Places of interest around Velankanni

Calimere Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary: 333 sq.km. sanctuary also known as "Kodikkarai" 35 kms. from Velankanni noted far its vast flocks of migratory birds. Sprawling on 17.26 sq km surrounded by sea and shore, comprising tidal swamps, evergreen forests of mangroves, this sanctuary is situated in Nagapattinam district. It is home to a population of varied wildlife such as Chital, Wild Boar, Bonnet Macaque, Black Buck, Flamingos, Teals, Gulls, Terns, Plavers and Stilts. Special attractions are close encounters with Dolphins and Turtles which often come quite close to the shore.

Tranquebar: About 40 kms. off Velankanni, Tranquebar was a Danish port established in1620. Originally known as Tarangambadi - the village owes its name and identity to the Danish colonists who made it one of their major trading posts in the early 17th century because of its strategic location. The exotic village name, the pretty, whitewashed New Jerusalem Church, the Old Danish bungalows, the fort with its Viking architecture, all add to the charm that is quintessential Tranquebar.

The seafront Danesborg fort was occupied by British in 1801. It houses a small but fascinating Museum on Danish history.
Karaikal : Karaikal is one of the four regions of the Union Territory of Pondicherry in India. It is the destination for those who seek solitude, leisure, serenity and piety. Known from times immemorial for its rich religious heritage, Karaikal is a 'must visit' for the pilgrim tourist and the religious minded. It is a peaceful destination off the beaten path of the South Indian tour circuit.

Karaikal is known all over the country for its unique and the only temple devoted to the Lord Saneeswara (Lord Saturn) at Thirunallar. Karaikal is the Gateway to various places of worship in the eastern coast of Tamilnadu. The French flavour still persists in the peaceful land of Karaikal.

Kumbakonam: Kumbakonam is one of the oldest towns in Tamilnadu and is famous for its Mahamaham festival. It is the temple city of South India situated in Thanjavur district and in the 7th century it was the capital of the Chola kings. Kumbakonam is picturesquely located amidst the two rivers, Cauvery and Arasalar. Dozens of temples are scattered around the town and this is a good base to visit the superb Chola temples nearby, or to head east to the coastal towns of the Cauvery delta.

Tanjore: Tanjore, also known as Thanjanur, is a city and a municipality in Tanjore district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Tanjore is situated 322 Km to the southwest of Chennai and lies on the south back of the Kaveri River. It is an important center of South Indian art and architecture and is home to some of the finest and largest temples built centuries ago. Tanjore wa the capital of the Mutharayars and Cholas when they were at the peak of their power. Since then, the city has been one of the chief political, cultural and religious centres of South India.