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Claim Your Website NowKalikesam Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in the Western Ghats
Kalikesam Waterfall is one of the lesser-known but incredibly beautiful waterfalls located deep within the dense forests of the Western Ghats, near Nagercoil in Tamil Nadu. Known for its serene environment, lush greenery, and untouched natural beauty, the waterfall is a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. The area around the waterfall is also home to the ancient Kalikesam Temple, making it a spot of religious significance as well.
Summarized information on Kalikesam Waterfall:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kalikesam Waterfall, Western Ghats, near Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu |
| Best Time to Visit | July to December (Monsoon and Post-Monsoon season) |
| How to Reach | – By Train: Nearest station is Nagercoil (45 km). Train cost: ₹100-₹200 – By Bus: Buses from Nagercoil/Thuckalay. Cost: ₹50-₹100 – By Own Vehicle: 45 km from Nagercoil (1.5 hours drive). Parking available |
| Place Famous For | Untouched natural beauty, Kalikesam Temple, bird watching, peaceful trekking |
| What to Do | Trekking to the waterfall, visit Kalikesam Temple, bird watching, photography, picnicking |
| Nearby Places to Visit | Thirparappu Waterfalls (25 km), Padmanabhapuram Palace (30 km), Mathur Aqueduct (35 km) |
| Review & Rating | Known for its tranquility and serene atmosphere. Ideal for nature lovers. Rating: 4.6/5 |
| SIM Cards and Connectivity | Airtel, Jio, BSNL have decent coverage. Wi-Fi is unavailable, mobile internet speeds can be slow in the forest |
| Nearest Petrol Pump | Available in Thuckalay, around 20-25 km from the waterfall |
| Things to Carry | Water, snacks, sunscreen, trekking shoes, insect repellent, camera, binoculars |
| Nearest Hospital | Government Hospital, Thuckalay |
| Police Station | Thuckalay Police Station |
| Accommodation & Food | Lodging available in Nagercoil or Thuckalay (budget and mid-range hotels). Carry snacks as no food stalls near the waterfall |
| Recommendations | Best time to visit is during the monsoon or post-monsoon season (July to December). Ideal for nature walks, bird watching, and photography enthusiasts. |
| Genuine Experience | Described as a hidden gem with peaceful surroundings and an easy scenic trek. Lack of commercialization adds to its charm. Visitors should carry essentials. |
Best Time to Visit
- Best Time: The best time to visit Kalikesam Waterfall is during the monsoon and post-monsoon season (from July to December). During this period, the waterfall is in full flow, and the surrounding forest is lush green, offering visitors an enchanting experience.
- Winter Season (December to February): The weather is cool and pleasant, making it a great time to visit. However, the waterfall’s flow might be lower than during the monsoon.
How to Reach Kalikesam Waterfall
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Nagercoil Junction, about 45 km from Kalikesam.
- Train Cost: A train ride from Trivandrum to Nagercoil would cost approximately ₹100-₹200, depending on the class.
- From the Station: You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Nagercoil Junction to the waterfall. The fare will be around ₹500-₹700 by taxi.
By Bus:
- Nearest Bus Station: Regular state transport buses are available from Nagercoil and Trivandrum to Thuckalay, the nearest town to Kalikesam Waterfall. From Thuckalay, you can hire local transport.
- Bus Cost: Bus fare from Nagercoil to Thuckalay is around ₹50-₹100.
By Own Vehicle:
- Route from Nagercoil: The waterfall is located around 45 km from Nagercoil. You can take the NH44 highway and then follow local roads toward Kalikesam. The drive takes around 1.5 hours.
- Parking: There is limited parking near the entrance to the trail that leads to the waterfall.
Place Famous For
Kalikesam Waterfall is famous for:
- Untouched Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the dense Western Ghats forest, the waterfall is one of the most pristine and untouched spots in Tamil Nadu.
- Kalikesam Temple: Located nearby, this ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali adds a spiritual touch to the location.
- Bird Watching & Wildlife: The area around the waterfall is home to a variety of bird species and wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Location and Address
- Location: Kalikesam Waterfall, Western Ghats, near Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu.
- Distance from Nagercoil: Approximately 45 km.
What to Do After Reaching Kalikesam Waterfall
- Trek to the Waterfall: Once you park your vehicle, there’s a short trek through the forest that takes you to the waterfall. The walk is peaceful, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
- Visit Kalikesam Temple: After enjoying the waterfall, you can visit the nearby Kalikesam Temple, which is nestled in the forest.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the forest and the waterfall. The serene environment is perfect for nature photography.
- Bird Watching: The area is home to various bird species, so carry your binoculars if you’re a bird-watching enthusiast.
- Picnicking: The calm surroundings make it an ideal place for a family picnic. Remember to carry your own food and water as there are no eateries nearby.
Nearby Places to Visit
- Thirparappu Waterfalls: Located around 25 km from Kalikesam, another scenic waterfall that’s popular among tourists.
- Padmanabhapuram Palace: This ancient palace is located around 30 km away and is a significant historical attraction.
- Mathur Aqueduct: A beautiful architectural marvel, located about 35 km from Kalikesam.
Review & Rating
Visitors to Kalikesam Waterfall often describe the place as a hidden gem, offering a serene and undisturbed natural environment. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking peace and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The short trek to the waterfall is enjoyable, and the surrounding greenery adds to the overall experience. The waterfall is particularly impressive during the monsoon season.
Rating: 4.6/5
Recommendations
- Best Time to Visit: July to December for the fullest waterfall flow and the best weather.
- Things to Carry: Water, snacks, sunscreen, trekking shoes, insect repellent, camera, binoculars.
- SIM Cards and Connectivity: Airtel, Jio, and BSNL have decent coverage around the waterfall area. Wi-Fi is unavailable, and mobile internet speeds can be slow in the forest.
- Nearest Petrol Pump: Available in Thuckalay, around 20-25 km from the waterfall.
- Nearest Hospital: The closest hospital is located in Thuckalay, which is around 20 km from the waterfall.
- Police Station: The nearest police station is in Thuckalay.
Accommodation and Food
There are no hotels or lodges directly near the waterfall, but you can find accommodations in Nagercoil or Thuckalay. These towns offer a variety of hotels, from budget to mid-range options.
- Hotels & Lodges: You can find budget hotels and guesthouses in Nagercoil. Some of the popular options include Hotel Parvathi International and Hotel Udupi International.
- Food Options: There are no food stalls near the waterfall, so it’s essential to carry your own snacks and water. You can find local restaurants in Thuckalay offering simple South Indian meals.
Genuine Experience
Travelers who visit Kalikesam Waterfall often speak highly of its untouched beauty and tranquility. Unlike many other waterfalls in Tamil Nadu, Kalikesam remains relatively undiscovered, giving visitors the feeling of being in a secluded natural paradise. The trek to the waterfall is easy and scenic, and the lack of commercialization around the area only adds to its charm. However, visitors recommend carrying all essentials, including food and water, as facilities are minimal in the area.
Conclusion
Kalikesam Waterfall is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the untouched beauty of the Western Ghats. Its serene surroundings, combined with the peaceful sound of cascading water, offer a sense of relaxation that’s hard to find in more commercialized tourist spots. Whether you’re a nature lover, trekker, or just someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Kalikesam Waterfall is an excellent choice. Just remember to visit during the monsoon or post-monsoon season to experience the waterfall in its full glory.
Image Gallery of Kalikesam Waterfall
