Tourism in Tamil Nadu is both a joy and a revelation. The state is a treasure-trove of ancient temples and monuments, and rich culture. At the same time, Tamil Nadu has abundance of natural beauty and a number of wildlife sanctuaries worth exploring. The tourism industry in Tamil Nadu is the second largest in India, experiencing an annual growth rate of 16 percent. Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC), an undertaking of the state Government of Tamil Nadu, is responsible for promoting the tourism in Tamil Nadu.

In Tamil Nadu, one can perhaps find the best of temple architecture of the Dravidian variety. Most of these majestic temples are characterized by their towering gopurams, which lend a distinct characteristic to them. The Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, the Shore Temple of Mahabalipuram, Chidambaram Natarajar Temple in Chidambaram, Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Srirangam, Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, are among the grandest temples of not only Tamil Nadu, but also of the whole country.

However, tourism of Tamil Nadu is not only about culture and heritage. The state of Tamil Nadu also has a number of hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries, which have great tourist appeal. Kodaikanal, Ooty and Coonoor are the prominent hill stations of Tamil Nadu, whereas to indulge in your wild streak, go for Mudumalai National Park, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve and Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary.

To sea see at its wild glory, visit Kanyakumari- the southernmost tip of mainland India- which also doubles up as a holy town. It is a land where the three seas- Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal- meet. Besides sunrise in its deep blue waters, Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar's statue are also worth visiting sites. Kumari Amman Temple and Thengapattinam Beach also shouldn't be missed from your Kanyakumari itinerary. Marina Beach in Chennai, which happens to be the second largest beach in the world, is also a must visit place in Tamil Nadu to see the best of nature and specimens of colonial architecture at one go. Chennai too has its share of religious heritage, among which St. Thomas Mount is very famous.

Lately, the state is emerging as an important centre for medical tourism, and is attracting droves of medical tourists in its ancient folds.

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