With its magnificent houses of worship and its heavy industries, the symbols of its past glory and the titles of its present significance, Trichy is an intriguing city. Part 11 of an Outlook Special series on Tamil Nadu tourism.
On the banks of the Kaveri is one of the oldest inhabited cities of India, Tiruchirapalli or Trichy. Once the stronghold of the early Chola kings and today a melting pot of tradition and modernity, Trichy is among the most visited tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu. Captivating temples, bustling streets, and lively bazaars all make Trichy unique.
The history of spirituality
The most well-known historical monuments in Tiruchirappalli include the Ranganathaswamy temple at Srirangam, the Jambukeswarar temple and the Rockfort.
The Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, with its famous 1000-pillared hall, has the tallest Rajagopuram in India. The Jambukeswarar Temple is one of Tamil Nadu’s five major Shiva temples, representing water, or neer in Tamil.
The Rockfort Ganapathi Temple received its name from its unique design. The fort temple has a distinct history in Tamil history and in India’s Independence movement. With a huge rock older even than the Himalayas, this was initially built as a temple but later designed as a fort because of its strategic position.
The Brahmapureeswarar Temple is another significant place of worship. Located in Tirupattur, the temple houses a large idol of Brahma in a meditative pose with his signature lotus flower.
St.Joseph’s Church, St.John’s Church and most interestingly, Our Lady of Lourdes Church built between a temple and a mosque are other religious places of tourist interest.
The sprawling Sai Baba Temple, one of the largest temples of Shirdi Sai Baba in South India, revered as “Then Shirdi” is another attraction for spiritual visitors.
Nearby Samayapuram, with the famous Mariamman Temple, is another draw. Among the most important religious sites in Trichy, this temple welcomes thousands of devotees every day.
The Architecture of Science
The Kallanai Dam, also known as the Grand Anicut, is a must-visit. One of the world’s oldest standing dams, this was built by the Chola king Karikalan in the second century across the Kaveri. Built to enhance water flow, its construction exhibits the astonishing acumen of the people of the time. Made two thousand years ago using rough stones, the dam continues to sustain thousands of farmers as it has done through two millennia.
A flitter and a flutter
The Butterfly Park in Trichy, Asia’s biggest park dedicated to the butterfly, is a must-visit. Extremely important for ecosystems, the butterfly plays an important role in pollination. On the banks of the Kaveri, this is not only one of the favourite spots of city dwellers to commune with nature, but a sanctuary that is working to save the butterfly.
Shopping bag stories
Trichy offers a curious mix of wares at its throbbing marketplaces and bazaars. The most known is the Trichinopoly cigar, an internationally famed cheroot.
Traditional handicrafts and handlooms abound. Woodwork and baskets woven of bamboo, cane, grasses, reeds and fibres make for excellent gifts. Metalware, pottery, typical paintings and stone carvings as well as temple jewellery are all available.
Well connected by all modes of transport, and with something to offer everyone, Trichy is a destination worth considering for your next vacation.
By air: Trichy has its own airport that connects to all major cities.
By rail: one of the busiest junctions in Tamil Nadu, Trichy is connected to all towns of the region.
By road: Trichy is well connected to all cities and towns in the region and beyond.
Accommodation
Hotel Tamil Nadu, Trichy
McDonalds Road, Cantonement
(Opp. Central Bus Stand), Trichy - 620 001
Contact : 91 9176995862
