TAMIL NADU

Tamil Nadu, a South Indian state, is famed for its Dravidian-style Hindu temples. In Madurai, Meenakshi Amman Temple has high ‘gopuram’ towers ornamented with colourful figures. On Pamban Island, Ramanathaswamy Temple is a pilgrimage site. The town of Kanyakumari, at India’s southernmost tip, is the site of ritual sunrises. Capital Chennai is known for beaches and landmarks including 1644 colonial Fort St. George.

Area: 130,060 km²
Capital: Chennai
Population: 67.86 million (2012)
Official flower: Gloriosa superba
Colleges and Universities: Anna University, Periyar University, more.