UNESCO World Heritage classified temples of Tamil Nadu

The most visited Unesco World Heritage temples and sites of Tamil nadu 

Tamil Nadu or the land of Tamils in local Tamil  language, is world famous for its Dravidian temples. Built by different dynasties of South India like Cheras, Cholas & Pandiyas, reigned on this land. These magnificent temples constructed centuries ago still stand tall like they were built today. These temples are worth to see if you are making your tailor made tour to South India. Even you some of them are recognized as UNESCO world heritage sites for their architectural marvels.

Mahabalipuram

Also known as Mamallapuram, located about 60 km from Chennai city. It is one of the beautiful tourist places of South India.  Mahabalipuram's archaeological remains stand as a very good example of the Dravidian architecture. It is known especially for its Temples in the form of Chariots called rathas, mandapams (cave sanctuaries), huge open-air reliefs such as the famous and excellent 100 foot long “Descent of the Ganges”/ “ Arjuna Penance”, and the temple of Rivage with innumerable glorious sculptures of Lord Siva. Mahabalipuram was included in the World Heritage Monuments list of 1984 by UNESCO.

Thanjavur -- Sri Brahadeeswara Temple

Sri Brahadeeswara Temple is also called as Big Temple or Thanjai “Periya Koil". This temple was built in 1010 A.D and celebrated its Millennium year of existence in 2010. Its Unique Architectural Excellence prompted UNESCO to declare this temple as World Heritage Monument in 1987. It is located amidst fortified walls added during the 16th century. The beautiful  Chola Fresco Paintings on the inner walls are often matched with those of Ajanta Caves.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

Gangaikondaan Cholapuram is 70 km from Thanjavur and 50 km from Chidambaram. Rajendra Chola I the mighty king of Chola Dynasty established his new capital and built this magnificent temple for Lord Shiva. The entire region is filled with refreshing landscapes, River and Green fields for miles around. The temple is noted for its massive and richly carved sculptures . A big Nandi, a Lion Head Well with a flight of steps and Gigantic Statues of Dwarapalakas [ entrance guards] are other special features of this temple. UNESCO declared Mahabalipuram as
World Heritage Site in the year 2004.

Nilgiri's Mountain Rail

Nilgiri Mountain Railway was built by the British in 1908. This rail connects Udhagamndalam and Mettupalayam. The Journey is the most picturesque train ride that mesmerizes all age group of travelers. This train travels through 208 serpentine curves, 16 tunnels, 250 bridges, waterfall hood, cliff edges and Tea estates covering a distance of 26 km. The uphill journey takes almost 4 hours. In the year 2005, UNESCO declared the Nilgiri Mountain Railway as an extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Vintage Steam Locomotive is still relished as an excellent attraction to this train.