Kerala Pilgrim Centres - Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta, the newly formed district was carved out of Idukki, Alappuzha and Kollam districts in 1982. Pathanamthitta district, is also known for its exuberant fairs and festivals. The district is considered to be industrially backward. Some traditional industries ofthe district have been thriving in the district since early times. Pathanamthitta district is rightly recognised as the `headquarters of pilgrimage tourism'.

¤ Pilgrim centres in Pathanamthitta

* Aranmula
The Parthasarathi Temple, dedicated to Sree Krishna, on the banks of the holy River Pamba, attractions large crowds of devotees. The famous Aranmula snake boat race is held on the last day of the weeklong Onam festival. The 'Vijinana Kalavedi" at Aranmula imparts training in the traditional arts like 'Kathakali', classical dances, classical music as well as 'Kalaripayattu'. Foreign tourists stay here for long periods to get a first hand knowledge of the culture of Kerala. The Parthasarathi Temple here also has fine murals from the 18th century. Aranmula is also very famous for its hand made mirrors of polished metal called ' Aranmula Kannadi', which is a unique craft and not found anywhere else in the world.

* Cherukolpuzha Convention Place
An important religious convention of the Hindus is held at Cherukole on the banks of River Pamba, usually in Feb every year.

* Kadamanitta Devi Temple
The Kadamanitta Devi Temple is famous for the ten long 'Padayani' performances held in connection with the annual festival in April - May.

* Kaviyoor Temple
5kms east of Thiruvalla, situated on the banks of the River Manimala, Kaviyoor is famous for its temples. The Kaviyoor Temple and the rock cut temple nearby are of great archaeological importance. The Hanuman Temple stands on a small hillock and is built in the gable style architecture. The stone figures here are considered to be the earliest specimen of stone sculpture in Kerala.

* Kodumao Chilanthiyambalam
The water of the 'Chilanthikinar' well in the premises of this temple is believed to cure skin diseases. This water is considered as Miraculous Water.

* Kozhencherry
Situated on the banks of the River Pamba, Kozhencherry is well known for the religious Maramon Convention held annually in Feb-March, which is the biggest gathering of Christians in Asia. People of all communities attend it, as religious thinkers and Christian scholars from across the world address the convention.

* Malayapuzha
8 km from Pathanamthitta, the goddess at the Bhagavathy temple here, is believed to grant boons to devotees and help them realise their dreams. The Temples has beautiful wall paintings and artistic stone carvings.

* Manjanikara Church
Mar Ignatius Elias III, the hold patriot of Anthiod, while on a visit to India, died at this place in 1932. His mortal remains are preserved at this church, as later this place developed into a pilgrim centre. The annual festival, Ormaperunnal is held in February.

* Nilackal (Place of Worship)
The old Shiva Temple on the Pamba Pathanamthitta road is an important place of worship. The estate of the Farming Corporation and Ecumenical Centre of the Christians are located here.

* Niranam
7 kms from Thiruvalla at Niranam is famous on account of St. Mary's Orthodox Old Christian Church, believed to have been founded by Apostle St. Thomas in 52 A.D., one of the seven and a half churches originally established by St. Thomas in Kerala. This church displays a marked influence of ancient temple architecture. Niranam is also famous as the birth place of a band of 14th century poets known as the Niranam Kavikal or Kannassa Panikkaranmar. They were renowned for their many translations from Sanskrit to Malayalam, the most illustrious being 'Kannassaramayanam', a translation of the epic Ramayana.

* Manjinikkara Church
Manjinikkara church derives its importance from the holy tomb of late Marlgnatius Elias III, the Holy Patriarch of Antioch. Members of the Jacobite Syrian Church believe that the Holy Father was a Saint. The Church has now become one of the foremost places of pilgrimage. A large number of pilgrims visit the church to receive spiritual and physical healing.

* Pandalam
14 kms from Chengannur railway station, Pandalam, as a holy town is perhaps second to Sabrimala. Sree Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala had his human sojourn here, as the son of Raja of Pandalam. The Valiyakoikal Temple near the palace, on the banks of River Achenkovil has been modeled on the Sabarimala Shrine. Pilgrims usually stop here to worship, before proceeding to Sabarimala. Three days prior to the Makaravilaku festival, the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala.

* Parumala (festival)
10 kms from Thiruvalla, the Ormaperunal (commemoration day) of Mar Gregorious Metropolitan, the declared saint of Malankara Orthodox Church, is celebrated on the first and second of November.

* Sabarimala
One of the most famous pilgrim centres in India, Sabarimala is situated on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats, at an altitude of 914 m above sea level and is accessible only by foot, from Pamba (4kms). The hold shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India, from different castes, creed, especially from other parts of South India. Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku are the two main events of the pilgrim season, which is from Nov to mid Jan. The Temple remains closed during the rest of the year, except for the first five days of every Malayalam month and during 'Vishu' in April. Sabarimala is surrounded by hazardous hills like Karimala and Neelimala. Men of all ages are allowed inside the temple but women only below 10 years and above 50 years of age are permitted inside.

* Thiruvalla
This is the headquarters of the Malankara Marthoma Syrian Church. The Paliakara Church here has some exquisite mural paintings. The SreeVallabha Temple in Thiruvalla is perhaps the only one in Kerala, where Kathakali is performed as a ritual offering everyday.

Kerala Pilgrim Centres - Kollam

¤ Pilgrim centres in Kollam

* Kottumkulangara Temple
It is situated in Chavara, 12 km from Kollam is the Kottumkulangara Temple. This temple is famous for the Thalappoli Mahotsav which has a time honoured custom of men dressed in female attires offering flowers to deity.

* Parabrahma Temple
It is located at Ochira which is 34 km from Kollam, is the site for this pilgrim centre. It owes allegiance to the Advaitha philosophy in Hinduism. The presiding deity here is Prabrahma or "absolute reality". Being an abstract concept that cannot be symbolised in an iconographic manner, there is no temple structure here. The Ochirakali in the month of June is famous.

* Lord Ayyappa Temple
This temple is located in Aryankavu which is 70 km from Kollam. This pilgrim centre has exquisite sculptures and mural paintings. Mandala pooja and Thrikalyanam celebrated in December are the main festivals here.

* Mata Amritanandamayi Mutt
This is the place is 32 km from Kollam, where Mata Amritanandamayi or Amma was born. It is today the headquarters of her worldwide mission and the spiritual home of thousands of devotees.

* Panmana
It is situated in Karunagapally which is 18 km from Kollam. This is where Sree Chattampi Swamikal, a great social reformer of Modern Kerala attained Samadhi in 1924. The Bhattarakeswaram temple and ashram are dedicated to him.

* Mayyanad
The place is primarily noted for its shrines and temples, the most important of the nine temples being the Subramanya Temple at Umayanallor.

* Rameshwara Temple
There are inscriptions in Tamil depicting the epic Mahabaratha. These inscription are from 12th to the 16th centuries. The Vyala monster sculptures in this temple gives one the impression that the creatures are animated and actually climbing up the stairs with their outstretched paws.

* Sasthamkotta Sastha Temple
This vast fresh water lake surrounded by hills on three sides is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha Temple which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. There are frequent bus services from Kollam.

* Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple
Situated on a forest range on the Thiruvananthapuram - Shenkottai road, Kulathupuzha is known for the Sastha temple. The Vishu Mahotsavam in April/May is the most important festival. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Kulathupuzha. The Thenmala railway station is just 10 km from here.

Kerala Pilgrim Centres - Trivandrum

¤ Pilgrim centres in Trivandrum

* Aruvikkara
It is situated 16 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram. Aruvikkara is gifted with lavish scenic beauty and it also has an ancient temple dedicated to goddess Durga, on the banks of the River Aruvikkara. The City of Thiruvananthapuram gets its water supply from Aruvikkara reservoir.

* Attukal Bhagavathi Temple
It is situated 2 km from Thiruvananthapuram. It is known as the Sabarimala of women, this temple is famous for Attukal Ponkala, the annual festival that commences on Bharani day in Kumbhom (February - March). The highlight of the festival is the Ponkala which is an all woman affair. Ponkala is an offering made in Bhagavathy temples, prepared in the form of payasam (sweet porridge) with ingredients like rice, jaggery. Coconut kernel and plantain. Ponkala starts in the morning and ends with the melsanthi (chief priest) sprinkling holy water over the offerings.

* The Padmanabha Swamy Temple
It is the imposing seven-storied tower built by Raja Marthanda Varma in 1733 A.D, which makes it by far, the most impressive landmark around the city. This temple, a sprawling complex with a magnificent seven storied tower houses the idol of Lord Vishnu in the form of Ananthapadmanaoha (the Lord who upheld creation on a lotus which sprang forth from His navel). The 6m image, partly covered with gold and embellished with precious stones is viewed in three sections through three doors. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu reclining on the Serpent Anantha. Only Hindus are allowed entry inside the temple and dress regulations are strictly followed. A large market lines the street in front, and the pool beside it is for ritual bathing. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carving and mural paintings, inside the temple. It is therefore an excellent example of the Dravidian style of architecture.

* Sarkara
35 kms north of Thiruvananthapuram and 6 kms west of Attingal, there is a famous temple in Sarkara, which is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi. A grand festival, Sarkara Bharani, is conducted in this temple during March - April.

* Sree Parasurama Temple
About 6 kms South of the city, on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kovalam road is Thiruvallam. There is an ancient temple here on the banks of the River Karamana, which is dedicated to the Thrimurthis of the Hindu Pantheon. A shrine of Parasurama built entirely of granite stone is found in this temple. This is the only temple in Kerala dedicated to Sree Parasurama, the mythological creator of Kerala. This 2000 year-old temple is a venue for the Bali ritual for departed souls.

* Varkala
41 kms North of Thiruvananthapuram by rail and 51 kms by road, Varkala is a famous pilgrim center. The Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru, The great social reformer and philosopher, attracts devotees in thousands. The cliffs and mineral water springs at the Papanasam Beach are worth a visit. The inland waterways system connecting Kollam in the North, with Thiruvananthapuram in the South, passes through two tunnels in the hills. The Janardhana Swamy Temple here attracts many devotees.

* Bheemappalli
It is located 5 km Southwest of Thiruvananthapuram. This mosque is famous for the Chandanakkudam Festival which is said to be the death anniversary of Bheema Beevi, a devout pilgrim who came to Kerala from Mecca. Festivities include devotees going round the mosque carrying earthen pots (kudam) smeared with sandal wood paste. The Uroose festival here is also famous.

* Christ the King Church
This church is situated at Vettukadu which is 14 km from Thiruvananthapuram. An important pilgrim centre, this church is famous for the annual festival in November. High Mass, Vespers, a two¬ hour long Holy Eucharistic procession and benediction are the highlights of the festival. Nativity feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary is also celebrated with religious spirit.

* Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
This temple is at Neyyattinkara which is 20 km from Thiruvananthapuram. This is historically important as the site housing the old Jackfruit tree that once gave refuge to King Marthandavarma, erstwhile ruler of Travancore.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Poompuhar

Poompuhar is situated at the estuary of River Kaveri, this was an ancient port of the Cholas. Poompuhar in Sirkali Taluk of Nagai district is also known as Kaveripoompattinam. Tourists have to alight at Mayiladuthurai railway junction, to proceed to Poompuhar by road, Visitors from Chennai by train have to get down at Sirkali. Poompuhar is connected to Mayiladuthurai as well as Sirkali. by road. The distance from Poompuhar to Mayiladuthurai is 24 Kms. and to Sirkali, 21 Kms.

¤ Tourist Attraction of Poompuhar

* Silappathikara Art Gallery
A beautiful seven tired building of great sculptural value has been built as Sillappathikara Art Gallery. The first storey is 12" high, and each storey above it has a height of 5' . The topmost part which has 'Kalasams with a height of 8'. The total height of Art gallery is 50'. The 'Magara Thoranavayil' at the entrance of the Art Gallery imparts an imposing and beautiful look to the whole structure. Its height is 22½'. It has been designed on the pattern of Magara Thorana Vayil, found in Suruli Malai Mangala Devi Koil. There is also an anklet shaped tank in the Art-Gallery. On this side of this tank are installed the statues of Kannagi (9½') and Mathavi (8½') Scenes from Sillappathikaram, the Epic of the land have been given lively shapes in stones on the walls of the Gallery. These sculptures carved by the sculptors of Mamallapuram Art College remain the treasure house of Tamil Culture.

* Zion Church
It was built in 1701. It was renovated in 1782-84 and again in 1839. It is still in good condition and you can appreciate the Dutch architectural design of the renaissance era that is very evident in its construction.

* Nagapattinam
Nagapattinam is now the Head-Quarters of the District bearing the same. With all its historical and cultural significanse, Nagappattinam is one of the constituennts of Chola mandalam, acclaimed as the most prominent among the ancient Tamil Kingdoms.

* Town Gateway
It was built in 1792 on Danish Architectural style. The design is typical of the gateways that were built in Europe during the renaissance period. The British built this gateway but it bore a Danish architectural style probably because of some Danish architect employed by them.

* Danish Fort
Even now the Danish Fort built in 1620 exists to exhibit Danish architecture. The Fort is now under the control of Tamilnadu Archaeological Department and houses an archaeological Museum. This museum is open to public on all days except Friday.

* Masilamani Nathar Koil
This temple built in 1305 by Maravarma Kulasekara Pandiyan exhibits outstanding architectural skills. The front portion of the temple has been partly damaged due to Sea-erosion but is still worth watching. The religious activities in this ancient temple have been discontinued long ago.

* Danish Governor Bungalow
This building gets its name as it was used as the residence of the Danish Governor in 1784. It is the biggest building in Tranquebar. Now it is under the control of Tamilnadu Tourism Department.

* Thiruppallavaneeswaram Temple
This is an ancient and very beautiful temple. Iyarppakai Nayanar and Pattinatthar were born here. The hero and heroine of Sillappathikaram Kovalan and Kannagi were also born here.

* Melapperumpallam and Keezhapperumpallam Temple
These two Thalams are situated very near Poompuhar and Thiruvengadu. The Valampuranathar temple at Melapperumpallam has Chola inscriptions. It is noted for the famous Nayanmar's hymns. Keezhapperunpallam is at distance of 2 Kms form Poompuhar. It is the temple where the famous "Kethu" has a separate thalam.

* Thiruvengadu Temple
Thiruvengadu is situated at a distance of 10 Kms from Sirkali. The place is near Poompuhar. Hymns on it have been sung by four great Saivaite Saints. This is the place where Meykandar was born. "Pudhan" (Mercury) has a separate Thalam in Thiruvengadu temple. The presiding deity is Sri Swetharanyeswarar.

* Thirukkadaiyur (Thirukkadayur) Temple
Thirukkadaiyur is on the bus route between Mayiladuthurai and Tranquebar. It is one of the eight temples (Atta Veerathanam) glorifying the heroic deeds of lord Shiva. Thalapuranam says that lord Shiva exterminated Yama at this place to save the life of Markkandeya. It is one of the famous Sakthi Thalams. The holy hymns of Abirami Andhathi, have been sung by the great poet and devotee Abirami Pattar in this place. People prefer this place to celebrate their Shastiyaptha poorthi (completion of sixty years)

* Anantha Mangalam Temple
It is a small village near Thirukkadaiyur. The temple here is noted for the presiding deity of "'Dasapuja Veera Anjaneyar" .

* Vaitheeswaran Koil Temple
This place lying between Mayiladuthurai and Sirkali on the bus route is called Pullirukkuvelur in Thevarams. This age-old temple has the deities of Vaithyanathan(Shiva) Thaiyal Nayaki (Sakthi) and Muthukkumarasamy (Murugan). This temple is famous for its sculptural wonders. It is a special Thalam for one of the Navagraghas Angrahan sevvai (Mars).

* Sirkazhi Temple
It is the birth place of great Saiva Saint Thirugnana Sambandar. The Famous Thoniyaper Shivalayam is situated here.

* Thirunallaru Temple
The famous Shiva temple lies at a distance of 5 Kms for Karaikkal. The Shiva temple here is glorified in Thevarams. It is one of the 'Sapthvidanga' Thalams. The temple for Saneeshwara (Saturn) one of the Navagrahas, is famous.

* Thirusaikkadu (Sayavanam) Temple
It is situated 2 Kms away form Poompuhar estuary. The Temple is for Thirusayavaneswarar and Iraivi Kuyilinam Nanmozhi Ammai. This temple has been praised by Nayanmars in their hymns. Chola inscriptions are found in the temple.

* Thiruvakkur Temple
It comes under Tranquebar Taluk. The Shiva temple is based on Madakkoil pattern. Sirappuli Nayanar one of the 63 Nayanmars was born at this place. Hymns have been sung on this temple by the Nayanmars.

* Sempanarkoil Temple
The antique temple referred to as Thirusumponpalli in Devaram hymns is situated in this place. It is on the bus route between Tranquebar and Mayiladuthurai. It is a temple of historical significance.

* Punjai Temple
The place lies near Sevpondarkoil. This Shiva temple here has received tributes from Devaram. It is a beautiful temple of architectural wonders of Cholas.

* Nangoor Temple
Nangoor is in Sirkali Taluk. Eleven of the 108 Thivya Desams' are found in and around Nangoor. The Vaishnava temples in Nangoor were sanctified by Thirumangai Alvar.

* Thiruvarur Temple
Thiruvarur is at a distance of 65 Kms from Poompuhar and 20Kms from Nagappattinam. This place is noted for Thyagaraja temple and the chariot (temple car). It is the most prominent among the " Atta Veerattanam ". The art gallery depicting the myths of Manuneethi Chola, the grand Kamalambal temple is one of the famous 'Sakthi Peedams'. The unique feature of the town is that it has three Shiva temples at one place. The well known Panchamuga Vathyam and Paru Nagaswaram are still played during regular Poojas. The Musical Trinity of Thiyagaiyyar, Muthuswamy Deekshither and Shiyama Sastri were born here.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Courtallam

Courtallam (Kutrallam), the "Spa of the south", is situated at an elevation of about 167 mts. on the Western Ghats in Tirunelveli District. It is an excellent health resort. The waters of Courtallam is believed to have medicinal and therapeautical qualities as it flows through forests of herbs. Courtallam is 160 Kms from Madurai, 137Kms from Kanniyakumari and 112 Kms from Thiruvananthapuram. The nearest railway station is Tenkasi which is just 6 Kms ffrom here.

Many seasonal and a few perennial rivers such as the Chittar River, the Manimuthar River, the Pachaiyar River and the Tambaraparani River originate in this region. The numerous waterfalls and cascades along with the ubiquitous health resorts in the area have earnt it the title the Spa of South India.

¤ Tourist Attraction of Courtallam

* Courtallam Falls
Courtallam Falls is a beautiful waterscape that is found in the city of Kanyakumari or the Cape Comorin; which is a city that is in the southern most part of India. Courtallam Falls is one of the beautiful areas there for which many people come to visit in great numbers every year. Contrary to popular belief Courtallam Falls consists of not just one but many different falls that are together in one place. Soaking your head under these falls is an experience that no one forgets. In addition, it is thought that these falls have curing powers especially to those who have mental ailments.

* Courtallam Temple
It is dedicated to Lord Thirukutralanathar (Siva). This temple contains many inscriptions about Chola and Pandya Kings. Less than a furlong from here is a small temple called Chitra Sabha ( Hall of Pictures) dedicated to Lord Nataraja and decorated with paintings of rural deities and devotees, puranic stories and religious events. The sabha is one of the five sabhas where Lord Nataraja is said to have performed the cosmic dance.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Mudumalai

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is an extension of Bandipur National Park. The river Moyar flows and the park is ideal for bird watching, the national park falls on the boarder of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The extremely diverse terrain of the park consisting mainly of small hillocks, gorges, water bodies and swamps with sparse vegetation of tropical deciduous and scrub forests provide ideal habitat for the wild denizens. The place is the nest of colorful razz and in the winters the whole atmosphere fills with the vibrancy and life.

¤ Tourist Attractions of Mudumalai

* Jungle Safari
The Jungle Safari is a place that allows people to come and experience exotic animals living in their natural habitat. Both vehicle safaris and elephant safaris are available through the Forest Department. One Jeep is used and is operated on a first come first served basis. The jeep can only accommodate six people at a time. Van safaris are available as well. The van holds 25 people at one time. The elephant safaris allow you to travel into areas that regular vehicles are not capable of. Four people ride on an elephant at one time. There are safari trips available both in the morning and in the evening.

* Mudumalai National Park
The Mudumalai National Park was established on 60 square kilometers back in 1940. At that time it was the first wildlife sanctuary established in southern India. Today, the park has expanded to include 321 square kilometers. Primates such as the gray langur and the bonnet macaque are both living in the park. You can also expect to see such animals as tigers, leopards, striped hyenas, dholes, sloth bears, Asian elephants, and Golden Jackals. Many birds can also been seen in the park. The crested hawk-eagle, the crested serpent eagle, the Malabar Trojan, and the Malabar grey hornbill all call this area home. You may also see a striped tit-babbler.

The vegetation at Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary consists mainly of moist deciduous forests with trees like bamboo, terminalia, grewia, aredesia, abumusum and solanancea, found in abundance. The tropical climate and varied terrain has resulted in the increase in population of animals such as gaur, langur, leopards, chital, sloth bear, barking deer, wild dog and other numerous species of rare and endangered animals. The park can be visited any time of the year, the best time to visit are the months from February to June when the water dries up and the animals come out in search of food and water near whatever water bodies remain in the area. This is probably the best time when you have a chance of spotting some rare animals.

* Theppakadu Elephant Camp
The Theppakadu Elephant Camp was officially established in 1972 although a similar predecessor existed nearby since 1910. This camp allows people to interact with elephants in a controlled environment. The camp is used to train as well as house elephants. Today there are 23 elephants that reside in the camp. Every day two of the elephants perform pooja to Lord Vinayaka inside the camp. The elephants are used to provide joy rides for a fee early in the morning and then again in the evening. Tourists are also welcome to come and see the elephants fed during their evening feeding time.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Red Hills

The Red Hills Lake, located in Ponneri Taluk Thiruvallur district, Tamilnadu, South India, is one of the rain-fed reservoirs from where water is drawn for supply to Chennai City. This lake is also called Puzhal Lake.










¤ Tourist Attraction of Red Hills

* Lake District
India’s Lake District is found near Red Hills where the numerous rain-filled reservoirs make for an impressive and incredibly beautiful landscape. In fact, there are 8 separate lakes in the area with each being remarkably beautiful in its own right. The scenic blue lakes are Emerald, Upper Bhavani, Avalanche, Porthimund, Parson’s Valley Lake and Western catchments numbered 1, 2 and 3. The tourists can try out some fishing in these lakes. Carp and trout are plenty in these majestic lakes. One can spot many bird fauna over the lakes as well. Numerous tourists visit this area every year in order to experience the majestic and natural beauty created by the water of the area. The Govind Ballabh Pant Zoo is also found in the Lake District. Many exotic animals that are native to the area such as the famous Bengal tiger, elephants, and monkeys can be seen at the zoo.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Bellikkal

¤ Tourist Attractions of Bellikkal

* Bellikkal Lake
Bellikkal Lake is a beautiful water feature that has some great views to offer. Fishing here may not be a good idea since this lake is a popular watering hole for a variety of wild animals. Elephants can be frequently seen getting a drink early in the morning or right at dusk here. Tigers, bear, bison, and deer are all possible animals that could be sighted as well. A wide variety of birds also like to frequent this lake. It is not uncommon to see such birds as bulbuls, shrikes, morning doves, crow pheasants, drongos, and wood peckers.

* Bison Valley
Bison Valley acquired its name from the Indian bison that roam throughout the area. Impressive views of cardamom forests are possible from this beautiful valley. Beautiful greenery exists in almost every place that you look. A wide variety of wildlife inhabits this valley. The wildlife includes such animals as bears, bison, deer, tigers, and elephants. Taking leisurely walks on the numerous pathways that meander around the valley are a popular pastime for tourists. Mountain biking and trekking are also popular activities to participate in. Bird watching is another popular activity in Bison Valley. Such birds as woodpeckers, drongos, morning doves, shrikes, and bulbuls can be seen in the area.

* Kalhatti Falls
Kalhatti Falls is a magnificent waterfall that plummets 400 feet or 122 meters. Sometimes these falls are referred to as the Kalahasti Falls. It is almost a transcendental experience to witness the raw power that this waterfall contains, yet it radiates beauty and grace at the same time. The falls are surrounded by beautiful greenery. The Mudumalai forest, the Bandipur forest, and plenty of cardamom trees can be found all in the same general area as Kalhatti Falls. It is also possible to experience some of India's exotic wildlife in the area of the falls. Bear, tigers, elephants, and monkeys can all be seen in that region.

Tamil Nadu Tourism - Yercaud

Yercaud is located on the Servaroyan Hills, in Salem District. Yercaud is a hill station visited by tourists throughout the year. The Servaroyan Hills as a whole, provide many beautiful vistas and panoramic views. Yercaud itself is a pretty hill station with a pleasant cool climate. Yercaud's temperature never rises above 30° C or falls below 13° C. This is one hill station where one does not feel the bitting cold of winter. With such a salubrious climate, Yerkaud can be visited round the year. It is an hour's drive from Salem and is the least expensive hill station in India.

The picturesque hill station, situated in the Shevaroy Hills, was established by the British in the early 18th century. Today this is one of the state’s productive areas and its surrounding slopes are entirely covered with plantations of coffee, tea, jackfruit and plantains. The other areas of beauty are the man-made Yerikadu Lake and the Killiyur Falls and Lady’s Seat which offers delightful views of the surrounding countryside. Also, if you are visiting to the Horticultural Research Station at Yercaud, you can see an interesting collection of rare plants here.








¤ Tourist Attractions of Yercaud

* Anna Park
Another important place of visit in Yercaud is the Anna Park which is located near the lake. This park has a collection of the natural species of plants and trees seen around Shevaroy hills. Flower shows are conducted in this park during summer months. There is a breathtaking Japanese garden inside this park in which plants are grown in Japanese style. Children can enjoy playing in the garden. It is a well maintained garden and is worth a visit.

* Bear's Cave
This is a must see for any tourist visiting Yercaud. The Bear’s cave is situated in a private coffee estate near the Norton Bungalow, which is on the way to the Servaroyan temple. There is a huge cave formation beside this coffee estate bungalow, which was considered to be home for the bears. Even though it is a private estate, the owner has been kind enough to open it for the visitors. The main area of the cave is seen to be about 7 feet below the ground level and the deeper gorge seen there is believed by the local community to be the path that leads up to the cave situated in the Shevaroyan temple.

* Big Lake
The greatest attraction in Yercaud is the big natural lake or the Emerald Lake. The lake with its wonderful hilly surroundings and a well maintained garden on its banks is a feast for the eyes of any person. There is a floating fountain in the lake and boating facilities are available at a reasonable rate. Self pedaling as well as rowing boats can be chosen according to the choice of the tourist. A nominal amount is collected as caution fee before issuing the boats and stringent safety measures are followed by the authorities.

* Botanical Garden
Any tourist who is interested in flora and in knowing about various species of plants has to surely visit the orchidarium and the green house in the Botanical garden. Yercaud is the place where the famous Kurinji flower blooms in plenty and the specialty of this flower is that it will bloom only once in twelve years. The National Orchidarium which is located 2 km from the Emerald Lake has a wide variety of orchids which includes 30 orchid species that are exclusively found here. Many endangered species of orchids are persevered in this orchidarium which is ranked the third largest of all the orchidariums in India. Besides Kurinji, Vernonia shevaroyensis and lady's slipper orchid are among the others on display here.

* Killiyur Falls
This exciting and amazing waterfall is about three km from the Yercaud Lake and is at its best when visited after the South West monsoon or the North East monsoon. The excess water of the Yercaud Lake as well as the water from the Shevaroy Hills fall deep into the Killiyur valley from a height of 300 ft and its view from the top to the bottom is breathtaking and pleasing for the eyes. A hardcore trekker can trek through the heavily woody forests from the lake to the bottom of the falls in about an hour.

* Lady's Seat
Lady’s seat is a rock in the form of a seat on the South West of Shevaroy hills that overlooks the ghat road and Salem town. The natives believe that a white English lady of earlier days used to spend their evenings watching the panoramic view from this rock. There is a viewing tower equipped with telescope to see the magnificent view. The view from Lady’s rock is more spectacular at night with thousands of light twinkling in Salem town. The viewing tower is open to tourists only during daytime.

* Montfort School
Montfort school is one of the well established residential boys school in Yercaud which was started in the year 1917 by Bro. Denis. The school has a splendid chapel that is built entirely with exquisite stones and is an excellent example of Franco-Indian architecture. The entrance of the school has three symmetrical grey walls which represents the three stalwarts who started the school. The Montfort School campus has attractive architectural buildings, beautiful gardens, huge playground as well as a swimming pool. The school also has a zoo that is left open to the public only on Sundays. This school is a must see for any tourist visiting Yercaud.

* Pagoda Point
Pagoda point or pyramid point is a viewpoint located on the eastern part of Yercaud hills. This has four piles of stones arranged so as to form a pyramid shape. It is said to be built by the local tribes and now there is a Rama temple located between the piles of stones. One can get a thorough view of the town of Salem and a little village called Kakambadi from this hill. The cliffs in this area look really beautiful especially in early mornings or evenings and spending some time in this point itself is refreshing to the body and mind.

* Shevaroy Temple
The Shevaroy temple is situated on top of the flat-topped Shevaroy hills and is dedicated to Lord Shevaroyan. The temple consists of a narrow and dark cave which is impenetrable and the idols of Lord Shevaroyan and Goddess Kaveri are placed inside it. The native tribals come in hundreds and celebrate their annual festival in the premises of this temple during the month of May every year. The view from the Shevaroy temple area is magnificent with several mountains around Shevaroy and the plains spreading in between the hills. A good view of Yercaud town and Nagalur can be obtained from this hill.

* Silk Farm
One of the places of interest in Yercaud is the silk farm. The silk farm is located very near to the Lady’s seat. Visiting the silk farm will be a memorable and knowledgeable experience especially to the children. In the silk farm one can see how the silk worms are reared, how they are fed on mulberry leaves and how the cocoons are used for spinning the silk threads etc. The life cycle of silk worm and methods of spinning silk can be understood by visiting this place.

* Small Lake
The small lake in Yercaud is situated not far from the town. Although it is not as attractive as the Emerald Lake, it has a wild beauty which attracts the tourists. This scenic lake is serene with everlasting beauty and is believed to be fed by many wells. It does not dry up even in summer. The lake is surrounded by a road and at one end of the lake is the famous Montfort school. As this lake is preserved in its natural form with surrounding woods and trees, it gives a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature in its wild form.

* The Grange
The Grange is a castle built in 1820 by the then collector M D Cockburn and is one of the oldest architectural marvels that are seen in Yercaud. This is the first commercial plantation area for coffee, oranges and apples in Yercaud. It is believed that Robert Clive of English East India Company used the grange as his summer resort in the late 1800’s. The Grange also has a large cellar that can hold huge quantities of provisions. Nowadays, there is a beautiful and exotic resort in the vicinity of the Grange that is located in between the coffee and orange plantations and will be a fantastic place for the tourists to stay in.

* Salem (30 Kms)
This is the largest city in the region and has some old temples but is basically known for its industries, mainly steel, sago and hand weaving.

* Namakkal (48kms)
The town lies at the foot of a small hillock which is about 200 feet high and about half mile in circumference. There is a fort on the hillock. There are two rock-cut cave temples here, one dedicated to Narasimhaswamy and the other to Ranganathaswamy. There is also a big Hanuman statue of about 20' height here carved out of a single stone.

* Aragalur (74 kms)
Aragalur is about 4 kms South East of Talaivasal on the right back of Vasishtanadhi. The name of the village in Tamil means " Village of six trenches . The village was ruled by a prince named Ekambara Mudaliyar. It has two imposing temples, one is dedicated to Sri Kameswara and the other to Karivaradaperumal. There is a big Budhdha statue at Thiyanganur village on the outskirts of Aragalur Village.

* Kodumanal (40 kms)
It is a tiny village on the banks of the Noyil river. it is an archaelogical site dating back to the 2nd century BC. Hre lies the remains of a megalithic settlement.

* Bhavani (50 Kms)
The Sangameswarar temple here is situated at the confluence of the rivers Bhavani and Kaveri. It is one of the most important pilgrims centres in South India.

* Vedanthangal (85 kms)
Vedanthangal is one of the largest bird sancturies in India. It is a marshy, 30 hectare park with lake visited by over 1,00,000 migratory birds every year. The majority of these birds can be seen between November and February. The variety of birds include Herons, Darters, Spoonbills, Pelicans, Sandpipers, White Ibis, Cormorants,Blue winged teals and Swans.

* Mettur Dam (52 Kms)
This multi - purpose dam built on the River Cauvery is a nice picnic spot, situated as it is, amidst well - maintained gardens. Water from the Stanley reservoir is used for irrigating a major portion of the plains of central Tamil Nadu.

* Kolli Hills (100 Kms)
This is the second hill station in the district at an altitude of 1190 mts. Sri Kapaleeswara Temple is located on the top of the hills called Chathuragiri is one of the oldest. The terrace type of 70-hair pin bend ghat road, the fruits cultivated, honey, and the unchanged tribal culture are unique memories. The wonderful Agasakangai Waterfalls flowing from a height over 2000 feet is a unique scene.

* Tiruchengodu (45Kms)
Tiruchengodu is one of the seven Sivasthalams in Kongunadu.This is another pilgrim centre which has an ancient temple dedicated to Ardhanareeswar - a unique concept of Saivism where the deity is half male and half female.