Hidden Pristine Forest Waterfall in Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
This place is as untouched, hidden and pristine as it can be. It is because of such water bodies across our Western Ghats that peninsular India quenches its thirst. This beautiful forest waterfall is part of the catchment area of the Thamirabharani river. The water flows through medicinal herbs and plants and it was deliciously sweet and cold when I took a sip of it. Just sitting here in this environment and listening to the gurgle of the waterfall will melt your stress away. Such places allow our bodies to rejuvenate and recharge in rapid time.
Located between the rustic hill station of Oothu and the windy view point of Kudrevetty, this place is hidden amidst pristine forest. The access is from the main road that connects Oothu with Kudrevetty. There is no path or signboard here. All you have to do is follow the sound of the water and prepare to climb up through the dense bushes and ferns to the waterfall. Such water bodies are galore in the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve during the wet season. However, even during the dry summer season, some of these waterfalls contain ample water. And that is what makes this environment so special. This abundant water source gives rise to a whole lot of flora and fauna and thus makes this forest a thriving ecosystem.
If you wish that your holiday be at such a place where the nature is untouched and raw, the Manjolai range of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu is one such amazing option. Access is a bit tough and you have to get the permits from the forest department in advance, but all the hard work and patience is definitely worth it. I can’t rave about this place enough. Luckily for me, my home is just 10 kilometers away from the forest check post and about 45 kilometers from this waterfall, so I can visit this forest waterfall often. Sometimes, I wish that the forest department allowed me to take my cycle up here, but then, I do understand that is not safe to be on a bicycle in this elephant corridor.
