Pudukkottai district as one of the princely states of Tamilnadu holds rich cultural heritage with Fortresses, Palaces, Temples, Cave Paintings and many other historical monuments. The district was one of the homes of pre-historic man. Many of the villages are of ancient foundation and also referenced often in Tamil Sangam Literature. Pudukkottai district is well endowed with natural resources of land and sea bounded by the marine hedge of Bay of Bengal in the east conjoined by the southern districts viz, Trichy, Sivaganga, Ramanathapuram and Thanjavur. The Palaces, Fortress, Canals and Tanks built during the reign of ancient Tamil Kings are the place of interest. Besides, Temple in Avudayarkovil, Kudumiyanmalai, Chitthannavasal are very much prominent. Muslim’s sacred place viz Kattubhava pallivasal, christian monument at Avur and jains temples at Annavasal proclaims the religious harmony of the district. Peacock sanctuary at Viralimalai, cave temples, temples built on the mountains are major tourism destination.

Pudukkottai was organised as a separate district, on 14th January 1974, comprising the former Pudukkottai Division of Tiruchirappalli district with some additions from Thanjavur district.