I don’t remember what we ate, or even what day it was.But I remember the feeling: full heart, quiet joy, peace. I went to the beach expecting sunshine and waves—what I left with was something deeper. Stick around for sunset — the view over the ocean is incredible, and often the beach clears out a bit by then, giving it a more serene vibe.

Srikalahasti Temple, near Tirupati I recently visited the ancient Srikalahasteeswara Temple, also known as Kalahasti Temple, located just a short drive from Tirupati. It’s one of the most divine and powerful Shiva temples I’ve ever been to. The temple is famous for the Vayu Lingam, representing the air element — one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams. The temple’s architecture is stunning — beautifully carved pillars, a grand gopuram, and an atmosphere filled with deep devotion. You can truly feel centuries of faith here. The stories of Sri (spider), Kala (snake), and Hasti (elephant) add even more spiritual depth to the experience. Inside the temple, the darshan feels peaceful and sacred. The priests perform pujas with dedication, especially the Rahu–Ketu dosha nivarana puja, which many devotees come for. It’s an old and historic temple, yet the vibrations and positive energy are beyond words. A must-visit place for anyone coming to Tirupati — you feel truly blessed after visiting.

🛕 ISKCON Temple, Tirupati – A Peaceful Spiritual Experience The ISKCON Temple in Tirupati, also known as Sri Sri Radha Govinda Mandir, is a serene and beautiful spiritual destination located on the way to Alipiri (the starting point of the Tirumala Hills). It is maintained by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. ⭐ What to Expect: Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike the crowded Tirumala temple, ISKCON offers a calm and meditative environment, ideal for devotees and tourists looking for a peaceful experience. Beautiful Architecture: The temple features traditional South Indian style mixed with ISKCON’s signature architecture. The idols of Radha-Krishna are beautifully decorated. Chanting & Bhajans: The soulful chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra and regular bhajans add to the spiritual ambience. Prasadam & Bookstall: Free prasadam is served daily, and there's a spiritual bookstore and gift shop with ISKCON literature and devotional items. ✅ Highlights: Clean and well-maintained premises Great place for meditation and peaceful reflection Ideal stop for devotees visiting Tirumala Guest rooms and accommodation available (with prior booking) 🕗 Timings: The temple is open from early morning till evening, with specific timings for darshan, aarti, and prasadam. --- 🌟 Overall Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7/5) A must-visit if you're in Tirupati, especially if you're seeking peace, spiritual learning, or a break from the temple crowds. Perfect for families and spiritual seekers.

(Visited in 'Jan 2022) - Sri Venkateswara Museum on Temple Art, Tirupati, located next to Sri Govindarajaswamy Perumal temple is a treasure trove of temple art - a place which I loved and was lost at! In various exhibits related to Sculpture, Aagamana Sastras, Art etc, painstaking and hitherto unknown details were explained brilliantly! Spent at least an hour here. There's no fee charge to visit this. There's a separate temple on the premises dedicated to Nammalzvar. ❤️

Visited Padmavati Ammavari Temple today and had a truly divine experience. The temple atmosphere is very peaceful and spiritual. Luckily, there was not much rush today, which made the visit even more pleasant. I opted for the ₹200 ticket and had a smooth darshan without any waiting. The temple premises are well maintained, and the overall experience gives a deep sense of devotion and calmness. 🙏

Beautiful place , Location, View Point, It is so Amazing we had enjoyed a lot. With being longest coastal areas. We have walked a very long distance in the coastal lines to enjoy the view from different parts.

I visited Santhome Cathedral Basilica for the first time, and it was an amazing experience. The church is absolutely beautiful, both inside and out. The architecture is stunning and filled with history and grace. The peaceful atmosphere inside the church gave me a deep sense of calm and reflection. It’s truly a holy and serene place to spend some quiet time. A must-visit in Chennai for anyone who appreciates historic churches, spiritual spaces, or simply beautiful places. I'm really glad I got the chance to experience it!

I recently visited the Kapaleeshwarar Temple during the rainy weather, and it was an absolutely beautiful and peaceful experience. The temple looked wonderful in the rain, with the droplets glistening on the ancient stone carvings and the colorful gopuram shining even brighter. The air was cool and refreshing, filled with the fragrance of wet earth and temple incense. The architecture and divine atmosphere made the whole place feel magical — a perfect blend of spirituality and heritage. Watching devotees walk barefoot on the wet stone floors, hearing the temple bells, and seeing the reflection of the temple lights on the rainwater added to the charm. If you ever get a chance, visit this temple during the monsoon — it’s a breathtaking experience you’ll never forget.

If Marina Beach is the heart of Chennai, then Besant Nagar Beach (Elliot’s Beach) is its peaceful soul. 🌊💙 The first time I came here, it felt different — quieter, cleaner, and calmer than most city beaches. The gentle sound of the waves, the cool breeze, and the friendly energy of the place make it perfect for those who love to unwind away from the crowds. At sunrise, the whole beach glows golden — joggers, yoga groups, and early risers all share the same peaceful vibe. By evening, it turns lively but never chaotic — you’ll find street food stalls, local musicians, and couples watching the sunset in silence. It’s the kind of place where you can just sit, think, and let the sea speak. 🌅 Don’t miss the Karl Schmidt Memorial, standing right on the sands — built in memory of a European sailor who lost his life saving another. It’s a small but powerful reminder of human kindness and Chennai’s deep connection to the sea. The nearby cafés and restaurants add a modern twist — from filter coffee to continental breakfast, everything feels cozy and welcoming. Pro Tip: Visit around 5:30 AM for a peaceful sunrise, or after 7 PM for the perfect mix of breeze, lights, and good vibes. Besant Nagar Beach is where Chennai slows down — where you can find both calm and connection in the rhythm of the waves. 🌴✨

I recently visited the zoo, and it was a wonderful experience. The place is well-maintained with clean surroundings and clearly marked pathways, making it easy to navigate. The variety of animals is impressive — from majestic lions and playful monkeys to colorful birds and reptiles. Each enclosure is spacious and designed to resemble the animals’ natural habitat, which shows the effort put into their care and comfort. The staff were friendly and informative, always ready to answer questions. Educational boards near each enclosure provided useful details about the species, which made the visit not only fun but also very informative. Facilities like restrooms, food stalls, and seating areas were clean and accessible. It’s a great spot for families, especially children, as it’s both entertaining and educational. Overall, the zoo offers a perfect balance of conservation, education, and recreation. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys spending time with nature and wildlife.

The most famous and oldest temple in kanchipuram. Which had 1000 sivalinga and 1008 pillers and very big and very oledest temple in chennai kanchipuram. But less crowd compared to kanchi kamakshi temple, we are visited on friday, no wait. Temple surronding are very neat. The koneru in temple was dirty

For those with an interest in wildlife and conservation, the Madras Crocodile Bank is a worthwhile and educational destination. It offers a unique opportunity to see a wide array of reptile species, learn about important conservation efforts, and enjoy engaging activities like the night safari. While not a full-day commitment, it is an excellent stop for families traveling along the ECR, especially when combined with other nearby attractions like Mahabalipuram. Highlights and attractions Vast reptile collection: The park houses a large collection of reptiles, including over 15 species of crocodiles and alligators from around the world. You can see endangered species like the saltwater crocodile and gharial. Other species: Beyond the crocodilians, the park features a variety of snakes, turtles, tortoises, and lizards. A separate area is dedicated to snakes, including venomous and non-venomous types. Underwater gharial exhibit: A unique feature allows visitors to see a magnificent gharial swimming effortlessly in a large underwater enclosure with other fish and turtles. Feeding sessions: The park offers feeding demonstrations. On Sunday afternoons, you can witness the feeding of "Jaws III," one of the largest saltwater crocodiles in India. Night safari: For a thrilling experience, the night safari on weekends lets you see the reptiles when they are most active. You are given torches to spot the hundreds of glowing red eyes in the dark. Snake venom extraction: This process is demonstrated by the Irula tribe, providing insight into how venom is collected for producing anti-venom medicines. Guided tours: Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and facts about the reptiles. Virtual Reality (VR) shows: On weekends and holidays, you can experience VR movies that transport you to the natural habitats of reptiles around the world. Ideal for children: The Croc Bank is particularly popular with families and school groups, as kids enjoy seeing the reptiles up close in a safe environment. Good for short trips: While some reviewers feel the entry price is high for a relatively short visit, most agree it's a good place to spend an hour or two. Well-maintained enclosures: The enclosures are designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats, allowing for safe and close-up viewing. Amenities: The facility includes a canteen for refreshments, a gift shop for souvenirs, and clean washrooms. However, some older reviews noted that toilets were not well-maintained. Accessibility: Located on the ECR, the park is easily accessible by car, bus, or auto-rickshaw. Paid parking is available.

As per my learning this is the first Temple built by arranging stones and sculpture. They used a stone verity called sand stone, which is easy to make sculpture. Now we are not able to see the paintings. In my younger years, I have seen the paintings. From outside it seems to be small, but inside there is a lot of sculpture. Excellent place.

Very nice temple on the shore of Bay of Bengal. Very elegant as well. It reminds us how capable our ancestors have been to erect such fabulous architecture rich buildings. It is where PM Modi had a meeting with Chinese President Jinping. There is no access to sea/beach from the temple directly. You will have to come out of it and walk around 500m to reach beach. Beach was bit crowdy in December. Car parking is available near to temple but you will have to walk a little to see temple. May be difficult for elderly people. Be cautious while driving on temple road as the people walk there carelessly.

An incredible place to explore if you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a unique day trip. The rock-cut temples and sculptures are breathtaking, with each monument telling its own story. The craftsmanship is mind-blowing considering how old these structures are, and the scale of some of them is just impressive. The whole site is well maintained, and it’s easy to walk around and take in multiple monuments at your own pace. Early mornings or evenings are the best time to visit since the weather is cooler and the lighting makes the stone carvings even more striking. There are guides available if you want detailed insights, but it’s equally enjoyable to just wander and soak in the atmosphere. Plenty of small shops and eateries are nearby, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing. Whether you’re into photography, history, or just a peaceful cultural experience, Mahabalipuram won’t disappoint.

I recently visited the bird sanctuary and had a wonderful time surrounded by nature. The area is serene, with a wide variety of bird species that are a delight to observe. The walking trails are well-maintained, making it easy to explore. It’s a great spot for photography, birdwatching, or just relaxing in a natural setting. I’d recommend going early in the morning for the best bird activity. A great experience for families and nature enthusiasts!

Arunachaleshwarar Temple, one of the sacred Pancha Bhoota Lingas, represents the element of fire (Agni). The temple is grand and showcases remarkable Dravidian architecture. Many devotees also undertake the holy Girivalam (circumambulation of the Arunachala hill), which is believed to bring spiritual purification and divine blessings. There are free entry and ₹50 special darshan options available. On a regular weekend, the darshan time can take around 2 to 3 hours. Overall, it’s an amazing spiritual experience filled with devotion and divine energy. Om Namah Shivaya.

It's a place where I feel utmost peace. The ashram is full of trees and greenery. It's a very good place for meditation as they have separate meditation halls. You see birds everywhere and particularly, peacocks make you feel happy. Through the Ashram, there is a way to Virupaksha cave and city view point from the top of the Arunachala hill. The whole journey towards the cave, makes you refresh and gives you an experience of trekking with bare feet. They have washrooms as well with well maintained. There is a big book stall as well. So, Such an amazing place to visit once in a lifetime.

✨🛕 Manakula Vinayagar Temple – Pondicherry’s Divine Treasure 🙏🐘 Stepping into this temple feels like stepping into another world — filled with peace, positivity, and blessings. 🌸✨ The golden glow of Sri Manakula Vinayagar 🪙🐘 is simply breathtaking, and the aura here is so powerful that you instantly feel calm and protected. 🙌💫 Every corner of the temple is filled with devotion, chants, and vibrant energy 🔔🪔. The beautifully adorned Ganesha idols in different forms are a true divine treat for the eyes and soul. 🌺🔥 💡 Must-visit if you are in Pondicherry — whether for spiritual bliss, cultural richness, or inner peace. 🌿❤️ 🌟 Truly, a place where faith meets divinity. ✨

Today visited this beach in the afternoon. We walked from Mothers ashram till Bakers street shop. Dark blue color waters welcomed me. With monsoon to set soon the beach looked calm and composed. Boats were doing trials on this beach. With rocks on both sides, enough space to walk, get down and touch the sea waters this beach is mesmerising. Afternoon with not much harsh sweaty sun, the whole beach looked glittering amidst blue sky and dark clouds. This is my first afternoon time visit to the beach. The promenade is indeed beautiful with coconut trees swaying in breeze. Lighthouse, crafty bazaar, Pondicherry museum, art museum and park are places around to visit. There is a lactation room spot in this beach. Travellers don’t miss visiting this beach when you travel to Pondicherry.

A great beach. You can come by a motor boat or drive on your own. But it's better to enjoy the boat ride. Once on the beach you can either stick to the beach or goto the private resort where you can have jet boat ride, speed boat ride, ATV ride, have couple of shacks serving beer and drinks. Don't miss the spot between the river and the sea, its just amazing.

Nestled in Tamil Nadu, the Pichavaram Mangrove Forest offers a uniquely serene and otherworldly boating experience. As one of the world's largest mangrove ecosystems, its intricate network of narrow, meandering waterways creates a fascinating labyrinth to explore. Gliding through the calm, emerald waters on a rowboat, surrounded by dense, ancient mangrove roots, feels like entering a different, peaceful dimension. The air is filled with the sounds of chirping birds, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatchers. The well-maintained boats and knowledgeable local boatmen enhance the journey with interesting insights. It’s a stark, beautiful contrast to typical tourist spots—tranquil, cool, and deeply refreshing. A visit to Pichavaram is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking a quiet escape into one of India's most distinctive natural wonders.

Visiting the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is not just a trip, it feels like entering a divine world of tradition, history, and culture. The temple is nearest to Chidambaram bus stop, making it easily accessible for pilgrims and visitors. I would suggest going early in the morning or after 5 PM in the evening. The weather is calmer then, and you can walk around peacefully. Covering the entire temple takes time because the complex is vast, with beautifully carved gopurams (towers), long corridors, and countless shrines spread across the area. Every step feels like walking through centuries of devotion and art. This temple is one of the few where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja – the Cosmic Dancer. The famous Chidambara Rahasyam (secret of Chidambaram) adds a mystical charm, symbolizing that God is present as formless space. The spiritual silence around the Chitsabha (main sanctum) is truly powerful, making you feel connected to something beyond words. The temple’s architecture is Dravidian style, with massive gopurams covered in thousands of intricate sculptures. Each carving tells a story from the Puranas and epics, showcasing the unmatched skill of ancient artisans. The golden roof of the sanctum is another highlight, glowing under the sunlight. Inside, you’ll find sacred tanks, pillared halls, and sculptures of 108 karanas (dance postures of Bharatanatyam). This makes the temple not just a spiritual center but also a cultural hub, deeply tied to Tamil tradition and classical dance. Overall, the Nataraja Temple is not just about prayers – it is an experience. The blend of devotion, history, art, and silence makes it one of the most unique temples in India. If you’re in Chidambaram, this is a must-visit. 🌿🙏

The Oppiliappan Temple, also known as Thiruvinnagar or Uppiliappan Kovil, is a revered Vaishnavite shrine located near Thirunageswaram in Tamil Nadu. It holds significant religious and historical importance, being one of the 108 Divya Desams celebrated in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham by the Alvar saints. Tulasi’s Penance and Bhudevi’s Incarnation According to the Brahmanda Purana, the Tulasi plant performed intense penance desiring proximity to Lord Vishnu. Pleased by her devotion, Vishnu informed her that his consort, Lakshmi, would incarnate as Bhudevi under Tulasi’s shade at Thiruvinnagaram. Consequently, Tulasi manifested as a plant at this sacred location, and Bhudevi appeared beneath her. This event is also referenced in the 53rd verse of Nammalvar’s Thiruviruththam . Sage Markandeya’s Devotion Sage Markandeya aspired for Lakshmi to become his daughter and for Vishnu to be his son-in-law. Engaging in rigorous penance at Thiruvinnagaram, he discovered a baby girl beneath the Tulasi plant, whom he recognized as Bhudevi and raised as his own. When she matured, Vishnu, disguised as an elderly man, sought her hand in marriage. Markandeya hesitated, citing her inexperience in cooking, especially her inability to add salt to food. Vishnu responded that he would accept food without salt, leading to the temple’s tradition of offering unsalted prasadam. This narrative gives the deity the name “Oppiliappan,” meaning “the Lord without (uppu) salt” .

🛕 Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram Airavatesvara Temple, located in Darasuram near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is one of the finest examples of Chola architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Airavateswarar. The temple is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is part of the group called “Great Living Chola Temples”, along with Brihadeeswarar Temple (Thanjavur) and Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple. 🔱 Main Deity Presiding Deity: Lord Shiva as Airavateswarar Consort: Goddess Periya Nayaki Amman 📖 Legend According to legend: Airavata, the white elephant of Lord Indra, once cursed by Sage Durvasa, worshipped Lord Shiva here to be freed from the curse. Hence, the Lord is known as Airavateswarar (“The Lord worshipped by Airavata”). Another story says that Yama, the god of death, was relieved from a burning sensation caused by a curse after taking a dip in the temple tank and worshipping Lord Shiva here. Hence, the temple’s water is considered holy. 🏛️ Architecture The temple was built by Rajaraja Chola II in the 12th century CE. It is a masterpiece of Chola art, known for its intricate stone carvings, musical steps, and miniature sculptures. The Vimana (tower) is about 24 meters high, smaller than that of Thanjavur’s temple but highly detailed. One of the unique features is the “musical stairs” at the entrance — each step produces a different musical note when tapped. The mandapam (hall) is designed as a chariot drawn by horses, symbolizing Lord Shiva’s divine journey. 🌸 Special Features The walls depict scenes from Shaivite, Vaishnavite, and Shakta traditions, showing the religious harmony of the Chola period. Sculptures of 108 dance poses of Bharatanatyam are carved beautifully on the temple walls. The Periya Nayaki Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, is located nearby and is part of the same complex. 📅 Timings Session Time Morning 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM Evening 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM 📍 Location Address: Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram, near Kumbakonam, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu – 612702 Distance: About 3 km from Kumbakonam town Nearest Railway Station: Darasuram (1 km) / Kumbakonam (3 km) 🌍 UNESCO Heritage In 2004, the Airavatesvara Temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural brilliance, perfect proportions, and fine stone sculptures. It stands as a living testimony to the glory of the Chola dynasty and their devotion to art, music, and religion.

Walking into the Thanjavur Maratha Palace felt like stepping back in time. The palace walls whisper stories of kings and scholars. Some parts are grand and well-preserved, others are in ruins but still charming with their faded frescoes, stone carvings and long corridors. The Darbar Hall, with its murals and portraits, catches your eye. The Saraswati Mahal Library, with its stacks of old manuscripts and books, gives a quiet, soulful vibe. The towers and observation points give you a bird’s eye view of the inner courtyards. You can almost imagine the royal processions, the court gatherings, the echo of footsteps in wide halls. It’s not polished like a modern museum — it has rough edges, and some decay — but that makes it feel real, alive, touched by centuries. Must-visit for lovers of history, art, and architecture.

One of the most awe-inspiring temples I’ve ever visited. The scale, the detail, the feeling of walking through centuries … The towering vimana (temple tower) is majestic, and the carvings on the walls and pillars tell stories in stone. Even in the heat, the cool interiors and the shades make it a comfortable walk. The Nandi statue is carved from a single rock, huge and elegant. The temple is well maintained, with good pathways, signage, and security. A must-visit for anyone coming to Tamil Nadu history, spirituality and architecture all together.

Excellent beach for kids and toddlers. As a tourists enjoyed this place much. My kid had a great fun playing in this beach. Not huge or rough waves and government should promote this beach. The beach has changing rooms also with washroom and also there are eateries in the area