Pudukkottai, the administrative headquarters of the
Pudukkottai District, is an ancient town situated 53 km to the south of
Tiruchirapalli, in
Tamil Nadu. It is one of the erstwhile princely states of Tamil Nadu.
Pudukkottai was founded by Raghunath, Raja of Tondaimandalam (the region around the ancient port of
Tondi on India's southeastern coast). Earlier the region was under the rule of
Mughals, Naickers and Marathas before coming under the reign of Thondaiman kings. Pudukkottai remained under their rule until its merging with the union of the Government of India on 3rd March, 1948.
Pudukkottai abounds in archeological and cultural heritage. Several palaces, tank canals and the cultural remains of Kodumbalur, Narthamalai, Kudumianmalai, Kunnandarkoil, Sittannavasal, Thirumayam and Avudaiyarkoil stand testimony to its glorious past. Other places worth visiting include the Viralimalai Peacock Sanctuary (40 km), Government Museum and Sri Kokaraneswara Temple.
Nearest airport is at Tiruchirappalli (50 km). Pudukkottai Railway Station lies on the Tiruchirappalli-Rameshwaram Railway line and has regular trains to Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Thanjavur.
