Nagapattinam Travel Essentials

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"The land of serpent gods"

Nagapattinam Tourism

Nagapattinam is a town on the coastline of the Bay of Bengal with a major historical significance which is also a renowned pilgrim centre with Divya Desam of Velankanni, many temples and mosques spread all over. Nagapattinam has its the name derived from Nagur, the land of serpent gods and is credited with praiseworthy cultural and historical significance. Apart from various holy sites, there is also a long stretch of beach here.

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The land of Serpent Gods

Named so for its religious significance to the snakes, Nagapattinam is a beautiful coastal town in the state of Tamil Nadu, quite close to the Bay of Bengal. Although badly ravaged by the 2004 tsunami, Nagapattinam, once a prominent town in the medieval Chola empire, has successfully bounced back. Besides being home to several temples, Nagapattinam has also maintained some of the colonial influences absolutely well.   

Culture of Nagapattinam

Nagapattinam has a rich heritage base, drawn from different faiths including Hindu, Christian, Muslim as well as Buddhism in ancient times. The 16th-century minaret Nagore Durgha is a popular pilgrim attraction in the city built in honour of Saint Hajrath Shahul Hamid, and the city celebrates the Kanduri festival in his name. The festival is unique as both Hindus and Muslims celebrate it together in good faith, the Hindus having contributed to the construction of the minaret as well. The town also has famous and ancient temples honouring the Hindu Gods Shiva and Vishnu.Velankanni, which is located 10kms from Nagapattinam, houses a famous Roman Catholic church - Basilica Lady of Our Good Health and this place too attracts people from different religions who pay homage here.

History of Nagapattinam

Nagapattinam’s history can be traced back to the rule of the Pallavas in around 691 CE, according to inscriptions found in the Kayarohanswami temple in the city. Nagapattinam also owes its development to the Chola dynasty, and during whose time the city was an important trade port. The town also had a lot of Buddhist influence and had a monastery and a pagoda constructed during this time. This was followed by Portuguese and Dutch control of the city from the 16th century, and following several wars in the second half of the 16th century, the town finally fell into British hands. It was one of the primary ports of the Madras Presidency till India’s independence.

Suggested Itinerary for Nagapattinam

Day 1 - Reach Nagapattinam preferably by noon, and take some rest. In the evening, you can take a stroll on the city side, or relax at the beach
Day 2 - The next day should be earmarked for a visit to the Dutch Fort. Thereon, you can proceed to Kayarohanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Day 3 - The final day can be reserved for a visit to the Soundaryaraja Perumal Temple, another spiritual and architectural delight.

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How to Reach Nagapattinam

How to Reach Overview

Nagapattinam has its own railway station and is connected by trains from major cities of South India. Thanjavur (102 km) is a nearby railhead which is nicely connected to all the major parts of India. Nearest airport to Nagapattinam is at Tiruchirappalli (150 km) and you can take a cab or a bus to reach here. Nagapattinam is very nicely connected by road and buses are available from all the major towns and cities in South India.

How to reach Nagapattinam by flight

There is no direct flight connectivity to Nagapattinam. The nearest airport is in Tiruchirapalli, around 145 km away from the same. You can hire a taxi from outside the airport to reach Nagapattinam. Alternatively, buses run regularly from Tiruchirappalli.

How to reach Nagapattinam by road

Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Nagapattinam. They operate on a daily basis, whether day or night, from places like Chennai, Coimbatore etc. You can also take shared taxis or cabs for the same route.

How to reach Nagapattinam by train

Regular rail services connect the city of Nagapattinam to the rest of India.

Local transport in Nagapattinam

Auto-rickshaws, tourist cabs are easily available. Local buses are usually very crowded but also a cheap option.

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Nagapattinam Photos

Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu
Kayarohanaswamy Temple
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Lighthouse, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, India

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FAQs on Nagapattinam

Who should visit Nagapattinam?

Nagapattinam can be visited be visited by pilgrims as it houses numerous temples, mosques and churches. It is also a good place for people interested in Indian history and culture.

What are the places near Nagapattinam?

The top places near to Nagapattinam are Pondicherry which is 127 km from Nagapattinam, Velankanni which is located 9 km from Nagapattinam, Chettinad which is located 1 km from Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai which is located 42 km from Nagapattinam, Thanjevur which is located 76 km from Nagapattinam

What are the things to do in Nagapattinam?

The top things to do in Nagapattinam are Dutch Fort, Archaeological Museum, Sikkal Singaravelar Temple, Kayarohanaswamy Temple, Soundaryaraja Perumal Temple, Nellukadai Mariamman Koil. You can see all the places to visit in Nagapattinam here

What is the best way to reach Nagapattinam?

Nagapattinam has its own railway station and is connected by trains from major cities of South India. Thanjavur (102 km) is a nearby railhead which is nicely connected to all the major parts of India. Nearest airport to Nagapattinam is at Tiruchirappalli (150 km) and you can take a cab or a bus to reach here. Nagapattinam is very nicely connected by road and buses are available from all the major towns and cities in South India.
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What is the local food in Nagapattinam?

There are many hotels and restaurants here that offer local, authentic and traditional South Indian, Chettinad food. From shacks on the street to simple eateries to good restaurants, there are a number of options here and all equally delicious. The typical South-Indian platter consists of Idli, Dosa, Chutney, Vada, Sambhar, Rasam, Upma, Sweet Pongal, Payassam, Kesari.
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What is the best time to visit Nagapattinam?

Nagapattinam, being a coastal delight in Tamil Nadu, sports a pleasant climate, that makes it an attractive tourist hotspot throughout the year. The summers are the best for off budget travellers, while monsoons and winters are ideal seasons for a good visit to Nagapattinam.
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What is not so good about Nagapattinam?

Can be crowded as it attracts a large number of pilgrims throughout the year.

What is famous about Nagapattinam?

Houses some of the best harbours in the country. Famous for its rich history and culture.

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