TTDC will also launch a comprehensive heritage tourism circuit by January to attract foreign tourists. Korkai, an ancient port near Tuticorin, Ottanchatiram in Dindugal where Pandya, Chola and Chera kingdoms shared a common border, Tuvarankuruchi and Viralimalai where the Cholas and Pandyas fought a fierce battle, Panchalankuruchi fort, Kottar coast from where the legendary Lemuria continent extended into the sea, and the birthplace of poet Bharatiyar and V O Chidambaranar are being included in the heritage circuit.
"Serious tourists who are interested in visiting places connected to ancient history, culture and heritage. Tourism officials of Egypt said ancient Egyptians had trade ties with the Tamil kingdoms. Ships used to come to Korkai where Egyptian traders sold horses and purchased Indian spices, peacock feathers and pepper. The tourism department of Egypt is planning to send tourist groups to TN," said Mohandoss.
A number of people of Indian origin live in Ghana and South Africa and want to trace their roots. "South Africa has already informed us that they are sending a group of tourist to Chennai to explore the culture and heritage sites in the state."
Tamil Nadu gets tourists from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Around 24 lakh foreign tourists have visited the state till October this year. The heritage circuit would help us attract more tourists, he added.
TTDC is also increasing the number of tourist-friendly autorickshaws which were started primarily for the benefit of foreign tourists at Chennai, Tiruchi, Thanjavur, Kanyakumari, Yercaud and Palani.
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