Pykara Falls, a splendid cascade situated in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, is positioned 2 km away from Pykara Lake and 23 km from Ooty Bus Stand. Originating from the Pykara River downstream of the Pykara Dam, these falls present a captivating natural spectacle.
Image Attribution: flickrPrince
Scenic Beauty of Pykara Falls:
The scenic beauty of Pykara Falls is truly captivating, offering a visual feast for visitors. Nestled in the lush landscapes of Ooty, Tamil Nadu, these falls showcase the harmonious blend of nature’s elements. As the Pykara River gracefully descends downstream of the Pykara Dam, the falls create a mesmerizing spectacle.
The verdant surroundings, characterized by dense forests and vibrant flora, serve as a picturesque backdrop to the cascading waters. The play of sunlight on the glistening water further enhances the ethereal charm of Pykara Falls, making it a serene and visually enchanting destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Water Flow of Pykara Falls:
The water flow of Pykara Falls is characterized by a graceful descent of the Pykara River downstream of the Pykara Dam. The falls exhibit a series of cascades as the river flows over the rocky terrain, creating a captivating display of natural beauty. The volume and intensity of the water flow can vary based on factors such as seasonal rainfall and local weather conditions.
During the monsoon season, the flow is often more robust, presenting a dynamic and powerful spectacle, while in drier periods, the falls may exhibit a more subdued yet equally picturesque flow. The rhythmic movement of the water over the rocky contours contributes to the tranquil and scenic ambiance of Pykara Falls.
Visiting Hours of Pykara Falls:
Pykara Falls in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, welcomes visitors daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with an entry fee of ₹30 per person.
How to reach Pykara Falls:
By Air: The nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (approx. 88 kilometers from Ooty). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Ooty.
By Train: The nearest Railway Station is Udagamandalam (Ooty) Railway Station. Ooty is connected by a narrow-gauge railway line. However, the nearest major railway station is Mettupalayam Railway Station.From Mettupalayam, you can take the Nilgiri Mountain Railway (toy train) or a taxi to Ooty.
By Road:
Ooty is well-connected by road. You can reach Ooty by bus, car, or taxi from various nearby cities. Once in Ooty, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Pykara Falls.From Ooty, take the Ooty-Pykara-Gudalur Road.Follow the road signs leading to Pykara Falls.
Ariyaman Beach, alternatively named Kushi Beach, is an unspoiled stretch of white sandy shoreline nestled alongside the Palk Bay in the Ramanathapuram District of Tamil Nadu. Spanning 2 kilometers in length and approximately 150 meters in width, this pristine beach lies at a distance of 27 kilometers from the city of Rameswaram.
Scenic Beauty:
Ariyaman Beach is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquility. The beach offers a picturesque coastal landscape with clean sands and serene surroundings, making it a perfect place for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the Bay of Bengal.
Sunset Views:
The beach is famous for its breathtaking sunset views over the sea. Many visitors come to Ariyaman Beach specifically to witness the stunning sunset scenes, making it an ideal place for evening leisure.
Swimming:
The gentle waves and shallow waters make Ariyaman Beach suitable for swimming, and it is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to take a dip in the sea. Nonetheless, it is essential to exercise caution and follow safety protocols.
Fishing:
Fishing is a common activity in the area, and you can often see local fishermen engaged in their daily routines along the coastline. They use various fishing techniques such as net fishing, casting nets, and traditional fishing boats. They may be seen in action along the shoreline, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon.
Birdwatching:
The beach is also a good place for birdwatching, especially during migratory bird seasons. You may spot various species of birds along the shore and in the nearby wetlands.
Water Sports:
While Ariyaman Beach is not as developed for water sports as some other beaches, you may find options for activities like jet skiing and boat rides. Availability can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with local operators if you’re interested in these activities.
Lighthouse:
Ariyaman Beach, also known as Kushi Beach, features a lighthouse that offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding coastline and the Bay of Bengal. The lighthouse is a prominent attraction in the area and provides an excellent vantage point to enjoy the scenic beauty of the beach and the sea.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to witness stunning views and capture memorable photographs of the beach, the sea, and the picturesque landscape. It’s a popular spot for those who want to get a bird’s-eye view of Ariyaman Beach and its tranquil surroundings.
Peace and Serenity:
One of the main attractions of Ariyaman Beach is its peaceful and relatively uncrowded atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter and less touristy beach experience.
How to reach Ariyaman Beach:
By Air: The nearest airport to Ariyaman Beach is Madurai Airport, which is approximately 180 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the beach.
By Train: The closest major railway station is Rameswaram Railway Station, which is around 28 kilometers from Ariyaman Beach. You can take a train to Rameswaram from various cities and then continue your journey by road to the beach.
By Road: Ariyaman Beach is well-connected by road, and you can reach it via the following routes:
- From Rameswaram: If you’re coming from Rameswaram, take NH87 southward towards Kushi Nagar. Follow the road for approximately 28 kilometers, and you will reach Ariyaman Beach. The drive is straightforward and well-marked.
- From Madurai: If you’re traveling from Madurai, you can take NH87 or NH87B to reach Ramanathapuram, and from there, continue to Ariyaman Beach.
- From Other Cities: You can reach Ramanathapuram and then take the road to Ariyaman Beach, following the signs and directions provided. The beach is well-known locally, and you can ask for directions from the town.
- Local Transportation: Once you arrive in the vicinity of Ariyaman Beach, you can use local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, taxis, or rented vehicles to reach the beach. The beach is well-known in the area, and locals can guide you to the destination.
Thirumoorthy Dam is situated near the town of Udumalpet in the Western Ghats region of Tiruppur district, Tamil Nadu. It is built across the Thirumoorthy River, which is a tributary of the Bhavani River. The dam and its surroundings are known for their scenic beauty, nestled amidst lush forests and rolling hills.
Purpose of the Thirumoorthy Dam:
The primary function of the Thirumoorthy Dam is to store water. It collects and retains water from the Thirumoorthy River, which is a tributary of the Bhavani River. The stored water is used for various purposes, including irrigation and drinking water supply to the surrounding areas.
The controlled release of water from the dam helps in sustaining crops and farming activities, which are crucial for the local economy and food production.
Some dams are equipped with hydropower generation facilities. While not all dams generate electricity, it’s possible that the Thirumoorthy Dam may have such a purpose, contributing to the regional power supply.
Boating in Thirumoorthy Dam:
Boating at Thirumoorthy Dam is a popular recreational activity that allows visitors to enjoy the serene and picturesque surroundings while cruising on the dam’s reservoir.
1.Types of Boats: Visitors can typically choose from different types of boats for their boating experience. These may include rowboats, paddleboats, and motorized boats, depending on the facilities available at the dam. The choice of boat often depends on your preference and the type of experience you desire.
2. Scenic Beauty: Boating at Thirumoorthy Dam offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The dam is nestled in the Western Ghats, and the lush greenery, rolling hills, and pristine waters create a tranquil and breathtaking atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Reservoir Exploration: Boating allows you to explore the reservoir formed by the dam. This expansive water body is not only functional but also adds to the natural beauty of the area. You can leisurely navigate the reservoir and appreciate the beauty of the Western Ghats from a different vantage point.
Bird Watching in Thirumoorthy Dam:
The Western Ghats region, where Thirumoorthy Dam is located, is a hotspot for bird species. The lush forests, hills, and water bodies create a suitable habitat for a wide range of birds. Birdwatchers can expect to spot various resident and migratory bird species.
Commonly sighted bird species at Thirumoorthy Dam include kingfishers, herons, egrets, storks, darters, cormorants, parakeets, bulbuls, and various species of waterfowl. Depending on the season and local habitat, you may also spot raptors, flycatchers, warblers, and other woodland birds.
Trekking and Adventure in Thirumoorthy dam:
Trekking and adventure activities in and around Thirumoorthy Dam provide an opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the pristine beauty of the Western Ghats and experience an adrenaline rush.
The trek to Thirumoorthy Waterfalls is a well-known adventure trail. It typically involves a moderately challenging hike through the forest to reach the waterfalls. The journey offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats and culminates in the spectacular sight of Thirumoorthy Waterfalls. The trek allows you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool at the base of the falls.
Depending on the available facilities, adventure enthusiasts may also engage in activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining in the surrounding hills and forests. These activities can add an element of thrill to your adventure at Thirumoorthy Dam.
The Thirumoorthy Temple:
The Thirumoorthy Temple, also known as Thirumoorthy Malai Temple, is dedicated to the Hindu deity Murugan (Lord Subramanya). The Thirumoorthy Temple is a place of worship where devotees come to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek the blessings of Lord Murugan.
Visiting Hours of the Thirumoorthy Dam:
The Thirumoorthy Dam is open from 9:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
How to reach Thirumoorthy Dam:
By Air: To reach Thirumoorthy Dam, you can opt for air travel, with the closest major airport being Coimbatore International Airport, situated approximately 65 kilometers away. From the airport, you have the convenience of hiring a taxi or taking a bus to reach Thirumoorthy Dam.
By Train: Another viable mode of transportation is by train, with Pollachi Junction being the nearest railway station, approximately 40 kilometers away from Thirumoorthy Dam. Pollachi is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and various regions of India. Once you arrive at Pollachi, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to complete your journey to the dam.
By Road: Thirumoorthy Dam boasts excellent road connectivity. You can efficiently navigate the road network to reach your destination. If you’re traveling by car or bus, consider these approximate road routes:
- From Coimbatore: Head south on the NH83 highway in the direction of Pollachi. Upon reaching Pollachi, follow the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach Thirumoorthy Dam.
- From Palakkad, Kerala: Travel east on the NH544 towards Pollachi. Upon arriving in Pollachi, take the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach your destination.
- From Tiruppur: Take the SH21 highway south towards Palladam and Pollachi. Once you reach Pollachi, proceed on the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach Thirumoorthy Dam.
Ramanathapuram district is a renowned eco-tourism destination. This lush forest is teeming with diverse mangrove species and aquatic flora, offering a perfect haven for enthusiasts of the natural world. Within this enchanting ecosystem, visitors have the opportunity to partake in kayaking, snorkeling, and boating services, immersing themselves in the captivating beauty of the mangrove forests.
Image Attribution : furious.feet
Karangadu Mangrove Forest:
Mangrove forests, with their unique blend of land and water, are vital coastal ecosystems. These forests serve as nurseries for various marine species and provide a natural barrier against coastal erosion and storm surges. Karangadu, in particular, stands out for its lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.
The mangrove ecosystem provides a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Towering mangrove trees with their characteristic stilt-like roots line the waterways. These intricate root systems not only stabilize the shoreline but also provide habitat and refuge for numerous bird species, crabs, and small fish.
Karangadu Boating Experience:
The highlight of a visit to Karangadu Mangrove Forest is the boating experience. Visitors can embark on a peaceful journey through the forest’s labyrinthine waterways. These boat rides offer an up-close encounter with the unique ecosystem of the mangroves, allowing for an immersive experience with nature.
As you glide through the narrow water channels, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of serene beauty. The calm waters mirror the dense canopy of mangrove trees, creating a tranquil, reflective ambiance. The symphony of bird calls fills the air, and if you’re lucky, you may spot various avian species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, gracefully perched on the tree branches or wading through the shallow waters.
The boatmen who guide these excursions are often locals who possess a deep understanding of the mangroves. They can provide valuable insights into the ecosystem, the wildlife, and the conservation efforts in place to protect this invaluable environment. The boating admission fee is set at ₹200, with the provision of life jackets to ensure the safety of all tourists.
Preserving Karangadu’s Natural Beauty:
Preservation efforts are essential to protect the Karangadu Mangrove Forest. Conservation initiatives have been established to maintain the delicate balance of this ecosystem. These include rules and regulations to minimize the ecological impact, such as no littering, no disturbance to the wildlife, and the prohibition of motorized boats.
Visitors are strongly urged to show respect for the environment and faithfully follow these guidelines, thereby safeguarding the opportunity for future generations to continue savoring the beauty of Karangadu.
Transportation Facilities:
Karangadu Mangrove Forest is accessible through a variety of transportation options, and here are the directions to reach this natural wonder:
- The closest airport is situated in Madurai, approximately 170 kilometers from the forest. From Madurai, you can opt for a taxi or use public transportation to make your way to Karangadu.
- When traveling by train, you’ll want to head to the closest railway station situated in Ramanathapuram, approximately 40 kilometers from Karangadu Mangrove Forest. Once you arrive at the station, you can easily secure a taxi or make use of local transportation options to complete your journey to the forest.
- Traveling by road to Karangadu is a breeze, thanks to its excellent road network. Whether you prefer private taxis, rental cars, or local buses, you have multiple options for reaching the forest from nearby towns and cities like Ramanathapuram or Madurai. The forest is easily accessible through a well-maintained road system.
Muthu Nagar Beach in Thoothukudi
Muthu Nagar Beach is located in the beach lover’s paradise of Tamil Nadu, Thoothukudi. Visitors of Thoothukudi can enjoy a great beach holiday at the Muthu Nagar Beach.
Involving in beach activities, relaxing and watching the sunset views are some of the best things to do at the beach.
Boating and Water Sports activities are available on this beach.
The beach is located 5 kilometres towards south from Thoothukudi town and at a distance of 620 kilometres from Chennai. Thoothukudi Railway Station is located at around 6 kilometres from the beach. Tuticorin Airport is at a distance of around 19 kilometres and Madurai Airport is located at a distance of around 131 kilometres.
Located at the southernmost tip of the nation is the Kanyakumari Beach, marked with the confluence of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. The Kanyakumari Beach is one of its kind with its rocky shoreline and long stretch of differently coloured sand. The beach provides tourists with some breathtaking views making it a very popular tourist spot in Kanyakumari.
About Kanyakumari Beach
The sheer beauty and magnificence of the beach with its hue-changing feature added to the Triveni Sangamam at the backdrop creating rough waves on the shores ensures a fascinating experience on the whole.
The beach is a photographer’s paradise, especially during sunrise and sunset. During Chitrapurnima (full moon day in the Tamil month of Chithirai), both sunset and moon rise is simultaneously visible from the beach.
The lighthouse at the beach offers a panoramic view of the sea stretching till the horizon. The Vivekananda Rock and the Thiruvalluvar Statue is also visible from the beach.
The best time to visit the beach would be from November to March. The beach attracts lot of tourists to witness the breathtaking view of sunrise and sunset.
Enticing Activities at the Beach
Tourists can engage themselves in adventurous activities such as trekking, swimming, surfing and biking. They can also take part in the festivities and fairs held in and around the beach. One can indulge in buying seashell art pieces, handcrafted trinkets and some unique palm leaf drawings etc from the local shops. It is an ideal place to collect souvenirs from the stalls near the beach area. Kanyakumari has accommodation facilities that suit every pocket.
How to reach Kanyakumari beach
Kanyakumari is well connected by road with all major cities in South India. Kanyakumari Railway Junction is the nearest rail head (1.5 kilometres away). There are regular trains connecting Kanyakumari to Trivandrum, Chennai and Tirunelveli.
The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (95 kilometres away).
Pichavaram village is located in Cuddalore District in Tamil Nadu, between the Vellar estuary in the north and Coleroon estuary in the south. Pichavaram embodies a vast number of islands (almost 40) scattered around a massive stretch of water covered with mangrove forest.
Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is the second largest mangrove forest in the world spread across a massive 1100 hectares of area. Explore the pristine aura of nature at Pichavaram amidst forests, wildlife and backwaters.
Discover the Unique Biodiversity of Pichavaram
- An adventure assured place, Pichavaram is a must visit spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- The mangroves at Pichavaram have a unique ability to endure salt water owing to its aerial roots, thereby making the coastal forest luscious and a haven for birds.
- The forest has mangrove trees like Avicennia and Rhizophara that remain rooted in water.
- Tourists can engage themselves with boating, fishing, and a lot of other recreational activities.
- Pichavaram Forest is rich in avifauna, one can spot an array of birds. Some of the rare varieties of birds include pelicans, spoonbills, snipes and storks.
- Pichavaram with its distinct environmental condition, supports the existence of many rare species of shell and finfishes.
- The backwater rides in the mangrove forest offers a mesmerizing experience.
- A biosphere in itself, Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is one of the unique Eco-tourism spots in South India.
- Revel in the serenity of the woods while you travel into the mangrove-alley, a narrow path going into the forest. You are sure to enjoy the tranquility of the place.
A Boat Safari Through the Mangrove Maze of Pichavaram
A boat safari through Pichavaram’s mangrove forest offers a serene escape from city life. As you glide through the tranquil waterways, you’ll witness the intricate beauty of the mangrove ecosystem, home to diverse flora and fauna. It’s a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the delicate balance of this unique environment.
Best time to visit Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
Pichavaram is a year-round destination, although it’s not preferable to visit during summer. The ideal time would be to visit during the months of September to February.
Pichavaram boating price
The boating charges is around Rs. 185 per hour for 2 persons and Rs. 280 per hour for 4 persons. PFB the detailed price list for boating.
Places to visit near Pichavaram
Below is a list the places of interest near Pichavaram:
| Name of the place | Distance (in Kilometres) |
|---|---|
| Parangipet Light House | 7 kms |
| Thillai Kali Temple | 13 kms |
| Chidambaram Natarajar Temple | 14 kms |
| Bhuvanagiri Ragavendra Temple (Birth Place) | 14 kms |
| Sirkali Temple | 20 kms |
| Vaitheeswaran Temple | 38 kms |
| Sri Mushnam Temple | 45 kms |
| Vadalur Sathya Gnana Sabha (Cuddalore) | 50 kms |
| Poompuhar | 53 kms |
| Thiruvanthipuram Temple | 60 kms |
| Devanampattinam Silver Beach | 63 kms |
| Thiruvakkarai Fossil Park | 72 kms |
| Tranquebar Fort | 80 kms |
How to reach Pichavaram Mangrove Forest?
Pichavaram is well connected to nearby cities. There are frequent buses from Chidambaram to Pichavaram. The nearest railway station from Pichavaram is at Chidambaram (about 20 kilometres). Pondicherry is the nearest airport (around 75 kilometres), Trichy Airport (168 kilometres).
Aliyar Reservoir is a 6.48 km2 reservoir located in the Aliyar village near Pollachi in Coimbatore. It is about 65 kilometers from Coimbatore. Aliyar dam is one of the famous dam in Coimbatore district.
Aliyar Dam is located in the foothills of Valparai, in the Anaimalai Hills of the Western Ghats.
The dam offers some ideal getaways including a park, garden, play area and a mini Theme-Park maintained by Tamil Nadu Corporation. The scenery is beautiful, with mountains surrounding three quarters of the reservoir.
If you are en route to Valparai, spend some time to visit this dam. This is a very beautiful place with a scenic view of the mountains in the backdrop.
A great place to hang out with family and kids, fish fry at government-owned outlet was good. It was fresh dam fish. We can take a bath in the river nearby was awesome. Kids can enjoy a lot.
The dam visit would easily take max 2 hours time. There is good parking space and roadside food stalls near the entrance.
Image Attribution : @shah_hameed_24 from instagram
Aliyar Dam Boating
- Boating on the Aliyar Dam is good, to enjoy.
- Boating service time is 9am to 5.30pm daily.
- Boating fees for adult is Rs. 40 and children are Rs.30.
Aliyar Dam Park
Entry fees for Alyar Dam Park is Rs.5
Mookaneri Lake is situated at Kannankurichi, Salem. Also called Kannankurichi Lake. Just a couple of kilometers from the city.
In Salem, this has become the main tourist spot. This place is a home for many birds and plants. Beautiful lake with mountains in the background
Surrounded by many plants, the lake has park and seating arrangements made for visitors to comfortably enjoy the visit.
There are proper parking facilities here. Since, it is not too far off from the city limits, it attracts many tourists every year.
People from Hasthampatti can just walk down to the lake without incurring much cost to enjoy nature and be there for a while.
Fishing activity is encouraged here and we can see people buying fish during the weekends here.
This lake is renovated by Salem people and NGO. Really a good initiative by Salem people to renovate this lake.
Poolampatti, Poolampatti lake, Poolampatti boat house
Poolampatti is a tourist spot and a nice place to be visited in Salem. It is located at about 40kms away from Salem and is there over one of the banks of river Kaveri.
Boat ride on a daily basis on the waters of the river Cauvery is a sight to watch from the banks of the river.
The main occupation at this place is Agriculture and cattle business also adds on to the income of the people here.
Palamalai Hills and Palamalai lord Perumal temple are also a place of interest here at Poolampatti.
Cinema artists and serial artists can be seen here often as this place is best suited for shooting. So, people add this to your list and visit the place for sure.
