Famous Places To Visit In Ariyalur,Tamilnadu/Must Visit

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Ariyalur is a small city located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples. The city has a population of around 70,000 people and is famous for its historic significance, fossil discovery and agriculture also. Ariyalur is surrounded by lush green fields and is home to several historic sites, including the Ariyalur Fort and the Shiva Temple at Thirumanancheri. The city is well-connected by road and rail and is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore the traditional Tamil way of life. here are some famous places to visit in Ariyalur.

1.Historical Significance

gangaikonda cholapuram temple front view

During the medieval period, Ariyalur was an important center for trade and commerce. It was a hub for the Chola Empire’s flourishing agriculture and was home to several temples built during that period. Ariyalur has several historical tourist places that offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Some historical visit sites of Ariyalur;

Dindigul Fort: This 17th-century fort was built by the Nayak rulers and served as a military stronghold. The fort is a testament to the region’s military and strategic importance.

Gangaikonda Cholapuram: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about 35 kilometers from Ariyalur and was the capital of the Chola Empire during the 11th century. The site features several temples, including the Brihadisvara Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Sathanur Dam: This dam, located about 15 kilometers from Ariyalur, was built in the 20th century and offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and agricultural fields. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake or go fishing.

Thirumanancheri Temple of marriage: This temple is associated with the marriage of lord shiva to Goddess parvati on earth. ancient temple, located in Ariyalur, is dedicated to Lord Shiva.it is a belief that a visit to this temple will remove all obstacles and pave the way for an early marriage and is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.

Udayalur: This small village, located about 25 kilometers from Ariyalur, is the birthplace of the 18th-century composer and saint, Tyagaraja. Visitors can see the saint’s birthplace and visit the nearby Tyagaraja Temple.

2.Agriculture And Farming

Ariyalur is an important agricultural center in the state of Tamil Nadu, with a large portion of its population engaged in farming. The region’s fertile soil and access to the Cauvery River have made it suitable for a wide range of crops.

The major crops grown in Ariyalur include paddy, sugarcane, cotton, and groundnuts. The city is also known for its mangoes, which are grown in the surrounding villages. Agriculture is the primary source of income for many people in the region, and the government has implemented various initiatives to support farmers, such as providing subsidies for agricultural inputs and offering crop insurance.

Some farming practices visit sites;

KVK Farm, Ariyalur: This farm is run by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and showcases sustainable agricultural practices. Visitors can see a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and grains, and learn about the latest farming techniques.

Amirtham Organic Farm, Sendurai: This organic farm is located about 20 kilometers from Ariyalur and offers tours of its fields, where visitors can see a variety of organic crops being grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

Ossudu Lake Bird Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is located about 15 kilometers from Ariyalur and is home to a wide range of migratory and resident birds. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and see the surrounding agricultural fields and crops.

3.Fossil Discovery

Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu is known to be rich in fossil deposits, particularly of marine organisms from the Cretaceous period, which existed around 145 to 66 million years ago. Some notable fossils found in the area include ammonites, bivalves, gastropods, and shark teeth. These fossils provide valuable information about the evolution of marine life during the Cretaceous period and the geological history of the region.

Some rich fossil heritage visit sites;

Ariyalur Fossil Museum: This museum is located in the Ariyalur town and has a large collection of fossils from the Cretaceous period.

Kudimiyamalai: It is a hill located around 20 km from Ariyalur town and is known for its rock-cut temples and caves. The hill is also rich in fossils, particularly ammonites.

Sendurai Periya Malai: It is a hill located around 25 km from Ariyalur town and is known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The hill is also rich in fossils, particularly gastropods and bivalves.

Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary: It is a bird sanctuary located around 40 km from Ariyalur town and is home to several migratory birds. The sanctuary is also known for its rich fossil deposits, particularly ammonites and bivalves.

4.Religious significance

Ariyalur has several religious sites that are of significance to people of different faiths. religious sites are reflect the diversity of faiths and beliefs that exist in Ariyalur and provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Some rich cultural visit sites;

Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple: It is a Hindu temple located in Ariyalur town and is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is believed to be over 1000 years old and attracts a large number of devotees.

Sri Soundareswarar Temple: It is a Hindu temple located in Thirumanur, around 10 km from Ariyalur town. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built during the Chola period.

St. Mary’s Church: It is a Catholic church located in Ariyalur town and is dedicated to Mother Mary. The church was built in the 20th century and is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians.

Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Mosque: It is a mosque located in Ariyalur town and is believed to be the resting place of Hazrat Syed Ibrahim Shaheed, a Sufi saint who lived in the 18th century.

Sri Aurobindo Ashram: It is a spiritual community located in Vanur, around 20 km from Ariyalur town. The ashram follows the teachings of Sri Aurobindo and is known for its emphasis on spiritual development and inner transformation.

In conclusion, Ariyalur is a hidden gem in the state of Tamil Nadu, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance. From the rich fossil deposits that provide insight into the geological history of the region to the impressive temples and churches that reflect the diversity of faiths and beliefs, Ariyalur has something to offer for everyone. Ariyalur should definitely be on your list of must-visit destinations in Tamil Nadu. as per my research I think that, I might be able to cover most of famous places to visit in Ariyalur.