Have you ever dreamed of escaping to a place where you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city? If yes, then Meghamalai is the perfect destination for you. Meghamalai, which means “cloudy mountains” in Tamil, is a small mountain village in the Western Ghats, located in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the least explored and most pristine places in India, with green hills, tea and coffee estates, waterfalls, and wildlife. It is also a place of rich history and culture, with ancient temples, plantations, and cuisine.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Meghamalai, and why you should visit this hidden paradise in the Western Ghats.
How to Reach Meghamalai
Meghamalai is not very well connected by public transport, so the best way to reach it is by your own vehicle or by hiring a taxi. You can reach Meghamalai from different cities in India by air, rail, or road, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the options:
By air: The nearest airport to Meghamalai is Madurai airport, which is about 130 km away. You can take a flight from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi to Madurai, and then hire a taxi or a cab to Meghamalai. The taxi fare may vary from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 4000, depending on the type of vehicle and the season. The journey may take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Meghamalai is Madurai railway station, which is about 120 km away. You can take a train from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, or Delhi to Madurai, and then hire a taxi or a cab to Meghamalai. The taxi fare may vary from Rs. 2500 to Rs. 4000, depending on the type of vehicle and the season. The journey may take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
By road: You can also drive to Meghamalai by road from nearby cities like Theni, Madurai, Dindigul, or Coimbatore. The road to Meghamalai is scenic and adventurous, but also narrow and steep, so you need to be careful and experienced. The distance and duration may vary depending on the route and the traffic, but here are some approximate estimates:
From Theni: 50 km, 1.5 hours
From Madurai: 120 km, 3.5 hours
From Dindigul: 150 km, 4 hours
From Coimbatore: 250 km, 6 hours
The Best Time to Visit Meghamalai
Meghamalai has a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year, with an average temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C. However, the best time to visit Meghamalai is from October to March, when the weather is cool and dry, and the waterfalls are full and flowing. This is also the peak season for tourism, so you can expect more crowd, higher prices, and lower availability of accommodation and transport. If you want to avoid the crowd and enjoy a more peaceful and budget-friendly trip, you can also visit Meghamalai from April to June, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the hills are covered with flowers and fruits. This is also a good time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds visit Meghamalai during this season. However, you should avoid visiting Meghamalai from July to September, when the weather is wet and humid, and the roads are slippery and risky, due to the heavy monsoon rains.
The Top Tourist Attractions in Meghamalai
Meghamalai is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities to suit every taste and interest. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Meghamalai that you should not miss:
Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary: This is the main attraction of Meghamalai, as it is home to a diverse and rich wildlife, including endangered and endemic species of birds, animals, and plants. You can spot hornbills, gaurs, elephants, leopards, tigers, bears, monkeys, deer, and many more, as well as orchids, sandalwood, and medicinal herbs. You can also enjoy trekking, camping, and safari in the sanctuary, but you need to get permission from the forest department in advance.
Meghamalai Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall that cascades from a height of about 190 feet, creating a misty and magical atmosphere. You can reach the falls by a short trek from the main road, and enjoy the refreshing and soothing sound and sight of the water. You can also take a dip in the pool at the base of the falls, but be careful of the slippery rocks and the strong current.
Suruli Falls: This is another stunning waterfall that drops from a height of about 150 feet, forming two tiers and a pool. You can reach the falls by a short walk from the parking area, and enjoy the scenic and serene surroundings. You can also visit the nearby Suruli Velappar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan, and is believed to be very ancient and powerful.
Vellamalai Murugan Temple: This is a sacred and popular temple that is situated on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the valley and the plantations. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and the god of war and wisdom. The temple is also known for its architecture, sculptures, and paintings, depicting the legends and stories of Lord Murugan. You can reach the temple by a steep and winding road, or by a flight of steps, and participate in the daily rituals and festivals.
Mangala Devi Temple: This is another ancient and revered temple that is located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, at an altitude of about 1337 meters. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Mangala Devi, the consort of Lord Shiva, and the goddess of auspiciousness and prosperity. The temple is surrounded by dense forests and hills, and is open only once a year, during the Chithra Pournami festival, when thousands of devotees flock to the temple to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Maharajamettu Viewpoint: This is a spectacular viewpoint that offers a breathtaking view of the Meghamalai hills, the Cumbum valley, and the Periyar river. You can reach the viewpoint by a narrow and steep road, and enjoy the sunrise and sunset, as well as the changing colors and moods of the sky and the landscape. You can also spot some wildlife and birds, such as peacocks, eagles, and vultures, from the viewpoint.
The Best Things to Do in Meghamalai
Meghamalai is not just a place to see, but also a place to do. There are many activities and experiences that you can enjoy in Meghamalai, depending on your mood and preference. Here are some of the best things to do in Meghamalai that will make your trip memorable and fun:
Camping: If you love adventure and nature, camping is the ideal activity for you. You can pitch your tent in the designated campsites in the wildlife sanctuary, or in the private estates or resorts, and spend the night under the stars, listening to the sounds of the forest. You can also light a bonfire, cook your own food, and share stories with your fellow campers. Camping is a great way to connect with nature and yourself, and to experience the beauty and tranquility of Meghamalai.
Off-roading: If you love thrill and challenge, off-roading is the perfect activity for you. You can rent a jeep or a bike, and drive through the rough and rugged terrain of Meghamalai, exploring the hidden and unexplored places. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the hills, valleys, and plantations, and spot some wildlife and birds along the way. Off-roading is a great way to test your skills and courage, and to experience the adventure and excitement of Meghamalai.
Trekking: If you love fitness and exploration, trekking is the best activity for you. You can choose from various trails and routes, ranging from easy to difficult, and hike through the dense and diverse forests of Meghamalai, discovering the flora and fauna, and the waterfalls and viewpoints. You can also interact with the local people and learn about their culture and lifestyle. Trekking is a great way to exercise your body and mind, and to experience the nature and culture of Meghamalai.
Birdwatching: If you love wildlife and photography, birdwatching is the ideal activity for you. You can spot and capture some of the most beautiful and rare birds in Meghamalai, such as hornbills, woodpeckers, flycatchers, parakeets, and many more. You can also learn about their habits and habitats, and their role in the ecosystem. Birdwatching is a great way to appreciate and conserve the biodiversity and ecology of Meghamalai.
Plantation tour: If you love history and agriculture, plantation tour is the perfect activity for you. You can visit some of the oldest and largest tea and coffee estates in Meghamalai, and learn about their history, production, and processing. You can also taste some of the finest and freshest tea and coffee, and buy some as souvenirs. Plantation tour is a great way to understand and support the economy and society of Meghamalai.
Temple visit: If you love spirituality and architecture, temple visit is the best activity for you. You can visit some of the ancient and sacred temples in Meghamalai, such as Vellamalai Murugan Temple and Mangala Devi Temple, and learn about their legends, stories, and rituals. You can also participate in the daily poojas and festivals, and seek the blessings of the gods and goddesses. Temple visit is a great way to experience the faith and devotion of Meghamalai.
The Flora and Fauna of Meghamalai
Meghamalai is not just a place of beauty and adventure, but also a place of life and diversity. It is home to a variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic and endangered, and some of which are common and abundant. Here are some of the flora and fauna of Meghamalai that you should know and admire:
Flora: Meghamalai has a rich and varied vegetation, ranging from evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, to grasslands and plantations. You can find many species of plants, such as orchids, sandalwood, medicinal herbs, spices, and fruits, that add color and fragrance to the landscape. Some of the notable plants in Meghamalai are:
Orchids: Meghamalai has more than 100 species of orchids, some of which are rare and endemic, such as the Meghamalai orchid, the Vanda spathulata, and the Eria meghamalayensis. Orchids are known for their beauty and diversity, and their role in pollination and medicine.
Sandalwood: Meghamalai has one of the largest sandalwood forests in India, covering an area of about 2000 hectares. Sandalwood is known for its fragrance and value, and its use in perfumes, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies.
Medicinal herbs: Meghamalai has many medicinal herbs, such as neem, turmeric, aloe vera, and tulsi, that have various health benefits and uses. These herbs are used by the local people and the tribals for treating various ailments and diseases, such as fever, cough, skin problems, and diabetes.
Fauna: Meghamalai has a diverse and rich wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. You can spot and observe many species of animals, such as hornbills, gaurs, elephants, leopards, tigers, bears, monkeys, deer, and many more, that live and thrive in the sanctuary. Some of the notable animals in Meghamalai are:
Hornbills: Meghamalai has four species of hornbills, namely the great hornbill, the Malabar pied hornbill, the Malabar grey hornbill, and the Indian grey hornbill. Hornbills are known for their large and curved bills, and their role in seed dispersal and forest regeneration.
Gaurs: Meghamalai has a large population of gaurs, which are the largest and heaviest wild cattle in the world. Gaurs are known for their muscular and hump-backed body, and their horns and hooves. Gaurs are herbivorous and social animals, that live in herds and graze on grasses and leaves.
Elephants: Meghamalai has a healthy population of elephants, which are the largest and most intelligent land mammals in the world. Elephants are known for their trunk and tusks, and their role in maintaining the ecosystem and the biodiversity. Elephants are herbivorous and social animals, that live in family groups and feed on grasses, fruits, and bark.
The Cuisine and Culture of Meghamalai
Meghamalai is not just a place of nature and adventure, but also a place of cuisine and culture. It is a place where you can taste and enjoy the delicious and authentic dishes and drinks of Tamil Nadu, and learn and appreciate the history and traditions of the local people and the tribals. Here are some of the cuisine and culture of Meghamalai that you should try and experience:
Cuisine: Meghamalai has a rich and varied cuisine, influenced by the geography, climate, and culture of the region. You can find many dishes and drinks that are made from rice, lentils, vegetables, spices, and fruits, that are flavorful and nutritious. Some of the dishes and drinks that you should not miss in Meghamalai are:
Idli: Idli is a soft and fluffy steamed cake, made from fermented rice and black gram batter. It is served with sambar, a spicy and tangy lentil soup, and chutney, a coconut-based dip. Idli is a popular breakfast and snack item, that is light and easy to digest.
Dosa: Dosa is a thin and crispy crepe, made from fermented rice and black gram batter. It is served with sambar, chutney, and various fillings, such as potato, onion, cheese, or meat. Dosa is a versatile and delicious dish, that can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Sambar: Sambar is a spicy and tangy lentil soup, made from pigeon peas, tamarind, and a variety of vegetables and spices. It is served with rice, idli, dosa, or vada, a fried doughnut made from black gram batter. Sambar is a staple and nutritious dish, that is rich in protein and fiber.
Chettinad chicken: Chettinad chicken is a fiery and flavorful chicken curry, made from chicken pieces, coconut, poppy seeds, and a blend of roasted spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, fennel, and star anise. It is served with rice, roti, a flatbread made from wheat flour, or appam, a soft and spongy pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk. Chettinad chicken is a signature dish of the Chettinad region, which is known for its spicy and aromatic cuisine.
Filter coffee: Filter coffee is a strong and aromatic coffee, made from finely ground coffee beans, brewed in a metal filter, and mixed with boiled milk and sugar. It is served in a tumbler and a dabara, a metal cup and saucer, and poured back and forth to create a froth. Filter coffee is a traditional and popular drink, that is enjoyed throughout the day.
Culture: Meghamalai has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by the history, religion, and lifestyle of the local people and the tribals. You can find many aspects of culture, such as festivals, arts, crafts, and music, that reflect the identity and heritage of the region. Some of the aspects of culture that you should not miss in Meghamalai are:
Festivals: Meghamalai celebrates many festivals throughout the year, that showcase the faith and joy of the people. Some of the major festivals are:
Pongal: Pongal is a harvest festival, celebrated in January, to thank the sun god and the nature for the abundance and prosperity. People cook and offer pongal, a sweet rice dish, to the sun, and decorate their houses and cattle with flowers and colors. People also exchange greetings and gifts, and enjoy various games and activities, such as bullfighting, kite flying, and dancing.
Chithra Pournami: Chithra Pournami is a full moon festival, celebrated in April or May, to worship the moon god and the goddess Mangala Devi. People visit the Mangala Devi Temple, which is open only on this day, and offer prayers and offerings to the goddess. People also take a holy dip in the Suruli Falls, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the hills and the valley.
Deepavali: Deepavali is a festival of lights, celebrated in October or November, to mark the victory of good over evil, and the return of Lord Rama from exile. People light lamps and candles, and burst crackers, to dispel the darkness and welcome the light. People also wear new clothes and jewelry, and share sweets and gifts, and wish each other happiness and prosperity.
Arts and crafts: Meghamalai has a rich and varied tradition of arts and crafts, that display the creativity and skill of the people. Some of the arts and crafts that you can admire and buy in Meghamalai are:
Pottery: Pottery is an ancient and popular art form, that involves shaping and baking clay into various objects, such as pots, vases, lamps, and figurines. You can find many pottery shops and workshops in Meghamalai, where you can see the potters at work, and buy some of their products, that are both functional and decorative.
Basketry: Basketry is a common and useful craft, that involves weaving and coiling natural materials, such as bamboo, cane, grass, and palm leaves, into various containers, such as baskets, mats, trays, and hats. You can find many basket makers and sellers in Meghamalai, where you can see the basketry process, and buy some of their products, that are both durable and attractive.
Painting: Painting is a modern and expressive art form, that involves applying colors and shapes to various surfaces, such as canvas, paper, wood, or metal, to create images and messages. You can find many painters and galleries in Meghamalai, where you can see the paintings of various themes and styles, such as landscapes, portraits, abstracts, or religious. You can also buy some of their paintings, that are both beautiful and meaningful.
Music: Music is a universal and soulful art form, that involves producing and listening to sounds and rhythms, using various instruments and vocals, to create melodies and emotions. You can find many musicians and performers in Meghamalai, where you can hear the music of various genres and forms, such as folk, classical, devotional, or modern. You can also enjoy some of the musical events and concerts, that are held in Meghamalai, such as the Meghamalai Music Festival, which is a celebration of music and culture.
Conclusion
Meghamalai is a hidden paradise in the Western Ghats, that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. It is a place where you can explore the stunning attractions, enjoy the exciting activities, and experience the rich culture and cuisine of Meghamalai. It is a place where you can relax and rejuvenate, and connect with nature and yourself. It is a place where you can create memories and stories, that will last a lifetime.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Meghamalai with Tripoto, and discover the beauty and charm of this amazing destination.
