Valluvar Kottam is a popular monument located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was built in honour of the Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, known for his literary work Thirukkural, which contains valuable insights into ethics, morality, and values. The monument was built in a chariot, representing the poet's vision of life as a journey.
The monument was built in 1976 and is a popular destination for tourists and locals. The structure is made of granite and stands at a height of 39 meters. It is designed in the shape of a chariot, with ten stone elephants holding the structure and a life-size statue of Thiruvalluvar at the centre. The figure is made of black granite and stands at a height of 8.5 meters, making it the largest statue of Thiruvalluvar in the world.
Apart from the monument, Valluvar Kottam also houses a cultural centre that hosts various cultural events and exhibitions. The centre has a library that contains books on Tamil literature, history, and culture. The centre also has a theatre that hosts various cultural shows, including dance and music performances.
Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the monument and enjoy the beautiful architecture and the serene atmosphere. The memorial is also illuminated in the evenings, making it a popular destination for evening walks and picnics. Visitors can also learn about Thiruvalluvar's life and works by reading the monument's inscriptions.
Places To Visit Near Valluvar Kottam:
Located in the heart of Chennai, Valluvar Kottam is surrounded by several popular tourist attractions. Here are some of the places to visit near Valluvar Kottam:
Located just 5 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, Marina Beach is one of Chennai's most popular tourist attractions. Known for its pristine white sand and picturesque sunsets, this beach is perfect for long walks, picnics, and water sports.
Located just 3.5 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, the Government Museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts, ranging from ancient to modern art. The museum is divided into several sections, including an art gallery, a natural history section, and an anthropology section.
Located just 4 kilometres away from Valluvar Kottam, the Kapaleeswarar Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Chennai. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Semmozhi Poonga:
Located just 2 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, Semmozhi Poonga is a botanical garden perfect for nature lovers. The park is home to various flora and fauna, including exotic plants and colourful butterflies.
Located just 3.5 kilometres away from Valluvar Kottam, the Thousand Lights Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The mosque is named after the thousands of oil lamps illuminating its interior.
Located just 6 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, Fort St. George is one of the oldest English forts in India. The fort is home to several important government buildings, including the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
Located just 5 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, the Birla Planetarium is a popular attraction for astronomy enthusiasts. The planetarium features several shows, exhibitions, and a rooftop observatory for stargazing.
Located just 5 kilometres from Valluvar Kottam, Santhome Cathedral is a historic church dedicated to St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The cathedral is known for its stunning stained glass windows and serene atmosphere.
Things To Do In Valluvar Kottam:
Valluvar Kottam is a popular monument in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to the famous Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. While the main attraction of the site is the impressive auditorium that can accommodate up to 4,000 people, there are also several things to do and see in and around Valluvar Kottam:
Explore the Thiruvalluvar Statue:
The monument features a 39-metre-tall statue of Thiruvalluvar, one of Asia's tallest. Visitors can climb up to the top of the figure to get a bird's eye view of the city.
Attend cultural events:
Valluvar Kottam is a popular venue for cultural events, including music and dance performances, poetry recitals, and other cultural programmes. Check the event schedule to see if anything is happening during your visit.
Visit nearby temples:
There are several temples located near Valluvar Kottam that are worth visiting, including the Kapaleeswarar Temple, the Parthasarathy Temple, and the Vadapalani Murugan Temple.
Shop at Pondy Bazaar:
Located nearby, Pondy Bazaar is a popular shopping district known for its textiles, clothing, and jewellery. Visitors can browse the various shops and stalls to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Visit the Government Museum:
The Government Museum is located just a short distance from Valluvar Kottam and is home to an impressive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits. Visitors can explore the galleries to learn more about the history and culture of Tamil Nadu.
Enjoy the local cuisine:
Chennai is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and street food stalls located near Valluvar Kottam, where visitors can sample local delicacies like dosa, idli, and vada.