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.

Sankaran Koil (56 kms) It is situated 56 kms to the North of Thirunelveli. The Car or the Chariot Festival and Adithabasu Vizha is celebrated in this temple in June-July. Lakhs of people flock to this place on this occasion. Sankaran Koil is connected by road and rail transport to important places in the State. The near by places are Thirunelveli, Thuthukudi, Tenkasi, Kovilpatti, Srivilliputhur and Madurai.


Kutrallam (59 kms): Kutrallam, the " Spa of the south" is situated at an elevation of about 170 m high, on the western Ghats in Thirunelveli district. This is not only a tourist spot but also a health resort too. The waterfall has medicinal properties since the water runs through forests of herbs and the water has therapeutic qualities to cure physical ailments. During the season between June to September every year thousands of tourists visit this place.