Thoothukudi
How to Reach
Air
The Tuticorin Airport is at Vagaikulam, 14 km (9 mile) from the heart of the city.
Train
Thoothukudi Railway station comes under Southern Railway Division, connected with Chennai, Mysore, Coimbatore, okha and Tirunelveli.
Road
The major roads within the city are NH7A connecting Palayamkottai, Ettayapuram road (also called Madurai road). National Highway 45B (India) connecting Ramanathapuram road or East Coast Road, Thiruchendur road. Thoothukudi being a harbour city has lot of container truck transport is also available.
I Square Taxi in Thoothukudi
Explore the Rich History of Thoothukudi with I Square Taxi
At I Square Taxi, we offer One-way Drop Taxi, Drop Taxi, and Round Trip services tailored for customers interested in Outstation Taxi, Drop Taxi, Intercity Taxi, and One-way Taxi options for their journeys.
History of Thoothukudi
Historically referred to as the “Pearl City” due to its thriving pearl fishery, Thoothukudi boasts a captivating past. Between the 7th and 9th centuries, it was part of the Pandian Kingdom and later came under Chola rule from the 9th to the 12th century. The establishment of Thoothukudi as a maritime port attracted explorers, adventurers, and eventually colonizers. The Portuguese were the first to settle in Thoothukudi in 1532, followed by the Dutch in 1658. The English seized control from the Dutch in 1782, with the East India Company asserting dominance that same year.
On October 20, 1986, Thoothukudi was established as a new district, carved from the former Tirunelveli district, and named after the renowned national leader V.O. Chidambaranar, who was instrumental in the Swadeshi Movement in southern India. In 1997, similar to other districts in Tamil Nadu, it was renamed after its headquarters, Thoothukudi.
In the early 20th century, Thoothukudi became a stronghold of the freedom struggle. It was here that the illustrious patriot V.O. Chidambaram founded the first Swadesi Stream Navigation Company, launching the first steamer, S.S. Gaelia, to Thoothukudi on June 1, 1907.
The minor port of Thoothukudi, with its lighter-age facilities, has seen flourishing traffic for over a century. The first wooden jetty was commissioned in 1864, serving as a hub for the export of salt, cotton yarn, senna leaves, palmyra stalks, and other goods to neighboring countries, while importing coal, cotton, and grains. Notably, it has the distinction of being an intermediate port with an impressive annual traffic tonnage exceeding 1 million.
The district’s highlights include its long, winding coastline that once attracted international attention for its pearl fishery, picturesque coastal villages with sacred temples, churches, and mosques in places like Tiruchendur, Manappadu, and Kayalpattinam. Key historical sites include Adhichanallur, a cradle of ancient civilization; Korkai, a historic port of the Sangam Pandyas; and Kayal, where the river Tamiraparani meets the Bay of Bengal, among the five prominent rivers of Tamil Nadu.
Notable figures from the region include Veerapandiya Kattabomman, an early martyr for freedom, and Subramanya Bharathi, the renowned poet born in Ettayapuram. The legacy of V.O. Chidambaram Pillai, who defied British imperialism by sailing ships, is also celebrated in his hometown of Ottapidaram.
Places like Maniyachi, where Vanchinathan assassinated the British Collector Ashe, and Kulasekarapattinam, stand testament to the spirited resistance against colonial rule. The temple towns of Srivaikundam and Meignanapuram, an important center for Christianity, also contribute to Thoothukudi’s rich cultural tapestry.
Alongside its historical significance, the district is characterized by lush palmyra groves, dense bushes, coral islands, and the contributions of missionaries who advanced the Tamil language and literature. Today, the industrious and enterprising local population forms a major trading community in the state.
With I Square Taxi, discover the historical treasures of Thoothukudi while enjoying a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
Tourism with I Square One Way Drop Taxi in Thoothukudi
Discover the Attractions of Thoothukudi with I Square Taxi
At I Square Taxi, we offer convenient travel options, including One-way Drop Taxi, Drop Taxi, and Round Trip services for customers seeking Outstation, Intercity, and One-way Taxi services.
Places of Interest
- Ayyanarsunai: Located 10 km from Tiruchendur, this scenic spot features a natural spring and a temple, making it an ideal picnic destination.
- Ettayapuram: Home to the revolutionary poet Subramaniya Bharathiyar, this area has his preserved residence, now a monument. It’s situated 76 km from Tirunelveli and 35 km from Thoothukudi.
- Kazhugumalai: About 60 km from Tirunelveli, this Jain temple features idols of significant figures and the unique monolithic temple, Vettuvan Kovil.
- Kulasekaranpattinam: Known for its Mutharaman Temple by the Bay of Bengal, this village celebrates the grand Dhasara Festival every October.
- Panimaya Matha Church: A historic church built in 1711, it draws large crowds during its annual festival on August 5th.
- Adichanallur: This archaeological site, 20 km from Tirunelveli, showcases ancient civilization evidence along the Tamirabarani River.
- Kayalpattinam: A historic port city with a beautiful beach, located 30 km from Thoothukudi.
- Kayathar: This site, 25 km from Tirunelveli, features a memorial for freedom fighter Kattabomman, who was executed by the British.
- Korkai: An ancient port city from the Pandian dynasty, Korkai is known for its large tank and the Vettrivelamman Temple.
- Manapad: Famous for the Holy Cross Church built in 1542, this coastal village attracts thousands of pilgrims, especially during its festival.
- Meignanapuram: Home to one of India’s tallest churches, the Pari Pauvlin Church, built in 1847.
- Navakailayam: This cluster of nine Shiva temples, known for its spiritual significance, is located across Thoothukudi and Tirunelveli districts.
- Panchalankurichi: A historic village 25 km from Thoothukudi, it features a memorial fort for Kattabomman and hosts the annual Kattabomman Festival.
- Thiruchendur: One of South India’s major pilgrimage sites, this seaside temple dedicated to Lord Muruga is 40 km from Thoothukudi and is known for its grand architecture and rituals.
With I Square Taxi, explore these fascinating sites and experience the rich cultural heritage of Thoothukudi.
Panchalankurichi is a small historic village located 25km from Thoothukudi and 55 km from Tirunelveli. From here the Great warrior Kattabomman popularly known as “ Veerapandiya Kattabomman” raised his voice against the British regime in the 17th century AD.
The existing Memorial Fort was constructed in 1974, by the government of Tamilnadu. The Memorial hall, has beautiful paintings depicts the heroic deeds of the saga which give a good idea about the history of the period. Sri Devi Jakkammal Temple, the hereditary Goddess of Kattabomman, is located in the fort complex. Cemetery of British soldiers can also be seen near the fort. The rest of the old fort is protected by the Department of Archaeology. City bus services available from Thoothukudi. Kattabomman Festival is celebrated on January 15 and May second week every year which attract thousands of people. Small bullock cart race is the special attraction during festival.
Tourist can visit the fort from 8.A.M to 1 P.M. and 2 P.M. to 6 P.M on all days. The entrance fee for adult Rs.2 and Child Rs.1. A Tourist Rest house is available here for the benefit of the Tourists.
Ettayapuram is the birth place of the revolutionary poet Subramaniya Bharathiyar and is located 76 kms from Tirunelveli and 22 kms from Kovilpatti and 35 kms from Thoothukkdi. His home now became a monument. Umarupulavar Dhansha is also located here.
It is 10km from Tiruchendur and 40 kms from Tirunelveli . A natural water gushes out from the spring at this place. A temple dedicated to Village deity It is a good picnic / excursion centre.
Festivals & Personalities
Muthaaramman Kovil Festival
Kulasekaranpattinam is situated on the way to Kanniyakumari from Tiruchendur. It is 20 kms from Tiruchendur and 65 kms from Kanyakumari. This village is famous for Mutharaman Temple, which is located on the shore of Bay of Bengal. This temple is nearly 150 years old. The Dhasara Festival is celebrated in a grand scale every year during October. Folk dance artists from throughout Tamilnadu perform variety of programmes.
Panimayamatha Church Festival
The history of shine Basillica is closely connected with the history of the conversion of the PARAVARS the indigenous people of the pearly fishery coast. In fact, our lady of snows, is fondly called in portugeese Senhora, Das Navis Which means our lady of snows.
Fr. Vilgiluus Mansi, Whole heartedly took great efforts. He obtained permission from the Dutch Government (at Ceylon) to construct a new church for Mother Mary of snows. On August 5th 1713, the new church was opened and blessed and the first feast in the new church was celebrated in a grand scale.
Skanda Sashti at Tiruchendur
The story of the birth of Lord Muruga, who is also known as Subramaniya, Karthikeya, Skanda, Shanmuga dates back to the legend of defeating the demon or anti God, Surapadma. To mark an end to the demon, the celestial beings with Indra Dev as the leader, sought the help of Lord Brahma. Brahma who proclaimed that only the spark of Shiva can produce the hero, who will defeat the powers of the evil, sought the help of Parvati and Kama (the God of Love). Parvati agreed to help, and engaged herself in a severe penance to attract Lord Shiva’s attention, while Kama engaged himself in the “suicidal mission” of arousing Shiva from His Samadhi.
The penance of Parvati and the sacrifice of Kama paid off finally- Lord Shiva was awakened from his deep state of meditation. He opened his forehead eye and created Six Great Fire Sparks that dropped into the holy Ganges. It was then that, Lord Shiva approved six beautiful maidens called ‘Karthigai Pengal’ (Women of Karthiga) to look after the babies. When the babies attained a certain age Lord Shiva blessed them and made them as one person-Lord Muruga; the divine warrior.
Skanda Sasti festival – 7 days (October – November)
Devotees numbering about 5 lakhs will participate in the above festival. On this festival occasion devotees fast for all six days. On the sixth day Surasamharam is demonstrated. On the 7th day Thirukkalyanam to Deivanai is celebrated in a grand manner.
Every year on behalf of this festival the district administration declared local holiday for whole district.
Vaikasi Vishakam
Vaikasi Visakam is said to be the day when Lord Muruga / Subramanya incarnated in this world with the mission of saving earth from demons like Soorapadman. The Vaikasi Visakam is celebrated in a grand manner in Murugan Temples (Swamymalai, Tiruchendur,…). Valli Kalyanam is celebrated in Murugan Temples on Vaikasi Visakam day.
The divine creation of Lord Subrahmanya, also known as Skanda, Karthikeya or Murugan, to alleviate the sufferings of the Devas is believed to have occurred on Vaikasi Visakam. (Visakam is one of the 27 Nakshatras).
Significance of Vishaka Star
The Star “Vishaka” is considered to be very auspicious, as most of the saint, geniuses and great peple like Buddha were born in this star, Lord muruga born in this star is referred to as “Gnana Panditha” which denotes the authority on wisdom. Karthikeya and Vishaka incidentally represent 3rd and 16th lunar mansions of the zodiac. In fact, visaka is a binary star as per Sanskrit literature, It denotes bothe the intellectual spirityal qualities with complete virtually. Also, it qualities to lead a life of truthful existence.
Every year on behalf this festival, the district administration declared local holiday for whole district.
Note :
In memory of National poet Subramaniya Bharathiyar a memorial was build by Kalki KrishnaMoorthy in 1945 and Mahatma Gandhi showered his blessings on the occasion of opeining. In 18\981 the centenary year of Bharathiyar was celebrated. The former Tamilnady Chief – minister Thiru M.G.Ramachendran opened the new memorial on 11.12.1981 and this was taken over by the Information and Public Relation Department from that day onwards.
Umaru Pulavar
Umaru Pulavar was a Tamil Muslim poet from Tamil Nadu, India. Umaru Pulavar was born in 1642 in the town of Ettayapuram in Thoothukudi district. He is celebrated as one of the greatest Islamic Poets of India.
Early life: The forefathers of the poet came to Tamil Nadu to sell perfumes and settled in Nagalapuram, before moving to Ettayapuram where the poet was born in 1642. Umaru Pulavar’s literary talents flourished under Kadikai Muthu Pulavar court poet of the Ettayapuram Zamin.
Literary works : Seerapuranam considered to be one of the best works by him, depicts the history related to Prophet Mohammed Nabi, and it contains 5,027 poems in three ‘Kandams’ (parts), which are Vilathathu Kandam, Noobuvathu Kandam and Hijurathu Kandam. Each of the ‘Kandams’ narrates various stages of the life of Nabi.
Umaru Pulavar Memorial:
Recently the Government of Tamil Nadu has opened a memorial constructed for Umaru Pulavar.at Ettayapuram in Thoothukudi District. The monument; a two-storied edifice, has a tomb and prayer hall in the ground floor with a library on the top floor and would be maintained by the Department of Information and Public Relations.
Name V.O.Chidambaram Pillai
Note:
He was a prominent lawyer and a trade union leader. He gets credit for launching the “the first indigenous Indian shipping service” between Tuticorin and Colombo with the “Swedeshi Steam Navigation Company competing against British ships” He is also as “Kappal Ottia Tamilan.
Full Name Veemaraja Jagaveera Pandiya Kattabomman
Note :
In 1974, the Government of Tamilnadu construct a new Memorial Fort. The Memorial hall has beautiful paintings the heroic deeds of the saga which gives a good idea about the history of the period.
Veerapandia Kattabomman festival : The district administration and Tourism Department celebrates this festival every year in second week of May.