I’ve visited Tuticorin, also known as Thoothukudi, many times since I was a kid. It’s my parents’ native place, and most of our relatives reside there. However, during my early visits, I didn’t pay much attention to its charm. Recently, after almost seven years, I revisited and explored the area with fresh eyes. This time, I realized how precious and vibrant Tuticorin is, especially for a newcomer. Here are five reasons why Tuticorin should be on every traveler’s list.

Top 5 Resons To Visit Tuticorin

1. A Land With So Much History:

Tuticorin, often referred to as the “Pearl City,” is a place where history comes alive. Whether you’re a history buff or someone who barely remembers their history lessons, this town will captivate you. Tuticorin is the birthplace of freedom fighters like Subramaniya Bharathiyar and V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, whose legacy echoes in the streets and monuments. A visit to Maniyatchi, where they once walked, is a journey through time.

But history in Tuticorin isn’t confined to textbooks or museums. Every locality has its story, told through the art and architecture that still stands. The grand churches and cathedrals, remnants of colonial times, light up during festivals, drawing the entire community together. As you wander the streets, you’ll notice temples and traditional houses showcasing ancient architectural styles, standing resiliently amidst modern constructions. For architecture and street photography enthusiasts, Tuticorin is a treasure trove of visual delights.

2. Tuticorin: People who loves and respect Nature:

The moment you approach Tuticorin, whether by air or train, the scenery transforms into a lush green landscape that thrives amidst slow urbanization. Tuticorin is a haven for nature lovers, especially bird watchers. The town is home to an array of bird species, and what struck me most was the trust these birds have in humans. House sparrows, a rarity in Chennai, sit fearlessly next to you, and peacocks casually roam the streets. This harmonious coexistence between humans and birds is something I’ve rarely seen elsewhere.

Tuticorin’s rural villages are another aspect of its natural beauty. These villages, with their fields, ponds (known as Kamma), and gardens, offer a glimpse into a way of life that is deeply connected to nature. The locals live closely with their domesticated animals, treating them with love and care. You’ll often find Indian breed dogs like Chippiparai and Kanni, which may seem intimidating at first but are incredibly affectionate once you get to know them.

Nature’s reach in Tuticorin extends to the sea, with beaches that are perfect for unwinding, especially in the evenings when families and friends gather to enjoy the sunset. My favorite spot is Hare Island, where the serene views and vibrant colors create a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.

3. A Place for Food Lovers:

Tuticorin always reminds me of Parotta, Poori, Coconut chutney and Macaroons. Tuticorin is synonymous with delicious food. The town is famous for its Parotta, though Virudhunagar might argue otherwise. Every visit to Tuticorin involves at least one indulgence in Parotta, and it’s not just a family tradition but a culinary delight that never disappoints. Even with my sensitive digestive system, I’ve never had any issues, thanks to the cleanliness maintained by the locals.

From tea shops to street-side stalls, hygiene is paramount in Tuticorin. The people are meticulous, starting their day with prayers and maintaining cleanliness in their shops, which reassures you as you sample their cuisine. The food here is also incredibly affordable, without compromising on quality or quantity.

I have always been happy with my food experience at Tuticorin. I still remember the taste of Parotta and Kaadai gravy I had there. Whether the flavour or aroma or texture, everything is on point. Don’t just stick with just parotta the entire time though. Visit villages during festivals, you can experience the typical gramathu samayal with Rice and Kari Kulambu, Fish Kulambu, Biryani and what not. If you find the right spot, you can experience a feast beyond your expectation. I also love the poori and coconut chutney combo, the avials and porials and variety of vathals sourced from fresh local vegetables. The vegetarian restaurants over there always do justice to the taste and don’t go short in competition.

Tuticorin’s food scene doesn’t end with traditional dishes. The town is also known for its bakeries, with Macaroons being the crown jewel. The cakes and buns here have a unique flavor that is hard to replicate elsewhere, making Tuticorin a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

4. Warmth and Hospitality of Tuticorin’s People

The most loveable thing about people in Tuticorin is they are equally kind and hotheads. They are so kind to strangers and guests. We usually do not easily let ourselves trust people and communicate with strangers in a new place. But, once you step into Tuticorin, everything will eventually change. They make you so comfortable.

Wherever you go. Shop? Restaurant? Village?. People don’t care, they would just talk from their mind while showing kindness. When you go there as a guest, you will always be treated with kindness. For me, I find it so warm the way people, especially strangers talked with me. I went to Hotel Kani where the in-charge was so engaging, funny and hospitable that made us experience something more than just-food. The strong impact Tuticorin people had on me is that people there don’t require training to be hospitable. They are so natural in this.
Growing in Chennai, I have seen auto drivers going mad when we bargain. I was surprised by a bargain my dad had with an auto driver in Tuticorin. Never have I ever seen a smooth bargain like that in my life. When I think about it now, it doesn’t even felt like a bargain. Maybe it is just that one person. But this happened more than once.

So, if you visit Tuticorin, I am not saying you can blindly trust everyone. What I am trying to say is, even a person who doesn’t want to engage will be dragged into a conversation

5. Tuticorin: The Gateway to Southern Adventures

Tuticorin’s central location makes it a perfect base for exploring southern Tamil Nadu. From here, you can easily access Thiruchendur, Manapad, Tirunelveli, Madurai, Kanyakumari, Kayalpattinam, and Tenkasi. The town’s well-connected roadways open up a world of possibilities for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, foodie, or just someone looking for a warm and welcoming place to visit, Tuticorin has something to offer. However, plan your trip carefully, considering the weather—rainy seasons can cause water stagnation, and summer can be harsh. But with the right timing, Tuticorin promises a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Make sure to visit Tuticorin at least once and experience its charm and warmth for yourself. And if you’ve already been there, I’d love to hear about your experience.

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