places of interest

Kodikarai or Point Calimere (112 kms) This place is noted for its congregation of migratory water birds, fowls, particularly flamingoes. The season is from November to January. Other wildlife like the blackbuck and wild ponies are also found here. Nagapattinam (83 kms) Nagapattinam is an important port town. There is a small port that operates in Nagapattinam. A Temple dedicated to Magaraja is located here. Nagore(88 kms)Similar to Velankanni in its popular appeal is the Dargah of Hazrat Meera Sultan Syed Shahabdul Hameed who is better known as Hazrat Mian. It is just 4 kms to the north of Nagapattinam. The tomb is almost 500 years old and is topped by a golden dome and flanked by five minarets. The tank within the precincts is called Peer Kulam and is believed to have curative powers. People of all faiths visit the Dargah. Thirubuvanam (45 kms) Kampaharewar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva build daity 13th century A.D. This place is also famous for major silk weaving centres in the state. Velankanni(90 kms)Just 12 kms south of Nagapattinam, is one of the most popular Christian pilgrim spots in this part of India. People of all faiths and religions come to this church to pray at the shrine of Our Lady of Health. Many bring with them small gold and silver replicas of parts of the body to donate to the church. Velankanni is particularly crowded during the festival period in August-September. There is a small church museum which has a display of the offerings made by the faithful who have received favours from visiting the Velankanni Church. Sikkal(70 kms):A Temple dedicated to Sikkal Singaravelar or Lord Subramanya. Ten days festival celebrated here during the months October and November. NAVAGRAHA TEMPLES 1.Suriyanar koil (Sun Temple) This is one of the Navagraha temples dedicated to Lord Suriyan or Sun, in Thanjavur District. This temple is 58 kms away from Thanjavur. This is the only place where the image of the sun is worshipped. It is believed that the Chola king Kulothunga I built the shrine.