100 Year Old Puthuthottam Annexe: A Wild Holiday Hideout in Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, Valparai

Puthuthottam estate, a 3000 acre estate comprising of tea gardens, coffee plantations and native trees, is the hidden gem of Anaimalai Tiger Reserve. It is one of the best places in the entire country to spot the lion tailed macaque, a primate species endemic to the southern part of the Western Ghats. Located just a few kilometres before Valparai, the unsung hill station of India, it is surrounded by the forests and mountains of the Anaimalai tiger reserve on all sides and it itself falls in the buffer zone of Anaimalai tiger reserve.

This entire estate, forest and wildlife can be yours if you stay at Puthuthottam Annexe, a 100 year old building that used to be the tea manager’s bungalow in its hey days. Today, it is the only place to stay at Puthuthottam estate for tourists. Run and managed by the woodbriar group, it is home to 2 bedrooms with attached bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen and a balcony. And it is located right in the middle of tea estates, coffee estates and tropical forests. If you book both these rooms, your group might be the only humans (apart from the hotel staff and naturalist) living in these 3000 acres of surreal nature.



If you are a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer or adventure seeker, Puthuthottam Annexe’s secluded location and rich wildlife sightings will most certainly appeal to you. And when all of this experience is only for your group, it makes it truly special. This property review is based on my recent experience of staying 3 days and 3 nights with family, friends and kids.

Remote, Raw and Wild



The location of Puthuthottam Annexe is remote. It is the only property where tourists can stay at in this 3000 acre estate. As it is part of a migration corridor with the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve, it shares its space with a lot of wildlife, especially Great Hornbills, Lion Tailed Macaques, Gaurs, Elephants and more. And you can spot all of these wildlife either right from your balcony or a short walk through the different trails of the estate. Thus, making it a truly raw experience as it is not every day that you stand 50 feet away on foot staring a large herd of wild gaur grazing and moving about the property.

Immersive Nature



Right from the time you wake up to the call of the Malabar whistling thrush, spot gaurs on post breakfast and post tea walks to seeing lion tailed macaques joyfully play around at close quarters, everything about the experience here is rich and just for you. You can immerse yourself totally into nature here. The only thing to worry is that there will be no one to get you out of the trance.

Starry Skies



If you like star gazing, Puthuthottam Annexe is a perfect place. Whether you are staring from its balcony or whether you are walking around its periphery, you are bound to enjoy the view of the star studded sky here along with the sounds of the jungle like a owl hooting, a cicada chirping, a wild animal growling or the leaves rustling.

Excellent Food



Like most of Woobriar’s properties, the team at Puthuthottam Annexe cooks delicious Indian food along with some lovely desserts. You can also request for some specific dishes depending on your dietary requirements. Food is served both at the woodhouse mansion and at your room. I feel it is better to have food at the 184 year old woodhouse mansion as it allows you to explore the forest on the way in and out from the rooms. This allows you to spot some interesting flora and fauna. The lion tailed macaques are also frequently spotted after breakfast at the woodhouse mansion.

Great Naturalist and Fantastic Trails



Puthuthottam Annexe has in-house naturalists who are nature lovers and are extremely knowledgeable. They know all the different plantation trails where you can spot the most birds and animals. Each morning and evening and even during the day in case the weather is pleasant, the naturalist will take you to the forest zones where you can spot sambar deer, gaurs, hornbills, lion tailed macaques, nilgiri langurs, woodpeckers, eagles and many more bird and animal species. During the post monsoon season, you are bound to spot large herds of elephants here as this estate falls under the migratory corridor of the elephants.

The Silent Thrill



Even though you know that the puthuthottam annexe property is protected by a barbed wire fence, your mind races in the calm of the night and plots all kind of wildlife attack scenarios as a reaction to the stories that you heard over dinner or the sounds that reverberate through the forest in the night.

Puthuthottam Annexe is for you…

1) If you love large open spaces where you, your friends and family can move around without worrying about traffic or other humans

2) If raw, wild and remote nature is your thing, you will definitely fall in love with Puthuthottam Annexe

3) Whether you are a birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer and a nature lover, you are bound to be mesmerized with the forest and tea estates here

4) If you like to sleep and wake up to the sounds of nature, this place is for you

5) If you like yummy meals after long walks, then this place is for you

If you are one or two families that is either well versed with wildlife an nature or you are easing into it, Valparai’s Puthuthottam Annexe is going be your next wildlife holiday destination where all 3000 acres of it would belong to you during your stay. I have been twice to this property and have always enjoyed my time here. For bookings, look up the tea bungalows website. You can call or email them and book your rooms.

Another property run by the Woodbriar group in Valparai that also offers great birdwatching and wildlife opportunities is the Monica garden bungalow. I have stayed here on two of my previous trips to Valparai.

Key things to remember while you are visiting Puthuthottam Annexe:



1) Wear sturdy shoes as you will be required to walk long distances.

2) Carry sunglasses and a cap/hat to protect you from the mountain sun.

3) Carry rain wear or an umbrella with you in case you are visiting during the wet season.

4) Leeches are quite common during the wet season. So be prepared for them accordingly.

5) Most of the time, it is safe to be with children on these trails. However, do exercise caution for self and others, if there happens to be wild gaurs or elephants in the vicinity.

6) Try to stay quiet to get best sightings in wild habitat. If you make a lot of sound, the animals might go to some other place or at worst case, they can chase you.

7) Carry some trail mix, energy bars and water with you when going on these trails.

8) Carry a flashlight with you if you like early morning or late evening walks.

Attractions in and around Puthuthottam Annexe:



1) Tea Estates: The main attraction of Puthuthottam is its sprawling tea gardens, its plantation walks and its many panoramic view points.

2) Coffee Estates: In addition to tea garden, Puthuthottam is also home to coffee estates, though it is on a much smaller scale when compared to the tea gardens .

3) Forest Stretches: In between its tea and coffee estates, Puthuthottam has many stretches of native forest that attract the wild visitors.

4) Birdwatching: Great hornbill, grey hornbill, black rumped flameback woodpecker, crested serpent eagle, malabar whistling thrush, scarlet minivet, jungle babbler, hill myna, bulbul, barbet and many other species of birds can be spotted here.

5) Wildlife: Lion tailed macaques, elephants, gaurs, Malabar giant squirrels, sambar deer, barking deer, Nilgiri langurs, Bonnet macaques and many other wildlife can be seen here.

6) 184 year old Woodhouse Mansion: One of the earliest bungalows in Valparai, time stands still at Woodhouse Mansion. Lion Tailed Macaques also drop in here every day.

How to reach there:



The nearest airport would be Coimbatore international airport. It is located about 111 kms from Puthuthottam Annexe and it should take you close to 3 and a half hours to reach here by your car.

The nearest railway station would be Pollachi junction. It is located about 63 kms or 2 hours away.

The nearest bus station would be Valparai. If your bus happens to be coming from Pollachi or Coimbatore, you can get down at Puthuthottam Estate located just before Valparai. If you are traveling from Kerala, you can get down at Valparai and take a cab or bus to reach Puthuthottam, about 5 kms away.

Best season to visit:



Puthuthottam Annexe is open all year round and each season will allow you to see the forest and its wildlife in a new light.

October to December is excellent for spotting wild elephants and for great hornbills.

Other nearby tourist attractions:



1) Valparai: The unsung hill station of India

2) Valparai to Athirapally: One of the top tropical motorcycle routes in India

3) Rolling Injipara Tea Estates of Valparai: Stunning location for a morning walk

4) Nallamudi Poonjolai: A fabulous view point tucked within the Valparai hills and inside the Anaimalai Tiger Reserve

5) Sholayar Dam: Asia’s 2nd deepest dam nestled in the pristine Anaimalai hills of Tamil Nadu

6) Trekking inside Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: A thrilling adventure

7) Veetikunnu Island Nest: Living on an island inside a tiger reserve

8) Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: On the jumbo trail

9) Anaimalai Tiger Reserve: Of elephants, gaurs, tigers and hornbills



10) Pristine Vazhachal Rainforest Highway: A special road trip hot spot

11) Hike to Nadumalai River: A pristine picnic spot surrounded by tea estates and nature

12) Athirapally Falls: The Niagara falls of Kerala

13) Vazhachal Falls: A tropical forest waterfall located near Athirapally Falls

14) Vazhachal Forest: A fresh lease of oxygen in Kerala

15) Tea Estates of Valparai: For a rich tea estate and factory experience along with surreal views

16) Poringalkuthu Reservoir: A remote water body nestled in the tropical rainforests of Vazhachal, Kerala

17) Aliyar Dam: A large dam just before the climb to Valparai begins from Pollachi

18) Monkey Falls: A beautiful waterfall located on the ghat road from Pollachi to Valparai

19) Valparai Hills: Perfect place to explore on a motorcycle

20) Valparai’s Lion Tailed Macaque Bridge: Shows how we should co-exist with nature

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Old Iron Bridge over the Thamirabharani River at Papanasam: A Rustic Gem with lots of Scenic Nature

People visit Papanasam for the 1000 year old Papanasanathar temple with the Thamirabharani river next to it, the offbeat Karaiyar dam, the medicinal Agastyar falls, the gorgeous Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve and the Sorimuthu Ayyanar forest temple. These are popular attractions and attract a lot of people. However, if you wish to see a true rustic gem with not so many people, I would recommend visiting the old iron bridge over the Thamirabharani river next to the Madura coats campus on the Papanasam to Chettimedu village road. Vehicles do not ply on this old iron bridge, but one can walk on it without any worry and enjoy the views of the Thamirabharani river, the surrounding forests and the mountains of the Western Ghats in the background. There are also steps at one end of the iron bridge that lead you to the Thamirabharani river. You can swim in the river here or you can watch the locals bathe their buffaloes and carry on their daily chores at the river bank. This is also a great place to strike a conversation with the locals and learn something about their culture.



Even though this bridge is located close to Papanasam and the main highway road, if you head away from Papanasam on this village road towards Madura Coats colony and Chettimedu, you will see some of the most authentic rustic environment in this district. On one side of the village road lies the Thamirabharani river and on the other side lie the farms and the villages under the shadow of the mountains of the Western Ghats. If you continue on this road, you will reach Manimuthar dam and the other check post of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. This entire route is picturesque with lots of rustic agricultural and cattle scenes.

Overall, this old iron bridge over the Thamirabharani river between Papanasam and Madura coats colony offers the perfect mix of nature and authentic rustic charm of Tamil Nadu. During the cooler months, this route makes for a great day trip with many natural and temple attractions on the way. During the warmer months, this place is perfect for a dip or swim in the river or a relaxed trip during the early hours of the morning. I recommend this location with many thumbs up for that offbeat rural experience.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Manjolai: The unknown hill station gem of India

2) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycle route through pristine forest

3) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

4) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

5) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

6) Puliyarai View Point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

7) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

8) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East Monsoon in India

9) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon

10) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

11) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

12) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

13) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

14) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

15) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

16) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana

17) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India

18) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

19) 10th century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

20) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route

21) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

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Agastyar Falls: Perfect Solution to Beat Summer Heat

Summers are well and truly here and the heat has started affecting everyone. Summer vacations are also round the corner. Instead of staying couped up inside air conditioned environments all summer, there is a natural solution to beat the summer heat. And that natural solution is Agastyar Falls, a medicinal waterfall that is on the Thamirabharani river inside the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve near Papanasam in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.

The perennial Agastyar falls offers that perfect getaway for a bath under a herbal waterfall that is located amidst dense greenery. You also get a beautiful forest drive thrown in as an added bonus.



So, if you are headed to South Tamil Nadu during the summer holidays, do try visiting Agastyar Falls and find rich solace from the summer heat. At Agastyar Falls and the nearby Thamirabharani river, you can indulge in swimming, play some water sports, watch birds and wildlife, relax with friends and family and enjoy a picnic with them. If you wish to cool down further, you can try the summer fruit and drink - nongu and padhani after a rejuvenating waterfall bath. And if you happen to take bath in the early hours of the morning or later hours of the evening, you can try the local chukku malli kaapi and find a magical remedy to all your tiredness.

There are separate areas for men and women to bathe with small changing rooms nearby. There are metal barricades to protect you from slipping in case the force of the water is higher than normal. And there is lots of shade under large trees for you to eat your picnic lunch and catch an afternoon siesta.



Such waterfall baths are nature’s perfect recipe for summer holidays. Unlike most of the waterfalls, which go dry during the dry summer months, Agastyar falls and nearby Manimuthar falls, both located inside the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve are perennial waterfalls that flow from deep in the Western Ghats. While both of them are perfect getaways for summers, Agastyar Falls is more accessible as motorcycles, autorickshaws and four wheelers are allowed, while only four wheelers are allowed towards Manimuthar Falls. Sorimuthu Ayyanar temple and the forest drive are also nearby attractions if you happen to choose Agastyar Falls. And then there is the temple town of Papanasam with its fast flowing Thamirabharani river enroute that also doubles up as an added attraction. Overall, Agastyar Falls packs a punch as a top summer holiday getaway. Let me know how you like this forest experience in rustic Tamil Nadu.

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Manjolai: The Unknown Hill Station Gem of India

This gorgeous hill station is home to some of the most pristine forests in the Western Ghats. It’s climate, rich flora and fauna are influenced by the winds coming from all the three oceans surrounding the Indian mainland – Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. It receives rains almost every month of the year. It receives rains from both the South West and North East monsoons, but since most of its valleys are facing the east, it receives bountiful rains during the North East monsoon. It is considered a giant during the North East monsoon and rivals most of the monsoon giants of the Western Ghats like Talacauvery, Chinakallar, Agumbe, Masthikatte, Castle Rock, Amboli, Malshej and Chorla for its annual rainfall. I am talking about the relatively unknown hill station of Manjolai that is located in the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve of South Tamil Nadu.



Manjolai is located at an elevation of about 4000 feet above MSL in the Western Ghats. It is part of the catchment area of the Thamirabharani river and its tributaries. It’s rain water run-off feeds the Manimuthar Falls and the Manimuthar Dam. It is a beautiful mix of tea estates, fruit orchards and tropical evergreen forests of the Western Ghats. During the British rule, tea was first planted on this hill station and it was managed by the Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation (BBTC). BBTC was given a lease by British India and the Singampatti Zamin for a period of 100 years in the year 1925. The salubrious climate allowed the tea estates to prosper and this gave birth to the tiny temples/churches, schools and houses in this hilly hamlet. Today, the 100 year old lease has come to an end and the government has decided to close the tea estates and restore the place back to its original glory. Manjolai will now come under the control of the Tamil Nadu forest department and the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.



While this is great news for the forest, wildlife and for the catchment area of the Thamirabharani river, I feel sad for the people who used to call Manjolai their home. The government has planned to relocate them in the plains below, but I think it will be very tough for them. I hope the people of Manjolai can be employed in the forest department and PWD in the same region so that they feel some continuity with the region.



This is the last year before civilization disappears from Manjolai and it completely becomes a forest. Not that the civilization was huge here, but the tea estates, the iconic Manjolai rusk with lemon tea, the pretty little homes and the hill station vibes, they will all be missed for sure. But, I hope that as the forest and the region regenerates, we and our future generations can hopefully experience the Manjolai of the old before tea estates were part of the landscape. And I am sure, it will positively influence the weather patterns of the region and result in more inflows into the Thamirabharani river, which is the lifeline of South Tamil Nadu.



If you wish to experience this unknown hill station called Manjolai, visit soon, before the landscape changes and the hill station vibes disappear. Whether it is the winding and scenic drive from Manimuthar Falls to Manjolai, the amazing weather, the lush landscape, the yummy home made rusk, the raw nature, the umpteen waterfalls and the tiny village look n feel, there is so much to like about Manjolai.



For me, I love the fact that it one of the most prettiest virgin forests in the Western Ghats. It’s surroundings that are home to umpteen mountain streams and waterfalls carry some of the sweetest water in the region and that holds medicinal value too as it flows through medicinal herbs and plants. In simple words, it is a tropical forest paradise that is untouched by the burgeoning population of India. Manjolai, Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve and the connected Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is one of Western Ghat’s well preserved secrets and may be, that is why I love what this place has to offer. Don’t you wish to see and experience this place for yourself?



Best season to visit:

Manjolai is open all year round and can be visited in all seasons. Summers are incredibly pleasant and are a far cry from the hot plains below. The rainy season between October and December is magical here and this is when close to 3000 to 5000 mm of rain precipitates in three months and dresses up the surroundings in fresh green with full water bodies and waterfalls. January and February offer clearer weather with low humidity and this allows for clear views of the spectacular landscape that includes tea estates, forests, mountains, waterfalls and dams. June to August is when Manjolai is at its windiest best due to the winds blowing during the South West monsoon.



How to reach there:

If you are traveling from Tirunelveli, head towards Cheranmadevi and Kallidaikurichi. Just before Kallidaikurichi railway station, turn left and take the road leading towards Manimuthar. You will cross Golden nagar, Thekku Pappankulam, Tamil Nadu Special Force IX battalion and Manimuthar village. If you head straight from Manimuthar village, climb the narrow road and you will reach the forest check post at Manimuthar Dam. You will have to get your permits checked here, pay the necessary fees and then drive onwards towards Manimuthar Falls, Manjolai, Kakkachi, Nalumukku, Oothu and then onto Kudrevetty.



How to get permits for this place in KMTR:

To travel to Manjolai, Kakkachi, Nalumukku, Oothu and/or Kudrevetty, you will have to get permits in advance from the forest department at Ambasamudram. The permit costs INR 200 at Ambasamudram and you will have to pay vehicle fee and per person charge at the Manimuthar forest check post. The forest check post opens at 7 AM and closes at 6 PM.

If you book a room at the forest rest house in Kudrevetty, then that booking is good enough and you don’t need to get the permits in advance.



Where to stay:

If you wish to stay within the tiger reserve, you can book the forest rest house at Kudrevetty through the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve website.

If you wish to stay in traditional Brahmin agraharam houses, you can try the home stays and guest houses at Kallidaikurichi village.

If simple, yet modern hotels are your thing, you can try Hotel Ambai Grand at Ambasamudram.

If you wish for a wide variety of hotels, you will have to try looking at the hotels in Tirunelveli.



Where to eat:

There are a few tea shops at Manjolai where you can find some basic snacks along with tea/coffee, but if you order in advance, you can get some food.

The forest rest house at Kudrevetty will prepare food for you if you happen to be staying with them. They will buy basic supplies once your booking is confirmed. However, if you have any specific requirements like country eggs, country chicken or any other requirements, you will have to inform them at least a day in advance.

There are a few family run restaurants at Oothu where you can get some local meals along with some tea and coffee. However, you need to order your meals at least a day in advance so that the people can arrange the ration and vegetables.

There are a few shack-like restaurants at Manimuthar village before the forest check post. Here, you can get basic meals and a decent array of tiffin items.



Other tourist attractions inside KMTR:

1) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon

2) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

3) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve



4) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

5) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

6) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

7) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded



8) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south

9) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

10) Hidden pristine waterfall inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycling route through pristine forest

2) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

3) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

4) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely Brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

5) Puliyarai view point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway



6) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

7) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

8) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar temple at Tenkasi

9) Manalar Falls: The herbal jungle waterfall of Kerala

10) Kambhavurutty Falls: Pristine jungle waterfall in the middle of dense forest



11) Rosemala View Point: Gorgeous motorcycling route inside Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

12) Thenmala Forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway

13) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

14) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

15) Lesser Known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

16) Achankovil Saastha Temple: That happy Lord Ayyappa in the middle of pristine jungle

17) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

18) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

19) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

20) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana



21) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of south India

22) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

23) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

24) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

25) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

26) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

27) Thamirabharani river delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness

28) 10th Century Valisvara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

29) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea shore magic

30) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route



31) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

32) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

33) The festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

34) The exotic tropical fruit shops of Puliyarai

35) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

36) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

37) Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple: World’s richest Hindu temple

38) Shangumugham Beach: The tranquil and divine beach of Thiruvananthapuram

39) Thiruparappu Falls: Gorgeous monsoon spectacle near Kanyakumari

40) Mathoor Aqueduct and Hanging Bridge: An offbeat wonder nestled in the mountains near Kanyakumari



41) Kappil Beach: Sandy beauty hemmed in between the sea and the backwaters

42) Varkala Beach: That stunning cliff beach of Kerala where you can wash away all your sins

43) Meenmutty Falls inside Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful tropical jungle trail

44) Ponmudi: The offbeat hill station of Kerala with a 360 degree mountain panorama

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Nalumukku: The Wettest place of India during the North East Monsoon

This region is home to some of the most pristine forests in the Western Ghats. It’s climate is influenced by the winds coming from all the three oceans surrounding the Indian mainland – Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea. It receives rains from both the South West and the North East monsoons, but since most of its valleys are facing the east, it receives bountiful rains during the North East monsoon. Such is the abundance of rains that it receives between October and December that it rivals most of the monsoon giants of the Western Ghats like Talacauvery, Chinakallar, Agumbe, Masthikatte, Castle Rock, Amboli, Malshej and Chorla. It receives between 3000 mm to 5000 mm of rain during the North East monsoon and between 5000 mm to 7000 mm for the whole year. I am talking about the relatively unknown village of Nalumukku that is located in the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve of South Tamil Nadu. It is located at at elevation of about 4600 feet above MSL in the Western Ghats. It is part of the catchment area of the Thamirabharani river and its tributaries.


 
Nalumukku enjoys a typical Western Ghats hill station like weather. It is is lush, it is misty, it is wet and it enjoys some of the most well preserved forests in the region. Nalumukku is a tiny village that consists of a few houses and a post office. The village limit ends a few hundred metres from its start. At Nalumukku, the road forks into three, one going towards Oothu and Kudrevetty, one going towards Kakkachi and Manjolai and the other going towards Kodayar Dam. Dense mist almost always envelops the tea estates and forests surrounding this village and thus giving it a dreamy look and feel. Nalumukku and its surroundings are home to umpteen mountain streams and waterfalls each carrying some of the sweetest water in the region and that holds medicinal value too as it flows through medicinal herbs and plants. In simple words, if there was a tropical forest paradise that is untouched by the bursting population of India, it has to be Nalumukku and its surroundings. Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve and the connected Agasthyamalai biosphere is one of Western Ghat’s most well preserved secrets and Nalumukku happens to be bang in the centre of it. It might be tough to access this place, but it is worth all the hassle. I cannot stop raving enough about the raw beauty of mother nature here.

     
    
Best season to visit:

Nalumukku is open all year round and can be visited in all seasons. Summers are incredibly pleasant and are a far cry from the hot plains below. The rainy season between October and December is magical here and this is when close to 3000 to 5000 mm of rain precipitates in three months and dresses up the surroundings in fresh green with full water bodies and waterfalls.January and February offer clearer weather with low humidity and this allows for clear views of the spectacular landscape that includes tea estates, forests, mountains and dams. June to August is when Nalumukku is at its windiest best due to the winds coming during the South West monsoon.
   
     
    
How to reach there:

If you are traveling from Tirunelveli, head towards Cheranmadevi and Kallidaikurichi. Just before Kallidaikurichi railway station, turn left and take the road leading towards Manimuthar. You will cross Golden nagar, Thekku Pappankulam, Tamil Nadu special force IX battalion and Manimuthar village. If you head straight from Manimuthar village, climb the narrow road and you will reach the forest check post at Manimuthar Dam. You will have to get your permits checked here, pay the necessary fees and then drive onwards towards Manimuthar Falls, Manjolai, Kakkachi, Nalumukku, Oothu and then onto Kudrevetty.     
   
     
     
How to get permits for this place in KMTR:

To travel to Manjolai, Kakkachi, Nalumukku, Oothu and/pr Kudrevetty, you will have to get permits in advance from the forest department at Ambasamudram. The permit costs INR 200 at Ambasamudram and you will have to pay vehicle fee and per person charge at the Manimuthar forest check post. The forest check post opens at 7 AM and closes at 6 AM.

If you book a room at the forest rest house in Kudrevetty, then that booking is good enough and you don’t need to get the permits in advance.
   
     
    
Where to stay:

If you wish to stay within the tiger reserve, you can book the forest rest house at Kudrevetty through the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve website.

If you wish to stay in traditional Brahmin agraharam houses, you can try the home stays and guest houses at Kallidaikurichi village.

If simple, yet modern hotels are your thing, you can try Hotel Ambai Grand at Ambasamudram.

If you wish for a wide variety of hotels, you will have to try looking at the hotels in Tirunelveli.
   
     
    
Where to eat:

The forest rest house at Kudrevetty will prepare food for you if you happen to be staying with them. They will buy basic supplies once your booking is confirmed. However, if you have any specific requirements like country eggs, country chicken or any other requirements, you will have to inform them at least a day in advance.

There are a few family run restaurants at Oothu where you can get some local meals along with some tea and coffee. However, you need to order your meals at least a day in advance so that the people can arrange the ration and vegetables.

There are a few tea shops at Manjolai where you can find basic snacks along with tea/coffee, but if you order in advance, you can get some food.

There are a few shack-like restaurants at Manimuthar village before the forest check post. Here, you can get basic meals and a decent array of tiffin items.     
   


Other tourist attractions inside KMTR:

1) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

2) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

3) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

4) Manjolai: The offbeat hill station of Tamil Nadu

5) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

6) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

7) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

8) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south

9) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

10) Hidden pristine waterfall inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
   


Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycling route through pristine forest

2) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

3) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

4) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

5) Puliyarai View Point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

6) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

7) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

8) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar temple at Tenkasi

9) Manalar Falls: The gorgeous forest waterfall perfect for a family getaway

10) Kambhavurutty Falls: Pristine jungle waterfall in the middle of dense forest



11) Thenmala Forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway

12) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

13) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

14) Lesser Known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

15) Achankovil Saastha Temple: That happy Lord Ayyappa in the middle of pristine jungle

16) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

17) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

18) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

19) Rosemala: Spectacular view point of the Thenmala reservoir

20) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana



21) 10th century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India

22) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

23) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

24) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

25) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

26) Pattamadai Pai: GI Tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

27) Thamirabharani river delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness

28) 10th century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

29) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea Shore Magic

30) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route



31) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

32) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

33) The Festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

34) The exotic tropical fruit shops of Puliyarai

35) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

36) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

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