THIRUNELVELI

Situated on the banks of the river Tambraparani, the small town of Thirunelveli was once the capital of the Pandyas, and it has a history that goes back 2000 years. The main attraction of modern-day Thirunelveli, however, is the twin temples of Kanthimathi-Nellaiappar dedicated to Parvati and Shiva respectively. Among the interesting sights in the temples are the golden lily tank, the thousand-pillared hall, which has some exquisite sculptures, and the musical pillars that produce different musical notes when you strike them. About 13 kms from Thirunelveli is the Krishnapuram temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Here he is called Thiruvenkatanathar. The temple is a worth a visit for the beautiful life-size sculptures carved with great intricacy and dedication by their creators.

Papanasam: It is located 60 kms from Thirunelveli. The famous Shiva temple is located at the bottom of Western Ghats and also very near to the origin of the River Tambraparani. Every year The Chitrai Vishu festival is celebrated in the month of April and another festival Adi Ammavasai is celebrated in the month of July and lakhs of people congregate there. It also serves as a picnic spot.