Our Regional Chapters
Led locally, run by volunteers who know their region best.
FoHS THENPANDYAS — TIRUNELVELI CHAPTER
Legacy of the Deep South and Echoes of Thamirabarani
The Friends of Heritage Sites (FoHS) — Thenpandyas Chapter marked an important step in expanding FoHS activities to Southern Tamil Nadu. From its early days, the Thenpandyas chapter has cultivated a participatory, field-oriented culture. Members engaged in a series of heritage walks, field trails, and informal meetups that helped shape a strong sense of community. Among the highlights was the Kazhugumalai Heritage Walk, exploring the Vettuvan Koil, the Jain monastery, and rock-cut temples under the guidance of Dr. S. Kannan. Thenpandyas Chapter has grown into a vibrant and grounded collective.
Unearthing the Crimson Soil: How Our Thenpandyas Chapter Began
Thenpandyas Chapter was inaugurated on 2nd April 2022 at DSF Grand Plaza, Tuticorin. The inauguration was graced by renowned archaeologists and scholars including Dr. Arun Raj from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Dr. V. Vedachalam, and Dr. Aravazhi P. Their talks offered deep insights into the Adichanallur Excavations, the significance of Thenpandinadu, and the archaeology of the Lower Thamirabarani region.
Thenpandyas Chapter has grown into a vibrant and grounded collective. With its deep-rooted fieldwork, inclusive discussions, and enthusiastic participation, the chapter continues to bring people closer to the cultural, archaeological, and ecological legacies of Thenpandinadu — turning every walk, talk, and trail into a living chronicle of heritage.
Recent Highlights
Upper Thamirabarani Temple Trail 1 & 2
Field trails exploring the temple heritage and history of the Upper Thamirabarani region.
Early Pandya Rock-cut Temple Trail
A heritage trail tracing the artistry and architectural legacy of the early Pandyas.
Whispering Thenpandyas Jain Trail
A quiet exploration of Jain heritage and the stories preserved across the southern landscape.
Malayadipatti Excavation Site
A field visit exploring the archaeological remains and historic landscape of Malayadipatti.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND FoHS
Meet the Thenpandyas Team
Dr Nirmala Vijaykumar
Consultant in Assisted Reproduction and Fertility Surgery at Queens Fertility Center, Tirunelveli. An alumna of Tirunelveli Medical College and SRMC, Chennai, she promotes local heritage and culture through FoHS.
Dr Muthunarayanan
Chief Anesthesiologist Consultant at AVM Hospitals, Tuticorin, and Co-Convenor of FoHS Thenpandyas for 2024-26. A heritage enthusiast, ornithologist and photographer, he documents heritage sites and reads ancient Vatteluttu Tamil.
Start Your Journey Here
The rich heritage of Tamil Nadu thrives only when we protect it together. Whether you have time to volunteer, expertise to share, or a passion to support, there is a place for you in our community.
Join FoHS Thenpandyas