Know which is the only Indian destination NYT listed in its ‘52 Places to Go in 2016’ and no it’s not Kashmir or Goa

On January 7, New York Times came out with its annual list of ’52 Places to Go in 2016’ narrowing down the top destinations that should be in every traveler’s wish list.

From ancient temples to crystalline waters, they covered it all.

While Mexico, Bordeaux in France, Malta, Coral Bay and Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota earned the top mentions, the list also comprised one Indian destination at rank 24.

And, this unique choice has got everything talking. Unlike every travel blog that has ever been written, NYT hasn’t picked the picturesque Kashmir, the beaches of Goa or even the desert of Rajasthan as the sole Indian destination that they think should be visited.

Instead, they think the laurel should rest with the state of Tamil Nadu. Yes, you read that right.

That’s such an unusual pick. Why Tamil Nadu, you wonder?

According to NYT, while North India may be the country's most popular tourist destination, Tamil Nadu in the south "has an equally rich and undiscovered history.

They also add that the state should be visited because this is where the country’s major temple cultural complexes are, some of which are even considered minicities, due to their size. Tamil Nadu also boasts cuisine that is among the spiciest and the most aromatic in the country, often served in banana leaves.

They also give you a lowdown of what to see when you visit the state.

“There’s Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, a sprawling complex dedicated to a powerful female deity, Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur, built by the ancient Cholas, one of India’s greatest dynasties, and several hundred other temples dotting the countryside and brimming with art carvings dating back as far as the 9th century. But temples aren’t the only cultural hit: the region of Chettinad has more than 50 villages filled with 18th century mansions of carved Burma teak.”

Commenting on how limited infrastructure in Tamil Nadu was hampering accessibility for travelers, NYT added that the recent burst of boutique hotels is all set to change that.

Last year, no Indian state had made it to the list, although Chennai had found a mention in 2014.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to wear your traveling boots and explore the cultural core of the country!