Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the most famous temples in South India built in the Dravidian style of architecture. It is dedicated to Ranganatha, a reclining form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is a sprawling complex with seven prakaras or enclosures and has 21 gopurams. The Rajagopuram is 236 feet (72 m) tall, the tallest in Asia. The temple also houses a museum that contains various artifacts and exhibits. Make sure to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowd and heat.
The Rock Fort Temple (also known as Ucchi Pillayar Temple) is situated on a massive rock that is over 3 billion years old. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular site for devotees and tourists alike. The temple complex has several sub-temples including the Uraiyur Kamakshi Amman Temple, Thayumanavar Temple and the Kailasanathar Temple. The view from the top of the rock is breathtaking, and it's a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset over Trichy.
Vekkaliamman Temple is a small temple dedicated to the goddess Vekkaliamman. It's a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The temple is unique as it has a small pond with an abundance of fish that you can feed. It's also a great spot to escape from the heat and relax under the shade of the trees surrounding the temple.
Kallanai Dam (also known as Grand Anaicut) is an ancient dam built across the River Kaveri by the Chola King Karikalan. It is considered to be one of the oldest water-diversion or water-regulator structures in the world that is still in use. The dam is a marvel of ancient engineering and is still an important source of irrigation for the Cauvery Delta. You can take a boat ride and enjoy the scenic view of the dam and the surrounding areas.
Jambukeswarar Temple is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the five major Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu. The temple is located on the banks of the River Cauvery and is surrounded by lush greenery. It is believed that the goddess Parvati was born as a penance to Lord Shiva under a Jambu (rose apple) tree. The temple is known for its unique architecture, beautiful sculptures and its holy water tank called Sivaganga.
If you have an extra day, you can visit the St. Joseph's Church, Government Museum, and the Samayapuram Mariamman Temple. Make sure to carry sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle as temperatures can get quite high. It's advisable to wear modest and comfortable clothing when visiting temples. Try the local cuisine at some of the popular restaurants like Vasanta Bhavan, Sangeetha, and Shri Sangeetas.