Nagercoil, a quiet and peaceful town in the state of Tamil Nadu lies very close to Kanyakumari and is located near the tip of the Indian Peninsula and is the farthest town in the south to be situated on the Indian mainland. This sleepy South Indian town is a popular destination among tourists because, it has been blessed abundantly by Mother Nature, and thus has many beautiful and scenic spots that are alluring to the visitors coming from concrete jungles.
According to legends, the place derives its name from the Nagaraja Temple (Temple of Serpent King) that is located in the heart of the town. This temple has been an important place of worship for the Hindus from all over the state. The temple also attracts thousands of tourists each year. Some people believe that on the grounds of the temple once stood a Jain temple.
People of the town are very proud of their rich historical past that is steeped in glory and bravery. History states that the town was part of the Travancore state for almost 10 years after India gained its Independence in 1947. It was only in 1956 that Nagercoil, along with Kanyakumari District, became a part of the state of Tamil Nadu. During those days, the town was known as Nanjilnadu.
The town has seen rulers belonging to different dynasties. The Cheras, the Cholas and the Pandyas have all known to rule over the town of Nagercoil. The kingdoms fought to gain control of this area, since it was considered to be a very fertile land and thus ideal for farming and irrigation.
Tourist Places in Nagercoil
Today, Nagercoil is an important tourist destination in the state of Tamil Nadu because of its scenic surroundings. The place is situated between the Arabian Sea on one side and the Western Ghats on the other side. The rolling hills, the softly padded grass and the emerald blue sea is sure to provide thrill to first-time visitors. Many tourists from all over the country and abroad make it a point to visit Nagercoil if they are in Kanyakumari or nearby. The town has gained importance as a tourist destination mainly due to its scenic locales and natural beauty. The place is specifically famous for its scenic Olakaruvi Waterfalls. What’s more.
The people of the town are peace-loving and simple folks who treat visitors with love and affection. The town is a very safe tourist destination and hardly any crime is reported. Even petty matters are solved by the quarreling parties themselves without going to the authorities and without getting violent.
The town also has plantation fields of cloves and cardamom, thanks to the British who settled in the area during pre-independence times. Many descendants of the British still own some of the plantations. The fragrance of cardamoms hit you as soon as you enter the plantation area.
Because of its interesting location, Nagercoil has the perfect amalgamation of the cultures of western and eastern coasts. In fact, the town is also the intersection point of the eastern and western railways. One line is through Kerala and lies on the Konkon route. The other line is through Tamil Nadu and lies on Thirunelveli route.
Best Time to Visit Nagercoil
The best time to visit Nagercoil is during the month og Oct to Feb.
How to Reach Nagercoil?
By Air : The nearest airport is at Trivandrum located at a distance of about 100-km from Nagercoil. It is directly connected with Bangalore, Mumbai, Cochin, Delhi, Goa, and Chennai by regular flights.
By Rail : Kanyakumari is the nearest railway station, which is well connected by train services with all the places in India.
By Road : Nagercoil is well connected by road with the neighboring towns and cities. For local transportation, taxis and auto rickshaws are available.