Suruli Waterfalls

Cascading down a height of 46 m, the delightful Suruli Waterfalls, in Theni district, are like a magical symphony playing in the background of picturesque surroundings. Originating from River Suruli, these two-tier falls are a popular picnic spot for tourists. The first stage of the falls is formed by the waters of Suruli river that starts its journey from the Meghamalai mountain range. It then reaches the point from where the waterfalls descend, dropping into a pool from where they further drop down to another 12 m. The best time to visit Suruli waterfalls is between June and October. Changing rooms and showers have also been set up near the waterfalls. The falls are believed to have curative properties and have been mentioned in one of the greatest epics of Tamil literature, Silappatikaram, written by Ilango Adigal.

Suruli Waterfalls

Megamalai

Surrounded by gorgeous tea estates and cardamom plantations that dot the region, Megamalai is an eco-paradise known for its virgin forests and pristine waterfalls. It is a haven for bird watchers and over 100 species of birds have been identified in the region including the Great Indian hornbill, red whiskered bulbul, spotted dove and blue robin. The rare Salim Ali's fruit bat is exclusively found in Megamalai. One of the most thrilling experiences you can take in Megamalai is trekking through the forests and tea estates with chances of sighting animals like Indian Gaurs, wild boars, elephants, leopards and even tigers. Popularly known as High Wavy mountains, Megamalai lies in the Theni district and is located at a distance of 130 km from Madurai.

Megamalai

Palani

This beautiful hill station is located in Tamil Nadu's Dindigul district and attracts visitors with its ancient temples and picturesque surroundings. Nestled in one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, Palani Hills, which date back to the pre-Cambrian period, Palani has a rich history. The town also finds a mention in several religious texts and was once ruled by the kings of Madurai and Coimbatore. It is also said that the town was ruled by Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan, who eventually allowed the Palayakaras of Balasamudram to rule Palani. The town holds immense religious significance and its is believed that Lord Murugan had settled here. One of the most visited destination in Palani is the shrine of Palani Dhandayuthapani Swamy Murugan or the Murugan Temple, which is perched on a hilltop. Festivals like Thaipusam, Vaikasi Visakam and Thirukarthigai are celebrated with great fervour in Palani and draw tourists from all parts of the country.

Palani

Kumbakkarai Waterfalls

The serene and scenic Kumbakkarai Waterfalls, about 100 km from Madurai, are a beautiful picnic spot, nestled in the Kodaikanal Hills. Set against a picturesque backdrop, these two-tier gushing falls are a delightful sight and also serve as a basecamp for trekkers venturing into the hills of Kodai. The first stage involves collection of water in huge rock recesses, which have been named after different wild animals like tiger, elephant, snake, etc. Water from the Pambar river then flows down to the second stage before it falls as the main waterfall. Tourists can also visit a nearby temple dedicated to Goddess Thadagai Nachiamman. The temple is believed to be 500 years old. The Sirumalai amusement park, located at a distance of 7 km from the fall is also worth visiting.

Kumbakkarai Waterfalls