India’s most southerly state, Tamil Nadu is far less frequented than its touristy neighbour, Kerala. Enjoying the same lush verdant surrounds and pristine beaches it is ideal for those wanting to get away from the tourist trail and experience a more authentic India. Our pick of the best places to stay in Tamil Nadu are reflective of the region’s heritage and all provide a comfortable stay.
To the north of the state lies Chennai which has witnessed some rapid modernization in the last decade in a bid to keep up with the metamorphosing mega cities of India. The locals are infectiously positive about their ‘capital of the south’ and you cannot help but share their upbeat nature. Boasting some world-class restaurants and excellent hotels it is worth at least a one-night stay en-route to the rest of the state.
A world away from bustling Chennai, Pondicherry is delightfully quaint. Maintaining strong Francophile connections (some of the older locals even speak with a hybrid French accent) you will be enchanted by its allure. Cobbled streets are lined with bakeries and boutiques and there are plenty of small, independently run hotels and restaurants. Tamil Nadu’s take on Paris.
Whilst the best time to visit most of Tamil Nadu is between December and February owing to its high temperatures, you can visit the colonial summer outpost of Ooty all year (it only reaches the high 30s in summer and single figures in winter). Indeed the monsoon renders the valleys impossibly lush. Take the Nilgiri mountain railway, an impressively maintained steam train, through the verdant landscapes of the Western Ghats’ tea and spice plantations. Neighbouring Coonoor can also be enjoyed year round and without the crowds that stop at Ooty,
Tanjore is awash with history and cultural sites, one of its claims to fame is as birthplace to one of India's most extraordinary civilisations (the Dravidians).
Foodies should head to Kanadukathan, the region's culinary capital, famous for its Chettinad cuisine.
The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in Tamil Nadu is wide ranging: from budget to luxury there are plenty to suit all!