The sixth major urban hub within the state of Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli is an ancient town on the southern-most tip of India, adjacent to the district of Kanyakumari. This city has a rich cultural heritage spanning many eras, from the classical period in Southern India to the medieval to colonial period. All the different influences on this city and the region have shaped its culture over millennia. One of the major attractions of this city is the Nellaiappar Temple, which is considered to be an important holy site for Hindus. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and also Parvati, who is worshipped here in the form of Kanthimathi Amman. There are several festivals held here throughout the year which is meant to celebrate various events in the Hindu calendar. Tirunelveli also has multiple places of interest to explore such as hills, tiger reserves, and bird sanctuaries.
Best Time to Visit Tirunelveli
October to the middle of February is usually the best time to visit the city as temperatures are pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing in Tirunelveli. Tirunelveli is in the southern tip of India and it is in the rain shadow region created by the Agasthiyamalai hills. Thus, this city loses out on the early south-west monsoons during June, giving it a hot and humid weather throughout the year. Rains occur when the north-west monsoon comes in around October and temperatures go down quite a bit.
Weather Of Tirunelveli
Tirunelveli has hot weather throughout the year with the temperatures lowering marginally during the winter months of October to mid-February. The hills of Agasthiyamalai block this city from the initial monsoons of June. Monsoons occur during October and November with the returning north-west winds. Average precipitation during this time is around 170 mm. Temperatures range in the mid-30s for highs during this time and minimums stay around 22-23°C. Summers tend to be hotter with average temperature being around 35°C and the record high having touched 41°C. Minimum averages hover around 26°C.
How to Reach Tirunelveli?
By Air : The nearest airport by distance is the Tuticorin airport which is situated about 15 km away towards the city of Thoothukudi or Tuticorin.
By Rail : Tirunelveli is very well connected by train with major cities. Daily trains to local hubs such as Chennai or Bangalore service this town and hence tourists can avail these to come here.
By Road : Tirunelveli is very well connected by bus to many of the larger as well as smaller cities within the region. The main bus depot of the city is located in Veinthankulam, on the outskirts of Tirunelveli. TNSTC or the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation runs its services from here to smaller villages and towns to nearby areas and districts.