Courtallam Waterfalls: As a spa lover that I am, I adore everything about it—the faint music, the fragrant oils and of course, the massage. Now imagine my amazement when I was told by my friend, “Forget booking a spa session; just head to the Spa of India.” The first thing that popped into my head was, “The Spa of India? Where’s this magical place?” Given that my friend did say it in a rather casual way made me think it was a multi-million dollar spa but told me with a smile, “Courtallam Waterfalls”
A delightful welcome at Courtallam
As we reached Tenkasi Junction, I was already filled with a certain level of anticipation and joy. The waterfall was just like I imagined it. I was welcomed by calm winds brushing my face as I sat by the window; the cab ride set the tone and my smooth architecture transition was complemented by the refreshing breeze and greenery around my surroundings. Most importantly, the ride itself was within the drivers expectations which significantly helped improve my overall enjoyment. What added to my anticipatory thrill was the winding roads and how the bushes and trees surrounded us.
On the way to Courtallam, I and my family were told a rather grand story about Lord Shiva creating the waterfalls of Courtallam. If this was not captivating enough, the region was believed to be blessed by the Shiva dance while Sage Agastya was meditating in the area. The name Melagaram, the small town courtallam is believed to be on the outskirts of, translates to the ‘place of the conch’ in Tamil, Kuruthalam. It is believed the water sound at the falls is very similar to a conch shell and has served as a geographical wonder for countless pilgrims and travelers.
Another storytelling explores the relationship between the falls and Sage Agastya, an important figure in Hinduism. He was known for helping spread Vedic teachings in South India. He is said to have meditated here and refers to himself as the medicinal waterfall. The secrets hidden in these waters are believed to be unique and his first discovery.
Even now, the myth of Courtallam Falls continues to attract pilgrims and seekers who are convinced that submerging oneself into its waters is the most powerful remedy for cleansing one’s soul and physically cleansing oneself. In the end, when we arrived in Courtallam, I was welcomed by its magical allure, a region that appeared to live in balance with both nature and fantasy – a place where every sip is a treat to the soul.
The Healing waters of Courtallam
Courtallam is an intersection that unites all the modern and the traditional beauty of the world which ultimately gives it a completely unmatched aesthetic value unlike anything else. Referred to as the “spa of India”, these waterfalls have an essence of innumerable all healing herbs blooming around in the woods. Therefore, it is said that the water flowing through these hills and mountains captures the healing properties from the plants surrounding them and transforms into a magical potion.
Local stories and modern wisdom both support the therapeutic properties of these falls. A few physicians even suggest dipping into some water falls for some skin issues and stress relief. As I stepped into flowing water for the very first time, it felt Like I was elevating to another realm. The chills of the water intertwined with the herbal fragrances blended perfectly making me feel like I was being cradled by mother nature.
The major waterfalls at Courtallam
During my free time, I reminisce the bustling atmosphere of coffee shops where I drink espresso while admiring the view. I never once thought chasing waterfalls would hold a candle to the beauty that is a city cafe. While I appreciated the majestic waterfalls in Karnataka during the monsoon, the thought of engaging myself in a waterfall city in Tamil Nadu was an alien concept. But Courtallam, often referred to as the ‘Spa of South India’, had a way of charming me into its beats. The moment I reached there, the rose infused wispy air felt like nature’s self-made potion that guarantees beauty and tranquility. I missed the espresso for once. And that is when I decided to go waterfall hopping instead of the usual cafe hopping.
1. Main Falls (Peraruvi) – Nature’s grand amphitheater
My trip began at the Main Falls. Each glance of the 300-foot waterfalls took my breath away. I felt like a tiny speck looking on in amazement, as if standing in a grandiose stadium – with nature itself as the artist. Everything felt alive, the vibrant greenery together with the herbal mist surrounding me engulfed me as time slowed down. Courtallam Waterfalls is fondly remembered because of the experience it provides and the main falls is an excellent reminder of that notion.
2. Small Falls (Chittaruvi): The gentle whisper of nature
Being a more gentle version of the peraruvi, The small falls was equally impressive yet more intimate. The centerpiece 60-foot cascade waterfall provided a tranquil pool perfect for families and children to safely enjoy. I sat on the edge with my feet in the cool water and closed my eyes, feeling nature wash over me in a calming rhythm – as if it was doing its utmost to help me forget my worries.
3. Shenbaga Falls (Chembakarai) – A Floral Sanctuary
On my way to the Shenbaga falls, I was engulfed but the shenbaga flowers, not quite blossoms, evoked a sacred feeling. Walking deeper into it, I was met with a breathtaking view of the falls with a height of 100 feet which gracefully fell into a pool. It felt like I stepped into a different universe where I was without my worries and felt completely tranquil.
4. Honey Falls (Thenaruvi) – An Overlooked Gem
Getting to Honey Falls was not easy and required a bit of trekking, but the view definitely made up for my efforts. The waterfall with a height of 200 feet was embraced by rocks with honeycombs scattered everywhere. The surroundings were filled with a delightful sweetness and the secretive vibe made me feel like I was in a hidden paradise. This was more than just an undiscovered waterfall, it was my gateway to the untouched beauty of Earth.
5. Five Falls, or Aintharuvi
Five Falls, or Aintharuvi, is further described as a symphony in streams. Five Falls was a little piece of heaven on Earth. While there I was horrified and captivated in the moment. It was fascinating how chaotic a single body of water could be split into while also maintaining such synchronicity. While I remained near the opening of the picnic area, I would try to admire and wish I could wrap the stunning scenery into a jar and carry it back home.
6. Tiger Falls (Puli Aruvi) – The roar of nature
Puli Aruvi, or inches away from ‘The roar of nature’, describes Tiger Falls as the most different among the other locations because of its roaring beauty. Tiger Falls was the most navy and energetic waterfall I had the chance to see with my eyes. Its thunderous noise, accompanied with the gushing of flowing water, made me feel tranquil and relaxed. Watching and admiring the gorge, which is nearly 300 feet with water gushing with immense speed, was terrifying. While I knew the water will not reach me, I could feel the adrenaline rush while standing at the so called safe distance.
7. Old Courtallam Falls (Pazhaya Courtallam) – A Retreat of Sanctity:
More ancient than the rest, Old Courtallam Falls possessed an ethereal charm. The gentle trickle of water from the falls blended with the ambience created by the nearby Tirukuttralanathar Swamy Temple, where I could immerse myself in a world of relaxation and spiritualness. Sitting next to the shallow pool, surrounded by sheer cliffs and timelessness, deep within my heart I felt an utmost connection to Old Courtallam. I felt as if the waterfall was trying to put me at ease while carrying whispers of history, inviting me to pause and reflect.
8. New Courtallam Falls (Puthu Courtallam) – Integration of Modernism and Nature:
New Courtallam Falls showcased a perfect blend of picturesque beauty and accessibility like never before. Sitting at 150 foot above sea level, the Waterfall was a popular destination for supremely accessible plunges, effortlessly combining the modernized world with the timeless charm of Courtallam and its dramatic waterfalls.
9. Fruit Garden Falls (Pazhathotta Aruvi) – The hidden gem
This waterfall, Fruit Garden Falls, was the last waterfall on my trip and in my opinion the most satisfying one. This waterfall is located close to a government owned fruit garden and it looked unbelievably beautiful. The waterfall can be accessed by a place filled with fruit trees and the fragrance in the air was revitalizing. The peace that this spot offers is exceptional and it felt as if i was relaxing on another planet. It was a perfect way to reward myself for trying something new and different.
Ritual of bathing at Aindharuvi
We set out to bathe at Five Falls (Aindharuvi) and observed that men and women were provided distinct self-contained bathing spaces and facilities amidst all the commotion. This place was a blend of serenity and activity. Also, women thronged us with hair washing powder sachets, herbal oil vials, and a lot more, and oh how can I forget, they were even tendering to give head massages. Who can say no to a good rub for 10 bucks!
Police escorts were on the prowl making sure everything was intact and orderly while vendors provided the additional cordiality. The large metal sign in Tamil, ‘Beware of Women Thieves’ gave off a more contemporary vibe, that added a dash of peculiarity to this place as well. It is hard to steer clear of the notion that even with so much tradition and culture, the world moves on with so much oddness surrounding it.
The Falls of Water Therapeutic Sessions
When my companion stood right under the source of the waterfall, he filled us with a joyful cry of pure ecstasy that our eyes spoke in a language that he had wonderfully portrayed — shock mixed with bliss. The powerful force of the water was simultaneously punishing and mesmerizing. With every pound of water that crashed over him, it felt as though a massage was being infused over him with the sole purpose of watching him relax and let go of every bit of stress he was holding on to. Each drop of water seemed to be dipped into the essence of medicinal herbs. In just a few moments, my body and mind felt at complete ease. We were all unwilling to come out of this magical cocoon due to the water lullaby effect.
A meal to style after a warm soak
The hawkers were the first ones to greet us with hot trekkers of fresh coffee, crispy green chili infused milaga bajjis, and the ghee softened Tirunelvi halwa. After putting a towel around myself, I was still overflowing with the scent of herbs from the warm bath and feeling ready to binge.
Food was a lot to us than mere sustenance. For us, those poorly formulated and shaped milaga bajjis infused with goodness embodied everything that Courtallum stood for. With every bit of food that we placed in our mouths, we were loaded with the powerful monsoon taste of the region that was enough for us to sink our heads back into the reality.
Beyond the Courtallam waterfalls – Activities and attractions nearby
The Courtallam region was astonishing alongside the waterfalls and the fresh air of the mountainous region which was as I had imagined. While this was a given, the region incredibly surprised by revealing the extent of activities that were available to explore. Moreover, finding hidden gems. Each destination felt like an extension of charm that allowed for more culture and natural beauty. Here are some of the must visit attractions which you can explore:
Kasi Viswanathar Temple / Ulagamman Temple
Kasi Viswanathar Temple is a well known temple of Lord Shiva that is located not only close to the bus station of Tenkasi but also to Courtallam and Tirunelveli by a few kilometers. It can be considered as one of the temples that every person should try visiting at least once along with being a popular pilgrim place close to Madurai. (Check the effective travel guide to madurai to get the knowledge about places to visit at madurai.)
Papanasam Temple near Tirunelveli
Famous for the temple of Lord Shiva, the serene town of Papanasam is located close to Ambasamudram and Tirunelveli. The blend of nature and the temple makes it an iconic town to visit.
Apart from being a sacred pilgrimage destination, this area is known for its favorite picnic spots in the Tirunelveli area.
Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve
Located at a distance of 12 km from Papanasam and 60 km from Tirunelveli, this tiger reserve forms a component of the Southern Western Ghats and is the second-largest wildlife sanctuary in the state of Tamil Nadu. Ideal for those interested in flora and fauna, it conveniently fits in with your objectives of venturing into more of the biodiversity that Tamil Nadu has to offer.
Sivasailam Temple Near Tirunelveli
This 500-year-old Saivaite temple lies on the southern bank of Gadana River, roughly 12 km from Papanasam and 47 km from Tirunelveli. Sivasailam Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a serene spot, rich in history and traditional significance.
Thirumalapuram Rock Cut Cave Temples
These ancient rock-cut cave temples are situated on Varanasimalai Hill, about 1 km away from Thirumalapuram Bus Stop and approximately 24 km from Tenkasi. They are a jewel of heritage in Tamilnadu and under the supervision of Archaeological Survey of India, which makes them all the more attractive to visitors with an interest in history and culture.
Ayikudi Balasubramanya Temple
This little, yet important temple is in Ayikudi village 7 km from Tenkasi and 12 dou kms from Courtallam Water Falls. This temple rests on the banks of the Hanuman river and the myth surrounding it is that Lord Hanuman rested here during his visit to Lanka. While its waterfalls draw the greatest attention, Courtallam is also rich in history, culture, and other natural assets which makes it a great place to visit.
Saral Vizha – Celebration of Monsoons at Courtallam
One of the most awaited events in Courtallam is the Saral Vizha, a weeklong festival depicting and celebrating the rainy season and the rejuvenating nature of the Courtallam Waterfalls. This festival is an initiative of the Tirunelveli district administration and enjoys massive participation due to its exquisite display of natural splendor, cultural activities, and tourism. It is at once beautiful and captivating!
Saral Vizha celebrates the region’s connection with nature and is held during the monsoon season, typically starting in late June or July. When the southwestern monsoon rains pour onto the western ghats, the waterfalls come alive and so does the festival. This celebration boasts an interesting assortment of activities such as:
- Swimming Competitions: Participants of all ages are invited to showcase their skills at these annual contests held at the Courtallam swimming pool.
- Mini-Marathon and Yoga Competitions: These activities promote fitness amongst both locals and tourists, encouraging them to participate in healthy recreation.
- Archery Contests: These contests give a glimpse into traditional sports and skills and provide a unique addition to the festivities.
- Boat Races: These races are organized at the Courtallam Boat Club amd are more exciting than the other competitions, as participants get to see the breathtaking waterfall while competing.
The district administration considers this festival as an opportunity for tourism and for alerting the public regarding the importance of conserving the natural beauty. Even if the festival has monsoon as its locus, which has been subject to uncertainties for the past few years, the essence of Saral Vizha stays unchanged. It is during this period when joy and activity is at their peak in Courtallam, so much so that all who visit during the season simply have to partake in it.
A trip to Courtallam is an ideal getaway
For me, the trip to Courtallam has been nothing short of a fairy tale. From the blaring, therapeutic waterfalls that seemed to cover all the stress in my body to the vivid feeling of the Saral Vizha festival, everything here has felt like therapy. Courtallam is breathtaking. It is a hidden utopia, a perfect blend of Nature, rich history, and Spirituality.
What makes this place even more peculiar is how easy it is to breach the surroundings to sight-see. Each single location has a different tale and beauty to offer. From the massive cascading waterfalls to ancient splendid temples and to the festivities, Courtallam is bound to be an experience that is equal parts enriching and calming.
So, get your bags and don’t think about anything else, because Courtallam is going to help you unwind your mind, body, and soul. You will remember this trip forever.