Thirumoorthy Hill is renowned as one of the most picturesque hills in Tamil Nadu and is a popular location for film shoots. Against this enchanting backdrop, Panchalinga Falls graces the landscape with its timeless beauty, drawing in numerous tourists. In close proximity to the falls lies the Thirumoorthy Dam, which offers amenities such as a swimming pool, well-maintained gardens, and boating facilities. This dam is strategically positioned, enveloped by lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and sunflower gardens on all sides, creating a truly idyllic setting.
Panchalinga Waterfalls, situated in the vicinity of Udumalaipettai within the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu, India, is a picturesque natural attraction. With its waters cascading from a height of 5 meters, this scenic wonder is ensconced in verdant surroundings, offering an ideal setting for meditation and relaxation. Moreover, these falls are notable for their close proximity to the Thirumoorthy temple and the Sri Amanalingeswarar temple.
To learn more about Thirumoorthy waterfalls visit https://tamilnadutourisminfo.com/thirumoorthy-waterfalls
To learn more about Thirumoorthy Dam visit https//www.tamilnadutourisminfo.com/thirumoorthy-dam
Thiruppukkozhiyur, also known as the Karunaiyaaththaal Temple, Avinasilingeswarar Temple, and Avainasiappar Temple, is a sacred Hindu shrine devoted to Lord Shiva. It is situated in Avinasi, a panchayat town nestled within the Tiruppur district of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
Image Attribution: @pratheesh_npl from instagram
History of Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
The Arulmigu Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple, has a rich history dating back several centuries. While the temple’s exact origin and history may have variations in different accounts, it is a significant religious and cultural site in South India.
Chola Period: The temple has historical inscriptions that suggest it was patronized and developed during the Chola dynasty, which ruled over parts of South India from the 9th to the 13th century. These inscriptions provide insights into the contributions made by Chola kings to the temple’s growth.
Vijayanagara Empire: During the Vijayanagara Empire’s rule in the region, the temple underwent renovations and enhancements, reflecting the architectural styles of that era. Many of the temple’s architectural features and sculptures may have been added or modified during this time.
Architecture of Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
The temple complex is typically entered through ornate gopurams, which are towering gateways adorned with sculpted figures and intricate artwork.The central sanctum, where the main deity’s shrine is located, is crowned by a vimana or shikhara. This vimana is a pyramidal tower that rises above the sanctum and is often adorned with multiple tiers of sculptures and reliefs depicting various mythological and religious themes.
The temple complex typically includes various halls or mandapams, which are used for various rituals and ceremonies. Many Dravidian temples have a dedicated Kalyana Mandapam (marriage hall), where the celestial wedding of the temple deities is celebrated. These halls are adorned with grand sculptures and paintings depicting the divine wedding.
Deities of Avinash Lingeshwarar Temple:
Lord Shiva (Avinashi Lingeshwarar): The presiding deity of the temple, Lord Shiva, is worshipped in the form of a Lingam. Devotees offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva.
Goddess Parvati (Periyanayaki Amman): In many Shiva temples, Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva, has her sanctum. She is revered as Periyanayaki Amman in this temple.
Navagrahas: The nine celestial bodies or Navagrahas, representing the planets in Hindu astrology, are commonly worshipped in many temples. They are usually housed in a separate shrine to mitigate the effects of planetary influences on individuals.
Sapta Matrukas: The seven divine mothers, or Sapta Matrukas, are often revered in Shiva temples. They are considered protectors and are associated with various forms of Shakti (divine feminine energy).
Dakshinamurthy: Lord Dakshinamurthy, a form of Lord Shiva as the divine guru or teacher, is often depicted in a seated posture under a banyan tree. Devotees seek wisdom and spiritual guidance from Dakshinamurthy.
Visiting Hours and Pooja timings of the Temple:
The temple is open to visitors during the following hours:
- From 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- From 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Six poojas are performed in the temple as follows:
- Kalasanthi at 6:00 a.m.
- Irandam Kalm at 9:00 a.m.
- Uchikalam at 12:00 p.m.
- Sayarakshai at 6:00 p.m.
- Irandam Kalm at 7:30 p.m.
- Arthajamam at 9:00 p.m.
Festivals of Avianshi Lingeshwarar Temple:
Maha Shivaratri is among the most important festivals observed at the Avinashi Temple, marking the grand night dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this auspicious occasion, devotees flock to the temple to offer fervent prayers and seek the divine blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple adorns itself with exquisite decorations, and a series of sacred rituals are meticulously conducted throughout the night.
Arudra Darshanam, celebrated during the Arudra Nakshatra in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January), is a special festival. Devotees engage in special prayers and perform the sacred abhishekam (ritual bathing) to honor the deity during this significant event.
Navaratri, Thirukarthikai, Chitra pournami, Pournami girivalam are some of the festivals celebrated in this temple.
How to reach Avinashi Lingeshwarar Temple:
By Air: The closest major airport is Coimbatore International Airport, offering connections to various cities across India. Upon arrival at the airport, you can opt for a taxi or explore alternative transport methods to cover the approximately 35-kilometer journey to Avinashi.
By Train: Although Avinashi lacks its own railway station, you can reach the nearby Coimbatore Junction, a significant rail hub in the region with excellent connections to multiple Indian cities. Once at Coimbatore Junction, you have the choice of hiring a taxi, boarding a train, or taking a bus to reach Avinashi, which is roughly 35 kilometers away.
By Road: Avinashi is conveniently accessible via road, with a well-developed network of highways. You can reach Avinashi by using a private vehicle, hiring a taxi, or opting for bus transportation. The town is situated along National Highway 544, providing easy access from nearby urban centers such as Coimbatore, Tirupur, and Erode. To give you an idea of distances:
- Coimbatore to Avinashi: Approximately 35 kilometers (a roughly 45-minute drive).
- Tirupur to Avinashi: Approximately 30 kilometers (a roughly 40-minute drive).
- Erode to Avinashi: Approximately 90 kilometers (a roughly 2-hour drive).
The Amaravathi Crocodile Farm is a popular tourist attraction located in Amaravathi, which is a town in the Tiruppur district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The farm is officially known as the “Amaravathi Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Centre.” It is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of crocodiles.
Crocodile Breeding in the center :
The farm is involved in breeding different species of crocodiles, including the Mugger crocodile and the Indian Gharial. The center plays a crucial role in preserving and rehabilitating these reptiles, which are considered endangered in the wild.
Mugger Crocodile :
The Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is a moderate-sized freshwater crocodile species that hails from the Indian subcontinent and neighboring areas. In comparison to some of their larger crocodile relatives, Muggers are relatively modest in size, typically reaching lengths of 8 to 10 feet (2.5 to 3 meters) in adulthood, although exceptionally large individuals can extend to impressive lengths of up to 13 feet (4 meters).
Muggers primarily make their homes in freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and marshes, but they can also adapt to brackish water environments. These adaptable crocodiles are known to inhabit a wide variety of aquatic habitats throughout their native range.
Indian Gharial :
The Indian Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a crocodile species in critical endangerment, native to the Indian subcontinent. It stands out due to its distinctive and elongated snout, which distinguishes it from other crocodile species. This specialized snout is perfectly designed for its primary diet, fish.
Among all crocodilian species, Gharials are some of the largest, with adult males capable of reaching impressive lengths of up to 15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters), although larger individuals have been occasionally documented. These extraordinary reptiles are finely adapted to life in swiftly flowing rivers and are predominantly found in the major river systems of the Indian subcontinent, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus rivers.
Research in Amaravathi Crocodile Farm:
The Amaravathi Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Centre, also known as the Amaravathi Crocodile Farm, is dedicated to both conservation and research related to crocodiles. It serves as an educational center as well, providing information and raising awareness about these reptiles.
Crocodile Behavior and Biology: The farm conducts research to better understand the behavior, biology, and ecology of crocodiles, specifically focusing on the Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) and the Indian Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). This research can include studies on their feeding habits, reproduction, territorial behavior, and response to environmental changes.
Habitat Studies: Researchers at the center may conduct studies on the crocodiles’ natural habitat and the environmental factors that affect their populations. Understanding their habitat requirements is essential for conservation efforts.
Conservation Programs: The research conducted at Amaravathi Crocodile Farm contributes to conservation programs aimed at protecting these endangered crocodile species. This may involve captive breeding, habitat restoration, and the release of individuals back into the wild.
Genetic Research: Genetic research is important for assessing the genetic diversity and health of crocodile populations. It helps in identifying potential inbreeding risks and can inform breeding and conservation strategies.
Education:
Visitor Center: The crocodile farm likely has a visitor center where the public can learn about crocodiles, their conservation status, and their role in the ecosystem. Visitors can view the crocodiles and engage with educational displays and exhibits.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are often available for visitors, where knowledgeable guides provide information about crocodile biology, conservation efforts, and safety guidelines for interacting with crocodiles.
Awareness Programs:
The crocodile farm likely hosts school groups and educational tours, providing students with a unique opportunity to learn about crocodiles and their conservation. These visits may include interactive presentations, guided tours, and hands-on activities.
Awareness programs can highlight the crocodile farm’s conservation efforts and how individuals can support these initiatives. This might include opportunities for volunteering, adopting a crocodile, or contributing to conservation projects.
The crocodile farm may collaborate with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), wildlife departments, and government agencies to further their conservation and awareness efforts.
In today’s digital age, awareness programs may also include online resources such as informative websites, social media presence, and virtual tours to reach a broader audience.
Visiting Hours and Entry Fee of Amaravathi :
The Crocodile farm welcomes visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 06:00 PM. The entrance fee is Rs. 20 per person, and there is an additional Rs. 20 charge for camera usage and bikes. If you’re arriving by car, there is a parking fee of Rs. 50.
How to reach Amaravathi Crocodile Farm:
Traveling by Road:
- From Tiruppur: If you’re starting your journey from Tiruppur, simply head east in the direction of Amaravathi. The crocodile farm is situated approximately 25-30 kilometers to the east of Tiruppur, accessible via State Highway 21.
- From Nearby Cities: If you’re traveling from nearby cities like Coimbatore, utilize major highways such as NH 67 and NH 544 to reach Tiruppur. Once in Tiruppur, follow the aforementioned directions to reach the crocodile farm.
Traveling by Train:
- Using the Nearest Railway Station: The closest major railway station to Amaravathi is Tiruppur Junction. You can opt for a train to Tiruppur from various cities, and from there, you can continue your journey by road to reach the crocodile farm.
Traveling by Air:
- Utilizing the Nearest Airport: Coimbatore International Airport serves as the nearest airport to Amaravathi. You can book a flight to Coimbatore from major cities across India. Upon arrival at Coimbatore, you can then hire a taxi or use public transportation to make your way to Amaravathi, which is approximately 60-70 kilometers from the airport.
Thirumoorthy Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction located near the Thirumoorthy Dam in the Western Ghats of Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu, India. Thirumoorthy Waterfalls is situated in the Anaimalai Hills, near the town of Udumalpet in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu. It is part of the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve and falls within a lush forested area.
Scenic Beauty of Thirumoorthy waterfalls:
The waterfalls are surrounded by lush, verdant forests, with the Anaimalai Hills and the Western Ghats providing a stunning backdrop. The green canopy of trees and the diverse flora create a lush and vibrant environment.
Thirumoorthy Waterfalls themselves are a spectacle to behold. The cascading water tumbles down in multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing display of nature’s power and beauty. The sight and sound of the falling water are both awe-inspiring and soothing.
At the base of the falls, there are natural pools of water that form as a result of the cascading streams. These pools provide a serene and inviting setting for visitors to take a refreshing dip, cool off, or simply relax amidst the natural surroundings.
Religious Significance:
The waterfalls take their name from the nearby Thirumoorthy Temple, a sacred site devoted to Lord Murugan. This temple enhances the spiritual and cultural significance of the area, and it is common for pilgrims to include a visit to both the falls and the temple in their religious journey.
Trekking Adventure:
To reach Thirumoorthy Waterfalls, visitors usually embark on a trek through the forest. The trekking path offers an adventurous journey through the wilderness, with opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna. It’s essential to be prepared for a moderate trek, as the trail can be challenging at times.
Visiting Hours and entry fee of the Thirumoorthy waterfalls:
The Thirumoorthy waterfalls will be open from 08:30 AM to 04:00 PM. The entry fee to visit the falls is Rs.5/- per person and Rs.50/- is charged for car parking. The forest department will not allow people on heavy raining or Flood time.
How to reach Thirumoorthy waterfalls:
By Air: The closest major airport to Thirumoorthy Waterfalls is Coimbatore International Airport, situated roughly 75 kilometers away. Upon your arrival at the airport, you have the option to hire a taxi or board a bus to reach your final destination.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pollachi Junction, positioned at a distance of about 27 kilometers from Thirumoorthy Waterfalls. You can access Pollachi by train from major cities in Tamil Nadu and various regions across India. From Pollachi, you can make use of taxi services or take a bus to reach the waterfalls.
By Road: Thirumoorthy Waterfalls is well-connected by road. If you are traveling by car or bus, you can use the road network to reach your destination. Here are approximate road routes:
- From Coimbatore: Head south on the NH83 highway towards Pollachi. After reaching Pollachi, follow the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach Thirumoorthy Waterfalls.
- From Palakkad, Kerala: Travel east on the NH544 towards Pollachi. Once in Pollachi, take the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach the falls.
- From Tiruppur: Take the SH21 highway south towards Palladam and Pollachi. After reaching Pollachi, proceed on the Pollachi-Valparai Road (SH78) to reach Thirumoorthy Waterfalls.
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.
