CHAPTER IV

PROFILE OF THE PLACES OF TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

4.1 INTRODUCTION
Tourism promotes national integration, tolerance and understanding of different
cultures. It encourages preservation of monuments, heritage properties and ecosanctuaries, helps survival of traditional art forms, crafts and culture. It has achieved
rapid strides due to its capacity to earn foreign exchange, generate employment
opportunities and inculcate a sense of heritage and fraternity in the minds of people.
Tourism is the third highest foreign exchange earner for India.
The word tour originated from the Latin word tornus which was later
changed in to tours, standing for lath or turnovers wheel. As the full turn of the wheel or
lathe forms a circle or circuit, the word tornus or tourn also means a round journey in
which one returns to the starting point. The word tour was first used for a journey in
which one travelled and visited a number of places in circuit or sequence, thus meaning a
circuitous or circular journey (Joseph Antony, 1999).
Tourism encompasses travel for pleasure during holiday, wanderlust, health,
business and trade, pilgrimage and social purpose, historical and geographical research,
educational purpose, foreign offices and other official functions. The perspective of travel
spreads over many fields of human activity such as cultural, religious and sociological
thereby influencing the social and economic aspects of international trade, transport and
finance. Centuries back, the king of Babylon, established protected roads, rest houses and
gardens for travelers. The Romans used to travel for pleasures. They rode hundred miles
in a day on horseback to see the monuments of Olympia. In the fifth century the downfall
of Roman Empire accounted for the setback for tourism (Ibid).
The earliest recorded evidence of tourism could be traced back to the Roman
Empire. The Romans visited temples and shrines, attended festivals and took baths for
1

health and amusements. With the fall of the Roman Empire, tourism ceased to exist till
the middle ages. In the middle ages, thousands of pilgrims made journey under the
existing difficult conditions. The development of trade and commerce, religious
activities, etc., between the eleventh and fifteenth centuries gave added impetus to the
movement of merchants, soldiers and pilgrims. Thus travel before the Industrial
Revolution was largely a matter of pilgrimage and to a limited extent of business and for
official purposes (L.J.Lickorish, 1975).
Between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, especially in advanced countries,
travel became very common and this encouraged the elite to go abroad. Travel also had
been recommended as a part of curriculum development. In fact foreign travel was a part
of education of the aristocratic men in those days. During the same period, domestic
travel to sea resorts and hill resorts for health reasons became part of entertainments.
In the nineteenth century, the professional travel agencies were established.
Overseas tour was organized for the first time during 1860s. In the later years of that
century, developments such as holiday with pay in certain countries, establishment of
travel and tourism club etc, added new dimensions to tourism. In the first half of the
development in the transport industry and other factors, travel by private cars and coaches
for the first time became popular in the 1910s (M.Salam, 1989). Tourism has been
sensitive to world peace and prosperity after the world war periods, i.e., from 1950
onwards. Tourism has got another boost as most of the Governments of the third world
countries have started patronizing tourism as an important economic activity.
4.2 DEFINITIONS OF TOURISM
There is no universally accepted definition of tourism and even now the term
Tourism is defined by different authors in various ways. Tourism refers to the
temporary movement of people to destinations outside their normal place of work and
residence, the activities undertaken during their stay in those destinations and the
facilities created to cater to their needs. Tourism is the sum of phenomena and

relationships arising from the interactions of tourists, business suppliers, host

Governments and host communities in the process of attracting tourists.
Swiss Professor Walter Hunzikar and Krapf (1994), describe the concept of
tourism Tourism is the sum of phenomena and relationship arising from the travel and
stay of non- residents, in so far as they do not lead to permanent residence and are not
connected with any earning activity. As per the International Union of Official Travel
Organization (IUOTO), now called as World Tourism Organization (WTO) has defined
tourist as a temporary visitor staying for at least 24 hours in a country visited when the
purpose of the journey can be classified under one of the following headingsa) Leisure: recreation, holiday, health, study of religion and sports or
b) Business, family, mission meetings.
As per the IASET and Tourism Society of Cardiff in 1981, Tourism may be
defined in terms of particular activities selected by choice and undertaken outside the
home environment. Tourism may or may not involve overnight stay away from home.
Herman Von Schullard, An American Economist, defined it as, The sum of the
total operations, mainly of an economic nature which directly relates to the entry, stay
and movement of foreigners inside and outside a certain country, city or region.
According to Tourism Society in Britain, Tourism is the temporary short-term
movement of people to destination outside the place where they normally live and work
and their activities during the stay at their destinations, includes movement for all
purposes, as well as day visit or excursions.
In 1981, the International Conference on Leisure- Recreation- Tourism, held by
Tourism Society in England, defined it as, Tourism may be defined in terms of particular
activities selected by choice and undertaken outside the home environment. Tourism may
or may not involve overnight stay away from home. This definition was subsequently
accepted by the IASET (Burkart&Medlik, 1974).
3

All the above definitions bring out the following distinct features of tourism.
(a) Involvement of a mobile population of travelers who are stranger to the place
they visit.
(b) Their stay is of a temporary nature in the area visited.
(c) It is essentially a pleasure and recreational activity.
(d) Their stay is not connected with any remunerated activity or an activity
involving earnings.
WTO has taken the concept of tourism beyond a stereo type image of
holiday making. The official accepted definition in the report is: Tourism
comprises the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside
their usual environment not for leisure, business and other purposes.
a) Domestic Tourism: It consists of residents visiting within their own country.
No formalities are required in this kind of travel.
b) Inbound Tourism: Comprises non-residents travelling into a country of their
choice.
c) Outbound Tourism: Comprises residents of a nation travelling out to foreign
country.
These three basic forms of tourism can be in turn being combined to derive three
categories of tourism.
a) Internal Tourism: This comprises domestic and inbound tourism.
b) National Tourism: domestic and outbound tourism.
c) International Tourism: inbound and outbound tourism.
Geographers study the spatial expression of tourism as a human activity, focusing
on tourist generating and tourist receiving areas. The study can incorporate a
variety of scales, climate, and tourist recourses to local landscape, resorts etc.
From the geographical point of view, tourism has three main components:
1) The tourist from one country to another country is known as generating areas.
2) The destination area of tourist receiving countries or region or local areas.
3) The route travelled between respective destinations.
4

Exhibit-4.1
Chart showing Tourism Flow
Departing
Tourists
Tourism
Generating
Areas

Destination
Country / Region /
Local Areas
Returning
Tourists

(Source: Leiper, 1990)

Tourism flow depends on pull and push factors. Push factors depend on
the stage of economic development in generating market, number of holidays
available and income. Also pull factor influence on tourist flow, it includes
accessibility and the relative cost.
The Tourism Society in Britian in 1976 defined tourism as, Tourism is
the temporary, short- term movement of people to destinations outside the places
where they normally live and work and their activities during the stay at these
destinations; it includes movements for all purposes, as well as day visits or
excursions (Ratendeep Singh, 1994).
Hermann V. Schullard defined tourism as, the sum total of the operators,
mainly of an economic nature, which directly relates to the entry, stay and
movement of foreigners inside and outside a certain country, city or region
(Ibid).
According to Hunziker and Krapf, Tourism is the totality of the
relationship and phenomenon arising from the travel and the study of strangers,

provided the stay does not imply the establishment of permanent residence and is
not connected with a remunerated activity (A.K. Bhatia,1997).
The International Conference of Leisure, Recreation, Tourism in 1981 defines
tourism as: Tourism may be defined in terms of particular activities selected by choice
and undertaken outside the home environment. Tourism may or may not involve
overnight stay away from home.
4.3 WORLD TOURISM
World tourism is considered as a significant factor in the economy of many
nations. Today tourism related infrastructure in various parts of the country has improved
the quality of life of the local people and helped to promote local arts and crafts. Tourism
has contributed to increase awareness about conservation of the environment and the
cultural heritage. Tourism is the fastest growing industry in modern world. People have
always travelled to distant past of the world to see monuments arts and culture, taste new
cuisine etc. The term tourist was firstly used as official term in 1937 by the League of
Nations. Tourism was defined as people travelling abroad for period of over 24 hours.
The word tour gained acceptance in the 18th century, when the Grand Tour of
Europe became part of the upbringing of the educated and wealth British noblemen.
Tourism is a service industry, consisting of transportation, accommodation and
hospitality. The term tourism and travel are often used interchangeably though literally
there is a difference. A person who indulges in tourism is known as tourist. Tourism is
multi-faceted phenomenon which involves movement to and stay in destination outside
the normal place of residence. Tourism is composed of three basic elementsa) A dynamic element which involves travel to a selected destination or
destinations.
b) A static element which involves the stay in the destination.
c) A consequential element resulting from the two preceding elements, which is
concerned with effect on the economic, physical and social subsystems with
which the tourist is directly or indirectly in contact.

d) Due to growing economic significance of tourism, it has a spectacular

increase in tourism worldwide and increase in tourist earning. That money is
absorbed by the local economies of the nation, and helps to increasing jobs as
well as opportunities. Tourism mostly depends on the range and types of
accommodation available at the destination. Accommodation is a core of the
tourist industry, and plays a distinctive role in the development of this everexpanding industry. Tourism also tends to give support to local handicrafts
and cultural activities; both in urban and rural areas. Expenditure by tourists
has a multiplier effect and also generates considerable tax revenue for local
economy.
Tourism has become a major and an integral part of economic, social and physical
development. It comprises complete system of nature, the universe, the space and the
galaxy which includes the man and his activities, wildlife, mountain and valleys, rivers
and waters, forest and trees, social and cultural system, flora and fauna, weather and
climate, sun and the sea. The whole system requires an environmental and ecological
preservation, which can be expressed in terms of following equation.
Tourism= (N+W+M) EE
Whereas,
N=Nature, W=wildlife, M=Man and his activities, EE=Environment and Ecology.
The environment and ecological aspect on all the components as regard to the
development of tourism. The equation can further simplified in natureTourism= (Wildlife Man) EE
Without planning and controlling mechanism the development of tourism may
end by having social cultural and economic distortions, which will be reflected in the
relationship between tourists and local people. As soon as tourism grows and expands, it
brings the social and economic changes in the respective region. The can be positive as
well as negative.

Tourism 2020 vision is the World Tourism Organization long- term forecast and
assessment of the development of tourism up to the first 20 years of the new millennium.
An essential outcome of the Tourism 2020 vision is quantitative forecasts covering a 25
years period, with 1995 as base year and forecasts for 2000 and 2020. Tourism 2020
vision calls these motivating factors the three Es- Entertainment, Excitement and
Education.
Attraction, accommodation, supporting facilities, and infrastructure are the basic
elements of tourism. For the better development of tourism, these facilities should be
developed in respective areas and for this public as well as private sector should take a
lead. The flow of domestic tourists will depend on the location of tourist spot and
population density of an area. Accessibility is an essential factor for better development
of tourism.
4.4 Major policy initiatives taken by Indian Government
An Overview of Indian Tourism Policies
The Ministry of tourism headed by the Union Minister for Tourism is the nodal
agency for the formation of national policies and programs related to tourism. It also
coordinates all the activities of the central government agencies, state government
undertakings and the private sector for the development and promotion of tourism. The
administrative head of the ministry is the secretary (tourism) who also acts as the
Directorate General (DG) tourism. Directorate General of tourism has 20 offices within
India and 13 offices overseas. The work of the ministry is divided into 10 divisions which
are headed by either a Director or Deputy Secretary level officer. These include
administration, public sector undertakings (PSU) planning& coordination, division,
publicity, international cooperation and IT& Events divisions, market research division,
overseas marketing division, hotels and restaurants division, travel and trade division,
integrated finance, e-governance division, official language division, human resource
development and domestic tourism division and parliament vigilance, administration&
public grievances divisions. The first conscious and organized efforts to promote tourism
in India were made in 1945 when a committee was set up by the government under the
8

chairmanship of Sir John Sargent, the then Educational Advisor to the government of
India (Krishna, A.G., 1993). Thereafter, the development of tourism was taken up in a
planned manner in 1956 coinciding with the second five year plan. The approach has
evolved from isolated planning of single unit facilities in the second and third five year
plan. The sixth plan marked the beginning of a new era when tourism began to be
considered as a major instrument for social integration and economic development. But it
was only after the 80s that tourism activity gained momentum.
4.4.1 Peak seasons for Tourists Arrival in India
The table below shows the peak season of foreign tourist arrivals in India. It
clearly indicates that Indias fairs and festivals attract tourists from various corners of the
world and the period from October to March is the peak season of foreign tourists
arrivals in India.
Table showing the peak seasons for Tourists Arrival in India
Months
Oct-Nov
December
January
March

Reasons
Maximum festivals Dusshera, Durgapooja,
Diwali, pushkar fair (in Rajasthan).
Christmas
Republic Day, Lohri
Holi

4.4.2Service provider of Tourism Industry in India

In India, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) (established in 1982) is the
apex body of the tourism industry having 1100 members covering all segments of tourism
industry. IATO has international acceptance, and linkages, it has close connections and
constant interaction with other tourism associations in US, Nepal and Indonesia, where
USTOA (United States Tour Operator Association), NATO (Nepal Association of Tour
and Travel Agencies) are its member bodies and is increasing its international networking
with professional bodies for better facilitation to the international traveler visiting not
only India but the entire region.

IATO interacts closely with all Government Ministries/Departments, Chambers of

Commerce and Industry, Diplomatic Missions etc. on all critical issues affecting the
tourism industry in India with the highest priority to tourism facilitation. IATO has five
categories of membership: Active, Allied, Associate, International and Honorary. All its
active members are recognized and approved by the Indian governments Department of
Tourism and should have at least three years experience of handling international
tourists to India, before being admitted to the IATO fraternity. All IATO members observe
the highest standards of professional ethics and offer personalized service to their clients.
IATOS affairs are managed by an Executive Committee, elected by the active
members every two years. The Executive Committee is headed by the president with a
team of six office bearers and 9 executive members. The Executive Committee meets
every month to discuss current tourism industry and membership issues. IATO networks
through its State Level Chapters at the local level where all local issues are handled at the
appropriate level. IATO has 13 Action Committees; each focused on a specialized area
headed by a Convener who is assisted by his members. They are:
1. Adventure Tourism Development Committee
2. Civil Aviation, Press& PR Committee
3. Domestic Tourism Development Committee
4. Grievances Committee
5. Guides Coordination Committee
6. Host Committee
7. Hotel Relations Development Committee
8. IATO News Committee
9. Legal Affairs, Insurance& Consumer Committee
10. Privilege Card Development Committee
11. Railways Co-ordination& Development Committee
12. Surface Transportation Development Committee
13. Website Development Committee
4.4.3 Competitiveness of India as an International Tourist Destination
The following discussion illustrates the state of competitiveness of Indian tourism
industry:
4.4.3.1 Security and Safety

10

India is highly lacking on this attributes of competitiveness. The major reasons

being the internal community riots and also the terrorist attacks from time to time, the
country is highly unsafe for females and there is poor discipline as well as political
instability in the country. In the TTCI index of 2011 India was ranked 78 th out of 139
economies showing poor security environment of the country.
4.4.3.2 Maintenance and Cleanliness
The general cleanliness and sanitation level of the country is also very poor. Out
of the top 10 polluted cities of the world two cities of India-Ludhiana is on the 5 th
position and Kanpur is on the 10th position.
4.4.3.3 Information& Communication
Though the official language of the republic of India are Standard Hindi and
English yet the government of India has given 22 languages of the 8 th schedule the status
of official languages. Because of such diversity in the regional languages the foreign
tourist has to face the problem of communication with the locals. Also the official website
of Incredible India campaign of Ministry of tourism, Government of India is less
informative which could have otherwise solved this language and communication
problem. There is improvement in the mobile phone networking of India and currently
India has a total of 15 mobile network operators with Idea, Vodafone and Reliance
Communications bagging the top three positions.
4.4.3.4 Infrastructure
As per the TTCI ranking of 2011 Indias Air transport infrastructure and the
ground transport infrastructure bag 39th and 43rd position respectively out of 139
countries, which is pretty well. Efforts made by the government of India are also
commendable which are visible in the form of opening of Terminal 3 at the IGI airport,
Delhi which can alone handle 34 million passengers providing ultra-modern facilities.
This airport was ranked 6th in the world in the year 2011 whereas it was not even among
the top 100 in the year 2007. This showcased the seriousness and dedication of the Indian
government for developing its infrastructure. The mobile teledensity of India is 74.15%
and that of the world is 86%. Various schemes are being implemented with financial
11

support from Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) for providing access to telecom
services to people in the rural and remote areas as an effort of the Ministry of
Communication, Government of India to provide better telecom infrastructure.
4.4.3.5 Prices
India is highly competitive when prices of general commodities, airfare and
accommodation charges and prices of food items at tourist spots are discussed. In the list
of top 10 least expensive nations of the world India bags 4th position. But the policy of the
Indian government to earn foreign revenue through charging more entry fees from
foreign tourists at tourist spots is highly criticized.
4.4.3.6 Facilities
India has a sound banking system with its five banks among the top 300 and two
among the top 100 banks of the world in the year 2011 (State Bank of India 64 th, ICICI
81st, Punjab National Bank-239th, HDFC 242nd Bank Of India 263rd). The medical
facilities are among the best in India with Fortis hospital, Bangalore rated 1 st in the list of
worlds best hospitals for medical tourists.
4.4.3.7 Attractions
India has vast diversity in weather and climatic conditions. Indias geography and
geology are climatically pivotal. Though the Tropic of Cancer (the boundary between the
tropics and subtropics) passes through the middle of India, the bulk of the country can be
regarded as climatically tropical. Analyzed according to the Koppen system, the climate
of India resolves into six major climatic subtypes and is largely subject to four seasons:
winter (January and Febuary), summer (March to May), monsoon (rainy) season (June to
September), and post-monsoon period(October to December). But the environmental
hazards cannot be ignored as India accounts for 5.83% of the worlds carbon dioxide
emissions adversely affecting its competitiveness. It has a large pool of historical
monuments and cultural heritage with more than 3680 historical monuments as listed by
archaeological survey of India.
4.4.3.8 Behavior of Country Residents

12

India is particularly lacking on this ground as there is lack of education among the
taxi/auto rickshaw drivers and the service providers of tourism in India. Foreign tourists
are ill-treated at tourist spots. The number of rape cases have increased manifold in India
since 2010 and India is the 9th most dangerous country for travelers in the world. The
locals are just not willing to help a foreigner in normal circumstances.
4.4.3.9Factors Affecting the Purpose of the Visit
India is blessed with vast natural resources and is ranked 8 th out of 139 countries
by TTCI report 2011 for its natural resources. But this blessing has yet to be optimally
utilized as we are lacking on the grounds of tourism infrastructure (89 th out of as per
TTCI report 2011)
4.4.3.10 Other Factors
There is widespread begging and cheating in the country at various tourist spots
which makes the whole environment at these places unpleasing and embarrassing. The
corruption level is also very high and India scores 3.1 out of 10 in the corruption
perception index of 2011 and is ranked 95th in the list of least corrupted nations of the
world making it one of the highly corrupt nations of the world. The extent of terrorism is
also rapidly rising and adversely affecting the competitiveness of India as an international
tourist destination.
4.5 DRIVERS BEHIND INCREASE IN TOURIST TRAFFIC
The main driver for increase in tourist traffic to India has been the following
factors:
4.5.1 Domestic Tourist Traffic
Rapidly increasing purchasing power of the middle class
Better road connectivity
Evolving lifestyle

4.5.2 International Tourist Traffic

Value for money/economical holiday destination
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 Business cum pleasure destination

Development of Kerala and Rajasthan as the most popular tourist destinations in
India
With their distinctive brand image
Opening of the sectors of the economy to private sector/foreign investment
Reform in the aviation sector such as Open Skies Policy has led to better
connectivity with many countries with India
Success of Incredible India campaign and other tourism promotion measures.
4.6 SUB-SEGMENTS OF TOURISM INDUSTRY
The tourism industry in India can be categorized under three major sub segments as
depicted below:
Exhibit -4.2
Chart showing the sub-segments of Tourism Industry
Hotels and
Restaurants

Tourism
Industry

Travel
Industry

Tour
Operators
Source: Ministry of Tourism, Govt.of India

4.6.1 Hotels and Restaurants

The Hotel and Restaurants Industry has contributed between 1.2% and 1.5% of
the GDP over the last seven to eight years. The Ministry of Tourism estimates that there
are more than 8,700 hotels at 54 key locations across the country with a total room supply
of about 174,000 including hotels in the classified, approved but not classified, and
licensed by the state governments but not categories.
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Major Players
In the large/luxury hotels segment there are about 11 long-standing players such
as ITC Hotels, The Oberoi Group of Hotels, Hotels Leela Ventures, ITDC, Indian Hotels,
The Park Hotels and international players like Hilton Hotels, Marriott International, Le
Meridien Hotels& Resorts, and Radisson Hotels& Resorts. There are about 16 listed hotel
groups in the mid-segment including Bharat Hotels, Nehru place Hotels, Jaypee Hotels,
Piem Hotels, and Taj GVK Hotels.
In addition, there are more than 90 listed hotels and resorts in the small/mid-sized
segment including Country Club, EIH Associate Hotels, Kamat Hotels, and Mahindra
Holidays and Resorts. Apart from these, as mentioned earlier, there are a number of guest
houses and hotels, particularly in the budget and small hotel segments, which are
primarily run by localized players.
4.6.2 Tour Operators
The tour operators, tourist operators and adventure tour operators in the country
follow strict guidelines. As per the estimate of Ministry of Tourism, there are nearly 6,000
travel trade companies and firms comprising of tour operators, travel agents, and tourist
transporters.
Major players
Thomas Cook India Pvt Ltd.
Cox&King India Pvt Ltd.
Kuoni India Ltd.
4.7 TOURISM IN TAMILNADU
Tamilnadu, a place of peace and serenity in the far south of the Indian subcontinent with its feet washed by the Indian Ocean, is a paradise for tourists. People who
come here go back with an everlasting memory of the land and people. Tamilnadu is a
land of magnificent temples that remain intact exposing the marvel and glory of the
Dravidian culture, art architecture and spiritual values. Not only temples but churches and
mosques too, declare the inbuilt secularism of the land: maximum population is Hindu
(88.67%), followed by Muslims (5.47%), Christians (5.69%), Sikhs (0.01%), Jain
15

(0.12%), and others (0.04%). Numerous festivals and fairs, throughout the year add color
to the scenic beauties at numerous destinations. The ancient glory and modern hub of life
mingle amazingly well, giving joy and soothing comforts. Long, sandy, and sunny
beaches abound to braze ones health and enhance happiness.
It is also a land of sanctuaries for birds and animals, forests, mountains, hill
stations, natural sceneries and water falls enough to forget everything else and be
immersed in enchanting beauty, modern amusement theme parks have come up in various
places to provide heart throbbing and thrilling experience to young and old. The people
of tamilnadu are traditionally hospitable and friendly making one feel at home while
being there.
4.7.1 Climate
The climate of Tamil Nadu is essentially tropical and there is little difference
between the summer and winter seasons. April, May and June are the hottest months
when the mercury may soar above 40 C (43 C maximum; 18 C minimum) near coastel
regions, the climate is warm and humid and one cannot avoid perspiring. But sea breeze
sets in the afternoon making the evenings and nights cooler. A mild winter falls between
the months of December and February, the most ideal time to visit Tamil Nadu. The
weather is then pleasantly cool (35 C and 17 C maximum and minimum temperatures)
with no perspiration. The rainy season is marked by the onset of the North East monsoon
between mid-September and mid- December. Cyclonic storms occur during this time due
to the depression in the Bay. The rainfall ranges between 25 and 75 inches. The most
precipitation falls in the Nilgiris and other hill areas.

4.7.2 Tourist Destinations in the State

The state of Tamil Nadu, situated in the southern part of the Indian Peninsula has
over 20 centuries of cultural heritage and historic significance as some of the most
dynamic dynasties like the Cholas, the Pandayas, the Cheras and the Pallavas had ruled
this region. Tamil Nadu has been bestowed by nature with a long Coramandel coast line,
as well as hilly regions of Eastern and Western Ghats, very rich in diverse plant and
16

animal life besides scenic beauty. With water resources from the several east flowing
rivers, Tamil Nadu has the advantage of several water bodies in the form of lakes,
waterfalls and others besides having some of worlds most beautiful natural beaches
along its coastline.
General public in Tamil Nadu is hospitable and communicates well outsiders in
spite of the language barrier. Tamil, the Dravidian language which is the language of the
land in Tamil Nadu is one of the oldest languages in the world; perhaps even older than
Sanskrit. The foremost of important tourist attractions in TamilNadu are its impressive
temples, which are true edifices of a great and ancient culture vibrant and lively even
today.
Next only to the pilgrimage and heritage locations in Tamil Nadu comes the
scenic beauty of nature in and around the state in the forms of forests, wildlife
sanctuaries, hill stations and the long bio-diverse coastline. These locations provide
immense opportunities for sightseeing, pleasure and leisure, to the visitors of various
categories including adventure tourists. Based on the importance, potential for attracting
tourist population and uniqueness, the tourist destinations in the state of Tamil Nadu can
be broadly covered under the following classifications namely.
Pilgrimage destinations;
Heritage locations including monuments and places of historical interest;
Locations of scenic natural beauty such as hill stations, water bodies, wildlife
sanctuaries and beaches;
Tourist Festival locations;
Adventure destinations; and,
Leisure destinations.
Based on information available from various sources as well as those collected
during the visits of our expert teams to various locations in Tamilnadu, a sample situation
analysis in respect of representative tourist destinations in the state has been attempted in
this chapter. The locations have been chosen to represent and cover various types of
tourist destinations/ places of tourist attraction. The listing though does not cover all
existing locations, no doubt covers significant ones that are representative and typical of
the areas/ regions where they are located.
17

4.7.3 Pilgrimage Destinations

Temples are a marked feature of the landscape of Tamil Nadu not only in
important cities and towns, but also in small obscure villages. Any small hillock on the
highway, even if there is no habitation around it, has an ancient temple built on its top. It
all began during the age of Bhakti and many of these temples were patronized by the
kings and local rich men. Visiting sacred places for worship has been a custom and a
common practice. Thus, such pilgrimages have created a kind of national integration.
Pilgrims who visit Kashi and Badri in the North make it a point to bring Ganga water for
the bathing ceremony of Abhisheka and worship at Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari. The
style of temple buildings that evolved in Tamil Nadu is commonly known as Dravidian
style. To this belong the well-known temples of Thanjavur, Madurai, Srirangam,
Chidambaram, Rameshwaram, etc. The tradition of Tamil Nadu includes 63 Shaivite and
12 Vaishnavite saints. They came from all castes and walks of life. Few of the prominent
places of pilgrim interest can be identified as- Madurai, Chidambaram, Kancheepuram,
Kanyakumari, Nagore, Palani, Rameshwaram, Thiruvannamalai, Srirangam, Thanjavur
and Velankanni. The main attraction at each of these places as indicated below and
equally spectacular specimens of Dravidian art and culture are available in plenty in the
surrounding areas as well.
Place
Main Attraction
Madurai and around
Meenakshi Temple
Chidambaram and around
Nataraja Temple
Kancheepuram
Kamakshi Temple
Kanyakumari
Shore Temple
Palani
Hill Temple
Rameshwaram
Seashore Temple
Thiruvannamalai
Temple and surrounding Temple
Srirangam
Ranganatha Swami Temple
Thanjavur
Brahadishwara Temple
Nagoor
Dargah of HazratMian
Veilankanni
Shrine of Lady of Health
4.7.4 Heritage Locations and Historic Monuments
In the state of Tamil Nadu, there are a large number of heritage sites which even
today reflect the cultural, social and ethnic background of this region in various forms.
Some of the significant locations, which were studied, include:
18

Place
GangaikondaCholapuram
Mamallapuram
Chennai

Main Attraction
Chola Temple
Shore Temples
Fort St. George, Santhome Church, Kalashetra,
Rippon Building, Gandhi Mandapam and St. Thomas
Mount. There are also number of well-maintained
historic mosques in and around Chennai including
Wallajah and Thousand Lights mosques amongst

Gingee
Vellore
Poompuhar
Thanjavur
Tiruchirapalli
Madurai
Dindigul

others.
Gingee Fort
Vellore Fort
Legendary Port City
Thanjavur Palace
Rock Fort
ThirumalaiNaikMahal
Hill Fortress

4.7.5 Tourist Festival Locations

The cultural life in Tamil Nadu follows a simple pattern. The village drama is a
dynamic institution. Music in Tamil Nadu is very popular. Known as Carnatic music, it is
practiced all over the state. Tamil Nadu is a magical blend of timeless traditions and
colourful festivals- a sea of cultural heritage. With its roots deep in culture and with an
eye on technological advancement, Tamil Nadu is a harmonious blend of ancient culture
and modern day thinking. Festivals, fairs and cultural events add a note of vibrant
character to the state.

Place
Summer Festivals
Saaral Festival
Silk Festival
Sculpture Fair
Pilgrim Festival

Hill Stations
Courtallam
Kancheepuram
Perambalur
Rameshwaram,

Main Attraction

Dance Festival

Vailankanni and Nagoor.

Mamallapuram, Chidambaram,
Tiruvannamalai.
19

Madurai,

Chidambaram,
Madurai

and

Tea and Tourism Festival

Pongal Festival
Music Festival

Ooty
All over Tamil Nadu
Thruvayaru

4.7.6 Summer Festivals

[Venue/Place: Udhagamandalam, Kodaikanal, Yercaud, Yelagiri and Kolli Hills]
[Month: May-June]
Tamil Nadu has an interesting topography. It is dotted with lakes, hills, mountains
and beaches. Come summer, people flock to the hill stations to beat the heat. The annual
summer festival is celebrated with pomp and splender at all popular hill stations in Tamil
Nadu. Cultural programmes, adventure sports, boat races, flower and fruit shows add to
the festivities. Located 200 Km from Chennai and about 1150 MSL, Yelagiri has lush
forests, picturesque trekking routes and a lake. The route uphill has several hair pin bends
that offer a panoramic view of the valley. The Kolli Hills or Kollimalai situated in
Namakkal district. The highest point is nearly 1500 m asl. It has a pleasant climate and
serves as a nice tourist attraction as well as picnic spot thanks to its picturesque ravines
and high peaks.

4.7.7 Saral Festival

[Venue/Place: Courtallam; Month: July]
It is popularly said monsoon, happiness, waterfalls and Courtallam go hand in
hand. The waterfalls on rocks and tiny droplets are sprinkled into the air, giving a fog-like
appearance. The breeze carries this fog far. The phenomenon is called Saral in Tamil.
This is the only spa of its kind in the south. During this festival, tourists come in droves
from all over the country to participate in the ritualistic bathing. The falls are known for
its therapeutic value. The Saral Festival is replete with cultural programmes,
competitions, fun and frolic. A pleasant climate during the peak season sets the right
mood for festivities.
4.7.8 Silk Festival
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[Venue/place: Kancheepuram; Month: October]

The Silk Festival at Kancheepuram showcases silk saris in all its resplendent
glory. It highlights the master craftsmanship of the weavers of Kancheepuram. Saris in
different hues and shades take your breath away. A must see for anybody who appreciates
the subtle elegance of silk saris and also congregation of buyers and sellers.
4.7.9 Sculptor Fair
[Venue/ place: Perambalur District; Month: November]
Arumbavur Sculptor Fair, a tribute to temple art and architecture, attracts
sculptors from all over India who congregate to display their masterpieces. Prizes are
given to the best sculptors to encourage the best talent. The hamlet is 90 Km from
Tiruchirapalli in Perambalur District.
4.7.10 Pilgrim Festival
Rameshwaram, Madurai, Chidambaram, Velanganni and Nagore which attract
large number of pilgrimage tourists during the pilgrim festivals.

4.7.11 Dance Festival

[Venue/ Place: Mamallapuram, Thiruvannamalai and Chidambaram]
[Months: November, December, January, and March]
Dancers and musicians from all over India and abroad come together in this
spectacular event to enthrall dance enthusiasts every year. Apart from classical dance
expressions, folk dances of India also find a place in this classical art form extravaganza.
Mamallapuram
It is quite an experience to watch leading dancers perform at this ancient seaside
town on an open-air stage with the incredible monoliths serving as a backdrop. A festival
similar to the dance festival at Mamallapuram is also organized by the State Tourism
21

Department for a period of fifteen days. Exponents of various dance forms all over the
country perform in this festival.
Thiruvannamalai
Thiruvanamalai has numerous temples dedicated to Shiva. The most important is
the Arunachala Temple that is famous for its architecture and craftsmanship. It is against
this historic backdrop that the Dance Festival is conducted.
Chidambaram
Lord Nataraja, according to the Hindu mythology, is called the Lord of dances.
Dancers from all over India come together, to perform and to pay their tribute to Lord
Nataraja at the Natyanjali Festival, a 5-day utsav in the months of February starting from
the day of Mahashivaratri, at Chidambaram situated along the coast of the Bay of
Bengal, 75 Km South of Pondicherry.
4.7.12 Pongal Festival
[Venue/ Place: All over Tamil Nadu: January]
Pongal or the Harvest Festival is celebrated by way of paying tribute to the sun,
nature and cattle for helping them with a rich harvest. The 3-day festival is celebrated
with great pomp and splendor. Bogi is celebrated the first day. Homes are given a fresh
lick of paint and old articles are removed. The second day is Pongal, the main festival.
Sugarcanes, Pongal (a sweet variety of rice) and festoons of mango leaves mark this
auspicious day. Mattupongal is celebrated the third day. On this day people pay tribute to
the cattle for bringing in prosperity. Jallikattu or Taming the Bull, the most popular sport
in Tamil Nadu, is part of the Pongal celebrations. This game of valour is held in the
villages with great promp and splendor though only as a popular sport. People from the
neighbouring villages throng the open grounds to watch man and beast pitting their
strength against each other.
4.7.13 Music Festival
[Venue/ Place: Thiruvaiyaru, Thanjavur District; Month: January- February]

22

Situated on the banks of the river Kaveri, 13 Km from Thanjavur, Thiruvaiyaru

has an old Shiva temple, known as Panchanatheeswar temple that attracts pilgrims in
large numbers. This town is renowned for its association with Saint Thyagaraja, who,
along with MuthuswamiDikshitar and ShyamaSastri, comprises the Trinity of Carnatic
music. It is on the banks of the river which has the Samadhi of saint Thyagaraja, that the
ThyagarajaAradhana festival is held every year. This solemn event is attened by ardent
fans of classical music. It is a musical treat for fans to watch the favourite doyens of
classical music perform. Budding classical singers consider it an honour to participate in
this festival. They perform here by way of invoking the blessings of saint Thyagaraja.

4.7.14 Adventure Destinations

Preservation of ecology/ environment is increasingly gaining prominence.
Befitting, eco-friendly adventure tours are also gaining momentum. Tamil Nadu boasts of
several ideal locations to attract the visitors. Who have concern on preservation of
ecology. The Eco Friendly areas of Tamil Nadu are for exploring the nature at its best and
to be a part of it.
4.7.15 Trekking: A tropical land with evergreen forests, dry deciduous/ thorn forests and
scrubs covered hill ranges; Tamil Nadu offers sylvan trails for trekking admirers.
Following are some of the popular places for trekking, they are:

Udhagamandalam
Anamalai Hills
Circular Treks
Linear Treks
Kodaikanal
Yelagiri Hills
Kolli Hills
Kalakkadu- Mundathurai
4.7.16 Aqua Sport

23

The seas on Coramandel coast are rough and strong and rolling, suitable for
surfing, but in places they are rocky. Backwaters are there to provide shallow water
spreads for wind surfing.
Muttukadu
35 Km South of Chennai lies Muttukkadu, an ideal location for wind surfing.
TTDC and other operators provide necessary sails and windsurfing equipments to try
surfing on backwaters. Plans to provide, water scooters and other aqua- sports are also on
the anvil.
4.7.17 Hang- Gliding
Though hang-gliding is not popular is this part of the country, the Madras Hang
Gliders Association is keen on popularizing this adventure sport, to train those who are
interested in this adventure activity, motorized hang- gliders are being provided by the
Madras Hang-Gliders Association. The St. Thomas Mount, an outcrop or hillock on the
outskirts of Chennai, the hills or Kodaikanal and Udhagamandalam are the best locations
for Hang- Gliding. In the summer months, the adventure can do hang gliding at Kalhatty
Ghats. The take-off point is exhilarating. One can fly over dense shoals and beautiful
waterfalls and treams.

4.7.18 Angling
Angling is an interesting pastime for the tourists. There are several water
resources in Tamil Nadu are identified for the Angling. In the Nilgiris the waters of
Mukkurthi Lake and the river. Gurumund river and reservoir, Avalanchi and Emerald
river, Peermund, Chambar, Kallkundi Streams, Upper Bhavani Reservoir, Kings Dhar
Stream, Western Catchment Reservoir, Thirupanthurai, EmeriPuzha, Silent Valley
streams, etc5,are the water for excellent trout fishing. In Kodaikanal hills, trout streams
are Pulavachiyar and Konalar. Carp fishing is recommended marine fishing. For fishing,
licence fee has to be obtained from the fisheries department. The locations are:
24

 Kodaikanal: Observatory Road, Kodaikanal

Udagamandalam: Assistant Director of Fisheries, Fish dale, Udhagamandalam.
At Ooty, trout fishing is available in Avalanche and Sandinalla lakes with prior
permission from the Fisheries Department, located near the bus stand.
4.7.19 Water Surfing
With a backwater and estuary, Muttukkadu is ideal for rides on motorized boats or
for water surfing. One can hire a pedal boat or a row boat for cruising leisurely.
Muttukkadu is ideally suited for angling and fishing. TTDCS runs boat services and a
cafeteria here. It is 36 Km from Chennai.
4.7.20 Leisure Destination
Golf
Outdoor sports are the best pass-times. However certain sports need special
arrangements to play. Golf is one such sport that requires a vast area to play with. The
lush green lawns, serene ambience of this sport are alluring the player and the onlookers
as well.
Tamil Nadu is bestowed with hilly terrains, where the nature, blessed the land
with green pastures and valleys that are ideal for the golf. Similarly certain areas in this
tropical state are developed to fit enough to play golf. Five best golf courses are in Tamil
Nadu, which offer golfers a vivid and memorable experience.
Golf courses in Tamil Nadu are situated in Chennai, Salem, Kodaikanal,
Udhagamandalam, Coonoor and Coimbatore. All these clubs are maintained by a forum
of members. Golf clubs are therefore normally restricted to the members and/ or guests of
members. However certain clubs offer permissions to walk- in golfers as well. The walkin golfers have to play on weekdays whereas the weekends are exclusively for the
members.
4.8 Tourism in Dindigul District

25

Dindigul is a city located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Dindigul derives its name
from the words Thindu which means pillow and kal which means rock. It refers to the
bare hills which overlook the city. The city is located between the Palani Hills and the
Sirumalai Hills and is a bed of fertile land apt for agriculture. Dindigul is surrounded by
many districts and cities. The city covers an area of 14.01 km2 and had a population of
207,327 in 2011. Dindigul is well-connected by road and rail with the rest of Tamil Nadu.
It is the 12th-largest urban agglomeration in the state and has a population of 292,132
according to Tamil Nadu's 2011 census. Dindigul has 200,000 hectares of cultivable land,
and agriculture continues to be the main occupation of its inhabitants. Located between
the Palani and Sirumalai Hills, Dindigul has a reserved forest area of 85 hectares
Dindigul popularly referred as the "City of Locks and Tanneries" was initially
within the limits of Madurai but in the year 1985 it was conferred as a separate district in
the year 1985.The city is famous for manufacturing of locks and has a lot of textile
industries in and around Dindigul. Apart from this from a very early period Dindigul was
a major trading centre for tobacco and also they are one of the leading manufacturer of
cigars. Recently there is a lot of mention about the city regarding the Chewing Tobacco
and it is a wholesale market for Onions and Groundnut. A number of factories being
associated with the city it has lot of potential in employing people in these sectors for
work. Dindigul was initially under the reign of the great Muslim King Tippu Sultan and
then it came under the Naickes of Madurai. As a matter of respect and tribute to the
Naickers and in their memory till 1999 the Government Transports in the city were
named as Rani Mangamaal Transport Corporation (RMTC). There are legends which
says that Dindigul was also referred by the names Dindigul Anna, Quaid-e-Milleth and
MannarThirumalai. During the period of the Naicks the famous historical Rock Fort was
constructed by Naik King MuthukrishnappaNaicker. Dindigul was under the rule of Tipu
Sultan from 1784 to 1790. During Tipu's period in 1784 commandant Syed Ibrahim did
some maintenance work of the fort. But however in the year 1790 Tipu was defeated by
the British in the Mysore war and Dindigul came under the later. During the period of
British a famous church was built which is now the headquarters of the Roman Catholic
Diocese of Dindigul.

26

The very good irrigation facilities in Dindigul also results in good agriculture for
the town accommodates nearly four dams namely PalarPorandalar, Varathamanathi,
Parappalar and Maruthanathi. The places in and around Dindigul are also unique for
many features like Nilakkottai is famous for Brass Vessels, Jewellery and for the growing
and marketing of flowers and Grapes. Ottanschatram situated at a short distance from
Dindigul is famous market for vegetables and export of butter. Batlagundu is an
important market for Tomato. Pattiveeranpatti is a place noted for Cardamom and Coffee.
Adding to the tourist attraction of the city Kodiakanal, the famous hill station and Palani,
the pilgrim centre is situated in the district.

4.9 Geography
Dindigul is located at 10.35N 77.95E and has an average elevation of 265 m.
The town is in Dindigul district of the South Indian state, Tamil Nadu, 420 km from
Chennai and 100 km south-west of Tiruchirappalli. Dindigul is located in the foothills of
Sirumalai hills. The topography is plain and hilly, with the variation resulting in climatic
changes. There are no notable mineral resources available in and around the town. The
soil type is thin veneer soil, which is mostly black clayey soil with red soil. Summer
season is from March to July, while December to January marks the winter season. The
temperature ranges from a maximum of 37 C to a minimum of 29 C during summer
and a maximum of 26 C to a minimum of 20 C during winter. Dindigul receives rainfall
with an average of 812 mm annually. The South west monsoon, with an onset in June and
lasting up to August, brings scanty rainfall. Bulk of the rainfall is received during the
North East monsoon in the months of October, November and December.
4.10 Divisions
The district of Dindigul has 9 taluks
Dindigul East
Dindigul West

27

 Palani
Athoor
Kodaikanal
Oddanchatram
Vedasandur
Natham
Nilakkottai
4.11 Demographics
According to 2011 census, Dindigul district had a population of 2,159,775 with a
sex-ratio of 998 females for every 1,000 males, much above the national average of 929.
A total of 216,576 were under the age of six, constituting 111,955 males and 104,621
females. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes accounted for 20.95% and 37% of the
population respectively. The average literacy of the district was 68.61%, compared to the
national average of 72.99%. The district had a total of 560,773 households. There were a
total of 1,105,155 workers, comprising 155,332 cultivators, 388,725 main agricultural
labourers, 25,253 in house hold industries, 393,707 other workers, 142,138 marginal
workers, 10,073 marginal cultivators, 79,234 marginal agricultural labourers, 5,576
marginal workers in household industries and 47,255 other marginal workers. Natham is
the beautiful village and it has more holy places.
4.12 Transportation
The Dindigul city corporation maintains 131.733 km of roads. The town has
21.66 km concrete roads, 98.311 km bituminous roads, 9.352 km earthen roads and 2.41
km cut stone pavements. There are three national highways, (largest highway in India)
connecting Dindigul to Madurai and connecting Chennai to Kanyakumari, and9 Dindigul
to Bengaluru via Sathyamangalam, Bannari pass via the city. Natham road and
28

Bathalagundu road are the two state highways that pass via the city. Being the district
headquarters, lot of district roads also connect Dindigul to other parts of the district.
Dindigul is served by town bus service, which provides connectivity within the
town and the suburbs. Minibus service operated by private companies cater to the local
transport needs. There are 150 town buses operated daily across 128 different routes. The
Kamarajar bus stand is an A-grade bus stand covering an area of 5.37 acres as of 2007
and is located in the heart of the town. The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation
operates daily services connecting various cities to Dindigul. The State Express Transport
Corporation operates long distance buses like Chennai, Bengaluru and Tirupati. There is
significant truck transport with around 400450 trucks entering the town for loading and
unloading activities daily. Three wheelers, called autos and Call Taxi are also a common
public transport system.
Dindigul railway station was established in 1875 when rail line for Trichy to
Tuticorin was constructed. Dindigul railway junction is located in the rail head from
Chennai to Madurai and Karur to Madurai. It is also connecting Dindigul to Palani. All
south bound trains plying south to Madurai from Chennai pass via Dindigul. There are
also passenger trains running either side from Madurai to Tiruchirapalli and Palani. The
nearest local and international airport is Madurai Airport located 70 kilometers away.
4.13 SPECIAL FEATURES OF THIS DISTRICT
Tanneries are thickly situated in this District. The finished and semi-finished
leather and other leather products have a good export market. A large number of Chamber
Brick units are functioning in this District. Dindigul Lock and Iron Safes are very famous
for its quality. Hand loom, Rice milling, Ground nut and Vermicelli are the other type of
food based Industries functioning in this District. There is much scope for starting the
Leather based units, Lock units, Brick Units and Food based units in this District.

Future schemes

29

 To help the new entrepreneurs to start new agro based and food processing units
with a fixed investment (Land, Building & Machinery) for Rupees Twenty five
lakhs and above in each block of this District under New Anna
MarumalarchiThittam.
Implementation of cluster development scheme in this District.
To help the exporters by giving export guidance through Export Guidance Cell.
Issue of provisional SSI Certificates by online with the help of approved browsing
centres.
To select eligible unemployed educated youth under PMRY Scheme through Task
Force Committee headed by the General Manager, District Industries centre and
recommend the application to the service area Banks to sanction and disburse the
loan.

30

4.14 Culture
Numerous temples, mosques and churches are found in Dindigul. The
Kalahastheeswara-Gnanambika temple was built during the 14th century. The
Seenivasaperumal temple built in the bottom of the hill was eroded by time. By the 16th
century Pandyan acquired the whole chera kingdom with the support of Vijayanagar king
Sachudevarayer. Sachudevarayer, on his visit in 1538 A.D. ordered for the repair works
of the temple of Abirami Amman and Padmagirinathar. This is inferred from the script
written over stone in the Fort temple. MuthukrisnaNayak became the king of Pandaya
kingdom in 1602 A.D. He built a fort at the bottom of the hill, which was later called
Pettaiwall .ThirumalaiNayak redressed the Hill fort and he built the front hall of the
Kalahastheeswaraswamy temple. SoundararajaPerumal temple in Thadikombu was
erected during his reign. During his Nayak's stay in Dindigul, he fell into sickness and
believed to have prayed Rangaperumal to relieve his sickness. Rani Mangammal built the
six hundred steps for the hill fort. During the months of January and February, a festival
honoring Mariamman is celebrated in this temple. Dindigul Biryani is a common and
popular dish, and Dindigul is sometimes called Biryani City.
4.15 AGRICULTURE
Dindigul Agricultural District is headed by Joint Director of Agriculture. Dindigul
Agricultural District consists of five Agricultural Divisions, namely Dindigul, Natham,
Nilakottai, Palani and Vedasandur. Each Agricultural Division is headed by an Assistant
Director of Agriculture. There are 13 Agricultural Development Officers and 28
Agricultural Extension Centres in Dindigul District. There is one Soil Testing Laboratory
and one Fertilizer Testing Laboratory in Dindigul District.
4.16 CLIMATE
Semi and tropical monsoon type of climate is prevailing in the plains of the
District. However upper Palani recorded low temperature and fairly heavy rainfall.
4.17

ATTRACTIVE TOURIST PLACES IN DINDIGUL DISTRICT

4.17.1 Dindigul Fort

31

Dindigul Fort gets its name from the look the fort gives like a 'Dhindu'.It is
situated on the top of a rock which is about 280 ft high. It is built in such a strategic
location that it talks a lot about the history of the Dindigul city. This famous fort was built
by the Nayaks of Madurai. Till Dindigul came under the control of the British the fort
played a vital importance in the military operations of succeeding dynasties of the
Wodeyars of Mysore, Marathas, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan till.
Rock Fort which is located atop a hill. The construction of the fort was started by
king Muthu Krishna Naicker of Madurai in the year 1605 and completed in 1623 to 1659.
In the year 1755, Hyder Ali, his wife and his son Tipu Sultan came to Dindigul. Tipu
Sultan ruled the fort from 1784 to 1790. In 1784, Tipu Sultans commandant renovated
the fort to construct several rooms and strengthen the walls. The English defeated Tipu
Sultan in the Mysore War of 1790, and the fort came under them.

4.17.2 Sirumalai

32

Sirumalai is a small hill station situated on the way to Natham.It is a very good
place for trekking and mountaineering and ideal for bird watchers.It is a region of 60,000
acres (200 km2) situated 25 km from Dindigul and 40 km from Madurai, Tamil Nadu, and
India. There are many high hills in the area. Hillock International School is located in
Sirumalai. Sirumalai is a dense forest region with a moderate climate throughout the year.
The altitude of the hill is 1600 metres above sea level, and it contains diversified flora
and fauna and a variety of animals. The Hill has totally 18 hair-pin bends and on the 18th
bend you can able to find a church and a view point from where you can watch the beauty
of Dindigul city and also the "Dindigul Rock Fort".
Manmade fires on the Hills have destroyed medicinal plants and threaten the
fauna habitat. Fires are often set to promote vegetation growth used for animal fodder,
clear land for cultivation or improve access to timber.It is said during the era of
Ramayana when Lord Hanuman carried the Sanjeevi hill a fragment which fell down
became this hill.

4.17.3 Palani
33

Palani is situated at a distance of about 60kms from Dindigul and is one of the
most sacred place for devotees of LORD MURUGAN. This temple are located on top of
a hill nearly 500feet high. One can either reach this temple by the steps or travel by the
winches or rope car. This place is quite famous for traditional Indian medicine known as
Siddha Vaidyam. The PalaniMurugan Temple dedicated to Hindu war God Kartikeya is
situated on a hill overlooking the town. The temple is visited by more than 7 million
pilgrims each year. Palani Dhandayuthapani temple is one of the six abodes
(Arupadaiveedu) of Hindu deity Murugan. It is located in the town of Pazhani in
Dindigul district, 100 km southeast of Coimbatore and northwest of Madurai in the foothills of Pazhani hills. The idol of the Lord Muruga in Palani, was created and consecrated
by sage Bogar, one of Hinduism's eighteen great siddhas out of an amalgam of nine
poisons or navapashanam. It is a speciality of palani.
Height of the temple

150m

Total No.of steps

693

Direction of the temple

Towards West

Pragaram around the hill (Giriveethi) -

2.4 Km

The Palani temple is considered to be the foremost among Murugan temples of

Tamilnadu. Thousands of devotees come and worship here throughout the year Apart
from the people of Tamilnadu, those from Andra, Karnataka, Kerala, etc.,also come in
large numbers and worship here. So the temple here always has a festival look.

34

4.17.4 Tirumalaikeni
Thirumalaikeni is a small Village/hamlet in ShanarpattiTaluk in Dindigul District
of Tamil Nadu. It is located 25 KM towards East from District headquarters Dindigul. Sri
Subramaniaswamy temple is famous in Tirumalaikeni. Lord Balamuruga in the upper
temple always appears in His royal attire known as Raja Alankaram. It is the faith of the
devotees that seeing the Lord in the Royal form would ensure high position and
leadership in life. The consorts of Muruga, Valli and Deivanai are not by the side of the
Lord but grace in the form of the holy springs. ValliTheertham is in the middle of the hill
in the form of a well, hence the place is known as Malaikeni- a spring the hill. Here,
people step down to reach the Lord. Devotees call this temple Kilpalani (Palani
downward). During the 7 day SkandaSashti festival, Surasamharam (killing the demon
Surapadma) takes place on the sixth day followed by Valli-Deivanai wedding festival on
the seventh day.
This is a two tier temple in the midst of dense forests. The idol of the presiding
deity was damaged in days of yore and the temple too became dilapidated. Regular pujas
came to an end. Sri Kripanandavariar took up the renovation of the temple in the year
1979. A new idol was made for the presiding deity. But the old idol could not be
removed. Therefore, a Mandap was built where the old idol was installed while a temple
above this was built installing the new idol. Thus, it became a two tier temple with deities
installed in each. The two temples are constructed with high engineering skill that the
water used for the abhishek of the Lord in the upper level will fall on the Lord in the
Ground too through a hole specially made for the purpose.

35

4.17.5 ThadikombuSoundrarajaPerumal Temple

Thadikombu is a panchayat town in Dindigul district in the Indian state of Tamil
Nadu. It has a famous temple for Lord Vishnu Soundarrajaperumal temple considered to
be as sacred as the Kallazhagar Temple near Madurai. Arulmighu SoundarrajaPerumal is
found in the sleeping posture in this temple and it is said this place was previously known
as Thaalamaapuri. Though it is a Vaishnava temple, the sthalavriksha is the vilva tree.
The special features of the temple are a separate shrine for the Hindu God of love
Manmatha and Rathi. It is also has a shrine for Lord SvarnaAkarshanaBhairava which is
usually found only in Shiva temples.

4.17.6 Parappalar Dam

A place near saalaiyurathikombai is very famous for santhai. Its happening for
nearly 100 years before. Its located near a temple. From 1950 to 1970 oddanchatram bus
stand was near railway station and of course Gandhi market was also there for that
36

period. Christian Matriculation School is the first private matriculation English medium
school.
Parappalar Dam is near to Palani.It is situated in dindigul district, Tamilnadu. This
dam is constructed around the area of 72.88 (Sq.Km). The reservoir lever of this dam is
554.74(m). Maximum water level is 555.65(m).

4.17.7 Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal is a city in the hills of the Dindigul district in the state of Tamil Nadu,
India. Its name in the Tamil language means "The Gift of the Forest". Kodaikanal is
referred to as the "Princess of Hill stations" and has a long history as a retreat and popular
tourist destination. Kodaikanal was established in 1845 as a refuge from the high
temperatures and tropical diseases of the plains. Much of the local economy is based on
the hospitality industry serving tourism. As of 2011, the town had a population for
36,501.

37

It is one of the India's most beautiful hill stations located at an altitude of

2,133mts.The charm of Kodiakanal lies in its wooded slopes and gigantic trees. Mighty
rocks, bowers, creeks and slopes captivate the visitors. The meadows, long stretches of
beautiful spots and flocks of sheep grazing on green pasture are a perennial source of joy,
delight and thrill to onlookers. The 'Princess of Hill Stations' is how sometimes
Kodaikanal is referred. It also has the distinction of being the only hill station in India to
be established by Americans. The pride of Kodaikanal is the 'Kurinji-flower', which
blossoms once in 12 years.
The town of Kodaikanal sits on a plateau above the southern escarpment of the
upper Palani Hills at 2,133 metres between the Parappar and Gundar Valleys. These hills
form the eastward spur of the Western Ghats on the Western side of South India. It has an
irregular basin as its heartland, the centre of which is now Kodaikanal Lake a 5
kilometres circumference manmade lake.
Meadows and grasslands cover the hillsides. Gigantic Eucalyptus trees and shola
forests flourish in the valleys. Mighty rocks and cascading streams lie above the valleys.
There are many high waterfalls and ubiquitous gardens and flower beds in bloom.

North of the town, high hills that slope down into the villages of Pallangi and
Vilpatti stand guard. On the east the hill slopes less abruptly into the lower Palnis. A
precipitous escarpment facing the Cumbum Valley is on the south. On the west is a
plateau leading to Manjampatti Valley, Indira Gandhi National Park, the Anamalai Hills
and the main body of the Western Ghats.

38

Hotels are often fully booked during the high season, and remain virtually empty
during the off-season. Due to the rapid development of nearby cities such as Madurai and
Coimbatore, the town is learning to deal with year-round tourism.

4.17.8 Kodaikanal Lake

The star-shaped deep blue lake amidst the emerald green wooded slopes sparkles
like a jewel in the crown. The artificial lake was created in 1863, by Sir
VereHentryLevinge (1885), the collector of Madurai, who settled in Kodai after his
retirement. The lake sprawls over an area of 24 hectares and is rimmed by a 5 kms long
road. It is the main attraction of Kodai and buzzes with activity throughout the day. The
sight of honeymooners. And other tourists enjoying boating, kids cycling and fitness
buffs jogging around the lake is very common. Leaving also stocked the lake with fish
and brought the first boat from Tuticorin. In 1980, a boat club was started here and
39

boating was restricted only for the members of the club. One can also go in for fishing in
the lake waters, but with prior permission.

4.17.9 Coaker's Walk

Coaker's Walk, 500 metres from the bus-stand, constructed by Lt.Coaker in
1872, is a 1-kilometre paved pedestrian path running along the edge of steep slopes on
the southern side of Kodai. The walk, winding around Mount Nebo, starts in front of the
Van Allen hospital, running parallel to the Van Allen Hospital Road and joins the main
road beside St.Peter's Church, providing a stunning panoramic view of the plains.
On a clear day one can view as far as Dolphin's Nose in the south, the valley of
the Pambar River in the southeast, Periyakulam town and even the city of Madurai. A
fascinating rare phenomenon called Brocken specter can be witnessed, when a person can
see his shadow on the clouds with a rainbow halo. This occurs when the sun is behind the
40

viewer and clouds and mist are to the front. There is an observatory with a telescope
halfway along the walk. Entrance fee to the walkway is nominal and it is open all year.

4.17.10

KurunjiAndavar Temple

This small but famous temple is named after the unique Kurinji flower and is
dedicated to Lord Muruga. In Tamilliteraturekurunji means hill region and Andavar
stands for God. Thus the temple name also refers to Lord Muruga as the God of Hill.
The shrine was built in 1936, by a European lady who adopted Hinduism and rechristened herself as LeelavatiRamanathan. It enshrines the statue of LordMuruga, seated
on his peacock and an idol of his brother LordGanesha. The temple affords a fine view of
palani, the famous Pilgrim center and Vaigai Dam. There are many Hindu Temples in
Kodaikanal

including

the

Durgai

Amman

Kovil,

KurinjiAndavarKovil,

MariammanKovil, Observatory MuruganKovil and VinayagarKovil. The Muslim

mosques are Ellis Villa and Munjikal.

41

4.17.11 Bryant Park

Bryant Park: Just east of the lake and 500 meters from the bus stand, is a
wonderfully maintained 20.5 acres botanical garden. The park was planned and built in
1908 by a forest officer from Madurai, H.D.Bryant, and named after him. With 325
species of trees, shrubs and cactuses, the park is a rainbow of stunning flowers during the
peak season. A large section is dedicated to nearly 740 varieties of roses. There is an 1857
Eucalyptus tree and a Bodhi tree which adds a religious significance to the park.
Ornamental plants are cultivated in a nursery for sale.
The park organizes horticultural exhibits and flower shows every summer, to
coincide with the peak season. Entrance fee to the park is nominal and it is open all year.

42

4.17.12

Bear Shola Falls

The falls 1.6 kms from the lake get the name from bears who used to frequent this

place in the past. A reservoir has been constructed now to serve the growing population of
Kodai. The falls can be reached through picturesque rugged hill path and is an ideal
picnic spot.

Bear Shola Falls has a slanting height and lies inside a forest reserve that is
unhindered by human encroachments. It is quiet, peaceful and a true haven for those who
want to escape from concrete forest parks. The forests of Western Ghats are renowned all
over the world as a biodiversity hotspot. A visit to this area will bring one up close and
personal with many common and rare species of animals and plants. We must carry a
43

camera when you visit the stunning Bear Shola Falls. The sight of waters disgorging from
a height of several feet is always mind-stilling. The surrounding forests add more
exquisiteness to the setting.

4.17.13

Shembaganur Museum
Shembaganur Museum of Natural History, 6 kilometres from the bus-stand,

founded in 1895, is open to the public (except Tuesday) for viewing their outstanding
taxidermy collection of more than 500 species of animals, birds and insects and a living
collection of over 300 exotic orchid species. The museum is affiliated with Loyola
College in Chennai and exhibits artifacts of the ancient Palaiyartribes people whose
descendants still live in these hills.

44

4.17.14

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, 6 kilometres from the bus-stand on Observatory

Road, at 2,343 metres is the highest location near Kodai. The first observations were
commenced here in 1901. Former Director John Evershed, discovered the phenomenon
of radial motion in sunspots, now known as the Evershed effect. The Kodaikanal
Terrestrial Telescope can view a grand panorama including: Sothupparai Dam, Vaigai
Dam, Periyakulam and Varaha river. This Indian Institute of Astrophysics facility has a
45

comprehensive Astronomical Science with organized public tours, access to the

astronomy library, and scheduled night-time telescopic sky viewing. It is open daily to
the public during peak season, and a few hours each Friday the rest of the year.

4.17.15 Pillar Rocks

The famous Pillars Rocks of Kodaikanal are located around 8 km from the lake and
are an exquisite picnic spot. Constituting of a beautiful mini garden, the place is so
named as it has three vertically positioned boulders reaching up to a height of 400 feet.
An important attraction is the Devil's kitchen, which is the space between the two
rocks. The Potato and onion Bhaji served outside the garden is highly recommended.

46

4.17.16 Guna caves

Guna caves, made popular by the Tamil movie Guna, previously called Devils
Kitchen, are deep bat-infested chambers between the three gigantic boulders that are the
Pillar Rocks. The deep narrow ravines of the caves are now closed to public due to the
tragic deaths of twelve youths there. These dangerous caves are highly protected now,
and tourists can see sections of the cave system from afar. In the late 1970s the inside of
the caves was well photographed.

47

4.17.17 Silver Cascade

Silver Cascade, 8 kilometres from Kodaikanal at a wide bend in the long and
winding Laws Ghat Road, at altitude 1,800 metres, is a 55-metre waterfall formed from
the outflow of Kodaikanal Lake. The water quality is reportedly poor and not good
enough for bathing. This impressive waterfall is a popular stop for first-time visitors.
There are a few souvenir and fruit vendors and many monkeys here. There is also a
smaller but more serene waterfall below the bridge which crosses the stream here.
48

4.17.18 Dolphin's Nose

Dolphin's Nose, 8 kilometres from the bus stand, is flat rock projecting over a
breathtaking chasm 6,600 feet deep. It is an undisturbed area 1 kilometre down a very
steep rocky trail beginning soon after Pambar Bridge. Orange juice vendors along the
trail offer a welcome rest stop. Beautiful views of steep rocky escarpments rising from
the plains can be seen. The old village of Vellagavi can be reached through a rugged
bridle path here. A short paved walkway leads from the road here to Pambar falls (which

49

is also locally addressed as 'Liril Falls' after the famous Liril Soap Advertisement filming
in 1985).

4.17.18 Berijam Lake

Berijam Lake: A calm serene lake surrounded by mesmerizing nature at a distance
of around 20 km from Kodaikanal. Boating is prohibited as the lake is a source of water
for villages. Forest department permission is required and limited number of vehicles are
allowed to enter forest area where the lake is situated. Entry is restricted into the Berijam
Lake area to between 9.30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Bison, deers, panthers and snakes are often
50

spotted in this area. Fire tower, Silent Valley, Medicine Forest, and Lake View are other
attractions around the lake. Psilocybin mushrooms which produce hallucinogenic effects
when consumed, and other poisonous mushrooms grow around Berijam. Medicine forest
has a certain species of trees whose fragrance is believed to be having hallucinogenic
effects. For entering into the Berijam Lake we have to get the permission from the forest
department. Usually they give permission around 8 a.m on every day except on Tuesday.
Approximately they give the permission about 80 to 100 vehicles per day and they collect
the entry fee around Rs.150 depending upon the vehicle.

4.18 TOURIST ARRIVALS IN DINDIGUL DISTRICT

There are number of tourist centres in Dindigul district. But the tourist centres
recognized

by government

of

tamilnadu

are

Kodaikanal,

Sirumalai,

Palani,

Thirumalaikeni, Soundrarajaperumal temple, Dindigul fort, Parappalar dam, KodaiLake

(boating), BerijamLake, Bryant Park, ChettiyarPark, Parali. Only 12 centres are taken for

51

the purpose of knowing the tourist arrivals in the select centres of Dindigul district for the
years 2009 to 2013 are presented in table.
4.18.1 Kodaikanal: Kodaikanal is known for its rich flora. Pear trees are numerous and
the fruits are of high quality. Competing with the fruit trees are the flowering ones mainly rhododendron and magnolia. Large dahlias of different hues are the main
attraction of Bryant Park, situated close to the Kodai Lake. Water lilies in the park's pond
are another pleasing sight.
In the below table year wise domestic and foreign tourist arrivals are given.
The economy of Kodaikanal is predominantly run by tourism. The town's
infrastructure changes every year in preparation for the peak tourist season. Major
roads are converted into one-way lanes to regulate the constant inflow of traffic and
special police are brought in for the safety of the tourists and protection of local
businesses. The number of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year
2014(2.9%) while comparing to the year 2013. The number of foreign tourist arrival
is very high in the year 2014 (9.4%) while comparing to the year2013.It is clear that
from the above table no 1. The number of domestic tourists arrivals in kodaikanal is
more than the foreign tourist arrivals. In kodaikanal have its average as 3.471870,
standard deviation is 5.152556, average growth rate is 2.460000 and compound
growth rate is 3.535300.

TABLE 4.1
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Kodaikanal

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

1983432

17394

1938938

2001

2933993

18329

2083778

52

2002

2268390

18345

2194753

2003

3829483

20364

2395363

2004

2936522

21384

2464735

2005

2876453

24539

2900992

2006

3001243

35483

3036726

2007

3102100

39873

3141973

2008

3203435

40400

3243835

2009

3214357

40678

3255035

2010

3382281

42458

3424739

2011

3645411

36115

3681526

2012

3270324

39130

3309454

2013

4234729

62949

4297678

2014

4357865

68876

4426741
3.471870

Average

5.152556

Std dev

2.460000

AGR
CGR
Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

53

3.535300

4.18.2 Sirumalai
TABLE 4.2
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Sirumalai

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

54020

--------

54039

2001

59293

--------

439999

2002

56332

--------

65436

2003

64342

---------

243345

2004

67545

---------

532134

2005

86594

--------

86594

2006

98732

---------

98732

2007

107654

---------

107654

2008

112004

--------

112004

2009

113457

--------

113457

2010

123662

--------

123662

2011

104828

--------

104843

2012

103929

-------

103929

2013

156933

-------

156933

2014

232003

--------

232003
1.239811

Average

54

4.226781

Std dev

5.689001

AGR

1.281342

CGR

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

The Sirumalai hill contains a small waterfall as well. The famous Sirumalai
banana is slowly disappearing due to a number of diseases associated with it, which no
one has been able to solve. Sirumalai farmers, in order to get maximum business, have
planted silver oak excessively to an extent that in many parts it has become monoculture.
It is clear that from the above table no 2. Only the domestic tourists are visited to this
place. Foreign tourists are not prefer to this place to visit. Because of inadequate facility
of lodges, hotels, security, transport and ATM facilities. Even the most of the domestic
tourists are not interested to visit this place. So, the limited domestic tourists are visit this
place. The number of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year 2014 (47.8%) while
comparing to the year 2013. In sirumalai have its average as 1.239811, standard deviation
is 4.226781, average growth rate is 5.689001 and compound growth rate is 1.281342.
4.18.3 Palani
Palani is home to one of the most sacred shrines of the God Subrahmanyan, as
worshipped in the Hindu sect of Kaumaram. The Thandayudhapani Temple dedicated to
Lord Murugan, and regarded one of his ArupadaiVeedu (Six Battle Camps), is situated
here. The temple situated atop the Sivagiri is small but attracts a flood of devotees from
all over the country. The architecture of the temple appears to be of the Pandyaschool.
The Garbagriham is surmounted by a gold gopuram, most admirably worked. Important
tourist centres in Perianayagiammal temple, Periyavudaiyar temple, Dams at Palani
Porundalaar, the garden of herbs, etc., situated in an area around Palani.
This temple is one among the six Padaiveedus of Lord Muruga. ie. The 3rd
Padaiveedu namely Arulmigu Thiruvaavinankudi temple is part and parts of this temple.
Thai Poosam and Panguni Uthiram festivals are very famous festivals and large number

55

of devotees coming here at that time. 38 sub-temples are attached with this temples. It
belongs to 9th century and the king namely Cheraman Peruman constructed this temple.

TABLE 4.3
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Palani

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

2349899

23984

2594893

2001

2840487

25960

2938420

2002

3179078

25867

2758493

2003

2738926

27564

3000389

2004

2048957

29574

3948479

2005

2987634

30987

3018621

2006

2954363

31338

2985701

2007

3200500

31994

3232494

2008

3207345

32007

3239352

2009

3245894

32876

3278770

2010

3469661

32996

3502657

2011

3345546

33655

3379201

2012

3025742

30287

3056029

2013

3980179

46747

4026926

2014

4134236

48342

4182578

56

Average

3.390233

Std dev

4.108871

AGR

2.411111

CGR
Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

3.431522

Palani is a centre of a form of traditional Indian medicine known as Siddha

Vaidyam, said to have been developed by the ascetics resident, in prehistoric times, in
the hills about the modern-day town. Further, the town is also the centre for production of
Vibhuti (sacred ash) and panchaamritham (literally, 'the five nectars' - a traditional
preparation of fruit pulp and molasses), both of which are considered holy and distributed
to devotees after being offered to the Lord Subrahmanyan in the hill-temple. The number
of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year 2014(3.8%) while comparing to the
year 2013. The number of foreign tourist arrival is very high in the year 2014 (3.4%)
while comparing to the year 2013. It is clear that from the above table no 3. The number
of domestic tourists arrivals in palani is more than the foreign tourist arrivals. In palani
have its average as 3.390233, standard deviation is 4.108871, average growth rate is
2.411111 and compound growth rate is 3.431522.
4.18.4 Thirumalaikeni
Thirumalaikeni is a small and beautiful Village. It is located 25 KM towards East
from District headquarters Dindigul. Here Sri Subramaniaswamy temple is famous. The
consorts of Muruga, Valli and Deivanai are not by the side of the Lord but grace in the
form of the holy springs. ValliTheertham is in the middle of the hill in the form of a well,
hence the place is known as Malaikeni- a spring the hill. Here, people step down to reach
the Lord. Devotees call this temple Kilpalani. There is no railway station near to
Thirumalaikeni in less than 10 km.
From the above table we conclude that only the domestic tourists are visiting this
place. Here, the foreign tourists are not interested to visit this place. Because, this place is
57

very interior from Dindigul. In Thirumalaikeni only the Sri Subramaniaswamy temple is
famous. So, only the devotees are wanted to visiting this place. The number of domestic
tourist arrival is very high in the year 2013 (57.1%) while comparing to the year 2012. In
thirumalaikeni have its average as 2.114167, standard deviation is 3.230213, average
growth rate is 1.281111 and compound growth rate is 2.132942.
TABLE 4.4
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Thirumalaikeni

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

193948

---------

170000

2001

194859

----------

189347

2002

187564

--------

183746

2003

195739

--------

189937

2004

189991

--------

199137

2005

194510

------

194510

2006

197485

------

197485

2007

200045

--------

200045

2008

208762

--------

208762

2009

213676

---------

213676

2010

217901

--------

217901

2011

174522

-------

174522

2012

176013

-------

176013

2013

276488

----------

276488

2014

254765

---------

254765

58

Average

2.114167

Std dev

3.230313

AGR

1.281111

CGR

2.132942

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

4.18.5 Soundrarajaperumal Temple
Thadikombu is a panchayat town in Dindigul. It has a famous temple for Lord
Vishnu Soundarrajaperumal temple. SoundarrajaPerumal is found in the sleeping posture.
It is very admirable to see the lord at this posture. It is a Vaishnava temple, the
sthalavriksha is the vilva tree. Vilva tree is mostly situated at Lord Sivan temple. The
temple is very famous for sornaAgarshaBairavarBoojai known as Theiperiastamibooja
in every month. Eventhough, Thadikombu has a famous temple of Vishnu, and this place
is not a famous tourists place. Because, here only the temple is popular. Other than this
temple, there is no such entertainment tourist place. This place is particularly preferred to
devotees.

TABLE 4.5
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Soundrarajaperumal Temple

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

172934

--------

179283

2001

172300

----------

183478

2002

174939

----------

183943

2003

193848

----------

192774

59

2004

199948

----------

195748

2005

209753

----------

209753

2006

234654

--------

234654

2007

254004

---------

254004

2008

265438

--------

265438

2009

284452

---------

284452

2010

284463

--------

284463

2011

297147

--------

297147

2012

280740

-------

280740

2013

386422

-----------

386422

2014

396543

--------

396543
2.893616

Average

5.985591

Std dev

2.131111

AGR

298206

CGR

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

Here only the domestic tourists are visiting this place. Foreign tourists are not
interested to visit this place. In Thadikombu, other than the Vishnu temple, there is no
such beautiful place. So, only the minimum number of domestic tourists are visiting this
temple. The number of domestic tourist arrival in very high in the year 2014 (2.6%) while
comparing to the year 2013. In Soundrarajaperumal Temple have its average as 289361.6,
standard deviation is 59855.91, average growth rate is 2.13 and compound growth rate is
298206.
4.18.6 Dindigul Fort

60

The Dindigul Fort or Dindigul MalaiKottai is a 17th-century hill fort, built by

Madurai Nayak situated in the town of Dindigul in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. The
fort was built by the Madurai Nayak king MuthuKrishnappaNayak in 1605. Rani
Mangammal built the six hundred steps for the hill fort. In the 18th century the fort
passed on to Kingdom of Mysore (Mysore Wodeyars. During the reign of Hyder Ali and
Tipu Sultan the fort was of strategic importance. In 1799 it went to the control of the
British East India Company during the Polygar Wars. There is an abandoned temple on
its peak apart from few cannons. In modern times, the fort is maintained by the
Archaeological Survey of India and is open to tourists.
The Huge Hill at Dindigul, if we see it from one angle, looks like Pillow
('Dhindu') and hence the City is known as Dindigul. On this at a height of 280 ft. In the
year 1605 Madurai King 'Muthu Krishna Naicker' started the construction of this Fort. In
1623 to 1659 Mannar Thirumalai Naicker completed this. In 1755 Hyder Ali was
escorting Fakhr-Un-Nisha his wife and Five years old Tipu to Dindigul. From 1784 to
1790 the Fort was under the rule of 'Tipu Sultan'. In 1784, the Tipu's commandant Syed
Ibrahim, under whose care the Fort was, constructed many rooms in the Fort, strenthend
the walls and also got repaired. During the year 1790 in the Mysore war Tipu was
defeated and the Fort came into the hands of English.
The fort has 48 rooms that were once used as cells to lodge war prisoners and slaves, a
spacious kitchen, a horse stable and a meeting hall for the army commanders. The fort
also has its own rainwater reservoirs constructed by taking advantage of the steep
gradient. The construction highlights the ingenuity of Indian kings in their military
architecture. The number of domestic tourist arrival is very low in the year 2014 (44.7%)
while comparing to the year 2013. The number of foreign tourist arrival is very low in the
year 2013 (40.5%) while comparing to the year 2012. In dindigul fort have its average as
3.998514, standard deviation is 5.524223, average growth rate is 3.830110 and
compound growth rate is 4.0611011.

61

TABLE 4.6
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Dindigul Fort

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

249389

559

284593

2001

234874

563

248457

2002

268493

568

285743

2003

296859

678

257689

2004

394594

739

284578

2005

342678

836

343514

2006

354329

974

355303

2007

387435

965

388400

2008

436795

1245

438040

2009

440895

1390

442285

2010

450025

1450

451475

2011

453442

1815

455257

2012

345997

1592

347589

2013

316018

946

316964

2014

457345

2342

459687

Average

3.998514
62

Std dev

5.524223

AGR

3.830110

CGR
Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

4.0611011

4.18.7 Parappalar dam

TABLE 4.7
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Parappalar dam

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

50002

-------

58387

2001

43937

---------

57392

2002

49830

--------

59349

2003

34859

---------

58499

2004

39384

---------

53394

2005

54223

-----------

54223

2006

54287

-----

54287

2007

55376

---------

55376

2008

56243

--------

56243

2009

57897

---------

57897

63

2010

59013

-------

59013

2011

45223

-----

45223

2012

43497

-------

43497

2013

71698

----------

71698

2014

72547

-------

72547

Average

5.70004

Std dev

9.43931

AGR

1.17091

CGR

5.73081

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

The number of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year 2013 (39.33%) while
comparing to the year 2012. In parappalar lake has its average as 5.70004, standard
deviation is 9.4393, average growth rate is 1.17091 and compound growth rate is 5.7308.

4.18.8 Kodai lake (boating)

Kodaikanal Lake, is an artificial, roughly star-shaped 45 ha (60 acres) lake built
in 1863. It is recognized as Kodaikanal's most popular geographic landmark and tourist
attraction. Rowboats and pedals can be hired at the Kodaikanal Boat Club. Horses and
bicycles can be hired beside the lake for short periods. The 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) path that
skirts the periphery of this lovely lake is a favourite walk for the locals and tourists alike.
More domestic, and foreign tourist are interested in visiting this tourist center because of
its very beauty and popularity through cinema and T.V serials.

64

TABLE 4.8
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Kodaikanal Lake

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

1293848

8796

1203948

2001

1495030

8475

1298384

2002

1358494

9232

1382998

2003

1294030

9239

1283479

2004

1302399

9343

1293848

2005

1398546

9263

1407809

2006

1548763

9465

1558228

2007

1437654

9735

1447389

2008

1634287

10243

1644530

2009

1785435

9433

1794868

2010

1821105

9572

1830677

2011

2069198

23761

2092959

2012

1906993

24998

1931991

2013

2108633

40214

2148847

2014

2236543

43654

2280197

Average

1.813750

Std dev

3.009946

AGR

6.660901

CGR

1.858853
65

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

The number of domestic tourist arrival is high in the year 2013 (10.5%) while
comparing to the year 2012. The number of foreign tourist arrival is high in the year 2013
(60.8%) while comparing to the year 2012. Domestic and foreign tourists are wanted to
boating at summer season. Lake is situated near to bus stand. Boating facilities is
available at all seasons. Mostly the domestic tourists are arrive to this place. Many
entertainment facilities are available here. It attract all people to visit lake. In kodaikanal
lake has its average as1813750, standard deviation is 300994.6, average growth rate is
6.66 and compound growth rate is 1858853.
4.18.9 Berijam lake: The beautiful lake beyond pillar rocks is about 21kms from
Kodai. The lake set amidst picturesque surrounding supply drinking water to Periyakulam
town. The panoramic view of the lake and its surroundings can be enjoyed from Berijam
lake view, located 19kms from Kodaikanal.
The number of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year 2013 (29.9%)
while comparing to the year 2012. The number of foreign tourist arrival is more in the
year 2013(191.7%) while comparing to the year 2012.
Mostly domestic tourists are interested to visit this lake. It is far away from the
Kodaikanal main city. In berijam lake have its average as 220525.8, standard deviation is
117919.3, average growth rate is 1.26 and compound growth rate is 232233.6.

66

Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in BerijamLake

Table no 9.
Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

113948

567

112988

2001

124893

534

123857

2002

123894

683

138577

2003

192388

583

129858

2004

129838

548

113948

2005

114527

620

115147

2006

125035

510

125545

2007

127653

526

128179

2008

132457

546

133003

2009

145321

576

145897

2010

143564

624

144188

2011

348584

1886

350470

2012

286718

1143

287861

2013

372662

3335

375997

2014

395437

3534

398971

67

Average

220525.8

Std dev

117919.3

AGR

1.26

CGR

232233.6

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal

4.18.10 Bryant Park
The beautiful park lies on the eastern side of the lake, near the coakers walk. It
was built by a Britisher, named Bryant and is actually Botanical garden. The park is noted
for its exquisite flowers, hybrids and grafts. There is an excellent glass house, protecting
rich variety of floral species. Cut flowers are exported from here. An annual flower show
is organized in the park during the summer festival held May. More domestic tourist are
interested in visiting this tourist center because of its calm beauty and popularity.
Located on Kodaikanal Lake's eastern side, Bryant Park is one of the most
colourful attractions of Kodaikanal. Sprawling in an expanse of 20.5 acres, this park was
established by H. D. Bryant (a forest officer from Madurai) in the year 1908. Boasting of
over 325 species of trees, cactuses and shrubs, this park appears like a gorgeous rainbow
when all its flowers bloom. Here, there is a special section of roses, where you can find
approximately 740 of its varieties. A 157-year old Eucalyptus tree is one of the park's
main attractions. There is also a large and beautiful Bodhi tree that adds to the park a
religious significance. During your visit, you can purchase ornamental plants that are
cultivated in a nursery in the park. Every summer, flower shows and horticultural exhibits
are organised in the park that attract countless visitors from different parts of the state and
beyond.
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Bryant park
Table no 10.
Year

Domestic

Foreign
68

Total

2000

1293842

17340

1948774

2001

1293899

17392

1492884

2002

1203983

17394

1928390

2003

1283984

17901

1928398

2004

1283849

19844

1948752

2005

1865328

17543

1882871

2006

1950004

18543

1968547

2007

1943527

19200

1962727

2008

2000653

19327

2019980

2009

2056438

19543

2075981

2010

2066577

19734

2086311

2011

2233447

19023

2252470

2012

1960005

19788

1979793

2013

1874853

23006

1897859

2014

2344675

25436

2370111

Average

2.049665

Std dev

1.551408

AGR

8.967681

CGR

2.068197

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

The number of domestic tourist arrival is very low in the year 2012 (12.2%) while
comparing to the year 2011. The number of foreign tourist arrival is very high in the year
2013 (16.2%) while comparing to the year 2012. Domestic tourist arrivals are very high
69

while comparing with the foreign tourists arrivals. In Brayant park orchestra and flower
shows are conducted at seasonal time to attract the domestic and foreign tourists. In
Bryant Park have 2.049665 is average, 1.551408 is standard deviation, average growth
rate is 8.967681 and compound growth rate is 2.068197.
4.18.11 Chettiyar Park
CettiyarPark is situated in Kodaikanal, Dindigul district, Tamilnadu state. The
beautiful and well maintained park lies towards the north-eastern side of the town, on the
way of KurinjiAndavar Temple. The amazing purble bloom of the kurinji flowers can be
seen here once on every twelve years.
The number of domestic tourist arrival is very low in the year 2013 (11.3%) while
comparing to the year 2012. The number of foreign tourist arrival is very high in the year
2013 (86%) while comparing to the year 2012.
Mostly the domestic tourists are visiting this park. While comparing to the Bryant
Park, only few number of domestic and foreign tourists are visiting this park. Because, in
cettiyar park there is no entertainment facilities and innovative flower conducted in this
park. In Cettiyar park the arrival of tourist is calculated as average is 8.001164, standard
deviation is 3.053279, average growth rate is 3.671122 and compound growth rate is
7.925979.

Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Chettiyar park

Table no 11.
70

Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

897645

1478

876755

2001

845332

1789

587767

2002

866754

1455

687854

2003

865433

2478

756543

2004

890866

2466

786785

2005

865432

2342

867774

2006

764523

2654

767177

2007

873542

2876

876418

2008

906453

3265

909718

2009

1065438

3076

1068514

2010

1079074

3113

1082187

2011

504418

3433

507851

2012

364911

5032

369943

2013

323554

9362

332916

2014

1208342

10324

1218666

Average

8.001164

Std dev

3.053279

AGR

2.671122

CGR

7.925979

Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.

71

4.18.12 Parali
Parali is a small village/hamlet in NattamTaluk in Dindidul district of Tamil Nadu
state. It comes under LingavadiPanchayath. It is located 37kms towards south from
district headquarters Dindigul, 11 kms from Nattam. This place is in the border of the
dindigul district and Madurai district.
Domestic and Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Parali
Table no 12.
Year

Domestic

Foreign

Total

2000

39402

1398

30495

2001

30394

1309

23984

2002

29384

1209

39485

2003

29384

1059

49585

2004

20390

1409

29388

2005

43256

1523

44779

2006

45342

1564

46906

2007

55432

1654

57086

2008

62365

1753

64118

2009

55478

1632

57110

2010

57689

1640

59329

2011

115991

1935

117926

2012

76112

2682

78794

2013

170336

1692

172028

72

2014

167543

1854

169397

Average

8.67473

Std dev

4.88874

AGR

2.31543

CGR
9.140944
Source: Government Tourist Office, Kodaikanal.
The number of domestic tourist arrival is very high in the year 2013 (123%) while
comparing to the year 2012. The number of foreign tourist arrival is very low in the
year2013 (36.9%) while comparing to the year 2012. Domestic tourist arrivals are very
high in Parali while comparing to foreign tourist arrivals. Domestic and Foreign Tourist
Arrivals in Parali have its average as 86747.3, standard deviation is 48887.42, average
growth rate is 2.31 and compound growth rate is 91409.44.
4.19 COUNTRY AND STATE WISE TOURIST ARRIVALS IN DINDIGUL
DISTRICT
This district is privileged to have one of the Six Celebrated Hill Abodes of lord
muruga at Palani hills, where the famous Dhaandayuthapani temple is situated on the
hilly rock at a height of about 450 mts. Thousands of pilgrims come down to this holy
temple every day particularly during festival days, like thaipoosam, adikiruthigai,
panguniuthiram, sura-samharam, vaikasivisagam and monthly karthigai. The income of
the temple which is the largest in the state is growing year by year. This district have a
popular summer resort kodaikanal located at an altitude of 2133mts in the Western Ghats
is the Princes of Hill Stations.
In the below table it is clear that the majority of foreign tourists are come from,
Malaysia, Singapore, Australia. In the year 2012 and 2013 in Dindigul most of tourists
are come from Malaysia. Because of they are interested to visit Palani temple. Most of
the foreign tourists are visited Dindigul in the period if July to October.

73

Country Wise Tourists Arrivals in Dindigul District during the Year

S.No

Source
country

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

USA

348182

410803

526120

611165

696739

796739

827866

885428

931292

980688

1039947

1085309

1118983

Bangladesh

435867

454611

477446

456371

484401

480240

540090

564398

431962

463543

487397

524923

942562

United
Kingdom

387846

430917

555907

651083

734240

796191

787197

794312

759494

798249

788170

809444

838860

Sri Lanka

108008

109098

128711

157643

154813

204084

228548

263245

266515

305853

296983

262345

301601

Russian
Fed

18643

26948

47077

56446

62203

75543

91423

95321

122048

144312

177526

259120

269832

Canada

93598

107671

135884

157643

176567

208214

223587

238745

242372

259017

256021

255222

268485

Malaysia

63748

70750

84390

96276

107286

112741

119040

147654

179077

208196

195853

242649

262026

France

78194

97654

131824

152258

175345

204827

217816

227645

225232

231423

240674

248379

246101

Australia

50743

58730

81608

96258

109867

135925

148055

159865

169647

192592

202105

218967

239762

10

Germany

64891

76868

116679

120243

156808

184195

209252

223487

227720

240235

254783

252003

239762

74

State Wise Tourists Arrivals in Dindigul District 2012 & 2013

S. No

Source
country

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Andra
Pradesh

348182

410803

526120

611165

696739

796739

827866

885428

931292

980688

1039947

1085309

1118983

Bihar

435867

454611

477446

456371

484401

480240

540090

564398

431962

463543

487397

524923

942562

Delhi

387846

430917

555907

651083

734240

796191

787197

794312

759494

798249

788170

809444

838860

Gujarat

108008

109098

128711

157643

154813

204084

228548

263245

266515

305853

296983

262345

301601

Haryana

18643

26948

47077

56446

62203

75543

91423

95321

122048

144312

177526

259120

269832

Karnataka

93598

107671

135884

157643

176567

208214

223587

238745

242372

259017

256021

255222

268485

Kerela

63748

70750

84390

96276

107286

112741

119040

147654

179077

208196

195853

242649

262026

Madhya
Pradesh

78194

97654

131824

152258

175345

204827

217816

227645

225232

231423

240674

248379

246101

Maharashtr
a

50743

58730

81608

96258

109867

135925

148055

159865

169647

192592

202105

218967

239762

10

Orissa

64891

76868

116679

120243

156808

184195

209252

223487

227720

240235

254783

252003

239762

Source: Government Tourist office, Kodaikanal.

75

The majority of domestic tourists come from, Tamilnadu, Kerala, Pondicherry. In the year 2012 and 2013 in Dindigul most of
tourists are come from Tamilnadu. Most of the Kerala people are come to Palani. After Tirupathi, Palani temple in Dindigul is a
second largest income earning temple.

76