Tamil Nadu PDF

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu
Interim Report Priority Circuit
Identification of Tourism Circuits across

India
Interim Report-Priority Circuit

Tamil Nadu
July 2012
Submitted to:
Submitted by:
Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

1, Parliament Street,
Transport Bhawan,
New Delhi 110001
2nd Floor, Ambience Corporate Tower,

Ambience Mall, NH-8,
Gurgaon, Haryana 122 001
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Table of Contents
1.
2.
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1
Assignment Brief .................................................................................................................... 1
1.2
Objectives of the Study ........................................................................................................... 1
1.3
Key Findings of the Report ..................................................................................................... 1
Brief Profile of the Tourism Circuit ................................................................................................ 3

2.1
Description of the Circuit ........................................................................................................ 3
2.2
Destinations in the Priority Circuit ......................................................................................... 4
2.3
Trichy District ......................................................................................................................... 6
2.4
Tanjavur .................................................................................................................................. 8
2.5
Kumbakonam ........................................................................................................................ 10
2.6
Mayiladuthurai ...................................................................................................................... 13
2.7
Sirkhazi ................................................................................................................................. 15
2.8
Chidambaram ........................................................................................................................ 16
2.9
Tholudur................................................................................................................................ 19
3. Trichy- Tanjavur- Kumbakonam- Mayiladuthurai- Vaitheswarankoil- Sirkhazi- ChidambaramVirudachala- Tholudur .......................................................................................................................... 21

3.1
Stakeholder Consultations..................................................................................................... 21
3.2
Town wise Carrying Capacity Assessment ........................................................................... 21
3.3
Existing Infrastructure Gaps ................................................................................................. 21
3.4
Projects Identification, Block Cost Estimates, Implementation and Funding....................... 26
3.5
PPP Bifurcation of the Identified Projects ............................................................................ 34
3.6
Estimated Employment Generation ...................................................................................... 34
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List of Tables
Table 1: Description of Destinations along the Circuit .......................................................................... 4
Table 2: Stakeholder Consultations ...................................................................................................... 21
Table 3: Projects Identified in the Circuit ............................................................................................. 26
Table 4: PPP Bifurcation of the Identified Projects .............................................................................. 34
Table 5: Estimated Employment Generation ........................................................................................ 34
List of Figures
Figure 1: Tourist Circuit ......................................................................................................................... 3
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Interim Report Phase II
1. Introduction
1.1 Assignment Brief
IL&FS Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (IL&FS IDC), appointed as the National Level
Consultant (NLC) by Ministry of Tourism, has identified tourism circuits across all the States and
UTs (except North-East) after due consultations with all the Stakeholders. These circuits are proposed
to be developed during the 12th Plan, in an integrated manner with Central Financial Assistance and
appropriate involvement of State Governments and private sector. Under Phase I of the assignment,
the process has been completed with the selection of existing/new tourist circuits (four in each state
and two in Union Territories) and Inception Reports have been submitted. These circuits have been
structured considering the length, duration, connectivity and tourism potential of the destinations.
After the identification and prioritisation of these circuits in Phase I, the next step is to identify the
basic and tourism related infrastructural and promotional needs of the identified circuits, which are to
be implemented on priority basis, along with the tentative cost estimates. These projects should be
related to development of basic as well as tourism related infrastructure. Thereafter, Detailed Project
Reports (DPRs) will be prepared by the State Level Consultant for the projects identified along with
their financial projections.
1.2 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of the present study are:
1) To study the identified tourist circuits/destinations in the state of Tamil Nadu.
2) To analyse the tourism potential and carrying capacity of the identified destinations within the
tourist circuits
3) Assess the existing infrastructure basic and tourism related - for the circuits/destinations
4) To assess the interventions for improving the quantity and quality of basic and tourism
infrastructure for circuits/destinations
5) Identify infrastructural projects to be initiated by Centre/State/Private sector.
1.3 Key Findings of the Report

Priority Circuit: Trichy-Tanjavur-Kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai-Vaitheswarankoil-SirkhaziChidambaram- Virudachalam- Tholudur
The above Circuit is identified as Priority Circuit. The key findings of the study conducted along the
circuit are listed as below:
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A) Trichy: Majority of the destinations in the city are well connected. Rock Fort Temple, Srirangam
Temple, Jambunakeshwar Temple etc. are the major tourist destinations in the town, which need basic
public / tourist infrastructure and Public convenience facilities.
B) Tanjavur: Tanjavur enjoys good connectivity from different parts of the country by excellent rail
and road networks. The cultural, the architectural and the scholarly pursuits of various dynasties are
reflected in the great monuments located within the town. Approach road, public conveniences,
seating places and accommodation within the town needs to be improved
C) Kumbakonam: Kumbakonam, a picturesque temple town is known for its age old temples
including famous Kumbeswarar and Sarangapani temples. The town lacks basic infrastructure
facilities for the pilgrims including drinking water facilities and public convenience. Majority of
temple tanks within the major temples are poorly maintained.
D) Mayiladuthurai: Mayiladuthurai is well connected through rail and road. The popular tourist
destinations in and around Mayiladuthurai are Mayurnathar Temple, Parimala Ranganathaswamy
Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram, Thirimananjeri, Vaitheeswaran Koil etc. The town lacks
information/direction signages and the Bathing Ghat at the Cauvery river front which is within the
town is poorly maintained.
E) Sirkhazi: The approach road to Sirkhazi from Mayiladuthurai is poorly maintained with inadequate
information/Direction signages. It is observed that the beach is an unexplored major attraction in the
vicinity with high potential for tourism and development.
F) Chidambaram: The city is a major pilgrimage site for Shaivites and Vaishnavites. It is well
connected
through
rail
and
road.
Keeping
in
view
the
variety
of
tourists
(Recreational/Research/Pilgrim tourists from Chidambaram/ College Students) to Chidambaram and

Pitchavaram backwaters, there is a need for further development to attract and prolong the stay of the
tourists (Domestic and International)
G) Virudachalam: Virudachalam is a municipal town and taluk head quarters in Cuddalore district.
The basic / tourist infrastructure facilities for the pilgrims at the two mains temples in Virudachalam
are inadequate and needs immediate improvement.
H) Tholudur: Wellington and Perambalur lakes located in Tholudur are poorly maintained and shall
be improved by providing basic amenities and facilities for the locals and the tourists.
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2. Brief Profile of the Tourism Circuit

2.1 Description of the Circuit
Following 4 Circuits were identified to be developed during 12th Plan in Tamilnadu.
Circuit 1: Trichy Tholudhur Circuit (Priority Circuit) Trichy, Tanjavur, Kumbakonam,
Mayiladuthurai, Vaitheeswarankoil, Sirkhazi, Chidambaram, Virudachalam, Tholudhur
Circuit 2: Chennai-Trichy Circuit (Completed & Submitted Interim Report) - Chennai, Kanchipuram,
Thiruvannamalai, Vellore, Dharmapuri, Salem, Namakkal, Trichy
Circuit 3: Madurai, Dindigul, Coimbatore, Nilgiris Circuit
Circuit 4: Trichy, Pudukottai, Sivagangai, Rameswaram, Tuticorin, Tiruchendur, Tirunelveli,
Kanyakumari
Brief description of the Tourist Circuit 1 i.e. the Priority Circuit is given below:
2.1.1
Priority Circuit: Trichy- Tanjavur- Kumbakonam- Mayiladuthurai- VaitheswarankoilSirkhazi- Chidambaram- Virudachala- Tholudur
This circuit covers a distance of approximately 330 km with Trichy as an entry/exit point. The circuit
is well connected by roadways and railways and can be covered within two days. The circuit forms a
religious/spiritual circuit covering many prominent temples.
Figure 1: Tourist Circuit
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2.2 Destinations in the Priority Circuit

The destinations covered in the circuit-1(Priority Circuit) are enlisted here:
1) Trichy-
Tanjavur-
Kumbakonam-
Mayiladuthurai-
Vaitheswarankoil-
Sirkhazi-
Chidambaram- Virudachala- Tholudur

Table 1: Description of Destinations along the Circuit
City/Town
Tourist Destination
Importance
Rock Fort Temple
Group of three temples on the geological rock

dates back to 3 million years ago
Jambujeshwar Temple
Built by Cholas 1800 years ago
Srirangam Temple
Trichy
St.Lourds Church
Tanjavur
Srirangam, one of the important Vaishnavite

pilgrim centre and ranks first among the 108
Divya Deshams
A Century year old Church built in Gothic
Architecture style, famous for stained glass
drawings
Bathing Ghat (near

Amman
Mandapam, Ceremonies and rituals take place on the banks
straight to the main of the river
Gopuram of Srirangam)
Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage site as
Sri
Brihadeshvara
Great Living Chola Temple built in 1010 AD
Temple & Fort
by Raja Raja Chola
Built by the Nayaka rulers as their royal
Royal Palace & Museum
residence now used as a museum
Located at 8 km from Kumbakonam, which is
Sri Subramanya Temple
famous for Dravidian architecture
Punnai
Nallur
Abode of Hindu goddess Mariyamma
Mariyamma Temple
Adi
Kumbeswarar Adi Kumbeshwarar temple dedicated to Lord
Temple
Shiva reported to be more than 1300 years old
Built in 12th century by Aditya Chola, an
Nageswarar Temple
architectural marvel with building technology
and astronomy.
Abode of Lord Sarangapani on a Chariot,
Sarangapani Temple
located at 6 km from Kumbakonam
Abode of Lord Shiva located at 6 Km from
Someswarar Temple
Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam
Darasuram
Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site built

by Raja Raja Chola II in 12th century
Swamymalai Temple
Located at about 5 km from Kumbakonam, a

temple dedicated to Lord Muruga
Chakrapani
The presiding deity Chakrapani has third eye on

his forehead
Ramaswamy
Unique Idol of Lord Rama and his consort Sita

in Pattabhisheka posture.
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City/Town
Tourist Destination
Importance
Rajagopalaswamy
The presiding deity of Lord Balaji resembles

that of Tirupati
Arulmigu
Kasi
The sacred tank is surrounded by 16 mandaps
Viswanatha
Swamy
and the Lord Kasi Viswanatha temple of Lord
Temple
Mahamaham
Shiva
Tank
Sri
Kalahasteswarar The temple of Nataraja and his consort Parvati
Temple
is 300 years old.
Famous Shrine of Lord Shiva (Mayuranathar)
located at Mayiladuthurai
The temple enshrines incarnation of Lord
Parimala
Ranganatha
Vishnu (Parimala Ranganatha) in reclining
Temple
position located at Thiru Indalur.
Gangaikondacholapuram Built by Rajendra Chola I in 10th Century
Mayuranathar Temple
Mayiladuthurai
Thirumananjeri Temple
Famous for Kalyanasundarar temple

Utha Vaideshwarar Temple, also called the 'big
Utha
Vaideshwarar
temple' is a temple dedicated to Shiva Located
Temple
at a Kuttalam
Vaidyanathaswamy
Famous for Vaithanataswamy an incarnation of
Vaitheeswarankoil
Temple
Lord Shiva and the curer of many diseases
Sattanathaswamy
Sattanathaswamy form of Lord Shiva
Temple
Out of the 20 tirthas in the temple complex,
Brahma Tirtha
Sirkhazi
Brahma tirtha is the prominent one
Located near Sirkazhi, a pristine unexploited
Sirkazhi Beach
beach
Chidambaram Natarajar Famous temple enshrining Nataraja form of
Temple
Lord Shiva
Pichavaram
Back Second largest mangrove in that state located at
Waters
16 km from Chidambaram
Thillai Kali Amman Dedicated to goddess Kali amman and one of
Temple
the Shakti Temples
Second largest fresh water lake in tamil Nadu,
Perumal Lake
located at Cuddalore
Veranam Lake (14 km Built by the Chola Prince, Rajadithar 1000
length)
years ago.
Chidambaram
A village located on the shore named after the
MGR Thittu
famous Tamil cine actor. Located near
Pitchavaram backwaters.
Perangipettai
Located at 30 kms from Cuddalore. Being a
(Backwater front)
major trading centre, it has a glorious history.
Samiyarpettai
Located at 50 km south of Puducherry, on the
(Beach front )
Coromandel Coast of Bay of Bengal
The fort built during 17th Century comprises of
Tholudur
Rajankondi
palace,
residential
buildings,
Fort
underground chambers, and mosque and flag
mast.
Virdagiriswarar Temple Famous Virdhagireeswarar Temple reverned
Virudachalam
next to Varanasi
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City/Town
Tourist Destination
Importance
Thiru
Temple
Famous temple of Lord Muruga
Kolanjiyappar
Constructed during the British period, The

second largest lake of Tamil Nadu is in close
proximity to Tholudhur
Welington Lake
Tholudur
ThiruMangalam Lake ,
Located abutting the National Highway -05
(Enroute Tholudhur
enroute to Trichy from Tholudhur
Trichy Road)
Based on the observations from above destinations it was observed that the most of the places are of
religious significance. Hence this circuit will be developed as Religious/Spiritual tourism circuit.
Religious tourism is form of tourism where people travel individually or in groups for pilgrimage,
missionary and leisure purposes. Tourism and Pilgrimage have been said to be closely related.
However, the relationship between tourism and the religious context is largely neglected and basic
visitor facilities are missing in majority of the destinations.
2.3 Trichy District

The main town in Tiruchirapalli District is the city of Tiruchirapalli, also known as Trichy. It is
located at about 325 kms south-west of the state capital Chennai. It is well connected by National
Highways NH 45, NH 45B, NH 67, NH 2120 and NH 227. The city is a thriving commercial centre in
Tamil Nadu and is famous for artificial diamonds, cigars, handloom cloth, glass bangles and wooden
and clay toys. The major tourist destinations in Trichy are Rock Fort Temple, Srirangam Temple,
Jambunakeshwar Temple etc:
2.3.1
Rock Fort Temple:
The Rock Fort Temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a collection of three temples - the Manikka
Vinayakar temple at the foot of the hill, the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the
Taayumaanavar Koyil Shivastalam on the hill and associated with the Matturvaarkuzhali temple.
The Geological rock which is 83m high rock is said to
be one of the oldest in the world, dating over 3 billion
years ago, and mythologically this rock is the place
where Lord Ganesh ran from King Vibishana, after
establishing
the
Ranganathaswamy
deity
in
Srirangam. Tiruchirappalli is considered to be the 6th

in the series of Tevara Stalams in the Chola kingdom
located south of the river Kaveri.
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2.3.2
Jambunakeshwar Temple:
Famous Shiva Temple in Trichy, built by Cholas around 1800 years

ago is located at a distance of 1.5 km from Trichy. It is one of the five
famous temples of the Tamil Nadu representing the five Mahabhutas
and this temple being representing the element of water. The Sanctrum
of Jambukeshwar has an underground water stream and in spite of
pumping water out, it is always filled with water.
2.3.3
Sri Rangam Temple:
Srirangam, the most important Vaishnavite pilgrim centre, surrounded by the waters of river Cauvery
and its branch Kollidam, is an island town of about 600 acres, enclosed within the seven walls of Sri
Ranganatha temple, located at 7 km away from Trichy.
Srirangam ranks first among the 108 Divya Deshams and
foremost amongst the eight self-created or Swayam Vyaktha
Kshetras. Its Rajagopuram, one of the 21 gopurams is nearly
six centuries old. This is the tallest temple tower in Asia, a very
imposing structure displaying craftsmanship. The temple
complex is 156 acres in extent.
2.3.4
St. Lourds Church:
The Church of Lady of Lourd, a hundred years old, is built within the St. Josephs College complex in
Gothic architectural style. It is the replica of the Basilica of Lourdes, the
World famous place of pilgrimage in southern France. It is a remarkable
feat of Indian craftsmanship and stained glass drawings.
The Churchs 200 ft tall spire is visible from a radius of 8 km around it.
The Church has not been repainted outside as the administrators wish to
preserve its antiquity. The stained glass panels depicting stories from the
Bible are truly beautiful. Around 6000 people attend mass at the church
on Sundays.
2.3.5
Bathing Ghat (Near Amman Mandapam, straight to the main gopuram of Srirangam)
The banks of the river are the site of a series of ceremonies and rituals, as pilgrims bath for good
fortune, priests pray for childbirth, and mourners scatter ashes. Pilgrims come here to purify
themselves before offering further pooja at the temple. Many death (10th day) ceremonies of Hindus
take place here.
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2.4 Tanjavur
Thanjavur District is the Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu located at a distance of 54 kms from Trichy.
Thanjavur is considered as one of the most ancient cities in India. The city was on the zenith of
popularity during the reign of Cholas when it was the
seat of power of Chola Empire. Since then the city has
seen the rise and fall of various dynasties like
Pandyas, Vijayanagar Empire, the Madurai Nayaks,
the Thanjavur Nayaks and others. The cultural, the
architectural and the scholarly pursuits of these rulers
are reflected in the great monuments like Grand
Anaicut, Big Temple and Serfoji Mahal Library etc.
in the district. Tanjavur enjoys good connectivity from different parts of the country by excellent rail
and road networks. The nearest airport is at Tiruchirapalli located at a distance of 56 kms.
2.4.1
Sri Brihadeshwara Temple and Fort:
The Peruvudaiyar Koyil, also known as Brihadeeswarar Temple at Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, is the
world's first complete granite temple and a brilliant example of the major heights achieved
by Cholas kingdom Vishwakarmas in Tamil architecture. It is a tribute and a reflection of the power
of its patron RajaRaja Chola I. This temple is one of India's most prized architectural sites. The temple
stands amidst fortified walls that were probably added in the 16th century. The Vimana or the
temple tower is 216 ft (66 m) high. It remains India's largest temple and is one of the greatest
glories of Indian architecture. The temple is part of
the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Great Living Chola
Temples". The entire temple structure is made out of
hard granite stones, a material sparsely available in
Thanjavur area where the temple is. Built in 1010 AD by
Raja Raja Chola in Thanjavur, Brihadishwara Temple
also popularly known as the Big Temple' turned 1000
years old in 2010. The temple complex sits on the banks
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of a river that was channeled to make a moat around the complex's outer walls, the walls being built
like a fortress
2.4.2
Royal Palace Museum:
The Royal Palace Museum is located at a distance of 1 km from Brahadeeswar temple. This palace
was originally built by Nayaka rulers as their royal residence and was further reconstructed by
Maratha rulers. A large quadrangular courtyard leads into the palace complex. Outside the palace
there is a seven-storied observation tower meant for the royal families. The splendid Maratha Durbar
Hall, built by Shahji II in 1684 has elaborately decorated pillars, walls and ceilings. The Durbar Hall
now houses the Rajaraja Museum and Art Gallery with an impressive collection of bronze and stone
idols dating from 7th to 20th century. It is a multipurpose museum that preserves the materials of the
ancient past. The ancient work of art, textiles, photos, oil and pencil paintings, drawings, musical
instruments and wooden objects, ivory furniture and Tanjavur paintings are the main attractions of the
museum. The Royal Palace museum is centrally located in Thanjavur and is accessible by the tourist
by all modes of transport.
2.4.3
Sri Subramanya Temple:
Located at a distance of 8 km from Kumbakonam on the northern banks of river Cauvery, the Shrine
of Subramanya is known for its decorative architecture. It is a perfect example for Dravidian
Architecture. Here the Lord Muruga preached Pranava mantra "OM" to Lord Shiva and he is revered
as "Swaminathan". The temple of Swaminatha is a very ancient one and it is known to have existed
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even in the 2nd century BC. It is said that Parantaka Chola I

built the temple. The temple was damaged to a great extent and
the Gopurams were demolished and razed to ground in the year
1740 when the Anglo-French War was waged and later when
war broke out between Hyder Ali and the British.
2.4.4
Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple:
This is a temple of Hindu Goddess Mariamman, which is one of the famous temples around
Tanjavur.. It is said that before waging war with Tanjan asuran, Lord Shiva Placed the Ashta Sakthi
one at each of eight directions, and the one situated at the eastern direction is now called
as Punnainallur Mariamman.
The Maratha rulers Thulaja, Serfoji worshiped and renovated the temple in their ruling period. It is
said that the daughter of Tulaja Raja (1729-35) of Thanjavur, who lost her eyesight in an illness,
regained it on offering worship at this temple. The goddess cures her devotees of all physical
ailments. A charismatic yet considerate form is seen here. Mud replicas of the different parts of the
human body are placed in the temple as an offering and pleading the mother for cure.
2.5 Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam locally called as Kudanthai is a town and a special grade municipality in the Thanjavur
dristrict. It is located 40 Kms from Thanjavur and 273 kms from Chennai. It rose to be a prominent
city between the 7th and 9th centuries AD, when it served as a capital of the Medieval Cholas. The
town reached the zenith of its prosperity during the British Raj when it was a prominent centre of
European education and Hindu culture; and it acquired the cultural name, the "Cambridge of South
India".
Kumbakonam, a picturesque temple town is known for its age old temples including famous
Kumbeswarar and Sarangapani temples. The town is also noted for its Mahamaham festival which
attracts people from all over the globe. Kumbakonam literally means the place of pot (Kumbam).
2.5.1
Adi Kumbeswar Temple:
Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord

Shiva located in Kumbakonam. The huge temple is built over an area of
30,181 sq ft (2,803.9 m2) is reported to be more than 1300 years old.
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2.5.2
Nageswarar Temple:
This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located in the heart of Kumbakonam. Lord Shiva in the form
of Nagaraja, the serpent king is the main deity. This temple is constructed by Aditya Chola in 12th
Century. It is a great marvel of Chola Architecture with building
technology and astronomy. The orientation is structured in such a way
that it allows sunlight inside the temple, right on the sanctum only
during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April/May).
It bears another name called Surya Kottam or Keezha Kottam. The
Karuvarai (Sanctum Sanctorum) of Nageswaran temple is similar
to Sarangapani Temple, as it is made in the form of a Chariot. The
temple consists of three gopurams in the eastern, western and southern directions.
2.5.3
Sarangpani Temple:
This is located at a distance of 1.5 miles from Kumbakonam railway station. It is one of the Divya
Desams of Lord Vishnu. This temple is along Kaveri and one of the Pancharanga Kshetrams. The
Vaishnavi deity, Sarangapani, an incarnation of Hindu god Vishnu appeared to a sage called Hema
Rishi, who performed penance. The central shrine of the temple is in the form of a chariot drawn by
horses and elephants with openings on either side, showing the descent of God Sarangapani from
heaven in this chariot. The hermitage of the sage is said to have become the tank of the temple,
Pottramarai tank.
2.5.4
Someswarar Temple:
The temple is located at the eastern side of Portamarai tank at a distance of 6 km away from
Kumbakonam and 2 km away from the Patteeswaran Temple. The temple deities are Lord
Someshwar(Shiva), Chikkeswar and Goddess Somasundari. According to Legend when the pot of
Amrit broke the string hoop of the pot flew forming the shiva
linga here.
Someswar Temple is located in the southern portion of Sri
Sarangapani temple. The architectural style of Someswar temple
resembles the Dravidian style of temple architecture of 13th
century (Chola period).
2.5.5
Darasuram:
Airavatesvara Temple is a Hindu temple of Dravidian architecture located in the town of Darasuram,
near Kumbakonam in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This temple, built by Rajaraja Chola II in
the 12th century is a UNESCO World Heritage Site referred to as the Great Living Chola Temples.
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2.5.6
Swamymalai Temple (Arulmigu Swaminatha Swami Temple):
Swamymalai is a village situated about 5 km west of Kumbakonam on the banks of tributary or river
Cauvery. The temple is situated very close to the bus stand and the railway station is about 2 km
away. It is well connected to and surrounded by important
places like Kumbakonam, Tiruvidaimarutur, Mayiladuthurai,
Papanasam, Tanjavur etc. This temple is fourth among the
six padai veedu or sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Muruga.
The presiding deity here expounded the meaning of Pranava
mantra OM to his own father Lord Shiva himself.
The
temple has a golden chariot made of seven kilos of gold, 85 kilos of silver and other metals like
copper, beautifully illuminated with electric bulbs.
2.5.7
Chakrapani Temple:
This temple is located on the southern bank of Cauvery in Kumbakonam

Railway Station. Here the main deity is Chakraraja (has 8 arms) and
Sudharshana Chakra. This temple is considered to be one of the important
Vishnu Temples in South India along with Srirangam and Tirupati. This
temple is noted for its exquisite pillars and the deity Chakrapani has third
eye on his forehead.
2.5.8
Rama Swamy Temple:

The Ramaswamy temple is located at the heart of the Kumbakonam and
has a unique idol in the form of Lord Rama and his consort Sita in the
Pattabhishekam Posture. The idol was surrounded by Lord Hanuman,
Ramas brothers Lakshmana, Shatrugna and Bharatha.
The temple has beautiful architecture pieces and has been built by
the Nayakkar kings. Govinda Dikshitar, the prime minister of the Nayaks,
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constructed the temple. He added a commercial corridor between his new temple and the older
Chakrapani temple. On the walls of the prakaram(closed precincts of a temple), Ramayanam is
depicted in pictorial format in three segments. One can read through Ramayana pictorially whilst
taking 3 pradakshinams(rounds) of the sanctum.
2.5.9
Rajagopala Swamy Temple:
Rajagopalaswamy temple is located at Mannargudi which is in Tiruvarur district. This is a very

small town and is around 30 Kms from Tanjore. The main deity in the sanctum is a 7 foot tall idol that
resembles Balaji of Tirupati and the deity is flanked by his consorts Boodevi and Sreedevi. The
Utsavar Rajagopalaswamy's idol is of exquisite beauty and is adorned with precious and colorful
jewellery and flowers.
2.5.10 Arulmigu Kasi Viswanatha Swamy Temple Mahamaham Tank Kumbakonam
The Mahamaham tank is located in the heart of Kumbakonam, about 2 km from the Kumbakonam
railway station and about 1 km from the Kumbakonam bus station. The tank is considered very
sacred, surrounded by 16 mandaps and the Lord Kasi Viswanatha temple of Lord Shiva. The tank
comes to limelight annually during Masi Magham with thousands of devotees, and once in 12 years as
Mahamagham with millions of pilgrims swarming the tank.
2.5.11 Sri Kalahastieswarar Temple
This temple is situated in Kumbakonam in Thanjavur District. The
main idol is that of Nataraja and his consort Parvati, in the close pose
called Ananda Tandavam (Dance of Bliss). Temple is 300 years old,
built by the King Sarbhoji for the Sankaracharya of Kanchi. The
temple boasts of a tower that is richly carved with the various
manifestations of Lord Shiva.
2.6 Mayiladuthurai
Mayiladuthurai formerly known by its Sanskrit names Myavaram and Mayram is a town in
the Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu. It is the headquarters of the Mayiladuthurai taluk of
Nagapattinam district and is the second-largest town in the district. Mayiladuthurai is situated at
distance of 281 kilometres south-west of Chennai, 70 kilometres north-east of Thanjavur and 50
kilometres north-west of Nagapattinam. It is well connected through rail and road. The nearest airport
is at Thiruchirapally located at a distance of 130 kms. The popular tourist destinations in and around
Mayiladuthurai
are
Mayurnathar
Temple,
Parimala
Ranganathaswamy
Temple,
Gangaikondacholapuram, Thirimananjeri, Vaitheeswaran Koil etc.
13 | P a g e

2.6.1
Mayurnathar Temple
Mayuranathar
Temple
is
famous
shrine,
situated
at Mayiladuthurai, in Nagapattinam District of Tamil Nadu. The

temple is a unique blend of fine sculpture and exquisite
architecture; it is designed with a beautiful tank and features
several gopurams and mandapams. The temple has a nine-tiered
165
ft
high Rajagopuram with
5 prakarams.
There
are
14vimanas with numerous stucco images. Inscriptions from the

Imperial Chola period can be found in the temple. The temple in
this Sthalam is one among the six temples which are compared as equivalent to the temple in
Varanasi.
The
other
shivasthalams
are
Tiruvenkaadu, Chaayaavanam, Tiruvaiyaru,
Tiruvanchiam and Tiruvidaimarudur.
2.6.2
Parimala Ranganatha Temple
The Parimala Ranganathar Temple lies on the banks of the Cauvery River
located at Thiru Indalur about 2 kms from Mayavaram. This temple is one of
the 108 Vaishanava Thirupathis. The temple enshrines the idol of Parimala
Ranganathan, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, in reclining pose with four
hands. The idols of Ganga Devi and Cauvery Devi can be seen near the feet
and head of the main idol respectively.
2.6.3
Gangaikondacholapuram
Rajendra Chola-I (1012-1044 A.D)
son
of the Great
Rajaraja-I, established this temple after his great victorious

march to river Ganges on Northern India. He was originally
called Madurantakan. His empire extended the whole of
southern India to river Thungabathra in the north India. For
administrative and strategic purpose he built another capital
and named Gangaikondacholapuram.
2.6.4
Kalyanasundarar Temple-Thirumananjeri
Among the myriad temples in and around Kumabakonam and Mayavaram, Kalyanasundarar temple at
Thirumananjeri is a famous Prarthana sthala. It is believed that unmarried boy or girl will enter into
wedlock if they propitiate the presiding deity Kalyanasundarar and his divine consort- Kokilambal.
14 | P a g e

2.6.5
Vaitheeswaran Koil
Vaitheeswaran Koil is a popular place of pilgrimage in South India. According to tradition the place is
known as Pullirukkuvelur: Pul-bird-jatayu, Irukku Rig veda, Velmurugan, Oor-sun. All these four
offered their work ship here. The Shiva Temple which enshrines idols of Lord Vaithiyanathan, a form
of Shiva and Goddess Thaiyalnayagi. Vaidyanathaswamy is the
curer of all diseases and it is said to cure 4,480 diseases with
Amritha Sanjeevi and Vilvathadi Mann. This temple is considered
as the seat of Navagraha. The Jadayu Kundam is situated in the
temple which is believed to be the place where Jadayu attained
Moksha. The sanctorum of Angaraka, son of Bhumi, is the prime
attraction of the temple. A special pooja is organised for Selva
Muthu Kumara Swamy during Kiruthigai. The Siddamrita tank in the temple is believed to cure health
and skin disorders.
2.6.6
Utha Vaideshwarar Temple
The Utha Vaideshwarar Temple, also called the 'big temple' is a temple dedicated to Shiva Located at
a Kuttalam located at 15 km from Mayiladuthrai.
In the Tamil month of Karthigai every Sunday, "Urchava
Murthy" from the temple will be taken around the temple
streets till the river Cauvery front and Pooja are performed.
On the last Sunday of the month the celebrations happen in
very grand manner as "Kada Muzhukku" and people from in
and surrounding villages gather to celebrate the occasion.
2.7 Sirkhazi
2.7.1
Sattanathaswamy Temple
Seerkazhi Bhramapureeswarar temple complex houses three temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. One of
these temples is dedicated to Sattainathar, also known as Vatukanathar, and is known as
Sattanathaswamy temple
15 | P a g e

2.7.2
Brahma Tirtha
There are more than 20 Tirthas in the Seerkazhi temple complex. One of the famous Tirthas in this
temple is Brahma Tirtha. It is believed that at this place Lord Brahma offer his prays to Lord Shiva.
Brahapureshwarar temple is located in close proximity to this pond.
2.7.3
Sirkhazi Beach:
Located 8-10 km from Sirkazhi, beach is an unexplored major attraction in the vicinity. The beach has
good access and has high potential for tourism and development.
2.8 Chidambaram
Chidambaram is a fast growing industrial city in eastern part of Tamil Nadu and the taluk
headquarters of the Cuddalore district. It is located 58 km from Pondicherry, 60 km from Karaikal,
and 240 km south of Chennai by rail. It has an average elevation of 3 metres (9 ft). The city is home
to Annamalai University, Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram Temple, port Parangipettai, and many
industries. The city is a major pilgrimage site for Shaivites and Vaishnavites. It is well connected
through rail and road. The nearest airport is at Thiruchirapally at 165 kms and Chennai at 215 kms.
2.8.1
Chidambaram Natarajar Temple
Nataraja Temple is a famous temple enshrining the Nataraja form (Dancing Posture) of Lord Shiva
situated at the heart of the temple town Chidambaram.
The temple town is famed as the land of one of the most
ancient Shiva temples referred in Puranas and
Mythologies. This ancient temple had undergone many
renovations during the reign of Pallava and Chola
Kings. It is said that Aragalur Udaya Iraratevan
Ponparappinan had refurbished most of the parts and
rebuilt some parts on 1213 AD at Chidambaram.
2.8.2
Pichavaram Back waters
Pichavaram is 16 km from Chidambaram and home to the second largest Mangrove forest in Asia,
and it is one of the unique eco-tourism spots in South India. The backwaters, interconnected by the
Vellar and Coleroon river systems, offer abundant scope for water sports such as rowing, kayaking
and canoeing. The Pichavaram forest not only offers waterscape and backwater cruises, but also
another very rare sight - the mangrove forest trees are permanently rooted in a few feet of water.
16 | P a g e

2.8.3
Thillai Kali Amman Temple

Arulmigu Thillai Kali Amman Temple is a revered temple
located to the north of the world famous Nataraja Temple in
Chidambaram. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali Amman
and is one of the known Shakthi (Parvati) temples.
2.8.4
Perumal Lake
Lake Perumal, is located in Cuddalore district of Tamilnadu. It

is
lies
between
north
N and East longitudes
latitudes
79030
11030
to 7904730E.
to
11045
The lake is
bounded by Gadilam river in the north and Coleroon River in the

south. Perumal Lake is an eco-lake and a bird sanctuary is the
second largest fresh water lake in Tamil Nadu next to Veeranam
Lake.
2.8.5
Veranam Lake
Veeranam Lake is located at 14 km from Chidambaram in Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. Lying
within the basin of the great Cauvery River, on one of its northern branches called the Vada-varu
(literally meaning North River), the lake fills up every year during the monsoon season. Originally
called the Veera-narayana-puram Lake, it was built by the Chola prince, Rajadithar, around 1000
years ago. The lake is said to have 74 sluices and legend has it they were the inspiration for the 74
ashrams of Sri Vaishnavism (a branch of Hinduism) that now exist. The lake is one of the water
reservoirs from where water is planned to be supplied to Chennai.
2.8.6
MGR Thittu
MGR Thittu is a coastal village near Perangapettai enroute to Samiyarpettai. The village was totally
demolished during the Tsunami and the affected families have been relocated near Perangapettai.
17 | P a g e

2.8.7
Perangipettai (Backwater front)
Parangipettai, historically called Porto Novo, is a panchayat

town in Cuddalore district in Tamil Nadu. It is located on the
north bank of the mouth of the Vellar River at a distance of
30 km from Cuddalore. It is well known for its glorious history.
Due to its strategic location on the Coromandel Coast, it has
long been a major trading centre.
The Parangipettai backwaters (1 127N Lat., 7947 Long.) are
located about 200 km to the South of Madras. This is an extensive water body connecting two
estuaries, the Vellar estuary in the north and the Coleroon estuary in the south, forming an estuarine
complex. The northern part of the backwater is mainly a broad and deep canal connected to Vellar
estuary, whereas, the southern part is a complex network of small channels and islands supporting
typical mangrove flora and connected to the Coleroon estuary.
2.8.8
Samiyarpettai Beach front:
Samiyarpettai is a village on the Indian east coast about 50 km south of Pondicherry and 210 km
south of Chennai (Madras) located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal.
The coastal village of Samiyarpettai, with a population of
about
1,729,
lies
midway
between
Cuddalore
and
Chidambaram east of Puduchattiram in Tamil Nadu. It is the

largest of the coastal villages in the surrounding. The village
is surrounded by coconut trees, with brooks running
alongside the village. It also hosts a famous Temple "Shri
Pinnai Vazhi Amman Shrine". Its one of the biggest temples alongside the Cuddalore coast.
2.8.9
Virudachalam:
Virudachalam is a town and a municipality and taluk head quarters in Cuddalore district in the state of
Tamil Nadu. The name Virudhachalam is arrived from the two Sanskrit words Vriddham which
means old and Achalam which mean mountain. Vridhagiriswarar Temple is located on the bank of the
river Manimuthar is an ancient Siva temple dedicated to Lord Vrithagiriswarar (Periyamalainathar)
and His consort Virdhambigai (Periyanayaki). The temple is renowned for its architectural marvel
with 72 dance postures of Bharathanatiyam chiseled in the walls of the temple.
18 | P a g e

2.8.10 Thiru Kolanjiappar Temple:

Thiru Kolanjiappar Temple is located in Manavala Nallur at about 2 kms from Virudachalam, on
Virudachalam - Salem road. It is believed that people who give their complaints in life to the
presiding diety Kolanjiappar seek solutions to their
problems in 90 days. The Prasad in this temple is Neem
Oil and is called as "Veppennai Marundu". The Neem
Oil mixed with the Vibhuti is considered as a medicine
that cures many skin diseases, wounds & clots in the
body.
2.9 Tholudur
2.9.1
Tholudhur-Ranjankudi Fort
Tholudur is a village in Mangalur Taluk in the western region of Cuddalore District in Tamil Nadu. It
is located on the National Highway 45 between Tiruchirapalli and Ulunderpet. This place is around 75
km north of Tiruchirapalli and 9 kms from Ranjankudi. It is 228 km far from its State Main City
Chennai.
Ranjankudi Fort is the nearest attraction. It is located 17 km north of Perambalur. The Fort was built
by a Jagirdar under Nawab of Carnatic in 17th century A.D. The Fort walls are built with neatly cut
stone blocks. There are three fortification walls at different heights and the bottom most is the main
rampart. It is oblong on plan with semi circular bastions and encircled by a moat fed by a tank
on the Southern side. The fort contains a palace,
residential buildings, underground chambers, and
mosque and flag mast. The fort was the scene of
the battle of Valikondah between the English
and Mohammad Ali on one side and Chanda
Sahib and the French on the other side in 1751 AD.
This fort is under protection of the Archaeological
survey of India.
19 | P a g e

2.9.2
Wellington Lake:
Tittagudi has a reservoir named "Wellington Reservoir" which is located in a nearby Village
"Keelacheruvai. Keelacheruvai is 5 km from Tittagudi next to T.Elamangalam on the way to
Thozhudhur. Wellington Reservoir is the second largest and biggest reservoir in Tamil Nadu next
to Veeranam Reservoir which is in cuddalore district.
2.9.3
Thiru Mangalam Lake
The only attraction near Perambalur, This lake falls enroute from Tholudhur to Trichy. The lake just
abuts the National Highway -05 and has potential for development.
20 | P a g e

3. Trichy- Tanjavur- Kumbakonam- Mayiladuthurai- VaitheswarankoilSirkhazi- Chidambaram- Virudachala- Tholudur

3.1 Stakeholder Consultations
The priority circuit was discussed and details with respect to the destinations & attractions were
collected. The following officials have been consulted during the process:
S. No
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
Table 2: Stakeholder Consultations

Name and Designation
Location
Shri. Rajesh Lakhoni IAS, Commissioner of Chennai
Tourism
Mr. Pushparaj, Asst.Director
Chennai
Mr. Dandapani, TO
Trichy
Mr. Palaniswamy, ATO
Trichy
Mr. Vijayan, Manager, Jambukeshwarar Temple Trichy
HR&C, Dept. GoTN
Mrs. Kalyani, Joint Commissioner, Sri Rangam Trichy
Temple, HR&C, Dept. GoTN
Mr. Ramamurthy, T.O
Tanjavore
Mr. Venkatachalapathy, ATO
Tanjavore
Inspector, HR&C, Mayiladathurai
Mayiladuthurai
E.O, Sarangapani Temple, Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam
Representatives of the Dharmapuri Matt
Vaitheeswaran Koil & Sirkazhi Koil
Mrs. Tamilarasi, T.O
Chidambaram
Mr. Uday Kumar, Manager, TN Tourism
Chidambaram
Mr. Rajasam
Chidambaram
3.2 Town wise Carrying Capacity Assessment

Attached in Annexure
3.3 Existing Infrastructure Gaps

An assessment of tourism infrastructure between major tourist destinations has been done. Each of the
destinations and their enroute stretches have been studied and assessed to find out onsite and offsite
infra gaps. The destination wise infrastructure gap has been assessed in detail as given below:
3.3.1
Trichy to Tanjavore
Destination Trichy
Inadequate public convenience facility
Poor solid waste management across the city including the tourist sites.
Lack of directional signage
Lack of basic public / tourist infrastructure facilities at the Jambu Nageshwara temple and
Rockford temple
21 | P a g e

Encroachments along the periphery of the temple tank
Destination Tanjavur
Lack of approach road and transportation to the site.
Absence of directional and information Signages in the town indicating the monument
location.
Scarce accommodation for tourists in the town.
Poor maintenance of the monument
Lack of public conveniences, seating places and shops at the site.
Poor approach road to Punnai Nellore Mariyamma temple.
Lack of Budget accommodation in and around Tanjavur for pilgrims visiting the temple
3.3.2
Tanjavur to Kumbakonam
Destination Kumbakonam:
Keeping in view of the importance of the town with many important temples, which have
their own uniqueness being built during the Chola period. It is imperative to restore and
propose sustainable developments at the select temples in the town.
The town lacks direction/information signages and poor solid waste management.
Lack of basic infrastructure facilities for the pilgrims including drinking water facilities and
public convenience.
Temple tanks are poorly maintained and needs immediate restoration.
Lack of recreation facilities for the pilgrims and tourists
22 | P a g e

3.3.3
Kumbakonam to Mayiladuthurai
Destination Mayiladuthurai:
Bathing Ghat at the Cauvery river front, located within the town is poorly maintained.
The town lacks information/direction signage
Inadequate accommodation facilities for the pilgrims and tourists within the town.
Destination Vaitheswarankoil:
Inadequate infrastructure facilities for the pilgrims.
23 | P a g e

3.3.4
Mayiladuthurai to Sirkhazi
Destination Sirkhazi
The road between Mayiladuthurai and Sirkhazi is poorly maintained.
Lack of information/Direction signage
Inadequate development along the beachfront
Temple tank is poorly maintained and needs immediate restoration.
3.3.5
Sirkhazi to Chidambaram
Destination Chidambaram
There are no directional and information Signages in the town that illustrates
the site
location.
Accommodation for tourists is scarce in the town.
Lakes around Chidambaram are poorly maintained and needs immediate restoration and
rejuvenation
Lack of public conveniences
Inadequate Budget accommodation for pilgrims in and around Tanjavur .
Pitchavaram backwaters area needs further developments to attract and prolong the stay of the
tourists (Domestic and International)
Keeping in view the variety of tourists (Recreational/Research/Pilgrim tourists from

Chidambaram/ College Students) to Pitchavaram backwaters, needs of these tourists shall be
met to tap the potentiality of the area
24 | P a g e

3.3.6
Chidambaram to Virudachalam
Destination Virudachalam
Inadequate infrastructure facilities for the pilgrims at the two mains temples in Virudachalam
Accommodation for tourists is scarce in the town.
3.3.7
Virudachalam to Tholudur
Destination Tholudur
Inadequate facilities at Wellington lake and needs immediate improvement
Approach road to the lake is very poor and needs strengthening for easy access to the tourists
Thirumangalam Lake (near Perambalur) is the only recreational spot in Perambalur and
surroundings Need to be improved by providing adequate basic amenities and facilities for
the locals and the tourists.
25 | P a g e

3.4 Projects Identification, Block Cost Estimates, Implementation and Funding

Table below shows the list of identified projects in the circuit
Table 3: Projects Identified in the Circuit
S. No.
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
Projects
Implementing Agency
Mode of
funding
Existing
Schemes
Thiruchirapalli
Public Convenience Facility
Rock Fort Temple

Hindu
Religious
and
Charitable Endowments/
0.20
Tamil
Nadu
Tourism
Development Corporation
(HR&CE/TTDC)
Public
Roof shelter from midpoint up

to top of the temple
0.20
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Seating along the steps
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
2.50
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Development of temple tank

Desilting and strengthening of
temple tank
Landscaping
Lighting along the periphery of
the tank
Development of lower deck in
the temple tank
Srirangam Temple
Development of basic amenities
0.50
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
for pilgrims.
Arulmigu Jambukeswarar Akilandeswari Temple
Beautification and lighting in
Adi
Theertha
Teepakulam
( Temple Tank)
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Construction
of
Budget
Accommodation for devotees
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Construction
convenience
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
TTDC
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Face lifting the Thousand Pillar

Hall
Construction of Pilgrims rest
shed
of
Public
Tourist Reception Centre

Improvement of Parking areapavement
0.20
CFA
CFA
Covered under
ADB funding
CFA
Development of Childrens park
in 0.2 acre
0.30
TTDC
Public
26 | P a g e

S. No.
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
Projects
Implementing Agency
Mode of
funding
Landscaping and lighting on

either side of eastern entrance
0.20
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Renovation
Mandapam
0.50
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.05
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
2.00
TTDC
PPP
Solid
Waste
facility
of
Kalyan
Management
Light show at 1000 pillar

Mandapam Jambukushwarar
temple
Existing
Schemes
St. Lourds Church

Development
of
Information Centre
Tourist
0.30
Improvement of Bathing Ghat

Facility
TTDC
Public
CFA
Bathing Ghat (Amma Mandapam)

HR&CE/TTDC
1.00
Public
CFA
0.20
Development of Steps
0.50
Provision of
Illumination
Lighting
Development
of
Changing Kiosks
and
Dress
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
0.50
Public
CFA
HR&CE/TTDC
0.20
Development of Landscape
0.75
SUB TOTAL
10.20
2.0
Public
TTDC
Public
Tanjavur
Sri Brihadeeshwara Temple & Fort (Temple under ASI Control)
Development of Park
1.00
TTDC
Public
Sound and Light Show
2.00
TTDC
PPP
Sri Subramaniya Temple

0.20
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Tourist Reception Centre
0.30
TTDC
Public
Solid
Waste
Facility
0.05
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Management
CFA
Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple

Development of temple tank
Landscaping
Lighting along the front side of
the tank
Development of lower deck in
the temple tank
Development of Sculpture Park
in 9145 sft.
SUB TOTAL
3
1.50
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
CFA
2.50
TTDC
PPP
7.55
Kumbakonam
27 | P a g e

S. No.
Indicative
Mode of Existing
Implementing Agency
Cost (in Cr.)
funding
Schemes
Arulmigu Kasi Viswanatha Swamy Temple Maha Maha Tank, Kumbakonam
Projects
Construction of waiting shed

Provision of Drinking Water
Facility
Construction
of
Public
Convenience facility
Providing Parapet Wall around
the Mahamagam Tank (with 30
cm height)
Providing
sign
board
arrangement in the vicinity
0.30
HR&CE /TTDC
Public
0.04
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.12
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.03
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.05
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
Creation of park at Sri Nagar

0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
colony
Sri Kalahastieswarar Temple, Kumbakonam (Kasi Viswanath Temple)
Facility
Public Convenience facility
Illumination facilities
Providing Sign Board
0.05
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.02
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.01
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.002
TTDC
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
Sri Chakrapani Swami Temple, Kumbakonam

Construction of pilgrims waiting
shed
0.20
HR&CE/TTDC
Public

Facility
0.05
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.02
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
0.002
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Providing sign board
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
Aadi Kumbheswaraswamy Temple, Kumbakonam

Construction of Dormitory (30
rooms)
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Construction of RCC Pathway
Mandapam
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Providing drainage at Outer

Praharam
Public
Covered under
ADB funding
HR&CE/TTDC
Renovation
Mandapam
of
Wooden
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Providing Cement Concrete

Platform at Vannimaram
Public
28 | P a g e

S. No.
Projects
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
HR&CE/TTDC

Facilities
HR&CE/TTDC
Renovation of Temple tank
HR&CE/TTDC
Construction of waiting shed
Implementing Agency
Arulmigu Ramaswamy Temple, Kumbakonam

HR&CE/TTDC
0.05
Mode of
funding
Existing
Schemes
Public
Public
Public
Public
HR&CE /TTDC
Facility
Public Convenience Facilities
0.09
0.06
0.03
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Providing
barricading
arrangement with stainless steel
around the ancient painting of
Ramayana Story
0.15
Public
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
HR&CE/TTDC
0.002
Public
Arulmigu Kampattaviswanatha Swamy Temple

HR&CE/TTDC
Provision of Drinking water
0.085
Public
facility
HR&CE/TTDC
0.06
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Construction of cement concrete
0.05
Public
pavement all around the outer
platform
HR&CE/TTDC
0.02
Public
Illumination Facilities
HR&CE/TTDC
0.05
Public
Providing information board
Arulmigu Periyanayagi Sametha Nageswaraswamy temple, Kumbakonam
HR&CE/TTDC
Construction of marriage hall
0.50
Public
cum waiting hall
HR&CE/TTDC
0.12
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Renovation and illumination of

wooden mandapam
0.05
Provision of Drinking water

facility
0.03
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
Strengthening of approach road
(CC pavement) at Nageswaran
Temple north, opposite and
0.30
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
CFA (TTDC
submitted
report during
2011-12 to GoI
seeking
funding under
Destination
Development
Scheme)
Public
29 | P a g e

S. No.
Projects
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
Implementing Agency
Mode of
funding
Existing
Schemes
cross lanes
HR&CE/TTDC
Improvement of Seik Kulam
0. 25
Public
HR&CE/TTDC
0.002
Public
Arulmigu Sarangapani Swamy Temple, Kumbakonam

HR&CE/TTDC
Construction of car parking in
ground floor, Dormitory block
Public
in first floor and rooms in
second floor
Construction
of
Stone
HR&CE/TTDC
Mandapam in between East
Public
Rajagopuram to Kodi Mara
Mandapam
HR&CE/TTDC
Paving cut stone flooring in
Public
between East Rajagopuram to
Kodi Mara Mandapam
HR&CE/TTDC
Facilities by construction of
Public
10000 Lts OHT, Pump Room,
Borewell with WTP
HR&CE/TTDC
Solid
Waste
Management
Public
Facility
SUB TOTAL
2.643
4.0
Mayiladuthurai
Development of Pathways /
Landscaping / Lighting
1.50
Mandapam Renovation
1.00
Temple Tank Development
1.50
Development of Pathways /
Landscaping / Lighting
Mandapam Renovation
Covered under
ADB funding
Mayurnathar Temple
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
Utha Vaideshwarar Temple

HR&CE/TTDC
1.50
1.00
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Public
CFA
Public
Public
Public
CFA
HR&CE/TTDC
Temple Tank Development

(kms -1.2 km)
Approach street lighting
Development of rooms in 2.5
acres of land
1.50
Public
Parimala Rangnatha Temple

HR&CE/TTDC
2.00
Public
1.00
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
CFA
HR&CE/TTDC
0.50
Public
30 | P a g e

Projects
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
Development of Temple Tank
1.00
SUB TOTAL
12.50
S. No.
5.0
Provision of Signage
Lighting and Illumination
Mode of
funding
Existing
Schemes
Public
Vaitheeswaran Koil
1.00
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Public
CFA
HR&CE/TTDC
0.50
SUB TOTAL
2.00
6.0
Pavement (interlocking paver

blocks)
HR&CE/TTDC
Vaithyanatha Swamy Temple

HR&CE/TTDC
0.50
Temple Tank Strengthening

and Barricading

Cloak room
Lighting
Rest shed
Implementing Agency
Public
Sirkazhi
Sattanatha Swamy Temple
HR&CE/TTDC
0.15
0.20
0.50
0.20
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
0.25
Public
Public
Public
Public
CFA
Public
Sirkazhi Beach
Beach Front Development

Provision of Beach Walks
Restaurant / Kiosks / Food
Court
Public Convenience
Landscaping and Lighting
Amphi Theatre (Music/Cultural
Performances/
Laser/Light
shows with buffer plantation
Food Courts / Restaurants
1.00
0.50
0.20
0.50
TTDC
TTDC
TTDC
TTDC
Public
CFA
Public
GoTN
Public
CFA
CFA
Public
TTDC
15.00
PPP
Beach Resorts
SUB TOTAL
18.50
6.0
Chidambaram
Pichavaram Backwaters

including
Lighting
/
Landscaping (km)
Beautification of Entry Gate
Pavement / Parking
Landscaping
with
water
cascading in the centre
Development of Deck / Boating
Area
1.25
TTDC
Public
0.10
0.20
TTDC
TTDC
Public
Public
0.30
TTDC
Public
0.45
TTDC
Public
CFA
31 | P a g e

S. No.
Projects
Development of boating jetty

Provision of boats
Development of board walk
mangroves island (Proposal
under consideration by forest
department)
Development of two watch
towers.
Resort
Development
at
Pichavaram
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
0.50
0.30
TTDC
TTDC
Mode of
funding
Public
Public
1.00
TTDC
Public
0.80
TTDC
Public
15.00
TTDC
PPP
Implementing Agency
Existing
Schemes
Veranam Lake
Strengthening of Lake Bund
500 meters
Development
of
Decks
Multilevel
Landscaping and Illumination
Development of Food Courts /
Kiosks
Development of boating facility
Seating area
Development of Amusement
Park at Veranam Lake
1.50
0.75
TTDC
TTDC
Public
Public
CFA
CFA
TTDC
TTDC
Public
CFA
Public
GoTN
0.30
0.15
0.15
TTDC
TTDC
TTDC
Public
Public
Public
25.00
TTDC
PPP
CFA
CFA
CFA
CFA
0.50
0.45
MGR Thittu
and lighting (Km)
Development of parking area
near MGR statue
Development of boating jetty
At the beach boating jetty
Beach front development
Redevelopment of tourism land
2 to 2.5 acres
Development of Park with
Childrens Play Area
Development of Food Kiosks
Pathways and Lighting
Renovation of Existing Boating
Jetty
0.75
TTDC
Public
0.20
TTDC
Public
0.35
0.40
1.00
TTDC
TTDC
TTDC
Perangipettai
Public
Public
Public
1.00
TTDC
Public
CFA
0.50
0.50
TTDC
TTDC
Public
Public
0.25
TTDC
Public
GoTN
CFA
CFA
CFA
Samiyarpettai
Development of Approach Road
(Kms)
Pathways upto Beachfront
Landscaping and Lighting along
the Pathway
Beach Walk
SUB TOTAL
7.0
Development of Entrance Porch
1.00
TTDC
Public
0.30
TTDC
Public
0.45
TTDC
Public
0.25
55.65
TTDC
Public
Virudachalam
Virdagirishwarar Temple
HR&CE/TTDC
0.02
Public
CFA
CFA
32 | P a g e

S. No.
Projects
Pavements
Development of Parking lot
opposite to the main entrance
SUB TOTAL
8.0
Indicative
Cost (in Cr.)
0.02
0.15
Implementing Agency
HR&CE/TTDC
HR&CE/TTDC
Mode of
funding
Public
Public
0.19
Tholudur
Wellington Lake
TTDC
TTDC
Development of Boating facility

0.25
Public
Landscaping and Lighting,
0.35
Public
Illumination
TTDC
Food Courts/Kiosks
0.30
Public
TTDC
Decks
0.20
Public
TTDC
Seating area Platforms
0.10
Public
SUB TOTAL
1.2
Other Attractions (Basic Tourist Infrastructure facilities)
0.10
TTDC
Royal Palace & Fort, Tanjavur
Public
Someshwarar
Temple,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Kumbakonam
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Darasuram, Kumbakonam
Public
Swamimalai
Temple,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Kumbakonam
Gangaikondacholapuram,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Mayiladuthurai
Kalyanasundar
Temple,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Mayiladuthurai
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Natrajar Temple, Chidambaram
Public
Thillai Kali Amman Temple,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Chidambaram
0.10
TTDC
Perumal Lake, Chidambaram
Public
Thiru Kolanjiyappar Temple,
0.10
HR&CE/TTDC
Public
Virudhachalam
0.10
TTDC
Rajannakundi Fort, Tholudur
Public
Thiru
Mangalam
Lake,
0.10
TTDC
Public
Tholudur
Tholudur Rajankondi Fort
0.10
TTDC
Public
SUB TOTAL
TOTAL (Rs. Cr.)
Existing
Schemes
CFA
CFA
GoTN
CFA
CFA
CFA
1.3
111.733
Proposed Breakup of Investments:
Public Sector
: Rs. 50.233 Cr.
Public Private Partnership
: Rs. 61.50 Cr.
33 | P a g e

3.5 PPP Bifurcation of the Identified Projects

Table 4: PPP Bifurcation of the Identified Projects
S. No.
Projects
Indicativ
e Cost (in
Cr.)
Sound and Light Show at
Tanjavur
2.0
Brihadeeshwar Temple
Sculpture Theme Park at
2.5
Punnainellu, Mariamma Temple,
Tanjavur
15.00
Sirkazhi Beach Amphi Theatre (Music/Cultural
Performances/ Laser/Light
shows with buffer plantation
Food Courts / Restaurants
Beach Resorts
Trichy
Pitchavaram
Chidambaram
Light show at 1000 pillar

Mandapam Jambukushwarar
temple
Resort Development
Development of Amusement
Park at Veranam Lake
Mode of
funding
Land Availability
status
PPP
PPP
Land available with

HR&C
PPP
Land available
PPP
15.00
PPP
25.00
PPP
1.0 acre of land is

available with Forest
Dept.
3 acres of land is
available with
Tourism Dept.
2.00
3.6 Estimated Employment Generation

The proposed investments at the tourist destinations and the circuits are expected to generate
employment the figures of which have been estimated on a district level because of the direct and
indirect nature of employment generation from these investments. To estimate the number of
employment generated an investment multiplier of 78 jobs per million investments is taken.
Table 5: Estimated Employment Generation
Circuit
TrichyTanjavurKumbakonamMayiladuthuraiVaitheswarankoil- Sirkhazi- Chidambaram- Virudachala- Tholudur
Investment (Rs.
Cr.)
Employment
Generated
111.733
87149
34 | P a g e

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Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Interim Report Priority Circuit

Identification of Tourism Circuits across

Interim Report-Priority Circuit

Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

2nd Floor, Ambience Corporate Tower,

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Assignment Brief .................................................................................................................... 1

Objectives of the Study ........................................................................................................... 1

Key Findings of the Report ..................................................................................................... 1

Brief Profile of the Tourism Circuit ................................................................................................ 3

Description of the Circuit ........................................................................................................ 3

Destinations in the Priority Circuit ......................................................................................... 4

Trichy District ......................................................................................................................... 6

3. Trichy- Tanjavur- Kumbakonam- Mayiladuthurai- Vaitheswarankoil- Sirkhazi- ChidambaramVirudachala- Tholudur .......................................................................................................................... 21

Town wise Carrying Capacity Assessment ........................................................................... 21

Existing Infrastructure Gaps ................................................................................................. 21

Projects Identification, Block Cost Estimates, Implementation and Funding....................... 26

PPP Bifurcation of the Identified Projects ............................................................................ 34

Estimated Employment Generation ...................................................................................... 34

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

1.2 Objectives of the Study

1.3 Key Findings of the Report

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

(Recreational/Research/Pilgrim tourists from Chidambaram/ College Students) to Chidambaram and

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

2. Brief Profile of the Tourism Circuit

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

2.2 Destinations in the Priority Circuit

Chidambaram- Virudachala- Tholudur

Rock Fort Temple

Group of three temples on the geological rock

Built by Cholas 1800 years ago

Srirangam, one of the important Vaishnavite

Bathing Ghat (near

Listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site built

Located at about 5 km from Kumbakonam, a

The presiding deity Chakrapani has third eye on

Unique Idol of Lord Rama and his consort Sita

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

The presiding deity of Lord Balaji resembles

Famous for Kalyanasundarar temple

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Famous temple of Lord Muruga

Constructed during the British period, The

2.3 Trichy District

Rock Fort Temple:

Srirangam. Tiruchirappalli is considered to be the 6th

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Famous Shiva Temple in Trichy, built by Cholas around 1800 years

Sri Rangam Temple:

St. Lourds Church:

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Sri Brihadeshwara Temple and Fort:

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

Royal Palace Museum:

Sri Subramanya Temple:

Identification of Tourist Circuits across India, Tamil Nadu

even in the 2nd century BC. It is said that Parantaka Chola I

Punnai Nallur Mariamman Temple:

Adi Kumbeswar Temple:

Adi Kumbeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord