Weekend in Tiruchirappalli

An 1840s Gothic-style church built during the British Raj, with stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible and a peaceful graveyard with colonial-era tombstones.

Tip: Sunday morning service (9 AM) is open to all — you can hear the choir. Ask the caretaker to unlock the bell tower for a small tip (₹50); the view from the top is unexpected and excellent.

One of the largest temple complexes in India, spanning 156 acres with 21 gopurams (gateway towers). The main sanctum is on an island formed by the Kaveri and Kollidam rivers.

Tip: Avoid paying for a guide — follow the clockwise circumambulation path with locals. Photography prohibited inside, but the outer corridors and the 73m tall Rajagopuram are stunning. Best visited by auto-rickshaw (₹150 from centre).

An early 19th-century dam across the Kaveri River, also known as the Upper Anaicut. The riverbank here has a long promenade, gardens, and children's play areas.

Tip: Best weekday afternoon when it's quiet. Bring your own snacks — the stalls sell overpriced chips. Shared auto from central bus stand costs ₹30 per person. Watch for submerged rocks if the water is low.

A massive 83m rock outcrop with three temples carved into it, including the Uchi Pillayar Ganesha temple at the top. The 437-step climb gives you views over the city and the Kaveri River.

Tip: Go early (7am) to beat heat and crowds. Temple entry is free; simple puja offerings cost ₹10-50. Leave bags in the paid lockers at the base.

A compact museum in a colonial building with three sections: archaeological finds from nearby sites, bronze Chola sculptures, and a natural history hall. The sculpture gallery is the highlight.

Tip: Entry is ₹15 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners. The rock garden behind the museum (free) has dinosaur sculptures kids love. Allow 60-90 minutes total.