ASI Approves Excavation at Eight Archaeological Sites in Tamil Nadu
On 13th March 2026, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) granted permission to the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) to carry out excavations at eight sites across the state, including the next phase of digs at Keeladi.
Description of 8 Sites
- Keeladi (Madurai)
- Located along the Vaigai River near Madurai, Keeladi is the most prominent site.
- Excavations reveal a well-planned urban settlement with literacy, craft production, and trade, dating back to the 6th century BCE, associated with the Sangam Age.
- Vellalore (Coimbatore)
- Vellalore is known for Roman coins, indicating strong trade links between South India and the Roman world.
- Manikollai(Cuddalore District)
- This site ....

