Courtallam Falls is a natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, Courtallam Falls is a collection of nine waterfalls that cascade down from a height of about 300 feet. The waterfalls are not only a sight to behold, but also a natural spa that offers therapeutic benefits to the body and mind. The water is rich in minerals and herbs that have medicinal and religious value.
According to legend, the waterfalls were created by Lord Shiva, who blessed the place with his cosmic dance. The waterfalls are also associated with Sage Agastya, who is believed to have meditated here and attained enlightenment.
If you are looking for a refreshing and rejuvenating getaway, Courtallam Falls is the perfect destination for you. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Courtallam Falls, such as the history, legend, features, attractions, and best time to visit. We will also give you some tips and advice on how to make the most of your trip to Courtallam Falls. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, Courtallam Falls has something for everyone. Read on to find out more about this amazing place and why you should visit it at least once in your lifetime.
The History and Legend of the Falls
Courtallam Falls has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. The name Courtallam comes from the Tamil word “Kuruthalam”, which means “the place of the conch”. This is because the sound of the waterfalls resembles the sound of a conch shell. The place is also known as “the spa of South India”, as the waterfalls have been used for healing and cleansing purposes for centuries.
The legend behind Courtallam Falls is equally intriguing. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva, the supreme god of destruction and transformation, performed his cosmic dance at Courtallam Falls. His dance created the waterfalls and infused them with his divine energy. The waterfalls are also said to be the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati, who often visit the place to enjoy the scenic beauty and the soothing water.
Another legend relates Courtallam Falls to Sage Agastya, one of the seven great sages of Hinduism. Sage Agastya is credited with spreading the Vedic culture and knowledge to the southern parts of India. He is also known for his wisdom, power, and penance. It is said that Sage Agastya meditated at Courtallam Falls for a long time and attained enlightenment. He also wrote many scriptures and treatises on various subjects, such as medicine, astrology, grammar, and martial arts. He is revered as the patron saint of Courtallam and the surrounding regions.
The legends and history of Courtallam Falls add to its charm and allure. They also reflect the cultural and spiritual significance of the place. Many pilgrims and devotees visit Courtallam Falls to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Sage Agastya. They also believe that bathing in the waterfalls can cure various ailments and purify the soul.
The Nine Waterfalls at Courtallam
Courtallam Falls is composed of nine waterfalls, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. They are:
Main Falls:
This is the most popular and crowded waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the largest and highest waterfall, with a drop of about 300 feet. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, and the spray creates a misty atmosphere. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, creating a picturesque view. The waterfall is also known as “Peraruvi”, which means “the big falls”.
Small Falls:
This is the second most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the closest waterfall to the town, and hence easily accessible. The waterfall is smaller and lower than the Main Falls, with a drop of about 60 feet. The water is gentle and soothing, and the pool is shallow and safe for children. The waterfall is also known as “Chittaruvi”, which means “the small falls”.
Shenbaga Falls:
This is the third most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most beautiful and romantic waterfall, with a drop of about 100 feet. The water is clear and sparkling, and the pool is deep and inviting. The waterfall is named after the Shenbaga tree, which is a fragrant and sacred flower in Hinduism. The waterfall is also known as “Chembakarai”, which means “the place of the Shenbaga tree”.
Honey Falls:
This is the fourth most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most adventurous and secluded waterfall, with a drop of about 200 feet. The water is sweet and honey-like, and the pool is hidden and mysterious. The waterfall is named after the honeycombs that are found on the rocks near the waterfall. The waterfall is also known as “Thenaruvi”, which means “the honey falls”.
Five Falls:
This is the fifth most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most spectacular and diverse waterfall, with a drop of about 250 feet. The water splits into five streams, creating a stunning sight. The waterfall is named after the five sacred elements of Hinduism, namely earth, water, fire, air, and ether. The waterfall is also known as “Aintharuvi”, which means “the five falls”.
Tiger Falls:
This is the sixth most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most thrilling and challenging waterfall, with a drop of about 300 feet. The water is fierce and roaring, and the pool is deep and dangerous. The waterfall is named after the tigers that used to roam the area in the past. The waterfall is also known as “Puli Aruvi”, which means “the tiger falls”.
Old Courtallam Falls:
This is the seventh most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most ancient and historic waterfall, with a drop of about 200 feet. The water is calm and serene, and the pool is shallow and peaceful. The waterfall is located near the Tirukuttralanathar Swamy temple, which is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the area. The waterfall is also known as “Pazhaya Courtallam”, which means “the old Courtallam”.
New Courtallam Falls:
This is the eighth most popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most modern and developed waterfall, with a drop of about 150 feet. The water is clean and fresh, and the pool is well-maintained and hygienic. The waterfall is located near the Courtallam town, which is the hub of tourism and commerce in the area. The waterfall is also known as “Puthu Courtallam”, which means “the new Courtallam”.
Fruit Garden Falls:
This is the ninth and the least popular waterfall at Courtallam. It is also the most remote and inaccessible waterfall, with a drop of about 100 feet. The water is pure and natural, and the pool is untouched and pristine. The waterfall is located near a fruit garden, which is a government-run orchard that grows various fruits and spices. The waterfall is also known as “Pazhathotta Aruvi”, which means “the fruit garden falls”.
Each waterfall at Courtallam Falls offers a different and delightful experience to the visitors. You can choose to visit one or more waterfalls, depending on your preference and time. You can also enjoy the scenic beauty and the soothing water of the waterfalls, and feel the stress and fatigue melt away.
The Best Time to Visit Courtallam Falls
Courtallam Falls is a year-round destination, as the waterfalls never dry up. However, the best time to visit Courtallam Falls is during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. During this time, the waterfalls are at their peak, and the weather is pleasant and cool. The rain also adds to the charm and freshness of the place, and creates a magical atmosphere.
However, the monsoon season is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit Courtallam Falls, as many tourists flock to the place to enjoy the waterfalls. The waterfalls may also become too heavy and dangerous, and some of them may be closed for safety reasons. Therefore, you should plan your trip carefully and book your accommodation and transportation in advance.
Another good time to visit Courtallam Falls is during the winter season, which lasts from December to February. During this time, the waterfalls are less crowded and more peaceful, and the weather is mild and comfortable. The waterfalls may also become more clear and sparkling, and some of them may have rainbow effects. Therefore, you can enjoy the waterfalls at your own pace and leisure.
However, the winter season is also the coldest and driest time to visit Courtallam Falls, as the temperature may drop to as low as 10°C. The waterfalls may also become less voluminous and less impressive, and some of them may be closed for maintenance reasons. Therefore, you should pack warm clothes and check the availability and timings of the waterfalls before you visit.
Some tips and advice for visiting Courtallam Falls are:
1. Wear comfortable and waterproof clothes and shoes, as you will get wet and muddy at the waterfalls.
2. Carry a towel, a change of clothes, and some plastic bags to keep your belongings dry and clean.
3. Avoid wearing jewelry, watches, glasses, or contact lenses, as they may get lost or damaged at the waterfalls.
4. Apply sunscreen, insect repellent, and moisturizer, as the sun, bugs, and water may irritate your skin.
5. Drink plenty of water and eat light and healthy food, as the waterfalls may cause dehydration and indigestion.
6. Follow the rules and regulations of the waterfalls, such as the timings, entry fee, dress code, and safety measures.
7. Respect the environment and the culture of the place, and do not litter, vandalize, or disturb the wildlife or the locals.
8. Enjoy the waterfalls and the nature, and have fun and relax.
How To Reach
ourtallam Falls is located in the Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu, near the border of Kerala. There are various ways to reach Courtallam Falls, depending on your mode of transportation and your starting point. Here are some of the common options:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Courtallam Falls is Tuticorin Airport, which is about 100 km away. You can take a flight to Tuticorin from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, and Mumbai. From Tuticorin, you can hire a taxi or a bus to reach Courtallam Falls.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Courtallam Falls is Tenkasi Junction, which is about 5 km away. You can take a train to Tenkasi from major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Coimbatore. From Tenkasi, you can hire a taxi or a bus to reach Courtallam Falls.
By Bus:
The nearest bus stand to Courtallam Falls is Courtallam Bus Stand, which is about 1 km away. You can take a bus to Courtallam from major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Tirunelveli, and Coimbatore. From Courtallam, you can walk or hire a rickshaw to reach Courtallam Falls.
Nearby Destinations
Courtallam Falls is not the only attraction in the area. There are many other places to visit near Courtallam, such as:
Tirukuttralanathar Swamy Temple:
This is one of the oldest and most revered temples in the area, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located near the Old Courtallam Falls, and has a beautiful architecture and a rich history. The temple is also one of the five Pancha Sabhai, or the five halls where Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance. The hall in this temple is called Chitra Sabhai, or the hall of paintings, as it is decorated with colorful paintings depicting the dance of Lord Shiva. The temple also celebrates many festivals and rituals, such as the Chitrai festival, Thaipoosam festival, and Pradosham pooja.
Murugan Temple:
This is another ancient and sacred temple in the area, dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati. The temple is located on a hill near the Small Falls, and has a stunning view of the surroundings. The temple is also associated with the legend of Lord Murugan and Valli, his consort. According to the legend, Lord Murugan disguised himself as a tribal hunter and wooed Valli, who was the daughter of a tribal chief. The temple has a shrine for Valli, and also a rock where Lord Murugan proposed to her.
Chitra Sabhai:
This is the hall where Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance, as mentioned above. The hall is located inside the Tirukuttralanathar Swamy Temple, and is a marvel of art and architecture. The hall is shaped like a chariot, and has a dome that resembles a lotus. The hall is adorned with paintings, sculptures, and carvings depicting the dance of Lord Shiva and the stories of Hindu mythology. The hall also has a statue of Lord Nataraja, the dancing form of Lord Shiva, made of silver and gold. The hall is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the beauty and the spirituality of the place.
Other Places to Visit:
There are many other places to visit near Courtallam, such as Sanguthurai Beach, Chitharal Jain Monuments, Gandhi Mandapam, Thirparappu Falls, Padmanabhapuram Palace, Mathur Aqueduct, and more. You can find more information and links for these places in the sidebar.
Accommodation Options
If you want to stay near Courtallam Falls, you have many options to choose from, such as hotels, resorts, homestays, and more. Some of the accommodation options near Courtallam Falls are:
Hotel Tamil Nadu:
This is a government-run hotel that offers comfortable and affordable rooms and facilities. The hotel is located near the Main Falls, and has a restaurant, a conference hall, a swimming pool, and a garden. The hotel also provides travel assistance and sightseeing packages for the guests.
Saaral Resort:
This is a private resort that offers luxurious and spacious rooms and amenities. The resort is located near the Shenbaga Falls, and has a restaurant, a spa, a gym, and a playground. The resort also organizes cultural events and adventure activities for the guests.
Orchard Homestay:
This is a family-run homestay that offers cozy and homely rooms and services. The homestay is located near the Fruit Garden Falls, and has a kitchen, a dining area, and a terrace. The homestay also offers organic food and farm tours for the guests.
Courtallam Falls is a natural spa and a scenic spot in Tamil Nadu that you should not miss. The waterfalls are a source of beauty, healing, and joy for the visitors. The place also has a rich history, legend, and culture that add to its charm and allure. Whether you want to relax, rejuvenate, or explore, Courtallam Falls has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Courtallam Falls today and experience the magic of the waterfalls for yourself. You will not regret it.
