Drenched in a diverse palette of cultural opulence and picturesque charm, Tamil Nadu, the ‘Land of Tamils’, is a treasure trove awaiting exploration. And the arrival of September – a magical interlude between the rainy monsoon and the balmy winter – offers an idyllic ambiance for the discerning traveler. To ensure you fully immerse yourself in this exotic landscape, we’ve curated the 10 best places to visit in Tamil Nadu in September.
Tamil Nadu Weather in September
In September, Tamil Nadu transitions from monsoon to post-monsoon. With a mix of mild showers and warm sunny days, average temperatures range between 25°C-30°C, dropping to about 23°C in the evenings. Hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal can see temperatures around 15°C at night. Humidity levels decrease, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, it’s always recommended to check the current weather updates close to your travel dates.
Exploring the Top 10 Destinations in Tamil Nadu for a Memorable September Getaway
1. Ooty: A Symphony of Serenity
Ensconced in the bosom of the Nilgiris or ‘Blue Mountains’, Ooty presents a spellbinding vista of emerald landscapes, sapphire lakes, and sprawling tea gardens. The blooming season in September adds a riot of colors to the Botanical Gardens.
Enjoy the delightful toy train ride, with the Nilgiri Mountain Railway offering panoramic views of the lush landscapes. Moreover, a visit to the historic St. Stephen’s Church will transport you back to colonial times.
Things to do:
- Botanical Gardens: Home to thousands of exotic and indigenous species of plants, trees, and shrubs.
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its picturesque toy train rides.
- St. Stephen’s Church: An architectural marvel dating back to the British era.
How to reach: The nearest airport to Ooty is Coimbatore (about 88 km away). It is well-connected with major Indian cities. Ooty has its railway station, and it connects to Mettupalayam (47 km away), which has better connectivity. Alternatively, you can take a bus or cab from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, or Mysore.
2. Kodaikanal: The Princess of Hill Stations
Next on our list is Kodaikanal, a picturesque hill station fondly termed ‘Kodai’. Enclosed by verdant hills and serene lakes, Kodai is perfect for enjoying the cool, post-monsoon weather of September.
It boasts the enchanting Silver Cascade Falls and the awe-inspiring Guna Cave. Not to forget the unparalleled joy of watching the sun sink into the hills from Coaker’s Walk.
Things to do:
- Silver Cascade Falls: A picturesque waterfall originating from Kodai Lake.
- Guna Cave: A thrilling cave surrounded by lush greenery.
- Coaker’s Walk: A man-made walking plaza offering panoramic views of the plains below.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (around 120 km away), and the closest railway station is Kodai Road (around 100 km away). Taxis or buses can be taken from these points to reach Kodaikanal.
3. Madurai: The City of Temples
Steeped in a rich cultural heritage, Madurai is a divine spectacle, with the revered Meenakshi Amman Temple at its heart. In September, the temple premises hum with spiritual fervor during the Avani Moola festival.
Apart from religious tourism, the Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Gandhi Memorial Museum offer glimpses into the historical grandeur of Tamil Nadu.
Things to do:
- Meenakshi Amman Temple: A historic temple famous for its intricate architecture and sculptures.
- Thirumalai Nayak Palace: A 17th-century palace showcasing the grandeur of the Nayak rule.
- Gandhi Memorial Museum: Houses a wealth of information about India’s freedom struggle.
How to reach: Madurai has its airport, with flights from major Indian cities. It also has a well-connected railway station. Regular bus services are available from cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
4. Thanjavur: An Artist’s Paradise
Also known as Tanjore, Thanjavur resonates with a deep-rooted artistic and architectural legacy. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Brihadisvara Temple, is an unmissable spectacle.
An equally mesmerizing sight is the Tanjore painting, a classical South Indian art form that seems to come alive in September during the Natyanjali Dance Festival.
Things to do:
- Brihadisvara Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a fine example of Dravidian architecture.
- Thanjavur Palace: Houses several art pieces and a library with a large collection of ancient manuscripts.
- Thanjavur Art Gallery: Known for its collection of stone and bronze idols from the 9th to 12th centuries.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, around 60 km away. Thanjavur has its railway station, and regular bus services are available from Chennai, Madurai, and Trichy.
5. Mahabalipuram: Poetry in Stone
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Mahabalipuram is famed for its ancient rock carvings, Dravidian architecture, and sandy beaches.
The cool weather in September is ideal for exploring the Five Rathas, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Shore Temple. The city also hosts the vibrant Mahabalipuram Dance Festival this month, attracting classical dancers from across the country.
Things to do:
- Five Rathas: Five monolithic temple chariots each carved from a single piece of granite.
- Arjuna’s Penance: The world’s largest open-air bas-relief.
- Shore Temple: Overlooking the Bay of Bengal, it’s one of the oldest stone temples in South India.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 60 km away. The closest major railway station is Chengalpattu, about 30 km away. Buses and taxis are readily available from Chennai and Pondicherry.
6. Kanyakumari: Where Oceans Meet
At the southernmost tip of India, Kanyakumari invites visitors to witness the magnificent confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean.
The weather in September is perfect for watching the spectacular sunrise and sunset at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial. The iconic Thiruvalluvar Statue adds to the ethereal beauty of this coastal town.
Things to do:
- Vivekananda Rock Memorial: A sacred monument, where Swami Vivekananda is believed to have meditated.
- Thiruvalluvar Statue: This colossal statue of the famous Tamil poet stands tall at the confluence of three seas.
- Gandhi Memorial: Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, it’s built at the spot where his ashes were kept for public viewing.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, about 67 km away. Kanyakumari railway station is well-connected with major cities in India. It also has a good network of buses connecting it to several cities in South India.
7. Chettinad: A Gastronomic Gala
Chettinad promises a culinary extravaganza unlike any other. The region’s distinctive cuisine, famous for its spicy chicken, tangy fish curries, and aromatic biryanis, enthralls food enthusiasts.
The ornate Chettinad mansions and Athangudi tile factories offer an insight into the local arts and architecture.
Things to do:
- Chettinad Mansions: Famous for their intricate design and architecture.
- Athangudi Tile Factories: Known for producing handmade tiles.
- Chettinad Cuisine: Known for its spicy and aromatic dishes.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, about 80 km away. The nearest railway station is Karaikudi Junction. Regular buses are available from major cities in Tamil Nadu.
8. Coimbatore: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Known as the ‘Manchester of South India’, Coimbatore impresses with its delightful fusion of tradition and modernity. The city offers serene natural retreats like Siruvani Waterfalls and Kovai Kutralam.
For the spiritually inclined, the Isha Yoga Center, with its mesmerizing Adiyogi statue, is a haven of peace and meditation.
Things to do:
- Siruvani Waterfalls and Kovai Kutralam: Beautiful waterfalls are known for their scenic beauty and sweet-tasting water.
- Isha Yoga Center: A spiritual center featuring a massive statue of Lord Shiva, known as Adiyogi.
How to reach: Coimbatore has an airport with good connectivity. The city’s railway station connects with major Indian cities. Regular bus services are also available.
9. Rameswaram: An Island of Tranquility
An integral part of India’s religious circuit, Rameswaram is famous for the Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the Char Dhams.
The serene beaches and the mystic aura of this island town offer a spiritual solace, amplified by the soothing September weather.
Things to do:
- Ramanathaswamy Temple: One of the Char Dhams, known for its long ornate corridors.
- Agni Theertham: One of the 64 sacred baths in Rameswaram.
- Dhanushkodi Beach: A beautiful beach that’s a mix of calm and rough seas.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, about 175 km away. Rameswaram has its railway station, and regular bus services are available from major cities in Tamil Nadu.
10. Yercaud: The Jewel of the South
A hidden gem, Yercaud in the Shevaroy Hills enthralls visitors with its tranquility and natural beauty. The Orchidarium and Rose Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers.
The enticing Emerald Lake, Shevaroy Temple, and Bear’s Cave add to the allure of this captivating hill station.
Things to do:
- Emerald Lake: A serene lake surrounded by gardens and woods.
- Shevaroy Temple: A temple located at the highest point in Yercaud.
- Bear’s Cave: An historic cave believed to be used by the bears.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Salem Airport, about 46 km away. The closest major railway station is Salem Junction, about 35 km away. Buses and taxis are readily available from Salem.
As the radiant sun of September gently warms Tamil Nadu’s enchanting landscapes, these destinations serve as the ideal retreats. This exquisite Indian state seamlessly weaves history, spirituality, culture, and nature into an unforgettable tapestry. Don’t miss the opportunity to unravel Tamil Nadu’s myriad wonders this September – there’s a world out there waiting to be discovered.
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FAQs about visiting Tamil Nadu in September:
Q1: Is September a good time to visit Tamil Nadu?
A1: Yes, September is a good time to visit Tamil Nadu. The monsoons have started to recede and the weather has become more pleasant. It is also less crowded in September which means you can enjoy the attractions without the rush.
Q2: What is the weather like in Tamil Nadu in September?
A2: The weather in Tamil Nadu in September is a mix of mild rain showers and warm sunny days. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C during the day, dropping to about 23°C in the evenings. In hill stations like Ooty and Kodaikanal, temperatures can drop to around 15°C at night.
Q3: Which places are the best to visit in Tamil Nadu in September?
A3: Ooty, Kodaikanal, Madurai, Thanjavur, Mahabalipuram, Kanyakumari, Chettinad, Coimbatore, Rameswaram, and Yercaud are some of the best places to visit in Tamil Nadu in September.
Q4: What activities can I do in Tamil Nadu in September?
A4: You can visit the beautiful hill stations of Ooty and Kodaikanal, explore ancient temples in Madurai and Thanjavur, enjoy the sandy beaches of Mahabalipuram, savour Chettinad cuisine, witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset in Kanyakumari, indulge in spiritual experiences in Rameswaram.
Q5: What should I pack for a trip to Tamil Nadu in September?
A5: Pack light cotton clothes for the day and warmer clothes for the cooler nights, especially if you are visiting hill stations. Carry a sturdy umbrella or raincoat for sudden showers. Comfortable footwear for sightseeing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection are also essential.
Q6: What are the COVID-19 safety guidelines for tourists in Tamil Nadu?
A6: As the COVID-19 situation may change, it’s recommended to check the latest travel advisories and local health guidelines. General safety measures include wearing masks, frequent hand sanitization, maintaining social distancing, and avoiding crowded places.
Q7: How can I travel within Tamil Nadu?
A7: Tamil Nadu has a well-developed network of buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis for local travel. For long distances, trains are also available. For more comfort, you can hire private cabs.
Q8: Is it safe to travel to Tamil Nadu in September considering the monsoon?
A8: Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Tamil Nadu in September as the heavy monsoon rains have usually subsided by then. However, it is always advisable to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out, especially for hilly regions.
