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Rivers, Waterfalls & Scenic Beauty

Home Rivers, Waterfalls & Scenic Beauty
Mangrove Forest & Athirappilly Falls

Mangrove Forest & Athirappilly Falls

If you're looking for a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and offbeat travel, these destinations are must-visit hidden gems in South India. From scenic hill stations to mystical mangrove forests and stunning waterfalls, here’s everything you need to know!

 

1️  Yelagiri – Tamil Nadu’s Underrated Hill Station

 Location: Vellore District, Tamil Nadu
 Best Way to Reach: 160 km from Chennai, 180 km from Bangalore (Best via road)
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

Why Visit Yelagiri?

  • A less commercialized alternative to Ooty & Kodaikanal.
  • Known for adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and camping.
  • Peaceful getaway with cool weather and green surroundings.

Top Attractions in Yelagiri

Swamimalai Hills – Highest peak, best for trekking & sunrise views.
Jalagamparai Waterfalls – A beautiful seasonal waterfall.
Punganur Lake – Boating & relaxation spot.
Nature Park & Herbal Garden – Serene environment for families.
Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, paragliding, and trekking.

 Where to Stay?

  • Cloud 9 Resort
  • Sterling Yelagiri
  • Peter’s Park

 What to Eat?

  • Try home-style South Indian food at local eateries.

 

2️ Kolli Hills – The 70 Hairpin Bend Adventure

 Location: Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu
 Best Way to Reach: 365 km from Chennai, 270 km from Bangalore
 Best Time to Visit: September – February

Why Visit Kolli Hills?

  • A thrilling hill station drive with 70 hairpin bends!
  • Unspoiled nature, trekking trails, and waterfalls.
  • Perfect for adventure lovers & nature seekers.

Top Attractions in Kolli Hills

Aagaya Gangai Waterfalls – A stunning 300-ft-high waterfall.
Arapaleeswarar Temple – 12th-century Shiva temple with rich history.
Seekuparai & Selur Viewpoints – Best panoramic views.
Botanical Garden & Tampcol Medicinal Farm – Rich in herbs & greenery.
Trekking Trails – Perfect for offbeat nature exploration.

 Where to Stay?

  • Nallathambi Resort
  • Silverline Retreat

 What to Eat?

  • Try Kolli Hills honey, Jackfruit & Millets-based local dishes.

 

3️ Pichavaram Mangrove Forest – India’s ‘Amazon’

 Location: Near Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu
 Best Way to Reach: 230 km from Chennai, 280 km from Bangalore
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

Why Visit Pichavaram?

  • World’s second-largest mangrove forest with mystical narrow canals.
  • Canoe & boat rides through mangrove tunnels.
  • Amazing biodiversity – Spot exotic birds, crabs, and fish.

Top Attractions in Pichavaram

Mangrove Boat RidesRowboats & motorboats available.
Bird Watching – Spot kingfishers, egrets, herons & rare migratory birds.
Backwater CanoeingPeaceful & surreal experience through green tunnels.

 Boat Ride Prices:

  • Rowboat: ₹300 – ₹600
  • Motorboat: ₹800 – ₹1,500 (Prices depend on the duration & number of people).

 Where to Stay?

  • Chidambaram (Nearby town) has hotels like Saradharam Grand & Vandayar Hotel.

 What to Eat?

  • Fresh seafood at local eateries in Chidambaram.

 

4️ Athirappilly Falls – The ‘Niagara of India’

 Location: Thrissur District, Kerala (Near Tamil Nadu border)
 Best Way to Reach: 100 km from Coimbatore, 70 km from Kochi
 Best Time to Visit: June – January (Monsoon & post-monsoon best for full water flow)

Why Visit Athirappilly Falls?

  • Kerala’s largest waterfall (80 feet high & 330 feet wide).
  • Featured in Bollywood movies like "Baahubali" & "Dil Se".
  • Surrounded by dense rainforests & rich wildlife.

Top Attractions in Athirappilly

Athirappilly WaterfallsMost powerful & scenic waterfall in Kerala.
Vazhachal Waterfalls – A smaller but picturesque cascade nearby.
Sholayar Rainforest Trek – For adventure & nature lovers.
Birdwatching & Wildlife Spotting – Home to hornbills, elephants, and bison.

 Where to Stay?

  • Rainforest Resort (Luxury Stay)
  • Casa Rio Resort
  • Athirappilly Green Trees

 What to Eat?

  • Try Kerala-style fish curry, appam, and toddy at local eateries.

 

 Travel Tips for These Destinations

Best Time to Visit: October – March for all destinations except Athirappilly (Best during monsoons).
Transportation: Self-drive, rental cabs, or local buses available.
Packing Essentials: Light cotton clothes for hills, waterproof gear for Pichavaram & Athirappilly.
Safety & Health: Carry mosquito repellent & stay hydrated.

Would you like a detailed itinerary for any of these places?