Shenbaga Thoppu Meenvetti Parai Waterfalls

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.