Situated around 320 kilometres from Chennai, Nagapattinam is a place with a historical and cultural significance. The town lies on the coast of the Bay of Bengal and the name translates to mean ‘The land of snakes.’ There is a religious mix seen in Nagapattinam as it houses several mosques, churches and temples. The economy of the town is earned from sea trade, fishing and agriculture. A vast chunk also comes from tourism. The number of interesting places to visit in the place are:

Soundaryaraja Perumal Temple:

Located in the heart of the city, the Soundaryaraja Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The deity symbolizes love and beauty and hence the Lord here is called Soundaryaraja. The idols of the temple are encased in gold and emerald studs. The temple has an impressive 70-feet Rajagopuram and a mandapam with four pillars at the entrance along with a Dwajasthambam. The Garuda Mantapam, Vasanthamantapam and the source of holy water called Soundarya Pushkaranj are other attractions.

Photo credit: Templefolks.com

Kayarohanswamy Temple: 

One among the seven temples of the Thyagaraja cult, the Kayarohanswamy Temple also called Neelayatakshi Temple was built in the 6^th century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva the deity worshipped is known by the name of Kayarohana. In this temple the consort of the deity, Neelayatakshi, meaning one with blue eyes is also worshipped. A major attraction is the Lapis lazuli idol of Thyagaraja which is created by semi-precious blue coloured stone. The processional dance which follows the famous wave-like dance steps of Thyagaraja is a sight to behold.

Kodikkarai Beach:

Fringed by the Palk Straits in the south and the Bay of Bengal in the east, Kodikkarai Beach in Nagapattinam is also called as Point Calimere. The beach has a fresh natural beauty with wetlands, marshy lands, flora and fauna. Options for water sports are also available at the beach. The Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary close to the beach with a variety of wild life, birds and endangered reptile species, is another major attraction.

Dutch Fort:

Situated in Nagapattinam district, the Dutch Fort in Tranquebar is an outstanding piece of architecture. Built by the Dutch in 1620, it is renovated regularly and maintained in top condition. The Archaeological Museum in the premises of the fort is another impressive example of Danish architecture and houses many old paintings and inscriptions. Both the fort and the museum are maintained by the Archaeological Department of Tamil Nadu.

There are many other temples like Sikkal Singaravelar Temple, Nellukadai Marriamman Temple and Arumugaswamy Temple which are all worth visiting when in the town of Napapattinam.