Thaipusam, Palani
Lakhs of pilgrims walk to the Murugan hill temple at Palani for Thai Poosam on 22 January 2027, many carrying kavadis.
Jan 22, 2027
Palani, Tamil Nadu
About Tamil Nadu
Overview
The land of temples and traditions, Tamil Nadu is home to magnificent Dravidian architecture, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Explore grand temples of Madurai and Thanjavur, relax on beaches of Chennai and Mahabalipuram, experience vibrant Tamil culture, witness classical dance performances, and savor delicious South Indian cuisine.
Cities in Tamil Nadu
27 places to explore
Upcoming events in Tamil Nadu
Festivals and celebrations across the state
Karthigai Deepam, Tiruvannamalai
The Maha Deepam is lit on top of Arunachala hill at about 6 pm on 24 November 2026, closing the ten day festival at the Arunachaleswarar temple.
Nov 24, 2026
Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu
Isha Mahashivratri
Isha Mahashivratri is a powerful all-night celebration held at the Isha Yoga Center to mark the sacred night of Lord Shiva. The event includes guided meditations, chanting, cultural performances, and moments of deep silence, creating a unique blend of spirituality and music. Celebrated by thousands of devotees, it is a night dedicated to inner transformation, devotion, and awareness.
Mar 06, 2027
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Pongal
Pongal is a major harvest festival celebrated mainly in Tamil Nadu and parts of South India. It is observed in mid-January to thank the Sun God for agricultural abundance. The festival spans four days - Bhogi, Thai Pongal, Mattu Pongal, and Kaanum Pongal. Rice is boiled with milk and jaggery to prepare the traditional dish called Pongal. Homes are decorated with colorful kolams made from rice flour. Cattle are honored and adorned during Mattu Pongal. Pongal celebrates farmers, nature, and prosperity. It symbolizes gratitude, renewal, and togetherness.
Jan 14–17, 2027
Tamil Nadu
Madras Music Season
The Madras Music Festival, held annually during the **Margazhi season** (mid-December to mid-January), is one of India’s largest and oldest classical arts festivals. Established in 1927, it brings together thousands of Carnatic musicians, vocalists, instrumentalists, and Bharatanatyam dancers across numerous sabhas (cultural halls) in Chennai. The city comes alive with daily kutcheris (concerts), lecture-demonstrations, dance recitals, and thematic presentations by both renowned maestros and emerging talents. The festival celebrates the rich heritage of Carnatic music through intricate ragas, kritis, and improvisational styles like alapana and niraval. Sabha canteens add a cultural flavour with traditional South Indian dishes that are as anticipated as the performances. The event attracts global audiences, scholars, and art enthusiasts who gather to experience Chennai’s deep-rooted classical culture.
Dec 15, 2026–Jan 01, 2027
Chennai, Tamil Nadu