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TENKASI TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO TENKASI

• Tenkasi Overview
• Top 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi
• 5 Best Tenkasi Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Tenkasi
• Best Time to Visit Tenkasi

How to Reach Tenkasi

• Tenkasi Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Tenkasi

About Tenkasi

Country: india | state: tamilnadu, #22 of 25 places to visit in tamilnadu | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: tenkasi, nearest city to tenkasi: trivandrum (109 kms), best time to visit tenkasi: july to october, peak season: july to september, tenkasi weather: summer: maximum - 35°c and minimum - 23°c winter: maximum - 29°c and minimum - 12°c.

At a distance of 56 km from Tirunelveli, 100 km from Kollam, 109 km from Trivandrum, 132 km from Kanyakumari, 160 km from Madurai, & 625 km from Chennai, Tenkasi is the second largest town in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. Situated on the Madurai - Kollam highway, it is one of the popular places to visit near Madurai , and among the top Tamilnadu places to visit . Tenkasi is famous for numerous waterfalls spread around the region including the famous Courtallam Falls, among the must include places in Tenkasi tour packages . River Chittar flows through this picturesque destination favoured amongst tourists. Amidst the Western Ghats, Tenkasi was founded by Pandyan kings who ruled Southern Tamil Nadu for a long time. The Word Tenkasi means Kasi of the South referring to the Kasiviswanathar temple situated in the town. The temple was built by Parakrama Pandyan but was shattered by lightning. In the 1990s, the temple was restored and it was given a fresh coat of paint again in 2006. The main deity here is Kasi Viswanathar (Lord Shiva). Tenkasi has another magnificent Kulasekaranathar Temple, which has been closed for a long time. There is also a temple pond in the middle of the town, adjoining the Kannimaramman Temple. Anggalap Parameshwari Temple is in Malayan Street, and Esakki Amman Kovil are the other prominent places to visit in Tenkasi . The closest airport to Tenkasi is the Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 122 km away. About 1.5 km from Tenkasi Bus Stand, Tenkasi Junction is well connected by trains with cities like Tirunelveli, Nagercoil, Kanyakumari, Palakkad, Tuticorin, Chennai, Kollam, Madurai, Sengottai, and Trivandrum. It has good bus connectivity from Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kollam, Kanyakumari, Trivandrum, Palakkad, Nagercoil, etc. The best time to visit Tenkasi is from July to October as the weather is most pleasant and the waterfalls are in full swing. Since it is a temple town, it is wise to try and visit during the festivals like Pongal, Ganesh Chaturthi, Tamil New Year, and Maha Shivaratri that are celebrated with great pomp and fervor.

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Nearest Airport: Trivandrum - Trivandrum International Airport (113 Kms)

Direct flights to trivandrum, nearest train station: tenkasi junction (0 kms), direct trains to tenkasi, nearest bus station: tenkasi bus station (1 kms), direct buses to tenkasi, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to tenkasi, top 10 places to visit in tenkasi, kutralam falls / courtallam falls.

#1 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 7 km from Tenkasi, 62 km from Tirunelveli & 160 km from Madurai, Courtallam, or Kutralam Falls is a stunning waterfall situated near Tirunelveli. It is one of the prominent waterfalls in Tamilnadu , and among the must include places in Tenkasi holiday packages . Courtallam is famed as the 'Spa of South'. There are nine waterfalls at Courtallam where the River Chittar cascades over 92 meters at varying volumes. The Main falls or Peraruvi is the most popular and the biggest among the nine falls, at a distance of about 300 meters from Courtallam Bus Stand. Falling from a height of 60 m, it is located right inside Courtallam town. The flow of water is interrupted by the Pongumakadal rock and comes down gently making it a safe place to bathe. The waters of Courtallam are believed to have medicinal qualities as it flows through forests of herbs. The Kutralanathar Temple, .....

Kasi Viswanathar Temple / Ulagamman Temple

#2 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 1.5 km from Tenkasi Bus Station, 5 km from Courtallam, and 55 km from Tirunelveli, Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine located in the town of Tenkasi. It is one of the popular Tenkasi places to visit , and among the significant pilgrimage sites near Madurai . Sri Kasi Viswanathar Temple is dedicated to Kasi Viswanathar a form of Lord Shiva in a self-incarnated form (swayambu). Tenkasi town derived its name from this temple and known as Kasi of South. It is believed that worshipping the Lord in this temple is equal to worshipping the Lord in Kasi. The nearby river Chittar is considered equivalent to Ganga. The temple was built by Parakrama Pandyan in Dravidian style. The construction of Rajagopuram was completed in the year 1505. The gopura caught fire in 1824 and was in a bad condition till 1966. Then .....

Papanasam Temple, Near Tirunelveli

#3 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 15 km from Ambasamudram and 47 km from Tirunelveli, Papanasam is a small town in Ambasamudram Taluk of Tirunelveli district in Tamilnadu. It is one of the popular picnic spots in Tirunelveli. Papanasam has a famous temple called the Papanasam Sivan Temple which lies on the banks of Thamirabarani River. Constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, the holy shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati who are worshipped as Papanasanathar and Ulagammai respectively. This is the place where Saint Agasthiyar got the Kalyana dharshan of Lord Shiva and Parvati along with his wife Lopamudra. The Shiva lingam of the temple is completely made up of Rudraksha. Of the nine Kailash Kshetras - Nava Kailash, Papanasam is the first place and is attributed to Sun God. Hence, the place is known as Surya Kshetra and Surya Kailash. Devotees strongly believe that Lord Shiva in this temple is most powerful and cures all kind of diseases. The temple is famous ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 33 Kms Trip Duration (From Tenkasi - Including Travel): 2 Hours .....

Papanasam Falls / Agasthiyar Falls, Near Tirunelveli

#4 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 4 km from Papanasam and 51 km from Tirunelveli, Papanasam Falls, also known as Agasthiyar Falls is a stunning waterfall located near the town of Papanasam in the Tirunelveli district of Tamilnadu. Located in the Western Ghats, Papanasam Falls is a prominent waterfalls in Tamilnadu , and among the most popular Tirunelveli tourist places . Formed over Thamirabarani River, Papanasam Falls drop down from a height of 120 m. The river Thamirabarani, which flows from the Western Ghats of the Podhigai Hills, reaches the plains at Papanasam. This is highly revered by the locals both for their immense beauty and religious significance. Papanasam means absolution of sins and it is an important pilgrim center where people take bath in the sacred water to relieve themselves from sins. Agasthiyar Temple is situated near the falls, among the ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 36 Kms Trip Duration (From Papanasam Temple - Including Travel): 1 Hour .....

Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Near Tirunelveli

#5 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 12 km from Papanasam, 58 km from Kalakkad, and 60 km from Tirunelveli, Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve is located in the Southern Western Ghats in Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. This is the second-largest protected area in Tamil Nadu and among the best places to visit as part of your India wildlife tour. The Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve was created in the year 1988 by combining Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuary (251 km�) and Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary (567 km�), both established in 1962. This sanctuary covers an area of around 817 sq. km, out of which 459 sq. km falls under the core zone, and the remaining 358 sq. km comes under the buffer zone. Nestled between Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Agastya Malai Hill Range forms the core area of the sanctuary and is part of one of the world's 18 biodiversity hotspots. It is also under consideration by UNESCO as a world heritage site. wildlife sanctuaries near Madurai . The ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 46 Kms Trip Duration (From Tenkasi - Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day .....

Sivasailam Temple, Near Tirunelveli

#6 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 12 km from Papanasam and 47 km from Tirunelveli, Sri Sivasailanathar Paramakalyani Temple is a 500 year old Saivaite temple situated on the banks of River Gadana at Sivasailam in Tamilnadu. Popularly called as Sivasailam Temple, this is one of the famous Shiva temples near Tirunelveli. The Sivasailam Temple is dedicated to Lord Sivasailanathar and Goddess Parvati. Built by Pandiyas, the temple is surrounded by Velli malai, Mulli malai and Podhigai hills. It is believed that the Shiva Lingam in the sanctum is swayambhu lingam. At the back of the statue, there are lines that appear like hair, so he is also called Sadaiappar. This can be seen through a hole while strolling around the sanctum sanctorum. This is visible only when the Archakar gives Aarathi at the back of the lingam. The temple is huge with many mandapams and carved pillars. The principle gopuram has five stories and is embellished with numerous statues. The specialty of the temple is the huge ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 25 Kms Trip Duration (From Tenkasi - Including Travel): 1-2 Hours .....

Tirunelveli

#7 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 53 km from Thoothukudi, 84 km from Kanyakumari, 158 km from Madurai, 291 km from Trichy, and 623 km from Chennai, Tirunelveli is a city situated on the banks of the river Thamirabarani in Tamilnadu. Tirunelveli is the most popular places to visit near Madurai , and among the must include places in Tamilnadu tour packages . Also known as Nellai, Tirunelveli is the administrative headquarters of the Tirunelveli district and also the sixth-largest city in Tamilnadu. Tirunelveli is positioned close to the southern tip of India and is very eminent for various geographical features. It comprises 5 geographical territories which include mountains, forests, paddy fields, coastal, and deserts. The name Tirunelveli is derived from three Tamil words, thiru, nel and veli, meaning 'sacred paddy hedge'. The freedom fighters of the 18th to 20th century Veera Pandiya ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 60 Kms Trip Duration (From Tenkasi - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple - Sankarankovil, Near Tirunelveli

#8 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 16 km from Thirumalpuram and 56 km from Tirunelveli, Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple is a famous Hindu temple situated at Sankarankovil in Tirunelveli district of Tamilnadu. It is one of the top pilgrimage places to visit in Tirunelveli region and also one of the popular temples in Tamilnadu. The temple is dedicated to Sankaranarayanar, who is the combined manifestation of Shiva and Vishnu. This temple was built by Ukkira Pandiya Thevar in the 11th century AD. This temple also called as Avudaiamman Kovil or Davasu Kovil. According to mythology, once the devotees of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva quarreled with each other to determine whose god is powerful. Then Lord Shiva appeared as Sankaranarayanar to mark his devotees to understand that both Hari and Shiva are one and the same. So it is held sacred by Saivites and Vaishnavites as well. Hence this temple depicts the concept of Hari and Haran being one God. The temple of Sankaranarayana is situated on 4.5 acre ..... Distance (From Tenkasi): 42 Kms Trip Duration (From Tenkasi - Including Travel): 2-3 Hours .....

Karuppanadhi Dam

#9 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 27 km from Tenkasi, the Karuppanadhi Dam is an earthen dam located at Chokkampatti, in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the important dams in Tamilnadu, and among the top tourist places near Tenkasi . Located at the foothills of Western Ghats, the Karuppanadhi Dam was built across the Karuppanadhi River. The river Karuppanathi is a branch of Tamirabarani. It originates at an altitude of 5870 feet falls in the Krishnapuram village of Kadayanallur taluk, in Tamil Nadu. The dam construction was started in 1971 and was completed in the year of 1977. The dam is 34m in height above the lowest foundation, and the length of the dam is 899 m. The volume content of the dam is about 10 million cubics. It has two sluice gates. It provides water for irrigation to the region of Kadayanallur Taluk. The best time to visit the dam is during the monsoon season when the dam is full .....

Ayikudi Balasubramanya Temple

#10 of 17 Places to Visit in Tenkasi

At a distance of 1 km from Ayikudi Bus Stop, 7 km Tenkasi, 12 km from Courtallam and 60 km from Tirunelveli, Sri Ayikudi Balasubramanya Swamy Temple is a small temple situated in the village of Ayikudi on the banks of Hanuman River. It is believed that Lord Hanuman had stayed on the banks of the river during his journey to Lanka. This temple is dedicated to Murugan in the form of Balasubramanya Swamy, also popularly known here as Rama Subramanya Swamy. The main deity is a small idol with four hands. The three hands illustrate shaktivaram, vajram and abhaya mudra while the fourth hand holds a peacock and the lord sits on a lotus. The Travancore Royal family took up the temple management and the temple was renovated. The shrine also houses Vishnu, Shiva, Ambikai, and Ganesha and Aditya (Surya).

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Top 18 Tourist Places in Tenkasi

Tenkasi, the second largest town in the Thirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in the state. Located 56 kilometres from Tirunelveli, 100 kilometres from Kollam, 109 kilometres from Trivandrum, 132 kilometres from Kanyakumari, and 160 kilometres from Madurai, Tenkasi is famous for ancient temples and waterfalls. Amidst the Western Ghats, the town locates on the Kollam-Madhuari highway and attracts hundreds of tourists from different parts of the country. The prominent places to visit in Tenkasi include several temples, natural wonders, picturesque waterfalls, and the rich culture of Southern Tamil Nadu. Before heading to read about the best tourist places in Tenkasi, learn some facts about this South Indian district, which is historically, culturally, and naturally rich and splendid.  

Facts & History of Tenkasi

Tenkasi means Kasi (holy place of Hindus in India) of the South. Surrounded by the Western Ghats on three sides, Tenkasi is located at an average elevation of 143 metres (469 ft). Tenkasi was founded by the Pandyas, who ruled Southern Tamil Nadu for a long time. In fact, Tenkasi refers to the Kasi Viswanathar Temple in the town, which is known as the Kasi of the South. Once destroyed by lightning, the temple was renovated in the 1990s, and it was later painted in 2006. The Chittar river flows through the city. Now, continue reading to get a picture of the incredible places to visit in Tenkasi. 

Tourist Places in Tenkasi

Renowned as a popular tourist destination in South India, Tenkasi is most recognized for its temples and waterfalls. If you want to know the top tourist places in Tenkasi, then, this list will suffice for you. At Tenkasi, you can visit places of great historical and religious importance, and other naturally beautiful places such as waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, reserve areas, and more. 

• Kasi Viswanathar Temple

Kasi Viswanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is the major tourist attraction in Tenkasi. Construction of the temple in the 13th century was initiated by the Pandya King Parakrama Pandian. The temple is famous for its magnificent sculptural and massive tower, which is the second highest in Tamil Nadu. The temple has exquisite carvings to go through and is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams of Lord Shiva. The worship of Shiva here, along with his consort Ulagamman, is considered similar to worshipping Shiva in Varanasi. Built in Tamil Nadu-style architecture, the temple has granite walls, enclosing all its sanctums.  The temple has seven-tiered towers at the main entrance, a pillared hall, magnificent paintings of Kasi Viswanathar, and smaller shrines of Nataraja, Dakshinamurthy, Durga, Navagrahas and Arumugar in the precinct around the shrines of Kasi Viswanathar and Visalakshi. The temple is the gateway to the famous Courtallam waterfalls and Kerala.

• Coutrallam Waterfalls

Coutrallam/Kuttalam falls is one of the must-visit places in Tenkasi. Descending from the forest, herbs and pristine nature, the waterfalls are said to have medicinal values. The place Coutrallam boasts 5 different waterfalls such as Main Falls (Peraruvi), Small Falls (Citharuvi), Five Falls (Iyentharuvi), Tiger Falls (Puliyaruvi), Old Courtallam Falls (Palaiya Courtallam), Senbahadevi Falls (Senbakadavi), and Honey Falls (Theanaruvi), each of which are located within 1km radius. This popular tourist place in Tenkasi is frequented by monkeys, tigers, and different other species of animals. 

• Sundarapandiyapuram

Tenkasi is impossible without seeing Sundarapandiyapuram. A small village in the Tenkasi district, Sundarapandiyapuram is famous for its picturesque sunflower fields. The place has been featured in so many Tamil movies including Mani Ratnam’s super-hit film Roja. The place is visited by hundreds of people from across the state and Kerala. One of the oldest temples in Sundarapandiapuram town is Rukmani Sathyabama Sameda Sri Rajagopala Swamy temple, which is said to be around 4000 years old. 

• Papanasam Falls/Agasthiyar Falls

Papanasam falls, the flowing white saree from 12o metre height in sheer volume is a mesmerising view for tourists here. The name Papanasam falls imply the total dissolution of all your sins in the blessed water. As per the Hindu myth, Papanasam is connected to the wedding of Lord Siva and Goddess Parvathi. Sage Agasthya who came to watch the wedding could not view the event due to the heavy crowd, prayed to Shiva at this place to get him a view of the wedding. Pleased by the devotion of the sage, Lord Shiva along with Parvathi appeared before the sage and his wife, in their wedding attire.  Shiva made the location his abode and came to be called Papansanathar and the waterfalls nearby the place got the name, Agasthiyar Falls.

• Avaranap Pillaiyar Koil 

The Aavaranap Pillaiyar Koil Temple, maintained by the temple Devasthanam is one of the oldest Vinayakar temples in the country that attracts a lot of tourists every year. The deity in this temple is carved of a single rock and is considered to be a very powerful one. 

• Anniyan Para

Anniyan para viewpoint is another amazing place to visit in Tenkasi. The Anniyan Para rock got its name from the Tamil movie Anniyan, in which a famous song of this movie was shot here. The surrounding areas of Anniyan Para are farming fields and animals grazing meadows. 

• Sivasailam Temple

Sivasialam Temple, located 3 miles away from Alwarkurichi in Tenkasi, is an old Siva temple with some wonderful sculptures and inscriptions. Built by Pandiyas, Sivasailam is surrounded by Velli Malai (Silver Hill), the Western Ghats and Mulli Malai, which is situated near the Gadananathi River. The temple is vast, with many mandapams and sculptured pillars. The main gopuram has five stories and is adorned with numerous statues. The enormous Nandi statue is the temple’s distinctive feature. Vinayakar, Murugan, Dakshina Moorthy, Natarjar, and 63 Nyanmars are the other deities in this temple. In close proximity to the main sanctuary is a separate shrine dedicated to the goddess Parvati.

• Kappal Matha Church

Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal at Uvari village in Tenkasi, Kappal Matha Church is dedicated to Mother Mary. Constructed in 1974, the church is built in the shape of an aeroplane placed over a ship, hence its name, Kappal Matha Church. The crashing waves towards the church give an impression that the church is sailing on the sea.

• Ayyanar Sunai

The Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve was formed in 1988 by merging Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary and Mundanthurai Wildlife Sanctuary, both established in 1962. Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuary, the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, is one of the few national parks in South India. This protected area is home to many amazing wild species, including the tiger, Nilgiri Tahr, Lion-tailed Macaque, Flying Squirrel, Wild Boar, and others. If you are an adventure junkie, try trekking and safari also here. 

• Thirumalai Kovil

Thirumalai Kovil is a Murugan temple located at Panpoli, 14km from Tenkasi. Surrounded by the Western Ghats, the temple is situated at an altitude of 400 metres on a small hill, on the border of Kerala. The deity here is called Thirumalai Kumaraswamy or Thirumalai Murugan. In the temple, you can see the main deity Murugan with four hands in a standing posture. The temple comprises a Mukha mandapa, Maha mandapa, a three-tier gopura, an idol of Lord Ganesha at the entrance of the sanctum, etc. The existing architecture predates dates back to the 15th century, and it

Plan a one-day trip to Ayyanar Sunai, one of the main places to visit in Tenkasi. One of the holy rivers situated in Tamil Nadu, Ayyanar Sunai, with the presence of a temple -Arunchunai Kaatha Ayyanar Temple, on the river’s bank, is well-liked as a picnic spot and a place of devotion. The place is frequented by visitors throughout the year, due to the scenic beauty of the river gushing into a little creek (Sunai), its breathtaking atmosphere, and to see Lord Arunchunai Kaatha Ayyanar. Since there are no restaurants nearby, one should bring food, water, and snacks.

• Gundaru Dam

The Gundar Dam is just one of the many attractions in the city of Tirunelveli, which historically served as the seat of the powerful Pandya Kings.  A little waterfall close to this earthen dam is a great location for a picnic and family outing. Additionally, a park close to the dam that is abundant with lush trees and flowering plants is perfect for kids to play in. 

• Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary

Located about 16km away from Tenkasi town, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area under the control of Agasthiarmalai Biosphere Reserve. Established in 1984, this wildlife sanctuary is famous for its unique flora and fauna, biodiversity, and beauty. The name is the corruption of a rare tree Chengurinji, native to the forest. If you are planning a visit to Shendurney, enjoy the trekking trails through the evergreen forest, boating at the Parappar Dam Reservoir (built across the Shendurney river), and camping to enjoy the wilderness of the place. 

• Chithira Sabai Temple

When it comes to talking about the places you must visit in Tenkasi, Chithira Sabai Temple is one among them. Located in close proximity to the main falls of the Coutrallam, the Chithira Sabai Temple stands as an embodiment of true art forms with sculptures, murals, paintings and wooden figurines that Siva-Nataraja as Tandava Murti. The Sabai is constructed in a rectangular shape with a wooden entrance and a pyramidal style of roofing. The paintings in the Sabha are of different sizes and portray some very fascinating stories. A few of the murals in the hall depict Coutrallam’s history, the sacred union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, Lord Vishnu in a reclining position (Anantha Sayanam), episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. 

• Arulmigu Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple

Built in the 10th century AD, Sri Sankaranarayana Swamy Temple, located in Sankarankovil, Thirunelveli, stands as an architectural marvel. The deity of the temple is a united idol of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu as Sankaranarayanar, symbolising the unity of Saivism and Vaishnavism. The interesting part of the architecture is that the morning sunlight enters the sanctum of Lord Sankaralinga Swamy on the days of the equinox every year.

• Karuppanadhi dam

Located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, 27km from Tenkasi, the Karuppanadhi dam is one of the major places to visit in Tenkasi. This earthen dam, located at Chokkampatti in Thirunelveli, is built across the Karuppanadhi river, a branch of the Tamirabharani. Constructed in 1971, the dam is 34m in height and 899m in length. The best time to visit the dam is during the monsoon season when the dam is full and the gates are open. 

• Thirumalapuram Rock-Cut Cave Temples

The Thirumalapuram Rock-Cut Cave Temples, located on the hills of Thirumalapuram, have great historical importance. It comprises two rock-cut temples—one in the form of a Shivalinga and the other in an incomplete look. The temple also houses the idols of Vishnu, Nataraja, Ganesh, and Brahma. This ancient temple, which is now under the Archeological Survey of India, has evidence of people living here almost 10,000 years ago. The inscriptions and architectural features of the temple make it one of the top tourist places in Tenkasi

• Palaruvi Waterfalls

Your visit to Tenkasi won’t be complete without a trip to the nearby Palaruvi waterfalls. When you Google search for the major tourist places in Tenkasi, you can find that Palaruvi, which is about 28 km from Tenkasi, is listed as one of the must-visit places during your trip. Palaruvi, which literally translates to “Stream of Milk,” flows down from a height of about 300 feet. Cascading down through rocks, this beautiful waterfall is surrounded by natural herbs and a lush green valley. Located deep within the forest, this waterfall is at its best during the monsoon season.

So, the list of places to visit in Tenkasi, is now ready. Make plans to visit anytime between July to October, to enjoy the waterfall season, outdoor activities and sightseeing. Tenkasi requires a full day or two days to completely visit all the major attractions of the district. Don’t miss visiting the major tourist places in Tenkasi including Kutralam Falls, Kasi Viswanathar Temple, Thirumalai Kovil, Sundarapandiyapuram, Thirumalapuram Rock-Cut Cave Temples, Kalakkad Mundathurai Tiger Reserve, Palaruvi Waterfalls and Gundaru Dam.

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Nestled in the southern region of Tamil Nadu, Tenkasi is a captivating destination embraced by the majestic Western Ghats, boasting a plethora of natural beauty and scenic wonders that leave tourists worldwide entranced. Surrounded by lush landscapes, glistening waterfalls, and meandering rivers, the city's visual allure is simply breathtaking.

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Belonging to the newly formed Tenkasi district, which branched out from Tirunelveli, this region is nourished by the bountiful Chittar and Anumanadhi rivers, fostering flourishing agriculture. Often referred to as the "Kasi of the South" Tenkasi dates back to the 13th century. The Kasi Vishwanathar Temple stands as a testament to its ancient history, housing inscriptions from 1384, during the reign of Vira Pandiya. These inscriptions document generous donations made to Brahmanas for the recitation of Vedas and Puranas in the temple.

Tenkasi is renowned for its unique blend of cultural elements and serene landscapes. Among its notable attractions are the Courtallam waterfalls, where visitors seeking rejuvenation and Ayurvedic treatments can immerse themselves in the healing waters of the Chittar River, infused with medicinal plants. Adjacent to Courtallam lies the enchanting Kutraleeshawara Temple, famous for one of the five sabhas performed by Lord Nataraja. Tamil poet Thirikooda Rasappa Kavirayar immortalized the beauty of Courtallam in his poem "Kutrala Kuravanji."

Adding to the city's allure is the ancient Kasi Vishwanatha Temple, a masterpiece of architectural brilliance that stands for over 500 years. The temple's main deity, Lord Shiva as Kasi Vishwanatha, draws devotees from all corners of the world, especially during the grand annual festival "Aadi Pooram." Another spiritual gem is the Sankaranarayan Temple in Sankarankovil, where Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are revered as Lord Sankaranarayan during the popular 'Aadi Thabasu' festival.

Aside from its religious and natural wonders, Tenkasi boasts the Paapanaasam Dam and tempts taste buds with the mouthwatering local delicacy, Tenkasi parotta.

Undoubtedly, Tenkasi is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored, and offers an abundance of wonders to discover. One visit may not suffice to experience all the beauty and surprises this enchanting town holds. Regardless of how well-traveled one may be, Tenkasi will leave a lasting sense of wonder and an insatiable desire to uncover more of its magical treasures. Its invitation to witness its many gifts and immerse oneself in its captivating charm is an opportunity not to be missed.

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🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to March

⏰ Open Hours: Varies by attraction, most are open from early morning till evening

🏞 Things To Do: Visit the Kutralanathar Temple, enjoy waterfalls, explore the scenic beauty, try local cuisines

💰 Budget: Varies based on activities and attractions, estimated around INR 5000-7000 per day

👪 Traveller Types: Families, Solo travellers, Adventure enthusiasts, Religious devotees

🔍 Known For: Scenic beauty, waterfalls, temples, notably the 'Kasi of South', unique blend of Tamil Nadu and Kerala culture

📍 Distances: From Tirunelveli - 59km, Madurai Airport - 160km, Tenkasi Junction Railway Station - within the city

🍽 Local Cuisine: Famous for halwa, sweet porridge and other South Indian delicacies

🏛 Major Attractions: Kutralanathar Temple, Coutrallam Waterfall, Five Falls, Old Courtallam Waterfall

🏞 Natural Attractions: Thirumalai Kovil, Shenbagathoppu Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary

🛍 Shopping: Local markets for silk sarees, handicrafts and spices

Tenkasi: A Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats

Tenkasi is a small town in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu , located at the foothills of the Western Ghats. It is one of the most scenic and peaceful places in South India, with a pleasant climate throughout the year. Tenkasi is also known for its rich history, culture, and spirituality, as it is home to some of the most revered and beautiful attractions in the region. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a cultural exploration, or a spiritual journey, Tenkasi has something for everyone.

In this article, we will guide you through the best places to visit, things to do, how to reach, and when to visit Tenkasi. We will also share some tips and tricks on how to make the most of your trip, and some interesting facts and stories about Tenkasi that you may not know. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Tenkasi and discover its hidden gems.

Places to Visit in Tenkasi

Tenkasi is famous for its temples, which are not only architectural marvels, but also spiritual hubs. The most prominent and popular temple in Tenkasi is the Kasi Viswanathar Temple , dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple was built by the Pandya king Parakrama Pandian in the 13th century, and is known for its magnificent gopuram (tower), which is the second tallest in Tamil Nadu.

2. Waterfalls

Tenkasi is blessed with some of the most spectacular and refreshing waterfalls in the country, which are a treat for the eyes and the soul. The most famous and visited waterfall in Tenkasi is the Courtallam Falls , also known as the “Spa of South India”. This waterfall is located about 5 km from Tenkasi, and is formed by the Chittar River, which originates from the Western Ghats.

Tenkasi is not only a place of Hindu worship, but also a place of Muslim faith and devotion. The most famous and revered dargah in Tenkasi is the Ilayathangudi Dargah , which is located about 3 km from Tenkasi, on the banks of the Chittar River. This dargah is dedicated to the Sufi saint Syed Mohammed Ghouse, who is also known as Ilayathangudi Masthan Sahib.

Things to Do in Tenkasi

1. Trekking

Tenkasi is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers, as it offers some of the most thrilling and scenic trails in the Western Ghats. The most popular and adventurous trekking destination in Tenkasi is the Agasthiyar Malai , which is a mountain peak that is part of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve. The peak is named after the sage Agastya, who is considered to be the father of Tamil language and medicine. The peak is also a pilgrimage site for Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The trek to the peak is about 28 km long, and takes about two days to complete.

2. Shopping

Tenkasi is a great place to shop for some of the unique and traditional products of Tamil Nadu, such as sarees, handicrafts, spices, etc. The most famous and sought-after product in Tenkasi is the Tenkasi Pattu Saree , which is a silk saree that is handwoven by the local weavers.

Tenkasi is a heaven for foodies, as it offers some of the most delicious and diverse cuisines in Tamil Nadu, ranging from vegetarian to non-vegetarian, from spicy to sweet, from traditional to modern. The most famous and must-try cuisine in Tenkasi is the Tenkasi Halwa , which is a sweet dish made of wheat, ghee, sugar, and nuts.

How to Reach Tenkasi

Tenkasi is well-connected by road, rail, and air, and can be easily reached from various parts of the country. Here are some of the best ways to reach Tenkasi:

The nearest airport to Tenkasi is the Tuticorin Airport , which is located about 110 km from the town. The airport has regular flights from major cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, etc.

The nearest railway station to Tenkasi is the Tenkasi Junction Railway Station , which is located in the town itself. The station has regular trains from major cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mumbai, Delhi, etc. You can book your train tickets online or through a reservation counter, and check the availability and status of different trains. The train duration from Chennai to Tenkasi is about 10 hours, and the fare is around Rs. 500.

The nearest bus stand to Tenkasi is the Tenkasi Bus Stand, which is located in the town itself. The bus stand has regular buses from major cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Madurai, etc. You can book your bus tickets online or through a travel agent, and choose from different types of buses, such as AC, non-AC, sleeper, semi-sleeper, etc. The bus duration from Chennai to Tenkasi is about 12 hours, and the fare is around Rs. 800.

Best Time to Visit Tenkasi

Tenkasi can be visited throughout the year, as it has a pleasant and moderate climate, with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

Winter (December to February) is the best time to visit Tenkasi, as the weather is cool and dry, with an average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal time to enjoy the sightseeing, trekking, and shopping in Tenkasi, as the sky is clear and the air is fresh. This is also the best time to visit the waterfalls, as the water flow is moderate and the scenery is stunning.

Tenkasi is a hidden gem in the Western Ghats, that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and spirituality. It is a place where you can experience the best of Tamil Nadu, with its waterfalls, temples, dargah, sarees, handicrafts, spices, halwa, biryani, idli, dosa, parotta, pongal, and more. It is a place where you can relax, explore, and enjoy, with your family, friends, or partner. It is a place where you can create some unforgettable memories and stories, that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and head to Tenkasi, the hidden gem in the Western Ghats.

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"Kasi of the South"

Tenkasi tourism.

Tenkasi is the second largest town of the Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu on the Madurai - Kollam highway. Amidst the Western Ghats, River Chittar flows through this picturesque destination favoured amongst tourists. While this town is known for waterfalls and temples, it has been made famous for its Courtallam Falls and Kasi Viswanathar Temple.

Tenkasi is famous for its main temple which is believed to be built by a Pandyan King, King Arikeari Parakrama after Lord Viswanatha appeared in his dream and instructed him to do so. The temple architecture has several inscriptions and carvings of mythological figures.

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