The South Indian state of Tamil Nadu is well known for its diverse culture and traditions. Although Tamil Nadu is mainly associated with a wide range of cuisine and lovely beaches, the state also has some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls.
Whether you’re an adventure traveler, an adrenaline junkie, enjoy simple treks, or planning a family vacation, everyone enjoys a waterfall! If you are planning an adventurous trip to such natural wonders, here is a list of waterfalls in Tamil Nadu to consider:
Thalaiyar Falls
Thalaiyar Falls is the tallest waterfall in Tamil Nadu. Well-known throughout the state, it is one of the top waterfalls in Tamil Nadu, with its mesmerizing appearance visible from all around the valley. The lush green mountains and black rocks provide the most picturesque backdrop, making it easy to detect a thin silver strip of water freefalling from a height, even from afar.
Best time to visit: October to March
The Kumbakarai Falls
A lesser-known waterfall in Tamil Nadu, the Kumbakarai Falls, is located in the Dindigul District. Located in the Kodaikanal Hills, this is a well-liked tourist location close to Madurai. Along with the Kodaikanal Hills, a Murugan Statue, , stone inscriptions near Kumbakarai waterfalls, along with the attendance of wild animals, are also popular tourist attractions.
Best time to visit: July to December
Jalagamparai Falls
Jalagamparai Falls is an excellent choice for a one-day road trip from Chennai. The Attaru River, which flows through this charming hill village and cascades down from the highlands, is the source of this waterfall. The weather is typically hazy here, and you can smell the gardens and orchards all day. The hiking portion is much more intriguing. To get to the waterfall, you must hike at least 5 kilometers.
Best time to visit: November to December
Courtallam Falls
In Tamil Nadu, Courtallam or Kutralam is home to a series of waterfalls and cascades, the most notable of which is the Courtallam Falls. The location is especially beautiful after the monsoons. Courtallam Falls is located in the Western Ghats’ Tirunelveli area. These waterfalls on the Chittar River in Tamil Nadu are famous with both visitors and locals. The water has a unique “medical odor” as it flows through various remedial forests which is why Courtallam is also known as the ’Spa of South India’.
Best time to visit: July to October
Hogenakkal Falls
This is one of Tamil Nadu’s most famous waterfalls, having heavy footfalls each year and a large following among tourists from adjacent states. When the water falls from a great height and strikes on the rocks, it forms a fine mist and produces an alluring scene. The therapeutic baths and coracle rides on the river are the main attractions of this falls.
Best time to visit: October to February
Catherine Waterfalls
The Catherine Waterfalls, located in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri District, might just be the destination if you’re seeking for tranquil surroundings to rejuvenate your spirit. They are the second-highest waterfall in the Nilgiri highlands, with a 250 feet drop. Locals claim that the falls are named after M.D. Cockburn’s wife, Catherine Lascelles. M.D. Cockburn was the District Collector of Salem, Tamil Nadu from 1820 – 29 and is also known as the “Father of Yercaud ”, as he is credited with establishing coffee plantations, pear, and apple orchards in Tamil Nadu’s hill stations. While most people in Tamil Nadu know these falls as the Catherine Falls, they are also known locally as the ‘Geddhehaada Halla,’ which translates to ‘Foothills of Dale River.’
Best time to visit: October to May
Silver Cascade Falls
The outflow from the Kodaikanal Lake formed the Silver Cascade Waterfalls in Tamil Nadu. The water in these 180-foot-high falls has a silvery shine as it pours down the rock, which is also how the falls received its name. The waterfall’s cliff is bordered by steep rocks and lush vegetation, making for a marvelous spectacle. In front of the falls, a special observation platform provides an excellent vantage point for watching the water pour down into a pool.
Best time to visit: December to March
Kolakambai Falls
The Kolakambai Waterfall, one of Tamil Nadu’s most unusual tourist attractions, is nestled deep within the Kolakambai Hills’ woodlands. With a 400 feet plunge, this is the tallest waterfall in the Nilgiri range. Kolakambai is a continuous waterfall surrounded by a diverse floral and faunal environment. The path to the waterfall leads through the wilderness, where you may see a variety of native flora and wildlife. Trekking, riding, and hiking are all popular activities along the route. Kolakambai, like other waterfalls in Tamil Nadu, is most beautiful during the monsoon season.
Best time to visit: April to June
Suruli Waterfalls
Suruli Waterfalls in Tamil Nadu is noted for its two-stage cascade, which flows like a magnificent symphony. The medicinal Suruli River flows from the Meghamalai Mountain Range to Theni, where it falls from a height of 46 meters into a pool. The flow continues from the pool to the second cascade, which drops at a height of 12 meters. The Falls is situated in an area where flora and fauna are in abundance, making it a fascinating place to visit.
Best time to visit: June to October
Thirparappu Falls
The Thirparappu Waterfalls is located in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu and is one of the most imposing waterfalls in the state. As the location is still relatively unknown, you may expect some peace and tranquility here. On the same day as your visit to the Thirparappu Waterfalls, you may also check out the dam, park, as well as the Vattaparai and Kalikesam Falls. An ancient Mahadevar Temple is located nearby and is well worth a visit.
Best time to visit: November to March
To know more visit Tamil Nadu Tourism’s official website: www.tamilnadutourism.tn.gov.in
In Partnership with Tamil Nadu Tourism
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