Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR) / Wildlife Sanctuary

Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR), the second-largest protected area in the state of Tamil Nadu, is located in the southern Western Ghats in Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari District.

The reserve covering a core area of nearly 895 square kilometres and a total extent of 1602 square kilometres (including the buffer/forest zone area) was created in the year 1988 by combining Kalakad Sanctuary and Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary.

Image Attribution : Daniel Panesar

Overview of Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

Rivers, Dams & Waterfalls – The reservoirs, waterfalls, dams and other water bodies attract tourists in huge numbers. The reserve has 14 rivers originating from it and so it is also referred to as the ‘River Sanctuary’. The rivers flow into three main watersheds namely Thamirabharani, Manimuthar and Upper Kodayar. The reserve also hosts 11 dams that include Karaiyar Dam, Kodumudiyar Dam, Servalar Dam, Papanasam – Upper and lower dam, Manimuthar Dam, Kadananathi Dam and Ramanathi Dam. The major waterfalls in the reserve are Banathirtham Falls near Karaiyar Dam, Agasthiyar Falls, Manimuthar Falls and Kalakkad Thalayanai.

Agriculture & Hydel Projects – Agriculture is the main occupation in the buffer area of the reserve, the irrigation of which is facilitated by the rivers originating from the reserve. The water from the rivers is also used for three hydroelectric power stations in the Tiger reserve.

Biological Values – The wide variation in climatic and topographical features of the reserve supports a variety of wildlife and floristic compositions. The place is rich in biodiversity and unique vegetation suitable for endemic flora, fauna and avian species. Bird watching, trekking and boat rides are other highlights of the Tiger Reserve. Trekking trails are to be experienced at the designated places with permission from the forest authorities.

Flora & Fauna – The reserve has a rich flora that includes endemic plants, reptiles, fishes, amphibians, birds and mammal species. The wildlife in the reserve includes tiger, leopard, elephant, guar, chital, Nilgiri tahr, giant squirrel and many other endemic and rare species of animals.

Human Settlement – The oldest race of inhabitants in the forest area are the Kanis or Malaiarasans. They are engaged in land cultivation and also employed as Forest Guards and Watchers and Anti-poaching watchers by the Forest Department. Their expert knowledge of the forest and the wild habitats is inimitable.

Religious Significance & Aesthetic Value

Apart from the biological values of the reserve, the place is also visited by a number of pilgrims. The places of religious importance include the Gorakhnathar Temple and a Durgah beside the temple, Sorimuthuayyanar Koil and Nambi Kovil.

About 35 square kilometres of area at the side of the eastern foothills of the reserve is attributed for tourism. The moist evergreen forest surroundings of the reserve are a thrilling experience for photographers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Ideal time to visit Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

The best season to visit Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is between October and March, before summer sets in when the climate becomes humid. The reserve is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days.

Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve Fee details for Activities

1. Guided trekking for about 2 hours is available at a rate of Rs. 200 per person (maximum of 10 persons) and Rs. 1250 per trek (minimum of 5 persons).
2. Guided view for 1 hour of Agasthiyar Peak, Nagapothigai, Iyanthalai Pothigai and Pandiyan Kottai is available at a rate of Rs. 25 per person (maximum of 15 persons) and Rs. 200 per trek (minimum of 5 persons) in a slot.
3. Guided visits for about 1.5 hours of Pandiyan Kottai is available at a rate of Rs. 25 per person.

How to reach Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

The Kalakad Tiger Reserve is at a distance of 10 kilometres from Ambasamudram. Regular buses are available to Mundanthurai from Tirunelveli which is 50 kilometres away. The nearest rail head is at Cheranmahadevi (20 kilometres away) and Tirunelveli Junction (around 62 kilometres away). The nearest airports are at Madurai (20 kilometres away) and Thiruvananthapuram (140 kilometres).

Epilogue

The high mountains, lush green meadows, secluded valleys, dense rain forests thundering waterfalls and the diverse and unique flora and fauna makes the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve a treasure trove for the visitors. Explore the breathtaking scenery of the place and the world of wildlife keeping in my mind of all the don’ts that would annoy its residents and pollute the reserve.

Please check the official government website for Accommodation and activities inside the tiger reserve.

Major Tourist Attractions in Tirunelveli District

• Manjolai Hills
• Swami Nellaiappar and Kanthimathi Ambal Temple
• Papanasanathar Temple, Papanasam
• Papanasam Dam
• Bird Sanctuary, Koonthankulam in Nanguneri Taluk
• Manimuthar Falls and Dam
• Kalugumalai Vettuvan Kovil

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary

Anamalai Tiger Reserve was originally called the Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary (established in the year 1976) and later on renamed as Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. It is located near Pollachi at an altitude of 1,400 metres at the Top Slip, covering an area of 958 sq. kms.

A 30 kilometres wide gap in the Western Ghats mountain range, called the Palghat Gap, between the Nilgiri Hills to the north and the Anamalai Hills to the South forms a major communication route between the Kerala and Tamil Nadu border. The Reserve is carved out of the Tamil Nadu portion of The Anamalais. The administration of the Reserve falls under the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.

Image Attribution : Jaseem Hamza

Things to do & see in Anamalai Tiger Reserve

• • The deep forest is a habitat of varieties of exotic and endemic fauna – Elephant, Panther, Tiger, Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Thar are some of the animals that can be spotted.
  • Explore the natural bounties through an amazing trekking experience. Check out our essential trekking gear guide for a safe trekking experience.
  • The Sanctuary is an abode of over 800 species of flora and around 250 species of birds.
  • Shola trees, grass hills, waterfalls, groves, teak forests, estates, dams and reservoirs add beauty to Anamalai Hills.
  • Photograph the wildness of the forest in all its glory.
  • Enjoy purchasing souvenirs at the Eco-Shop in Top Slip.
  • Tourists have accommodation option inside the park at Top Slip. Alternately, there are also several forest guest houses available at Amaravathi, Sethumadai and Varagaliar near to Anamalai.
  • The Reserve Park timings are 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The park is open on all days. The checkpost timings are 7:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. The entry fees at check post to be paid by private vehicles are as follows:

Entree Fee	Ticket Cost(INR)
Per head	Rs. 30
Per Child (5 to 10 yrs of age)	Rs. 10
Still Camera	Rs. 80
Video Camera	Rs. 300
Light Motor Vehicles	Rs. 100
Heavy Motor Vehicles	Rs. 200
Van	Rs. 150

• • The Safari ride at the Reserve Forest is a major attraction. Forest Department vans and four wheelers are available for the ride. Elephant Safari at Top Slip is a favourite among tourists for a pleasant jungle ride, details of which are as follows:

Safari Timings	Entry Fee(INR)	Safari Duration	Ticket Cost(INR)
11:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.	Rs.30 per head	45 mins	Rs. 800 per ride

Ideal time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve

The best time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve would be between the months of December to April.

How to reach Anamalai Tiger Reserve

Direct buses are available to Anamalai Tiger Reserve from Coimbatore and Pollachi. The nearest railway station is at Pollachi (35 kilometres) and nearest Airport is Coimbatore International Airport (75 kilometres).

Kolli Hills: A Trekker’s Paradise

Kolli Hills is Located in Namakkal District at an altitude ranging from 1000 to 1300 metres above sea level is the serene mountain range of Kolli Hill Station. To reach this offbeat paradise, one has to traverse through 70 hairpin bends.

The hills are said to be guarded by Kollipavai also called Goddess Ettukkai Amma, the local deity. The mountains come across as an eerie place according to the myth among the locals. Kolli Hills is a perfect blend of natural splendor, pilgrim destination, mysteries and adventures.

Top Attractions in Kolli Hills

Kolli Hills, a hidden gem nestled in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Trek to the ancient Arapaleeswarar Temple, nestled amidst misty mountains, or witness the mesmerizing Agaya Gangai Waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. For nature enthusiasts, the botanical gardens provide a serene escape, while the mysterious Siddhar Caves offer a glimpse into the region’s spiritual past. With lush greenery, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking vistas, Kolli Hills is a paradise for those seeking adventure and tranquility. Plan your visit to Kolli Hills today and experience the magic of this enchanting destination.

Arapaleeswarar Temple

Located at Periakoviloor, in the vicinity of Akasa Gangai waterfall, is Arapaleeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is said to have been built by the then ruler Valvil Ori in the 1st or 2nd century AD. It is believed that the temple has a secret path to the Shiva Temple in Rasipuram.

Botanical Garden, Kolli Hills

Botanical Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Kolli Hills. Its main highlights are a beautiful Rose Garden, a majestic view point, exo-friendly cottages and a fun-filled Children’s Park.

Tampcol Medicinal Farm

Located on the way to Vaasaloorpatti while returning from Semmadu, is the Tampcol Medicinal Farm in Kolli Hills. The medicinal plants, shrubs and herbs grown in this farm are widely used in the production of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani products. It is run by the State Government.

Ettukai Amman Temple

Ettukai Amman Temple is an ancient temple located at Valapoor Nadu. The deity worshipped here is Kolli Paavai (meaning – ‘Maiden of Death’) or Ettukai Amman (meaning – ‘Goddess with eight hands’). The temple is a hut with a palm leaf roof.

Agasa Gangai Waterfalls

Agasagangai Waterfalls is the waterfall of the river Aiyaru that cascades down from a height of 300 feet. It is located near the Arapaleeswarar Temple. The waterfalls comprises of about 1000 steps descending the base. The trail from Arapaleeswarar Temple to the waterfalls covers a distance of about 1 kilometre.

Siddha Caves

The belief is that, in ancient times, the Sidha’s lived, researched and meditated in the caves practicing traditional medicine and methods of natural healing. The location also serves as an excellent trekking expedition.

Things to do in Kolli Hills

• Trek to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls
• Vasalurpatty Boat House
• Visit viewpoints – Selur Viewpoint, Sirumalai viewpoint, Binnan viewpoint and Seekuparai viewpoint
• Stay at one of the traditional wood houses
• Trek to the remote Bogar Caves and Kayanavandhu Caves
• Tourists can shop for coffee, pepper, rice and honey in Solakkadu, Kolli Hills

Best time to visit Kolli Hills

Kolli Hills can be visited all round the year but the best time to visit Kolli Hills is from February to December.

How to reach Kolli Hills

By road, Kolli Hills can be easily reached from the cities of Chennai and Salem. The nearest railway head is Salem Junction which is located at a distance of 90 kilometres. Trichy Domestic Airport is the nearest airport from the hill station of Kolli Hills.

Tips for a Safe and Memorable Trek

To ensure a safe and memorable trek, plan meticulously, pack smartly, prioritize safety, and embrace the journey. Choose trails suitable for your experience level, check weather conditions, and inform someone of your plans. Check out our essential trekking gear checklist for a safe trekking experience. Follow marked trails, be aware of your surroundings, and respect nature. Capture the moment, connect with nature, and practice mindfulness. For an enhanced experience, consider hiring a guide or joining a trekking group. Start slow and gradually increase the difficulty of your treks.

Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai National Park is a part of Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located at a distance of 150 kilometres from Coimbatore, in the Nilgiris District of Tamil Nadu and shares its borders with the states of Karnataka and Kerala. The Western Ghats in Nilgiris covering an area of 6000 square kilometres including the whole of Madumalai National Park is under consideration for selection as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO World Heritage Committee. Madumalai has a varied mixture of beautiful landscapes, open grasslands, swamps, exotic flora and fauna and rare species of birds. A pure bliss can be felt by tourists especially by avid wildlife lovers.

Image Attribution : Jaseem Hamza

Major Tourist Attractions in Mudumalai

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Mudumalai National Park was declared as a Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary derives its name from the word “Mudumalai” which means “situated on the first hill”. The sanctuary is divided into five ranges – Masinagudi, Theppakadu, Mudumalai, Kargudi and Nellakota. The contour of the sanctuary includes the three types of forests in the sanctuary – tropical moist deciduous, tropical dry deciduous and southern tropical dry thorn. Some of the rare fauna found here are the grey langur, bonnet macaque, Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, guar, hyena, sloth bear and species of reptiles and birds. Theppakadu is the entry point to the Sanctuary which has an information center.

Kalhatti Waterfalls, Mudumalai

An ideal destination for trekking at Mudumalai would be Kalhatti Waterfalls. It is on the Ooty-Mysore route and is 13 kilometres from Ooty. The falls is located on the slopes of Kalhatti Mountains at around 2000 metres from sea level. Feel the pulsating experience of trekking together with the natural beauty of the area.

Theppakadu Elephant Camp

The camp derives its name from ‘Theppam’ meaning ‘pond’ and ‘kaadu’ meaning ‘forest’. A small camp since 1910 was declared an elephant camp in 1972. Elephants are trained and housed at the camp. Elephant shows are held on every Saturday and Sunday. Elephant race and soccer performed by the elephants are quite entertaining.

Mudumalai Museum

A Museum is located near the Elephant feeding camp. It provides a glimpse of the animals of the former years in their preserved form. It is a place worth a visit to observe the former dwellers of the forest.

Moyar River

Moyar River, originating from the town of Moyar along the Masinagudi-Ooty Road is one of the tributaries of the Bhavani River. Moyar River separates Mudumalai Sanctuary and Bandipur (Karnataka). It is a noted spot where many animals come to drink water along the banks of the river. The Moyar River Gorge also known as the Moyar Canyon is a massive gorge dug out of the Moyar River. The river water plunges into the Canyon from a great height giving origin to the Moyar Falls.

Things to do in Mudhumalai

Tourists can explore the adjacent forest ranges to Mudumalai – Bandipur National Park (in Karnataka) and Wayanad Sanctuary (in Kerala). Some of the other enthralling activities to keep the tourists engaged are

• Canter and jeep safari
• Bird watching
• Camping amidst the pristine surroundings
• Nature trails and photography
• Trekking to Mayor Gorge
• Village tour
• Elephant Camp tour and Elephant safari
• Watch tower and water hole visit

Ideal time to visit Mudumalai

Mudumalai is an year-round destination but the best time to visit between the months of February to June. Vehicle Safari duration is for 1 hour –6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

How to reach Mudumalai

Mudumalai is connected via road to Gudalur (3 kilometres), Ooty (41 kilometres) and Mysore (84 kilometres).Taxi services are also available from Ooty to Mudumalai. The nearest railway station is Ooty station (40 kilometres) and the closest broad gauge station is Coimbatore Railway Station (116 kilometres). The nearest airport is the Coimbatore International Airport (123 kilometres). Accommodation is available at forest rest houses, guest houses at Masinagudi, kargudi, Theppakadu and Abhayaranyam.

Meghamalai – Highwavys Mountains

Meghamalai is a mountain range situated in the Western Ghats in Theni District of Tamil Nadu. It is also called the Hignwavys Mountains, the term ‘Highwavys’ being derived to describe the steep and undulating mountain ranges. As the name suggests, Meghamalai is invariably a place where the clouds meet the mountains. It marks natural beauty surrounded by tea and coffee plantations and varieties of flora and fauna.

Image Attribute : Vinoth Chandar

Tourist Attractions in Meghamalai

Meghamalai Falls

Meghamalai Falls also called the Clouds Land Falls are round-the-year falls that do not run dry. The falls descends in two separate places from the stream Suruli Theetham that originates from the hills. Spotting wild animals such as elephants, guar, spotted deer and other dwellers of the forest is not very uncommon.

Meghamalai Tea Estates

Large tea estates, coffee plantations and spice garden could be found in abundance in the Meghamalai region. The Highwavys Estates is a tea plantation run by the Woodbriar Group. Highwavys is the ideal viewpoint for a wonderful view of the Varusanadu Hills.

Meghamalai Dams

Six dams originate from Meghamalai Mountains, most popular of them being the Suruli Theertham. Manalar Dam offers a breathtaking view of the Cumbum Valley and distant villages in Theni District. Highway Point Dam is another important landmark.

Meghamalai Forests

Meghamalai forests in all its wilderness is home to exotic birds, flora and mammal life. Meghamalai has been declared as a protected area by the Government of Tamil Nadu owing to its quintessential wildlife.

Vellimalai

Vellimalai or the Silver Mountain is situated in the heart of Meghamalai at about 1650 metres above sea level. This place is where the Vaigai River originates. It is a lovely place to experience the natural bounties that Meghamalai has to offer in the form of tea gardens and rare species of fauna.

Things to do in Meghamalai

Meghamalai is not a very crowded place so you could thoroughly enjoy the pristine nature and the peaceful vibe of a hill station. Trekking and long mountain walks is an experience second to none. Please refer the essential trekking gear checklist for a safe and enjoyable trekking.

Ideal time to visit Meghamalai

The month of September to May is the ideal time to visit Maghamalai. It is pleasantly cool and refreshing this part of the year.

How to reach Meghamalai

• Roads are not very proper and buses that take you to Megamalai are few. You could reach Meghamalai from Theni via Chinnamanoor or from Andipatti via Kandamanayakkanur. Both Theni and Andipatti are well connected from the districts of Madurai and Dindigul.
• The nearest rail heads are at Dindigul, Kodairoad and Madurai. The nearest airport is at Madurai (130 kilometres), Trichy (190 kilometres) and Coimbatore (290 kilometres).

Valparai Hill Station – The seventh heaven

Valparai is a hill station located in Coimbatore District, above 3,500 feet from the sea level on the Anamalai mountain range. Valparai is close to Pollachi and stands majestically with mesmerizing green spread mountains, waterfalls, dams and secluded valleys. It has vast areas of tea and coffee plantations amidst thick woodlands. It is a perfect destination for a pollution-free and peaceful ambience.

Valparai is located at about 100 km from Coimbatore and is situated 3,914 feet above the sea level. The route from Aliyar to Valparai has got 40 Hairpin bends in 40kms stretch. The route from Athirapally to Aliyar is full of wild animals and wild elephants are a common scene in this route. Bear, Deers and sometimes even Leopards appear in Malakkappara – Valpara route. Malakkappara & Valparai has got full of Tea estate. It has got some of the largest tea estate in India. You have budget home stays to estate bungalows available in Valparai.

Image Attribute : Jaseem Hamza

Tourist Attractions in Valparai

Nirar Dam

Nilar Dam is located 15 kilometres from Valparai. The dam is a part of hydroelectric power project and is plays a crucial role in irrigation and supplying water to places in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. There is a waterfall near the dam which is very similar to the Silver Cascade waterfalls in Kodaikanal.

Sholayar Dam

The dam is located 20 kilometres from Valparai. It is the second deepest dam in the whole of Asia and is a part of Tamil Nadu’s hydroelectric power project. The dam can be visited only under special permission. It is worth a sight owing to its peaceful surroundings and majesty.

Valparai Viewpoints

Valparai Hill Station has a number of notable viewpoints providing some of the best views of the hills and valleys. Found at the 9th hairpin bend (on the road to Valparai from Pollachi) is the Loam’s viewpoint. It offers an exquisite view of the Aliyar Dam. Other viewpoints in and around Valparai are Nallamudi Poonjolai, Kadampari Dam and Number Parai.

Grass hills view from Akkamalai

Grass Hills, located 15 kilometres from Valparai, is a part of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a protected region, which can be visited only with permission from Wildlife Department. It is a natural habitat for many animals.

Valparai Balaji Temple

This temple is at a distance of 10 kilometres from Valparai. It is situated amidst tea estates and is owned and managed by Peria Kalamalai Tea Industries. The main deity worshipped here is Lord Balaji and poojas are performed like that of Tirupati Balaji Temple.

Chinnakallar Falls

It is located 26 kilometres east of Valparai. Chinakkalar is the second highest rainfall area in the country and so is known as the Cherrapunji of South India. A hanging bridge has been constructed over the falls which makes the experience even more adventurous.

Things to do in Valparai

While in Valparai, one could engage in trekking, bird watching, photography, river bathing and cycling. Check out our essential trekking gear checklist for a safe trekking. Lush evergreen plantations and wilderness found abound is sure to make your trip to Valparai a memorable one.

Ideal Time to Visit Valparai

The best time to visit Valparai Hill Station would be between the month of September and March when the climate is pleasant and cool.

How to reach Valparai

Bus route connections are available from Valparai to Pollachi, Coimbatore, Tirupur, Udumalaipettai and Palani. Valparai in connected to Athirapalli Waterfalls in Chalakudi (around 64 kilometres). Pollachi and Coimbatore are the nearest railway stations from Valparai. Coimbatore is the nearest Airport.

Yellagiri is a small and popular hill station in Vellore District of Tamil Nadu. It dates back to the British colonial days and in the recent past has developed to be a full-fledged tourist spot. Travel through 14 hairpin bends leads you to the majestic Yellagiri Hills, situated at an altitude of 1410 meters, amidst four mountains and well known for its salubrious climate throughout the year.

Major Attractions in Yelagiri

Nature Park, Yelagiri

Established in the year 2008, the park consists of an aquarium, a rose garden, an artificial waterfall and a musical fountain. It is a great place for some fun and frolic especially for the kids.

Punganoor Lake, Yelagiri

This lake is one of the most popular landmark in Yelagiri Hills. It is an artificial lake 25 feet deep adjacent to the park. A walk along the lake side and a boat ride could be enjoyed here.

Jelagamparai Waterfalls

A 5 kilometre trek from Yelagiri downhill is the Jelagamparai Waterfalls. The Attaru river flows through Yelagiri Hills and plummets down to form the beautiful waterfalls. You could take the Tiruppaththur route (15 kilometres away) or climb up the hill.

Swami Malai Hills

Swami Malai Hills with a very high peak takes the shape of a cake and a strong base. The main deity is Lord Murugan. It offers a good mixture of spiritual aura and hiking experience.

Things to do in Yelagiri

Walking up the hill would be a real task but a memorable one too. Trekking, hiking and Summer Festival conducted every year are some of the appealing factors for the tourists. The flora and fauna found in the hills and beautiful landscape of the location is best suitable for photography.

Ideal time to visit Yelagiri

The ideal time to visit the place would be between the month May to July to enjoy the clear climate and wildlife and from September to March to have some adventures.

How to reach Yelagiri

Frequent buses are available from Yercaud to Thirupattur and Jolarpet. The nearest rail head is Salem Junction, nearest Railway Station is Jolarpet Railway Station. The nearest airports are Salem (38 kilometres), Tiruchirapalli (165 kilometres) and Coimbatore (195 kilometres).

Shenbaga Thoppu Meenvetti Parai Falls is found in Shenbaga Thoppu, a forest area on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. ‘Thoppu’ in Tamil means ‘groves’, and Shenbaga Thoppu is one of the most ancient natural groves of Tamilnadu. The forest is at a distance of around 8 kms from Srivilliputhur in Virudhunagar District. The forest surroundings are a habitat for tribal communities. It is a good option for trekking and is considered to be one of the best reserve forest areas in the State.

The forest is home for many rare and endemic varieties of flora and fauna. It also encompasses the Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary which spreads over 480 square kilometers. The sanctuary hosts different varieties of animals and birds. The sanctuary is bordered by Periyar Tiger Reserve on the southwestern side and the Megamalai Reserve Forest on the northwestern side.

The Meenvetti Parai Falls is a serene place to relax and refresh yourself with a bath. It is at its best in the rainy and winter season (June to February). It is advisable to carry essentials such as water and snacks as you would not find many shops in the forest area.

The place is connected by bus service from Srivilliputhur but is easier to reach the forest area by two-wheeler or cycle. Accommodation could be availed at Srivilliputhur which is just 8 kilometers from the Sanctuary. There is good rail connectivity from Madurai and Chennai to Srivilliputhur. Srivilliputhur is around 75 kilometers from Madurai.

Sathuragiri Hills

Sathuragiri hills are around 15 km from Watrap or Vathirayiruppu village near Srivilliputhur. Sathuragiri Shiva Temple surrounded by mountains is referred to as the abode of Lord Shiva and the innumerable saints who are still believed to religiously worship Lord Shiva in Sathuragiri Hills. The name “Sathuragiri” is supposed to be derived from the Sanskrit term “Chattur” meaning four and “Giri” meaning hills, and so it is “the place where all four Vedas meet and become one”. Some also believe that since the hills are square (Chathuram) in shape, hence the name Sathuragiri.

History of Sathuragiri Hills:

History has it that one day Lord Shiva came to the temple disguised as a devotee and struck a conversation with the priest. When the priest informed Lord Shiva about how the temple was a very old one and belonged to its landlord, Lord Shiva conveniently claimed that the temple and surrounding land belonged to him. In order to prove his point, Lord Shiva asked the priest to take all the land that he needs. To this, the priest replies, after having thought for a moment, “let a conch be blown and the area covered by its sound shall become a part of the temple”. And thus, as far as the sound of the conch reached, became the temple property. The hill has three main temples – Sri Sundara Mahalinga Swamy Temple, Sri Santhana Mahalinga Swamy Temple, and Anadavalli Amma Temple.

Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Sathuragiri Trekking is one of popular trekking in Tamilnadu. The journey uphill is for about 8 kms. The trail to the temple starts at Thanipaarai (base of the hill). Hereafter devotees are offered Annadhanam at Ashrams and we could get essentials like a torch, water bottles, biscuits, etc.

First Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Around half hour walk and you reach Kudhiraiootru. Going further, the route through Vazhakkuparai is slippery and leads to Sangali Parai. Enroute one could find small water streams flowing.

Second Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

Path following Sangali Parai leads to Korakkar or Goraknath Cave. You then make way through rocks and water to reach the Irattai Lingam cave.

Third Quarter of Sathuragiri Trekking Journey:

The trek that follows leads to Vanadurgai Temple – the protecting deity of the forests and to Pilavadi Karuppasamy Temple – the guard of the hills.

Divine Darshan:

An uphill walk further for about 15 minutes will bring us to Sundara Mahalingam Temple and his disciple Sundara Moorthy Swamy Temple. The Sundara Mahalingam is said to be Anidai Lingam i.e. A Lingam worshipped by the Siddhas. Behind Sundara Mahalingam temple is Anandavalli Amma temple who is formless. She’s said to take form only during Navarathri. An upward trek again for about 15 minutes brings us to The Santhana Mahalingam Temple.

Around 4 kms away from Santhana Mahalingam Temple is the Periya Mahalingam, which, as the name suggests is a huge Lingam. Other deities you could offer prayers to enroute are – Oonjal Karuppan Temple, Vellai Ganapathi, Nadu Kattu Ganapathi, Naga Kanni Kaavu and Lord Ganesha at Thavasi Cave.

Essentials for Sathuragiri Trekking:

It is advisable to carry water, torch, and blankets for stay at base camp. Elders prefer to use sticks while trekking. Annadanam is provided to pilgrims by Ashrams on the way, it is advisable to avoid carrying food items as it attracts monkeys. It is preferable to wear flexible and normal clothing suitable for trekking. Dolis (Human carriers) are available for the elderly and physically disabled. The ideal time to start the trek would be before 8:00 AM and to return to the base after darshan by 6:00 PM.

Sathuragiri Temple Visiting Time:

Temple is open only for 6 days a month – 3 days during New Moon (Amavasya) and 3 days during Full Moon (Pournami). It is also open during Aadi and Thai Amavasya and devotees usually throng the temple during this time. Timing is between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM which again depends on the weather conditions.

Sathuragiri Routes and Distance:

Thaaniparai is about 80 Kms from Madurai, 28 Kms from Srivilliputhur. Srivilliputhur is the nearest railway station.
Pilgrims coming from Chennai have to go to Madurai – Srivilliputhur – Watrap – Thanipaarai.
Pilgrims traveling from South have to go to Nagercoil – Tirunelveli – Rajapalayam – Srivilliputhur – Watrap – Thanipaarai

Epilogue:

Visit to Sathuragiri Shiva Temple is a blend of adventure and spiritual exploration. An apt place for seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva and to get a breath of fresh air.

Ensure a safe and enjoyable trek with our comprehensive trekking gear checklist.

Places to visit in Srivilliputhur or Virudhunagar district:

Srivilliputhur and Virudhunagar District, nestled in Tamil Nadu, offer a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its towering gopuram and rich history. Nature lovers will enjoy the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, home to unique flora and fauna. Explore the Shenbagathoppu Hills for lush greenery and scenic trekking trails. Ayyanar Falls, tucked in the Western Ghats, provides a tranquil retreat. The Rajapalayam town nearby is famous for its breed of dogs and weaving traditions. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Virudhunagar town, known for spices and vibrant culture. History enthusiasts can visit the Virudhunagar Kamarajar Memorial House. With its blend of spirituality, history, and nature, this district promises an enriching travel experience.

• Srivilliputhur Andal Renga Mannar Temple
• Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
• Shenbaga Thoppu Meenvetti Parai Waterfalls
• Pilavakkal Dam, Virudhunagar

Topslip is located near Pollachi in the state of Tamil Nadu, at an altitude of 800 feet from the sea level on the Anamalai mountain range. It is a part of the protected Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.

Image Attribution : Niraksharan

Parambikulam Tiger Reserve

From the check post to top slip takes around 45 min. There is a forest office that manages the safari into the forest. You have to pay Rs. 200 per head for a Three-hours safari in a back-breaking, rundown vehicle. We should wait for safari pickup. There are a canteen and eco shop which are useful during the waiting time.

Private vehicles are allowed inside with prior approval from the forest department and you can see few elephants, bison, deer, wild boars, monkeys etc.

This place is more greenish and best for Natural Sightseeing. but not able to spot more animals. To enjoy climate and nature we can visit Topslip Tiger Forest.

Tigers are not seen here as they are very rare. You can take your binoculars along for a good view of animals from a distance.

For more details please check following website:
https://www.parambikulam.org/