Tourism in Nagapattinam plays a vital economic role for the town of Nagapattinam. Nagapattinam is the place of the historical tourist importance like Nagore, Velankanni, Sikkal, Kodiyakkarai, Vedaranyam, Mannargudi and Tharangambadi. Nagore Durgah Nagore Durgah was built in the medieval period of 16th century. It is one of the major landmarks of Nagore Durgah. It is a minaret located in Nagore. It is one of the important pilgrimage centres of the town. Kanduri festival is a 14 days festival celebrated annually for the Saint Hajrath Shahul Hamid (1490-1579), after whom the minaret was built. The festival is celebrated in commemoration of the anniversary of the Saint's death, and pilgrims from various religions participate in the rituals and rites. Kanduri festival is also seen as a sacred exchange between Hindus community and Muslim community expressing solidarity of mixed faith in the region. It is believed that 60 percent of the shrines were built by Hindus and historically the minaret garners lot of domestic and international visitors. Kayarohanaswami Temple Kayarohanaswami Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has been in existence from the 6th century and has been revered by the verses of Tevaram, the 7th-8th century Shaiva canonical work by Appar, Campantar and Sundarar. Kayarohanaswami Temple is one of the seven temples of the Thyagaraja cult, classified as Saptha Vidangam, where the presiding deity Thyagaraja is believed to portray different dance styles. The temple is also known for the shrine of Neelayadakshi, the consort of Kayarohanaswami. Soundararajaperumal Temple Soundararajaperumal temple is another ancient Hindu shrine in Nagapattinam. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the "Divya Desams", the 108 temples of Lord Vishnu revered in Nalayira Divya Prabandham by Thirumangai Azhwar, one of the 12 poet saints called Azhwars belonging to the 6th-9th century. Velankanni Church Velankanni Church is a pilgrimage centre located in 10 kilometres from Nagapattinam. This Roman Catholic Church was built during the 17th century. The pilgrimage to the Basilica is common during September when people of many faiths, especially Hindus, Muslims and Christians of all denominations visit the Basilica. |