About Us
Tenkasi is a scenic and culturally rich town located in the southern part of Tamil Nadu. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and peaceful environment, Tenkasi is surrounded by the majestic Western Ghats, lush green landscapes, and flowing rivers. The town offers a perfect blend of nature, tradition, and modern development, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and locals.Tenkasi is famous for its pleasant climate, welcoming atmosphere, and unique local culture. The town is rapidly growing with improved infrastructure, educational institutions, shopping areas, hospitals, and entertainment options, making it a comfortable place for residents and visitors. It is also well-connected by road and rail, allowing easy access from nearby cities and districts.
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What Famous In Tenkasi
Courtallam Waterfalls
Kasi Viswanathar Temple
Western Ghats
Traditional Food
Adventure Spots
Handicrafts Products
Visit the most Famous Temples of Tenkasi
Kasi Viswanathar Temple
Ulagamman Temple
Courtallanathar Temple
Thirukuttralanathar Temple
Sankarankovil Sankara Narayana Temple
History of Tenkasi
The Pandya Era (13th - 16th Century)
The Founding of “Southern Kasi”
Etymology: The name Tenkasi literally means “South Kasi” (Then meaning South, and Kasi referring to the holy city of Varanasi/Kashi in North India).
Founder: The city was established by the Pandya King Parakrama Pandyan during the early 13th century (with some inscriptions dating his rule in the region between 1428 and 1460 CE).
The Nayak and Post-Pandya Period
Regional Control: During the 16th century, Tenkasi was part of the larger Madurai region.
Patronage: After the Madurai Nayaks became independent from the Vijayanagar Empire in 1559 CE, they and other subsequent rulers continued to patronize the Kasi Viswanathar Temple, adding various architectural features, particularly in the pillared halls (Mandapams).mention King Vira Pandyan making gifts to the temple, confirming its early significance.
The Modern Era and Infrastructure
Growth as a Town: Over the centuries, Tenkasi evolved into an agricultural town, supported by the Chittar and Anumanadhi rivers and its proximity to the Western Ghats. The famous Courtallam waterfalls (often called the “Spa of South India”) greatly contributed to the region’s cultural and tourist identity.
Architectural Heritage: While the Kasi Viswanathar Temple’s original structure dates back to the Pandyas, its iconic 180-foot Rajagopuram (gateway tower) was not completed until 1990, replacing a flat tower (Motai Gopuram) that had been ruined by a fire in 1824.
Formation of Tenkasi District
Bifurcation: Historically, Tenkasi was a major town within the much larger Tirunelveli district.
New District: The Government of Tamil Nadu announced the creation of the Tenkasi District on July 18, 2019, and it was officially inaugurated on November 22, 2019, becoming the 33rd district of Tamil Nadu.
Boundaries: The new district was carved out by splitting 8 Taluks (sub-districts) from Tirunelveli, and it shares its western border with the state of Kerala.
Tenkasi Demographics (2011 Census)
Total Population
1,407,627
Area
2,916.13 Sq. Km
Population Density
483 per Sq. Km