20110526

Travelogue #3 - Chennai to Trichy

Tiruchirapalli or 'Trichy' as it is often referred to, is the fourth largest city in Tamil Nadu. Located slap bang in the center of the state, Trichy is easily accessible and frequented by travelers all-round the year. If a calm, peaceful place with lots of temples and loads of cultural heritage is what you are looking at for your next weekend trip, then this is the place for you. The city has two prominent landmarks, both of which are extremely popular ancient architectural wonders.

For long, Trichy has been the most conservative and traditional amongst all cities in Tamil Nadu. Just visit the city once and you know why. Almost all the tourist spots in and around Trichy are places of religious interest. Having refused to open up to modern commercialism until a few years back, Trichy has now slowly started accepting modern lifestyle, but without losing an iota of its rich heritage.

Undoubtedly, the pride of Trichy is the Rockfort Temple which has been carved atop an ancient rock. Standing majestically in the heart of the city, this 83m high rock is considered to be one of the oldest in the world dating back to almost 3 billion years ago. The view of Rockfort from the bridge across the river Cauvery is classic vintage beauty. From the top of the temple, you get to enjoy an excellent view of the city.

Towering tall on the other side of the Cauvery is yet another architectural marvel of Trichy, the Srirangam Temple. Nestled in an island between two rivers and dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the main temple tower of Srirangam is touted to be the tallest in South Asia. The temple complex is huge and a whole day is required to explore and enjoy it's beauty. These apart, there are a whole lot of religious places in and around the city to totally engulf you in spirituality.

The city as such is quite small and cheerful, with an old-world charm to it. On most weekends, the narrow yet neatly laid roads there will be deserted inviting you to take out your car or bike and enjoy the drive and the beauty of the city. On weekdays though, the roads in the city get really chaotic and messy.

ROUTEMAP:



FACTFILE:

* Total No of Days: 3 (22.04.2011 - 24.04.2011)
* Vehicle Make & Model: Hyundai Santro Xing

* Odometer Start Reading: 59414 km
* Odometer End Reading: 60166 km 

* Total Distance travelled: 752 km
* Total Quantity of Fuel filled: 52.15 l
* Average Fuel Consumption: 14.42 km/l
* Net Worth of Fuel filled: Rs 3226.44

* Destinations Covered: Trichy
* Route Followed: Chennai-Villupuram-Trichy

THE LANDSCAPE:



THE AUTOMOBILE:


Having driven across Tamil Nadu over the past year, I can vouch that the NH45 (Chennai-Trichy Highway) is undoubtedly the best road in the state. Its a pure motoring heaven and you need to experience it to understand what I say. Happy traveling!

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