List of Tamil monarchs


This is a list of Tamil-speaking monarchs, who ruled in Tamilakam and Sri Lanka. The ancient Tamil monarchy was largely hereditary and supported by numerous chieftains.

Tamil royal titles

Early Pandyans (6th century BCE – 3rd century CE)

During the 15th century, the Pandyans lost their traditional capital city Madurai because of the Islamic and Nayaks invasion, and were forced to move their capital to Tirunelveli in southern Tamilakam and existed there as vassals.

Legendary Cholas

Early Cholas (c. 300 BCE – 848 CE)

Early (pre-Pallava) Cheras

Early Pallavas

Ay chieftains (early historic)

Madurai Nayakar">Madurai Nayak dynasty">Madurai Nayakar (1529 AD – 1736 AD)

Under Madurai Nayakars (1590 – 1670 AD)