and generate employment opportunities, according to a report by The Hindu Business Line.

Participating as the chief guest at the valedictory function of the Annual Summer Festival in OOTY, Indira pointed out that efforts are on to promote the East Coast Road and some of the Southern districts at a cost of Rs 500 crore under an Asian Development Bank funded scheme. She said that a consultant has been engaged.

Stating that a number of schemes are being implemented with assistance from the Central government, Indira said that steps have been taken to promote Heritage, Eco, Rural and Pilgrimage Tourism at various places, including Thiruthani, Chettinad and Azhagarkoil.

Referring to schemes taken up during 2011-2012 in places like Kodaikanal, Ooty and Yelagiri, she said most had been completed and others are nearing completion. Lesser-known destinations are also being promoted.

|
|
+----> :nuts:

Pillars of society (http://www.smh.com.au/travel/pillars-of-society-20120607-1zyfz.html)


Anna Murphy explores Tamil Nadu's temples and towns, where peace, chaos, ritual and food are deeply entwined.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/travel/pillars-of-society-20120607-1zyfz.html#ixzz1xE2qXemh

Gudiyam Caves (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gudiyam_Cave) - Trekking

Near Poondi - Thiruvallur District - 60 kms from Chennai

MAP (http://maps.google.co.in/maps?saddr=Guindy&daddr=Poonamalle,+Tamil+nadu+to:Gudiyam&hl=en&ll=13.136322,80.018921&spn=0.510199,0.617294&sll=13.138997,80.011368&sspn=0.510193,0.617294&geocode=FdWExgAdEO3HBCl9CqSacGdSOjFQJ1H8lYY0yg%3BFb8XxwAd_XTGBCkH5kxKxGFSOj)

News Item (http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH/2012/05/04&PageLabel=35&EntityId=Ar03500&ViewMode=HTML)

Trekking distance will be 6-7 kms one way

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/2599/img5767l.jpg (http://img59.imageshack.us/i/img5767l.jpg/)

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/7715/img5792j.jpg (http://img594.imageshack.us/i/img5792j.jpg/)

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/8457/img5819y.jpg (http://img502.imageshack.us/i/img5819y.jpg/)

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/7272/img5826s.jpg (http://img840.imageshack.us/i/img5826s.jpg/)

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/6854/img5850f.jpg (http://img811.imageshack.us/i/img5850f.jpg/)

http://img28.imageshack.us/img28/8642/img5892s.jpg (http://img28.imageshack.us/i/img5892s.jpg/)
(Bee Hives)

http://img812.imageshack.us/img812/1183/img5895v.jpg (http://img812.imageshack.us/i/img5895v.jpg/)

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/6809/img5915.jpg (http://img221.imageshack.us/i/img5915.jpg/)
(You can see a lot of this)

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/6396/img5934ld.jpg (http://img844.imageshack.us/i/img5934ld.jpg/)

^^ CP, nice pics :cheers: Looks like you had a nice time.

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கொடைக்கானல், சிறுமலையில் புதிய சுற்றுலா பூங்காக்கள்

திண்டுக்கல் : கொடைக்கானல் மன்னவனூர், சிறுமலையில் புதிய சுற்றுலா பூங்கா அமைக்கப்படுகிறது. திண்டுக்கல் அருகே சிறுமலை இயற்கை எழிலுடன் அமையப்பெற்றுள்ளது. வாழை, பலா, மிளகு, வெற்றிலை, காபி உட்பட தோட்டக்கலைப்பயிர்கள் பயிரிடப்படுகிறது. பயணிகள் ரசிக்கும் பள்ளத்தாக்குகள் உள்ளன. இவ்வூரை சுற்றுலா ஸ்தலமாக்க பல ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன் திட்டமிடப்பட்டது. இட தேர்வும், நிதி ஒதுக்கீடும் தாமதமானது. ஆய்வு: இந்நிலையில் சுற்றுலாத்துறை செயலாளர் ராஜேஷ் லக்கானி சிறுமலையில் ஆய்வு செய்தார். 42 ஏக்கர் அரசு நிலம் இதற்காக ஒதுக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது. நீர் ஊற்று, நீச்சல்குளம், குழந்தைகள் பூங்கா, விளையாட்டு உபகரணங்களுடன் ரூ.12 கோடியில் பூங்கா அமைய உள்ளது. கலெக்டர் வெங்கடாசலம் கூறியதாவது: சிறுமலையில் சுற்றுலா ஸ்தலம் அமைக்கப்படும். விடுதிகள், ஓட்டல்கள் உட்பட பொழுது போக்கு அம்சங்கள் இடம்பெறும். முதல் கட்ட சர்வே நடந்துள்ளது. கொடைக்கானல் மன்னவனூரிலும் புதிய சுற்றுலா பூங்கா அமைக்கப்படுகிறது. இவ்வாறு அவர் கூறினார்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=492146

^^ Sirumalai in Dindigul district about to get tourism projects like park, fountain, swimming pool, etc in 42 acres with hotels to stay, etc. DPR preparations have just begun it seems.

And a new park for Kodaikkanal in Mannavanur is also in plans.

http://epaper.dinakaran.com/pdf/2012/06/24/20120624a_003107002.jpg

NMF package to showcase maritime heritage along the 300-km coastal stretc.



The National Maritime Foundation (NMF) has devised a tourism package to showcase the maritime heritage along the 300-km coastal stretch from Pulicat to Poompuhar.


Under the SAMUDRAM (Seashore Archaeological Museums off the Dravidian Mainland) project, the tourists will get an opportunity to visit historic forts and archaeological sites at Tranquebar (Tarangambadi), Poompuhar, Porto Novo (Parangipettai), Sadras, Alamparai, Pulicat, Mamallapuram, Chennai and Puducherry.



The forts were built by the Portugese (Pulicat), British (Fort St. George), Mughals (Alamparai), Dutch (Sadras), French (Puducherry) and the Danish (Tranquebar), besides Cholas (Poompuhar).


Talking to The Hindu, NMF Chennai Regional Director, Commodore S. Shekhar said the project was aimed at creating an awareness among people of the State, especially the youth, about the State’s rich maritime heritage and encourage them to take up a career in the maritime sector.


Apart from attracting international and domestic tourists, the scheme was also aimed at rehabilitating ex-servicemen and generating additional revenue for the Tourism Department by developing infrastructure facilities along the coasts and encouraging the folk artists in these locations.
“Each town has its own story to tell and we are not trying to merely exhibit the forts but using the archaeology and history to rekindle the interest in modern youth about the maritime heritage. We will also tell them how the British, French, Dutch and others learnt about Tamil Nadu’s maritime strength several centuries ago,” Mr. Shekhar said.


The State tourism department has been asked to develop basic infrastructural facilities at these places, create clusters and host sound and light programmes and culture shows so that it helps tourist guides, budget hotels, transport operators, souvenir makers and photographers earn some decent income.


“It would be a great idea to take tourists to all these places, initially by road and later by waterways. But, the topmost priority is to promote them as individual tourist spots. Popularising these spots cannot be done in a short period as it requires huge funds and tremendous marketing effort by the tourism department,” he added.


http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article3566535.ece

Check this out : http://scotlandhour.com/

Why cant something like this be done to promote tourism in TamilNadu? Interested twitters can take this idea to others...

பழநி கோயிலில் இரண்டாம் ரோப்கார் : இணை கமிஷனர் தகவல்

பழநி : பழநி கோயில் இணை கமிஷனர் பாஸ்கரன் கூறியதாவது: இரண்டாம் ரோப் கார் அமைக்க ஆஸ்திரிய நாட்டை சேர்ந்த நிபுணர் இரண்டு மாதங்களுக்கு முன் ஆய்வு செய்துள்ளார். தமிழக அரசு ரோப்கார் கமிட்டி ஒன்றை அமைக்க உள்ளது. இக்கமிட்டியின் பரிந்துரையின் பேரில் உலக அளவிலான டெண்டர் கோரப்படும். தற்போதுள்ள ரோப்காரில் மணிக்கு 400 பக்தர்கள் பயணிக்க முடியும். இரண்டாம் ரோப்காரில் மணிக்கு 1,400 பக்தர்கள் பயணம் செய்ய முடியும்.
பஞ்சாமிர்தம் போன்றவற்றை ஏற்றிச் செல்ல மெட்டீரியல் ரோப்கார் அமைக்கும் பணி ஒரு கோடி ரூபாய் செலவில் நடக்கிறது. இன்னும் ஒரு மாதத்தில் இப்பணி முடிவடையும்', என்றார்.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=497272

^^ :banana: Primary feasibility studying works for a Second Rope car facility in Palani hills are going on, will enable 1400 people to travel in an hour. Cargo ropecar works going on at 1 Crores INR will be completed in a month.

கொடைக்கானலில் "மெகா டூரிசம்' : "பறந்து' வந்து படகில் "மிதக்கலாம்'

திண்டுக்கல்: கொடைக்கானல் மன்னவனூரில் 25 கோடி ரூபாயில் "மெகா டூரிசம்' என்ற மையம் அமைய உள்ளது. தனியார் மூலம் ஹெலிகாப்டர் இயக்கப்பட உள்ளது. சர்வதேச சுற்றுலா தலமான கொடைக்கானலுக்கு வரும் பயணிகளுக்கு உரிய வசதிகள் இல்லை. இக்குறையை போக்கும் வகையில் கொடைக்கானலில் இருந்து 22 கி.மீ., ல், உள்ள மன்னவனூரில் சுற்றுலா மையம் அமைக்கப்படுகிறது. இதற்காக, வருவாய்த்துறையின் 150 ஏக்கர் நிலத்தை, சுற்றுலாத்துறைக்கு வழங்க மாவட்ட நிர்வாகம் முடிவு செய்துள்ளது. பின், மத்திய அரசின் "மெகா டூரிசம்' திட்டத்தின் கீழ் 25 கோடி ரூபாயில் பணிகள் மேற்கொள்ளப்படும்.

பசுமை புல்வெளி: இதன்படி, மன்னவனூர் பசுமை புல்வெளி பகுதியில் "தீம் பார்க்' அமைய உள்ளது. இங்குள்ள ஏரியில் ஆண்டுக்கு எட்டு மாதங்கள் நீர் இருக்கும். இதில் படகுகள் விடப்படும். மதுரையிலிருந்து கொடைக்கானலுக்கு, தனியார் ஹெலிகாப்டர் இயக்க திட்டமிடப்பட்டுள்ளது. ஹெலிகாப்டர் தளம், மன்னவனூரில் அமைய உள்ளது.


http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=497893


150 acres in Mannavanur (22 km from Kodaikanal) from TN Revenue department to be handed over to Tourism department, and 25 Crores INR 'Mega tourism' project by CG to be taken up.

Pawan Hans to operate choppers from Madurai to Kodaikanal and helipad for Kodaikanal is to be set in Mannavanur only.

Kavalur Vainu Bappu observatory in Vellore(Located near Alagayam) really superb place to visit.
Guys visiting Vellore must go to this place.
They will allow visitors on every Saturdays. But you have to be lucky that the clouds must be cleared and it has to be a clear sky.
We have seen Mars, Saturn, binary stars, St Taurus star, Moon.
All are simply superb :cheers:

HENNAI: As times change, so has the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC). After operating fixed itinerary tours over the years, TTDC (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/TTDC) is now offering customised travel options to suit preferences of travellers.

TTDC launched the new scheme after receiving requests from tourists to operate tours to destinations preferred by them.

"Gone are the days when travellers (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/travellers) used to be satisfied with fixed package tours. Tourists these days have a clear idea of the destination they want to visit. We have been receiving requests to operate tours to places preferred by tourists. People who travel in groups often prefer such arrangement because they have specific interests," said a senior TTDC official.

For a customized tour, TTDC prepares an itinerary, provides a bus with a tour guide and accommodation based on inputs from tourists. Such tours work out cheaper if it involves inter-state travel because TTDC buses are exempted from tax levied by other states. The government-run TTDC also has an edge over private tour operators because it owns hotels or guest houses at affordable rates in most tourist spots in the state.

Earlier, foreign travellers used to take such tours. Now, domestic travelers also prefer to go on such custom-made tours.

Recently, a group of 35 tourists from Delhi went on an eight-day trip travelling through Madurai, Kanyakumari, Thanjavur, Chidambaram, Puducherry and Mamallapuram before they were dropped off at Nellore.

"They sent us an e-mail, requesting a customised trip and listed the places they wanted to travel. We arranged a coach and prepared an itinerary and sent it back," said a TTDC official.

"TTDC receives several such mails daily from tourists in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka requesting custom-made tours of Tamil Nadu. All interactions are done online," the official said.

At present, a group of 17 tourists from Malaysia are travelling around Tamil Nadu on one such custom-made tour.

Though customised tours (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/customised-tours) have gained attention, TTDC's regular package tours continue to be popular. Encouraged by the favourable response to its Tamil Nadu tours and temple tours, TTDC is now planning to start five new tours by July 15.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Tourism-corporation-offers-customised-tours-for-travellers/articleshow/14572300.cms

Domestic Tourism Continues to Grow at Double Digit During 2011


The number of domestic tourist visits (DTVs) to the States/ UTs during 2011 was 851 million as compared to 748 million in 2010 and 669 million in 2009. During 2011, the number of domestic tourist visits to States/UTs registered an increase of 13.8% over 2010 as compared to increase of 11.8% in 2010 over 2009. The top ten States in terms of number of domestic tourist visits (in millions), during 2011, were Uttar Pradesh (155.4), Andhra Pradesh (153.1), Tamil Nadu (137.5), Karnataka (84.1), Maharashtra (55.3), Madhya Pradesh (44.1), Rajasthan (27.1), Uttarakhand (25.9), West Bengal (22.3) and Gujarat (21.0).The contribution of top 10 States was about 85.3% to the total number of domestic tourist visits during 2011. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Uttar Pradesh (18.3%), Andhra Pradesh (18%), Tamil Nadu (16.2 %), Karnataka (9.9 %) and Maharashtra (6.5 %).Uttar Pradesh has occupied the first rank in terms of DTVs in 2011, whereas Andhra Pradesh, which was at first place in 2010, has moved down to the second rank.

During 2011, the number of foreign tourist visits (FTVs) to the States/ UTs was 19.5 million as compared to 17.9 million in 2010 and 14.4 million in 2009. This year, the number of FTVs to States/UTs registered a growth of 8.85% over 2010 as compared to a growth of 24.6% in 2010 over 2009. The top ten States in terms of number of FTVs (in millions) during 2011 were Maharashtra (4.8), Tamil Nadu (3.4), Delhi (2.2), Uttar Pradesh (1.9), Rajasthan (1.4), West Bengal (1.2), Bihar (0.97), Kerala (0.73), Karnataka (0.57) and Himachal Pradesh (0.48). The contribution of top 10 States was about 90.1% to the total number of FTVs in the country during 2011. The percentage shares of top 5 States were Maharashtra (24.7%), Tamil Nadu (17.3%), Delhi (11.1%), Uttar Pradesh (9.7%) and Rajasthan (6.9%).

Data shows that DTVs continued to grow at a double digit rate in 2011 also. The growth in FTVs moderated to 8.85% after an impressive growth of 24.6% in FTVs in 2010. The rate of growth of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) also reduced to 8.9% in 2011 as compared to 11.8% in 2010.



http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=85128

FTA ( Foreign tourist arrivals) in 2010 to TN was 2.8 million. This year increased to 3.4 million.

Domestic tourists increased from 111.6 million in 2010 to 137.5 million in 2011.

:cheers:

^^ WoW!!!! :banana: Great to know that tourism industry is growing!!

^^ WoW!!!! :banana: Great to know that tourism industry is growing!!

^^Our Temples are really great and it still attracts many tourists across the world. Thanks to the Hill stations & Beaches also.

^^ Yes and nowadays Jainism heritage (inscriptions and other such) sites and Medical tourism is also attracting people to TN :cheers:

Tourism is an important arm of the economy , look at the models of Paris,Rome and Athens.I feel really convinced with the present government as they have announced a stream of Tourism measures in the State.Thanjavur-Kumbakonam-Tirunallar,ECR temples and resorts, Rameswaram -Madurai divine package,Colonial histories and Tourism spots along the ECR(Dutch,French,Danish,English heritage) ...these were some of the packages announced in few months..You can find the list of TTDC packages in this forum or wherever in the WWW.Hope this trend bring lot of tourism money inside India or from abroad..
:)

Students to turn tourist guides soon


The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) is in the process of recruiting about 500 college students as freelance guides to add value to its package tours.

On an average, TTDC organises 26 different types of tours in a month and guides are available only in few specified sectors. Moreover, the guides find it difficult to narrate interesting details to the tourists either in English or in Hindi.

To offset the problem, TTDC officials have hit upon the idea of approaching city-based colleges where tourism is taught as a subject. Besides, it would be easier for them to train the youngsters, who are fluent in English and know more than one south Indian language. Currently, the Corporation organises one-day trips from Chennai to Kancheepuram, Mamallapuram, Tirupathi, Tiruvannamalai, Vellore (Sripuram Golden Temple) and Puducherry. Besides, temple tours are high on its agenda and these include a one-day amman tour, a three-day Navagraha (abode of nine planets) tour, a four-day tour to Arupadai veedu (six abodes of Lord Muruga), a five-day 108 Amman tours, a six-day south India tour, a seven-day Kollur Mookambika temple tour, as well as other eight-day tours. Speaking to The Hindu, a TTDC official said, “As most of our tours are city-centric, we would like to employ those who have some knowledge about historic places, know interesting anecdotes, and know the area thoroughly and are willing to serve with a smile. We will provide them with short-term training, uniforms, identity cards and mobile phone with a closed user group network.”

To help visitors, TTDC will print booklets and screen short films. In places such as Mamallapuram, TTDC is planning to come out with audio guides that will narrate the basic details of the place.

Apart from displaying the contact details of senior officials in charge of tours, accommodation, food and transportation in all coaches, a complaints or suggestion book will also be made available. This apart, a tourist can also express his grievances through the TTDC website.

“Most of our tours start from Chennai. We have hotels in important places and are now thinking about starting one-day tours from other places such as Tiruchi, Madurai, Tirunelveli and Tuticorin, so that it helps the tourists extend their stay,” said another official.

S. Subbalakshmi, Head of the History & Tourism department, Ethiraj College for Women, said it was the only college in the city to offer a skill-based course in Travel and Tourism Management since 2003-04. It has produced hundreds of professionals, she said.

“At the end of the three-year course, our students have been absorbed by several leading travel agents and tourist operators. They have been taught about marketing, air ticketing, hotel management and front office management, among other subjects, by experts in the fields,” she added.

http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article3599377.ece

^^ Wow! Wonderful :banana:

Chennai: Pulicat nets massive 'tourism' catch


After years of being notoriously known as a destination for drunken revelry, good seafood and fishermen with fierce tempers, the fishing hamlet of Pazhaverkadu has netted a prize catch - a clutch of ministers and top officials from the State government descended on the lakeshore town and agreed to a Rs 20-crore proposal to increase heritage tourism.

Popularly known as Pulicat, the name which the Dutch bestowed on it four centuries ago, the town will see a veritable makeover in the next few months, according to Xavier Benedict, who runs AARDE Foundation. The not-for-profit trust is incidentally the nodal agency which submitted the development proposal to the Tiruvallur district administration, a few months ago.

The largest drawback that has stopped people from holidaying in Pulicat all these years is the fact there isn’t a single hotel, inn or even homestay. “The tourism department will offer incentives for local people with large houses who are willing to renovate and operate a few rooms on a bed-and-breakfast basis,” explained Benedict. Other than this, there will also be better roads, highways, streetlights and public water dispensers to make the place tourist-friendly.

Along with ministers Gokula Indira and BV Ramana, Tourism Secretary VK Jeyakodi, Tourism Commissioner Rajesh Lakhoni and Ponneri MLA S Raja visited the area and surveyed the heritage structures there. To promote international tourism, the AARDE foundation is also looking to rope in the Dutch Embassy as a knowledge partner. “Culture seeking tourists will be able to access Pulicat and our services through them easily,” he said.

Saddened by the shrub-covered wasteland that the Dutch-built Fort Geldria has become, the officials immediately agreed to begin renovation work on the monument, “They will declare it as a heritage monument and renovate the fort complex into a heritage park, where cultural programmes will be staged,” he added.

Similarly, restoration work will be done on the Adinarayana Perumal Temple, which will also be declared a heritage structure. While the Dutch cemetery is under the care of the ASI, the ministers have ordered that the Portuguese cemetery be cleaned with haste and direction boards be put up.

http://ibnlive.in.com/news/chennai--pulicat-nets-massive-tourism-catch/269560-62-130.html

I liked the Idea of Heritage tourism circuits in TN.
Just like we announced a circuit for Unmarried people we should develop tourism circuit for other things like

1) if you are not doing good in business visit x,y,z temples
2) if your health is not good visit abc temples
3) if your son or daughter should clear IIT-Advanced exam visit def temple(I expect lot of crowd from andhra booking this tour)( say include dhaksanamurthy temple for this)
4) if your daughter should get movie or modelling or at least some TV serials roles come to xyz temple etc
5) If your son or daughter should get chance to participate in super singer come to some temple etc

something like that and give some marketing using movie stars then TN tourism will grow.

Tourism in Tamil Nadu will get an impetus if the Union tourism ministry gives its nod to few state government proposals.
According to sources in the Union tourism ministry, the Centre is actively considering proposals put forth by the state government to set up a tourism park in Chennai besides establishing Chennai– Tiruchy tourism circuit and promoting rural tourism in Thanjavur and Sivagangai–Chettinad area.
The tourism park, which aims at luring international visitors, will be among the 20 Sentosa like theme parks proposed by the Centre across the country.
Each tourism park, first-of-its-kind in the country, will have a hotel, convention centre, food court, entertainment and amusement facilities.
The Chennai-Tiruchy tourism circuit covers seven districts: Chennai-Kancheepuram-Tiruvannamalai-Vellore-Dharmapuri-Salem-Tiruchy and it is a blend of beaches, hill stations, heritage structures and temples along the state’s western coast.



This circuit has been identified on priority basis taking into account the potential and perceived need for improvement / investment to basic and tourism infrastructure.
The destinations identified under the circuit include: Chennai — Marina Beach

http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/tourism-park-awaits-central-nod-152

Vellore fort to turn tourists’ beacon


As part of tourism promotion measures undertaken by ASI and Vellore district administration

The Vellore fort would be lighted up before August 15, Independence Day, this year as part of the tourism promotion measures being undertaken jointly by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Vellore district administration within the historic fort, according to Ajay Yadav, Collector of Vellore.
Talking to newspersons in the ASI office inside the fort here on Thursday, Mr. Yadav said that the decision to light up the fort has been taken at a meeting he had with Sathyabama Badrinath, Superintending Archaeologist, ASI, last month. It has been decided to power the lights with the help of solar energy and wind energy in order to avoid the problems in maintenance of the lighting that was provided in the fort about eight years ago and to reduce the operational and maintenance cost. The earlier lighting project failed in view of the absence of an arrangement for payment of electricity charges for the lighting.
The Collector said that this time around the project would be funded jointly by the government and a private agency under the self-sufficiency scheme. An agency having expertise in operating solar and wind energy systems and approved by the Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency (TEDA) would be entrusted with the installation and maintenance of the lighting system. The functioning of the system would be monitored by the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, a computer-based system of monitoring power-based facilities. The terminal of the SCADA system would be located in the office of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) in the Collectorate, which would be under the direct control of the District Collector.
Mr. Yadav said that it has been decided to provide LED (light emission diode) lights in the fort. It would be a different type of lighting than the conventional one, with lights being provided in all the 20 bastions of the fort, each light being in the form of a mannequin of a soldier, an image which would be reflected in the water on the moat. Besides, lights would also be fitted in the walls of the moat, each light being protected by tough glass shades. All the lights would be green in colour in order to provide a green environment in tune with the greenery inside the fort. Manpower for the maintenance of the lighting would be required only for providing security, which would be taken care of by the police and the forest department, he said.
The Collector said that the conservation cell of the Madurai Kamaraj University has been entrusted with the task of preparing a detailed project report on improving the tourism potential in the fort. Since the fort has a rich history, the DPR would include a proposal to introduce a permanent sound-and-light programme which would convey to the tourists the history of the fort.
When reporters asked what steps the district administration and the ASI planned to keep the moat alive in the light of the partial drying up this year of the moat which used to be perennially full of water, Mr. Yadav said that research has to be done on the moat, on aspects such as why the moat has been separated by a wall inside the moat, the source of water, etc., before anything could be done on improving the moat.
Asked what steps have been taken to vacate the government offices inside the fort in response to the request of the ASI to hand over all the buildings inside it, the Collector said that the state government has decided to vacate all the government offices inside the fort except the Police Training School and the office of the District Forest Officer.

Take a virtual tour to know TN heritage


Are you a heritage buff keen on exploring the cultural heritage in Tamil Nadu? The state archaeology department’s website would be the ideal spot to obtain a bird’s eye view of the heritage wealth of the state.

In an effort to provide virtual experience to visitors and encourage them to tour the impressive spots, the archaeology department has planned to introduce virtual tour of 79 monuments, besides upgrading the website.

“The move will create adequate awareness among the people on the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, glorious traditions, its classical Tamil language, magnificent monuments, exquisite temples, art and sculpture and diversified traditions. This will attract tourists to visit monuments,” a senior official said. The monuments figuring in the virtual tour in the official website www.tnarch.gov.in are spread across the state and some are situated in remote places.

“This will provide a simulation of an existing location, composed by sequence of images with multimedia effects like sound effects, music, narration, and text,” he added. The archaeology department has entrusted Elcot with the task of identifying a competent software firm for developing virtual tour and also re-designing the website to make it more attractive.

The site, presently, is rather bookish providing exhaustive particulars on its activities and research inclination. The site’s image makeover will make it seem eye-catching, it is said. Established in 1961 to conserve the ancient monuments in the state besides take up excavations, the department’s activities also includes epigraphy, setting up site museums, undertake chemical preservation of art objects and registration of antiquities.



http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/take-virtual-tour-know-tn-heritage-035

Tamil Nadu retains second slot in attracting foreign tourists (http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article3617458.ece)

Report released by Union Ministry of Tourism

Once again, Tamil Nadu has retained its second slot in the country in attracting foreign tourists for the year 2011, while it has moved to third place in receiving domestic tourists.

According to the latest report, Maharashtra topped the list in number of foreign tourist visits, followed by Tamil Nadu and New Delhi. While Maharashtra received nearly 4.8 million tourists, Tamil Nadu welcomed 3.4 million people and New Delhi played host to 2.2 million foreigners.

The statistics released by the Union Ministry of Tourism for 2011, says the contribution of top 10 States was about 90.1 per cent to the total number of foreign tourists visits in the country for 2011.

The percentage shares of top 5 States were Maharashtra 24.7 per cent, Tamil Nadu 17.3 per cent, Delhi 11.1 per cent, Uttar Pradesh 9.7 per cent and Rajasthan 6.9 per cent.

In the case of domestic tourists’ arrival, Uttar Pradesh has pushed Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu a step down by welcoming 155.4 million tourists. Andhra Pradesh received 153.1 million people and Tamil Nadu 137.5 visitors.

The other States that have found a place in the top 10 list includes Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Gujarat.

The percentage shares of top five States are Uttar Pradesh 18.3 per cent, Andhra Pradesh 18 per cent, Tamil Nadu 16.2 per cent, Karnataka 9.9 per cent and Maharashtra 6.5 per cent.

Talking to The Hindu, a Tourism Department official said that Uttar Pradesh was able to topple Andhra Pradesh as more number of people started visiting temple towns in northern States.

Varanasi is the latest addition to their list of pilgrimage centres that includes Tirupati and Madurai. It was time to focus more on pilgrimage tours to stay ahead in the race. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation was in the process of starting specialised package tours to three Amman temples in and around the city and 108 Amman temples in different parts of the State.

These would start within the next 10 days, the official said.

“We were able to retain our position in foreign tourist arrivals as we lay emphasis on medical tourism, leisure tours, beach tours, rural tourism and heritage tourism among others. As Tamil Nadu is an all season-destination our next goal is to reach the topmost slot in the country in terms of foreign tourists’ arrival and improve our ranking in domestic sector,” he said.

:banana:

^^

Very interesting stats.... And quite unbelievable as I was expecting Goa and Kerala if not in top 3 within top 5.

^^

Goa and Kerala if not in top 3 within top 5.

They are over hyped

Tamil Nadu to go on tourism ad blitz


Not wanting to be complacent with its catchphrase Enchanting Tamil Nadu, the state tourism department has plans to aggressively promote the tourism potential of the state and has earmarked about Rs 10 crore for a campaign in the country and abroad.

Presently, the department is in the process of roping in a consultant to aid the department launch the marketing blitzkrieg.

The agency would, among other things, evolve a strategy in tune with the vision document 2015 for the coming three years.

The department has proposed to allocate a total of Rs 30 crore for the coming three years to position Tamil Nadu as the most attractive destination in the country, according to sources.

This agency would also organise roadshows, trade fairs, international travel marts and conferences, integrated promotion plans and action plans, and release advertisements to promote the state’s tourism potential.

The agency would act as the official tourism promotion advisor and coordinator (TPAC) to the tourism department for three years.

The agency would review the tourism activities undertaken by department in the past five years and prepare a status report that would set the baseline for future strategy formulation.

It would also prepare a roadmap for performance for 36 months (agreement period) and prepare a brand campaign to create a strong brand identity for Tamil Nadu tourism, create universal awareness among the target audience and also to create comprehensive information on destinations.

“This effort would go a long way in making Tamil Nadu an ideal and safe destination for both foreigners and domestic tourists,” an official told DC.



http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/tamil-nadu-go-tourism-ad-blitz-697

Daiwik plans to invest Rs 600 cr for hotels at pilgrim centres


Hospitality service provider Daiwik Hotels today announced its Rs 600 crore investment plans on setting up hotels in pilgrim centres across the country, a company official said.

The company today made a soft launch of first "Daiwik Hotels in Rameswaram" one of the pilgrimage centres of Tamil Nadu.

Kolkata-based Daiwik Hotels, former promoters of multiplex company '89 Cinemas', was merged into Inox Leisures Ltd in 2007.

"In the first phase we will be investing around Rs 180 crore across five projects. In the second phase we are looking at around Rs 600 crore investments...That will be around 2016-17... We will have a presence in key pilgrimage centres (across the country)," Daiwik Hotels Managing Director and Chief Executive Debashis Ghosal told reporters here.

He said the first property in Rameswaram was spread across 1.1 acre land, attracting investments of Rs 29 crore.

Daiwik Hotels have tied up with infrastructure developer Marg Ltd who would manage and operate the hotels under the brand name Daiwik, he said.

Apart from the 90-room Rameswaram hotel, Ghosal said the land for the setting up a 130-room hotel in Tirupati was procured and the plans are getting processed.

"It will have investments of about Rs 50 crore. We hope the construction will start in third quarter (of this financial year)..", he said.

He added that they are looking at setting up similar properties in Madurai, Kanyakumari, Tiruvananthapuram and Srisailam in the next couple of years under the first phase.

"We will be looking at debt equity ratio of 60:40", he said adding they are looking at a revenue of Rs 75 crore after completing first phase.

In the second phase, he said they would be looking at places like Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Dwarka (Gujarat), Katra (Jammu and Kashmir).

"It may be either we buy the land and set up operations there or we may have a joint venture and begin operations there..", he said on their plans to have pan-India presence.


http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/daiwik-plans-to-invest-rs-600-cr-for-hotels-at-pilgrim-centres/179215/on

அம்மன்கோவில் சுற்றுலா துவங்கியது (http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=511528)
சென்னை: தமிழக சுற்றுலாத் துறையின், 108 அம்மன் கோவில் சுற்றுலாத் திட்டத்தை, அமைச்சர் கோகுல இந்திரா நேற்று துவக்கி வைத்தார்.தமிழக சுற்றுலாத் துறையின் சார்பில், 108 அம்மன் கோவில் சுற்றுலா, இந்த ஆண்டு அறிமுகம் செய்யப் பட்டுள்ளது. ஆடி மாதத்தில் திங்கட்கிழமை மற்றும் வியாழக்கிழமைகளில் காலை, 6 மணிக்கு சென்னையிலிருந்து புறப்பட்டு, வெள்ளி மற்றும் திங்கட்கிழமைகளில் இரவு, 9 மணிக்கு சென்னை வந்தடையும்.ஐந்து நாட்களிலும், வைத்தீஸ்வரன் கோவில், தஞ்சை, மதுரை, திருச்சி ஆகிய இடங்களில், இரவு தங்குவதற்கும் ஏற்பாடு செய்யப் பட்டுள்ளது. சுற்றுலா செல்வதற்கு நபருக்கு, 4,300 ரூபாயும், சிறுவருக்கு, 3,700 ரூபாயும், தனி அறை வசதியுடன் தங்குவற்கு நபருக்கு, 5,300 ரூபாயும் கட்டணம் நிர்ணயிக்கப் பட்டுள்ளது. இச்சுற்றுலாவை, தமிழக சுற்றுலாத் துறை அமைச்சர் கோகுலஇந்திரா நேற்று துவக்கி வைத்தார்.சக்தி சுற்றுலா: இதில், மாங்காடு, திருவேற்காடு, பூந்தமல்லி, திருமுல்லைவாயல், செம்புலிவரம், பஞ்சட்டி, மேலூர் மற்றும் திருவொற்றியூர் ஆகிய ஊர்களில் உள்ள, அம்மன் கோவில்களுக்கு சென்று வரலாம். சென்னையிலிருந்து காலை, 7 மணிக்கு பஸ் புறப்பட்டு மாலை, 7 மணிக்கு வந்தடையும். நபருக்கு, 470 ரூபாய் கட்டணம் நிர்ணயிக்கப் பட்டுள்ளது.மூன்று தேவியர் சுற்றுலா: மீஞ்சூர் திருவுடையம்மன், திருவொற்றியூர் வடிவுடையம்மன், திருமுல்லைவாயல் கொடியிடையம்மன் கோவில்களை தரிசிக்கலாம். இதற்கு நபருக்கு, 375 ரூபாய் கட்டணம் நிர்ணயிக்கப் பட்டுள்ளது. சென்னையிலிருந்து காலை, 8 மணிக்கு புறப்பட்டு, மாலை, 5 மணிக்கு வந்தடையும்.
Temple tourism inagurated today by TN Tourism minister.

108 Amman temple: Starts on Thursday,Monday morning from chennai and come back to Chennai on Friday and Monday night 9 pm. 4300/head on a sharing accomadation, for kids it is 3700 and 5300/head on a individual accomadation basis.

Sakthi tourism: Mangadu,Thiruverkadu,Poonamallee,Thirumullaivayil,sembulivaram, panchatti,Melur. Starts on 7 AM and come back at 7 pm. 470/head.
3 Ammans Darisanam: Meenjur, thiruvotriyur,Thirumullaivayil .8 AM-5 pm. it is 375.

heard about 3 Ammans. On Full moon day, this tour is famous.

Kodivery Dam..
wonderful place.. with a clean cauvery water.
http://img.dinamalar.com/data/uploads/WR_293743.jpeg

Aazhiyaru Dam: from DM
http://img.dinamalar.com/data/uploads/WR_987393.jpeg

Kodivery Dam..
wonderful place.. with a clean cauvery water.


one correction. Its Bhavani river.

^^ Thanks subbu..

new 1000 rs coin in memories of 1000 years of Big temple.
ஆயிரம் ஆண்டு நினைவாக தஞ்சை பெரியகோவில் வடிவத்தில் 1000 ரூபாய் நாணயம் வெளியீடு (http://www.maalaimalar.com/2012/07/26162802/Thousand-year-memory-tanjore-t.html)
:applause::applause:

A nature resort and many other nature inspired ideas can be enjoyed in this region which is part of Manapparai. Maliyadipatti, is a small village which carries you from the clutches of urbanization and transports you to a heavenly atmosphere. A short drive from the city, the most important attraction here is the Portuguese church St.

Thomas Shrine which dates to 1659. Heavily inspired by the West, the church's architecture is a structure that one cannot miss. The church still maintains records of the first Christians who travelled around the region and the legend behind it is captivating. A walk up the hillock will take you to the church which has a panoramic view of the small town below. It stands tall to this day and is surrounded by lush greenery which provides a green cover for a small picnic and a nap. Apart from these there are other scenic locales nearby like a hanging - bridge which was constructed in a peculiar way, different from modern day bridges.

If you are a shutterbug, you can visit one of the railway lines that go between two hills which is a rare sight in this part of the region. The locals claim that such engineering and railway work is said to be found in the Western Ghats and not in this region. Another famous tourist spot is the Ponaniyar Dam which is also located at a short distance from Malaiyadipatti between two hills Perumalai and Semmalai. This is a perfect spot for a small excursion during the monsoon season with boating and bird-watching as interesting activities. It is said that there a lot of migratory birds which come here during the monsoons. Manapparai Murukku is quite famous throughout the state and is a must taste snack — do not forget to grab a bite while you're here!

Source : TOI (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/travel/A-Portugese-connect/articleshow/15057118.cms)

More at : Maliyadipatti – The Hill of the Holy (http://puratattva.in/2011/01/08/maliyadipatti-the-hill-of-the-holy-25.html)
Cross post

Am not sure if this was posted earlier..the 2012 TN tourism ad. I kinda like both the video and music- catchy and enchanting to go with the theme! there is also a 5 min version of this.

3Dj2KlbOS9o

^^the extended version

CYPCXs077Ss

Rs 450 crore ADB supported tourism project in TN


Seeking to give a boost to tourism sector, Tamil Nadu government today decided to take up a Rs 450 crore Asian Development Bank supported project under which a pilgrimage and heritage circuit would be launched. The 'East Coast Circuit' would cover Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur and Thanjavur districts, known for their ancient temples and archaelogical structures. This was decided at the first meeting of State-level steering committee on Asian Development Bank supported tourism projects for the state, chaired by Tourism Minister S Gokula Indira. The project would be implemented over a period of five years at an estimated outlay of Rs 450 crore, an official release said adding the ADB project would ensure enhanced tourist arrivals through quality infrastructure.

A pilgrimage and eco circuit, known as 'Southern Circuit', covering Pudukottai, Sivaganga, Madurai, Theni, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tuticorin and Kanyakumari districts, would be taken up later, it said. The Minister advised that the project work should commence quickly and preliminary works be done expeditiously, it added.

http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/rs-450-crore-adb-supported-tourism-project-in-tn/1038496.html

FROM EASY Travel Article :




Thanjavur is renowned as the erstwhile capital city of Medieval Chola Empire. The history and heritage of this region is evident from its rich culture and varied art forms Carnatic music, Bharathanatyam and Thanjavurpaintings were originated in Thanjavur. Thanjavur is also the centre for art forms like frescoes, weaponry, ivory dolls, the kalamkar is as well as literary genres like the abhyudayamus, the prabandhams and the kuravanjis. Thavil, a percussion instrument, also hails its origins from Thanjavur.

Thanjavur, hailed as the Granary of South India and the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu, is the administrative headquarters of Thanjavur District of Tamil Nadu. Thanjavur, situated on the Cauvery Delta surrounded by River Cauvery and its tributaries, is also the Cultural headquarters of Tamil Nadu.

As per legends, Thanjavur derives its name from a vicious demon (asura) named Tanjan. Sri Anandavalli Amman and Sri Neelamegapperumal (Lord Vishnu) killed Tanjan at this spot. Tanjan had the death wish of naming this region after him, 'Tanjan-ooru' which was granted to him. 'Tanjan-ooru' in course of time was changed to Thanjavur.

Today, Thanjavur is known as the learning centre for all classical arts and music. Besides, it is also famous for its historical monuments ranging from temples to palaces that remind us of its past glory. Some of the famous historical monuments of Thanjavur are Brihadeeswarar Temple, Navagraha temples, Manora Fort, Puliyur Vyagrapureeswararnhb Temple, Shivaganga Fort, Schwartz Church and Royal Palace.

Brihadeeswarar Temple or Brahadishwara Temple or the Big Temple, built by Rajaraja Chola and completed in 1010 AD, is the main attraction of Thanjavur. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is also a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple has an imposing gopuram on the east, which has the shrines dedicated to Ganapathi and Murugan on its sides. The temple also has another 90 ft high gopuram that leads to the outer prakaram of the temple, which encloses an open shrine dedicated to 12 ft high idol of Nandi(the Bull), the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The Nandi at Big Temple is the second largest idol of Nandi in India. The tower of sanctum sanctorum reaches to a height of 64.8 m. The elevated temple basement bears inscriptions about the Chola Dynasty and their governance.

Thanjavur is a must-visit destination for you if you are an ardent lover of historical monuments. Reaching Thanjavur is easy as you can access it by air, rail or road. The nearest railhead as well as the airport is situated in Trichy. You can also reach Thanjavur by regular buses from Trichy, Trivandrum, Kanyakumari, Madurai and Chennai.


http://www.eazyarticle.com/1940/enjoying-holiday-tourism-in-thanjavur/

Rs 450 crore ADB supported tourism project in TN


http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/rs-450-crore-adb-supported-
tourism-project-in-tn/1038496.html


^^

ADB to support Rs 450 cr tourism project in TN (http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/adb-to-support-rs-450-cr-tourism-project-in-tn/482729/)



The Tamil Nadu tourism department is implementing a Rs 450-crore project along with the Asian Development Bank (ADB). In the first phase, the department would take up the East Coast circuit followed by the Southern circuit. The main focus will be on improving infrastructure and safety.

The first meeting of the State Level Steering Committee in this regard was held here on Wednesday.

Tamil Nadu is one among the four states selected by ADB for the Infrastructure Development Investment Programme for Tourism. TN is the only southern state with the other being Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The programme targets enhanced economic growth and provision of livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism infrastructure development.

The East Coast circuit (pilgrimage and heritage) would cover Kancheepuram, Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Tiruvarur and Thanjavur districts. The Southern circuit (pilgrimage and eco) would cover Pudukottai, Sivaganga, Madurai, Theni, Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tuticorin and Kanyakumari districts, according to an official release.

The project will be implemented over a period of five years with a total outlay of around Rs 450 crore. It would include improvement of basic urban infrastructure and incidental services at existing and emerging tourist destinations and gateways, improved connectivity to tourist attractions focusing, enhanced quality of natural and cultural tourist attractions to ensure convenience and safety for visitors and greater participation by local communities among others.

The committee also approved setting up of a project management unit at Chennai and a project implementation unit at Poompuhar in Nagapattinam district.

It authorised Tamil Nadu Tourism to take necessary steps to appoint project management and design and supervision consultants, the release said.

Friends,
who are unable to visit Sri kalahasti, can visit "thiru pampuram" (near kumbakonam).
that temple is famous for both Rahu, kethu pooja.

Maritime museum soon at Mamallapuram


A submarine is all set to be stationed on a special platform just off the Mamallapuram beach and its famous shore temple as a tourist attraction. In a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, the state government will establish the Tamil Nadu Maritime Heritage Museum at Mamallapuram through Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) with the decommissioned submarine INS Vagli provided by the Indian Navy.

The TTDC’s 30-acre land adjoining the beach near the World Heritage site of the shore temple will be used for setting up the museum. According to sources, chief minister J. Jayalalithaa has given her consent to establish the maritime heritage museum with all facilities. It will be installed on a specially erected platform.

TTDC, the nodal agency for implementing this project, will soon invite Expressions of Intent (EOI) to set up the museum in a phased manner on BOOT (Build, Own, Operate and Transfer) basis.

After transferring from Visakhapatnam, the submarine will be berthed in the Chennai harbour temporarily and later shifted to the museum site. Appropriate studies including marine survey, selection of vantage point, beaching of the submarine, hauling her ashore and installation on a specially prepared foundation, etc., will be taken up shortly.

Accepting the proposal from the Indian Navy, the state government conveyed its willingness to transfer the de-commissioned vessel to the site.

Submarine INS Vagli, belonging to Ex-Vela Class will be the centre of attraction but will undergo certain modifications like air-conditioning, ventilation, power, mannequins and other display items, audio-visual studio, etc., to showcase its importance highlighting the maritime prowess and to inspire the students to pursue maritime courses.

Aquarium and food courts will also be established.



http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/maritime-museum-soon-mamallapuram-906

What is the use of TN having maritime industry?

can someone list the important temples and heritage sites in delta region(Chidambaram, Tanjore, Kumbakonam, thriuvarur)
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple
2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
3. Airavatesvara Temple
4. Thyagaraja Temple
5. Thillai Nataraja Temple
.............
.............
.............
.............

can someone list the important temples and heritage sites in delta region(Chidambaram, Tanjore, Kumbakonam, thriuvarur)
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple
2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
3. Airavatesvara Temple
4. Thyagaraja Temple
5. Thillai Nataraja Temple
.............
.............
.............
.............

6.Swami malai

can someone list the important temples and heritage sites in delta region(Chidambaram, Tanjore, Kumbakonam, thriuvarur)
1. Brihadeeswarar Temple
2. Gangaikonda Cholapuram
3. Airavatesvara Temple
4. Thyagaraja Temple
5. Thillai Nataraja Temple
.............
.............
.............
.............
DP,
there are plenty of temples in Delta.
Thanjavur:
Palace, Big temple. on the way to Thiruvarur, you can see Punnai Nallur Mari amman temple. to relax little bit, you can visit Thanjavur Siva ganga garden too.(not much there.) but it might be refreshing change from seeing temples alone. it is just backside of the temple.

To Kumbakonam side:
1. Thittai Raja Guru temple, Thirukarukavoor Amman,Patteswaram Durgai amman, Dharasuram Temple, Kumbakonam Kumbeswaran koil, thirunageswaran koil(Rahu), Uppliappan koil, Ayyavadi Prathyangara Devi(similar to Sholinganallur Prathyangara Devi) it is just few kms from uppli appan koil. If you have time, please visit Thiruvidai maruthur temple and Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple, ThiruCherai Perumal temple
Suryanar Koil(suryan), Kanchanur(sukran)
Gangai konda Cholapuram is on separate route (kumbakonam-Jayankondam)..

2. Mayiladuthurai: Mayuranathar temple, Vaideeswaran Koil(Angarahan), Sirkashi Sattayppa Nathar temple, Chidambaram Natarajar, and then Pitchavaram boating.(dont miss this)

Thanjavur-Thiruvarur-Mayiladuthurai side:
Alangudi(Guru), Thiruvarur temple, Sikkal Shanmuganathar, Koothanalur Saraswathi, Thirumiyachur Lalithambigai, come back to Peralam and then to Thirunallar,
Thiruvenkadu(Budhan), keezhaperumpallam(Kethu)

Thiruvaiyaru side:
Thiruvaiyaru Aiyarappar temple(very big temple), Thingalur(Chandran),

I would suggest you to wait for 2-3 months more, (once you get water in the rivers).. that will make the trip more enjoyable wiith greenary, bath @ Cauvery.

Chennai-Thanjavur -Thiruvarur-kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai -CDM-Chennai.

DP,
there are plenty of temples in Delta.
Thanjavur:
Palace, Big temple. on the way to Thiruvarur, you can see Punnai Nallur Mari amman temple. to relax little bit, you can visit Thanjavur Siva ganga garden too.(not much there.) but it might be refreshing change from seeing temples alone. it is just backside of the temple.

To Kumbakonam side:
1. Thittai Raja Guru temple, Thirukarukavoor Amman,Patteswaram Durgai amman, Dharasuram Temple, Kumbakonam Kumbeswaran koil, thirunageswaran koil(Rahu), Uppliappan koil, Ayyavadi Prathyangara Devi(similar to Sholinganallur Prathyangara Devi) it is just few kms from uppli appan koil. If you have time, please visit Thiruvidai maruthur temple and Thirubuvanam Sarabeswarar temple,
Suryanar Koil(suryan), Kanchanur(sukran)
Gangai konda Cholapuram is on separate route (kumbakonam-Jayankondam)..

2. Mayiladuthurai: Mayuranathar temple, Vaideeswaran Koil(Angarahan), Sirkashi Sattayppa Nathar temple, Chidambaram Natarajar, and then Pitchavaram boating.(dont miss this)

Thanjavur-Thiruvarur-Mayiladuthurai side:
Alangudi(Guru), Thiruvarur temple, Sikkal Shanmuganathar, Koothanalur Saraswathi, Thirumiyachur Lalithambigai, come back to Peralam and then to Thirunallar,
Thiruvenkadu(Budhan), keezhaperumpallam(Kethu)

Thiruvaiyaru side:
Thiruvaiyaru Aiyarappar temple(very big temple), Thingalur(Chandran),

I would suggest you to wait for 2-3 months more, (once you get water in the rivers).. that will make the trip more enjoyable wiith greenary, Cauvery bath

Near Siva ganga Garden Schwartz Church is there,This church was founded by the Danish missionary, Reverend Frederik Christian Schwartz, in 1779,this is also a ASI protected monument.
http://img845.imageshack.us/img845/1192/4630715schwartzchurchth.jpg

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/4053/4630716schwartzchurchth.jpg

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/9037/peterschurch5.jpg

http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/4535/4630717schwartzchurchth.jpg

Beerangi Medu a 17th century forge-welded iron cannon is mounted at Keela Alankam in Thanjavur, a heritage monument

http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/7928/01thcannonheritag909434.jpg

Raja raja Cholan Manimandam constructed during World Tamil Conference in 1991,This Manimandapam has a museum in its ground floor.

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/1706/41971010150651198199865.jpg
http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/7428/42213810150651199989865.jpg
http://img32.imageshack.us/img32/6345/42957010150651207904865.jpg
http://img33.imageshack.us/img33/2623/43114010150651203064865.jpg

Punnainallur Mariamman Temple


http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3476/puniamm3.jpg
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/1903/punnainallurmariamantem.jpg
http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/7888/thanjavurpunnainalurmar.jpg

wow. thats a huge list Krishnaswamy. Read about all the temples in wiki as well.

Thanks a lot Krishnaswamy and Ganie.

^^ Are you planning for a photo trip CP in Delta?

Yes wlbkng. Planning to go with project mates next month

Raja Raja cholan should idolised like shivaji for Maharastra.

I always have felt Temples were built for multipurpose, What novel idea to built this temple? I really wonder how they conceived, and they would have congregated people. Instead of doling out free aids they built such a huge asset.

wow. thats a huge list Krishnaswamy. Read about all the temples in wiki as well.

Thanks a lot Krishnaswamy and Ganie.
nan koduthathu pathi list than.. there are lot other temples are there. they are not came out for unknown reasons.
but you need lot more time...
I am looking for the day to buy my own car in India and visit those temples with my family. :)

That what i am telling to daughter who is insisting that we have to visit thailand, singapore. My advise to her go nook and corner TN to real perspective of who we are. The fight is on let us see who wins who loses.