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Theni Districts

Theni Districts

About:

Theni is one of the southwestern districts of Tamil Nadu state, bordered by Dindigul district to the north, Madurai district to the east, Virudhunagar and Idukki (Kerala) districts to the south, and Idukki district (Kerala) to the west. The administrative headquarters is located in Theni Allinagaram town. Spanning an area of 2,889 square kilometers, Theni has a population of approximately 1,049,300.

Known for its pleasant and cool climate, Theni is a popular tourist destination in South India, surrounded by the lush Western Ghats. The favorable climate supports the cultivation of crops like coffee, cardamom, and silk cotton, giving the region a green and scenic appearance. Theni is also well connected by rail to the temple city of Madurai, making it accessible to visitors.

Theni boasts numerous tourist attractions, including dams, waterfalls, and pilgrimage sites. Andipatti, one of the district’s taluk headquarters, is known for the Vaigai Dam, a popular picnic spot featuring a beautifully landscaped garden and children’s park. The Vellappar Temple, located on Varushanad Hill about 20 km from Andipatti, is a sacred site that attracts pilgrims. Another notable temple is the Kamatchi Amman Temple in Devadanapatti, located along the banks of the Manjal River, just 3 km from Theni. The temple’s Masi Maham festival is a significant event celebrated by devotees.

The district’s economy is primarily agricultural, with Theni serving as a major production center for cotton, chili, and textiles. Other important towns in the district include Bodinayakanur, Cumbum, Chinnamanur, and several smaller villages, each contributing to the district’s agricultural and cultural heritage.

Cotton Spinning Mills and Sugar Mills are the major industries in this District. In Andipatti Taluk Handloom weaving and power looms are flourishing. In Uthamapalayam Taluk, the Highwavis Estate produces an important amount of Tea. Bodinayakanur is a major market place for cardamom, coffee, tea and black pepper. This city is also called "Cardamom City" because of the large quantity of cardamom trade in this area. It has an auction centre for cardamom

Location Info:
  • State: Tamil Nadu
  • District Headquarters: Theni Allinagaram
  • Geographical Boundaries: Bordered by Dindigul district to the north, Madurai district to the east, Virudhunagar district to the south, and Idukki district (Kerala) to the west
  • Area: 2,889 square kilometers
  • Nearest Major City: Madurai, approximately 76 km away
  • Railway Connectivity: Theni is connected to Madurai via railway, with trains offering easy access to and from the temple city
  • Climate: Mild and cool throughout the year, with the Western Ghats contributing to the lush greenery and agricultural suitability

Climate/Weather:

Theni district experiences a mild and pleasant climate, largely due to its location near the Western Ghats. The weather is generally comfortable throughout the year, with distinct seasonal variations:

  • Winter (November - February): Cool and dry, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). This is the ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Summer (March - May): Warm and moderately humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Even in summer, Theni’s proximity to the Western Ghats helps keep temperatures relatively cooler than other regions.
  • Monsoon (June - September): The district receives moderate to heavy rainfall, with temperatures around 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). The Western Ghats bring ample rain, supporting agriculture and adding lush greenery to the landscape.
  • Post-Monsoon (October): Temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F) as the rain subsides. This transitional period offers a refreshed, green landscape, making it another pleasant time for visits.

History:

Theni District, established in 1996, has a rich history rooted in agriculture and trade, closely linked to the Western Ghats and the fertile plains it supports. Historically, the area was part of the Pandya and later the Madurai Nayak kingdoms, with these dynasties fostering agriculture, trade, and the development of temples and cultural sites.

The region was known for its agrarian economy, producing crops like cardamom, coffee, and cotton, and its favorable climate allowed it to become an agricultural hub. Over the centuries, the district has grown around its agricultural industry, with trade routes connecting it to Madurai and other regions of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

During British colonial rule, Theni gained prominence as a trade center for crops such as chili, cotton, and textiles. The construction of Vaigai Dam in the 20th century helped improve irrigation in the district, further strengthening its agricultural base.

Today, Theni is celebrated for its scenic beauty, cool climate, and proximity to significant landmarks like the Western Ghats. It is known for its vibrant marketplaces, traditional festivals, and temples that continue to draw visitors and pilgrims alike, preserving its historical and cultural heritage.

Educational Institutions:

Theni District is home to several educational institutions that offer quality education across various fields, from primary and secondary education to higher studies and professional courses:

  • Theni Government Medical College: Located in Theni Allinagaram, this college offers medical and healthcare-related courses, serving as a prominent institution for medical education in the district.
  • College of Engineering, Theni: Affiliated with Anna University, this engineering college provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering and technology, attracting students from across Tamil Nadu.
  • Mary Matha College of Arts & Science: This private arts and science college in Periyakulam offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, and commerce, focusing on holistic education.
  • Government Polytechnic College, Theni: Located in Theni, this polytechnic institution offers diploma courses in engineering and technical fields, providing students with practical skills for various industries.
  • Horticultural College and Research Institute, Periyakulam: Part of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), this college specializes in agricultural and horticultural studies, supporting Theni’s agrarian economy through research and development.
  • Jayaraj Annapackiam College for Women, Periyakulam: An autonomous college affiliated with Madurai Kamaraj University, this institution offers various degree programs, empowering women in education and skill development.
  • Theni Kammavar Sangam College of Technology: A private engineering college offering undergraduate programs in engineering, technology, and management studies.

Theni District’s educational institutions cater to a wide range of academic and professional interests, contributing to the district’s development and providing valuable opportunities for students.

Language:

The primary language spoken in Theni District is Tamil, which is also the official language of Tamil Nadu. Tamil is widely used in government, education, and day-to-day communication. The local dialect of Tamil in Theni has unique regional influences, reflecting the cultural richness of the district.

In addition to Tamil, English is commonly understood and used, especially in educational institutions, government offices, and businesses, making it easier for non-Tamil speakers to navigate the district.

Other languages, such as Telugu and Malayalam, are also spoken by small communities in Theni due to its proximity to Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, adding to the linguistic diversity of the area.

Culture:
  • Festivals: The district celebrates major Tamil festivals with enthusiasm, including Pongal, the harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God, which holds special significance for the farming communities. Masi Maham, celebrated at the Kamatchi Amman Temple in Devadanapatti, attracts many pilgrims. Other popular festivals include Diwali, Navaratri, and local temple festivals, each marked with vibrant rituals, music, and traditional performances.
  • Traditional Art Forms: Folk dances like Karagattam, Oyilattam, and Poikkal Kuthirai (dummy horse dance) are integral to Theni’s cultural celebrations, often performed during festivals and temple events. Traditional music, especially folk songs, is also a vital part of Theni’s cultural identity.
  • Handicrafts: The region is known for its skill in weaving and handloom textiles, particularly cotton textiles that reflect the district’s agricultural base. Local artisans also produce traditional jewelry and other handicrafts, which are popular among locals and tourists alike.
  • Food: Theni’s cuisine is an essential aspect of its culture, featuring traditional Tamil dishes like sambar, rasam, idli, dosa, and a variety of rice-based dishes. Local specialties include dishes made from ingredients like millet, cardamom, and coffee, reflecting the district’s agricultural produce. Spices grown locally add a unique flavor to the cuisine.
  • Pilgrimage Sites: The district is home to many ancient temples, such as the Kamatchi Amman Temple in Devadanapatti and the Vellappar Temple in Varushanad Hills. These temples are not only significant religious sites but also serve as cultural centers where traditional beliefs and customs are upheld.

The culture of Theni is a beautiful blend of traditional Tamil heritage and influences from neighboring Kerala, with people cherishing their customs, festivals, and art forms that have been passed down through generations.

How to Reach:

Theni District is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible for travelers from various parts of Tamil Nadu and beyond:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, located approximately 80 km (50 miles) from Theni. Madurai Airport is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. From Madurai, visitors can reach Theni by road in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • By Train: Theni has its own railway station, Theni Railway Station, with limited connectivity. The nearest major railway station is Madurai Junction, about 76 km away, which has regular trains to Chennai, Coimbatore, and other major cities. From Madurai, buses and taxis are readily available to reach Theni.
  • By Road: Theni is well-connected by a network of highways. Regular buses operate from Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, and other major cities in Tamil Nadu. State-run and private buses offer comfortable travel options to Theni. Visitors can also drive to Theni, enjoying scenic views along the way, especially if traveling from nearby cities.

Once in Theni, local transportation options such as buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis are available for convenient travel within the district to reach various tourist spots and towns.

Tourist Attractions:

Theni District is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and pilgrims, offering a variety of scenic, cultural, and spiritual attractions:

  • Vaigai Dam: Located near Andipatti, the Vaigai Dam is a popular spot for picnics and leisure activities. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, a children’s park, and scenic views of the dam, especially beautiful during sunset.
  • Meghamalai (High Wavy Mountains): Known as the “High Wavy Mountains,” this picturesque hill station is covered in lush tea plantations, cardamom estates, and forests. The cool climate, breathtaking viewpoints, and waterfalls make it a perfect escape for nature lovers.
  • Suruli Falls: Situated near Cumbum, Suruli Falls is a two-stage waterfall surrounded by dense forests. The falls are known for their medicinal properties, attracting visitors for a refreshing experience. There’s also a cave nearby with ancient rock carvings.
  • Kumbakarai Falls: Located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, Kumbakarai Falls is a serene and secluded waterfall, ideal for picnics and nature walks. The cool, clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.
  • Vellappar Temple, Varushanad Hills: Perched on the Varushanad Hills, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vellappar is a revered pilgrimage site. The trek to the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Bodinayakanur: Known as the “Cardamom Capital of India,” this scenic town is surrounded by lush green mountains, tea estates, and spice plantations. It’s an excellent spot for exploring the local produce and experiencing the serene beauty of the Western Ghats.
  • Chinna Suruli (Cloudland) Waterfalls: Located near the town of Bodinayakanur, this hidden waterfall is surrounded by mist-covered hills, offering an enchanting view, especially during the monsoon season.
  • Sothuparai Dam: This large dam near Periyakulam is surrounded by scenic hills and is a great location for peaceful picnics and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kamatchi Amman Temple, Devadanapatti: A highly revered temple situated on the banks of the Manjal River, the Kamatchi Amman Temple is known for its unique architecture and vibrant festivals, especially the Masi Maham festival.

Theni’s tourist attractions provide a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and religious significance, making it a wonderful destination for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and spiritual exploration.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
  • ABM Grande: Located in Theni Allinagaram, ABM Grande provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, including a restaurant, conference facilities, and easy access to local attractions.
  • Hotel Western Gatz: A popular mid-range hotel in Theni with well-furnished rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a spa, ideal for tourists looking for a comfortable stay with good amenities.
  • Green Royale Resorts, Bodinayakanur: Surrounded by lush greenery, this resort is perfect for nature lovers. It offers scenic views, cozy cottages, and an in-house restaurant, providing a tranquil retreat close to the hills.
  • Hotel Theni International: Located near the heart of Theni town, this hotel offers budget-friendly rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to Theni’s tourist spots, making it convenient for short stays.
  • SVB Lodge: A simple yet comfortable lodge in Cumbum, offering clean rooms and basic amenities at affordable rates, ideal for travelers on a budget.
  • Cloud Mountain Bungalow, Meghamalai: A scenic bungalow in Meghamalai, offering a unique stay experience amidst tea plantations and lush greenery, perfect for travelers seeking a serene, rustic retreat.
  • Farm Resorts, Cumbum Valley: These farm-based accommodations provide guests with an immersive experience in nature, with farm activities, fresh produce, and scenic views, great for family getaways.
  • Sai Residency: A budget-friendly hotel in Periyakulam, offering basic facilities, clean rooms, and easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Leisure Inn, Theni: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a quiet ambiance, providing a convenient base for exploring the district.

With a variety of accommodation options, Theni District ensures that travelers of all budgets can find a comfortable place to stay while exploring the district’s scenic beauty and attractions.

Helpful Links:

These links provide a range of resources for planning a trip to Theni, covering accommodation, transportation, and tourist information.

Theni Districts
Andipatti:
Theni is the district headquarters. It is a business centre for cotton, chilli, textiles, etc. It is connected by Rail and Road to Madurai. The nearest Airport is Madurai. Good network of Road links all destinations within the District, State and Country.Andipatti is a taluk headquarter, comprising a number of villages including small hamlets in the ghat section of Varushanad hill ranges. Handlooms, textiles are popular here.......................................................more
Vaigai Dam:
Built across the majestic River Vaigai near Andipatti, the dam with a height of 111 feet can store 71 feet of water. It is 7 kms from Andipatti, 14 kms from Theni and 70 kms from Madurai. This dam was opened on January 21, 1959.The dam is unique for the sylvan garden around it. The stillness and quiet are soothing to the mind. The garden deserves the surname "Little Brindavan". It is a popular picnic spot for the local population, particularly school children. There is a separate play area for the Tourist.........................................................more
Mavoothu:
The main attraction in Mavoothu is the Vellappar Temple. This holy shrine is situated in the Varushanad hill ranges, 20 kms from Andipatti. Nestling among the hills, the temple is atop a peak, surrounded by natural vegetation. Transport is available up to the foothills only. Rainwater gathers around the mango trees near this temple and flows downhill in torrents. This has given the place the name "mavoothu" which in Tamil stands for "spring of the mango grove". This place has a perennial water source...........................................................more
Vellappar Temple Legend:
The main vigraha (idol) of this temple was discovered by the local tribes called "Paliyars" while the temple was constructed by the then Kandamanur Zamindar. The temple has shrines of Vinayaka and Saptakannikas..................................................more
Curative Powers:
It is believed that a ritual bath in the spring and eating food cooked in the water will cure the incurable of diseases.........more
Devadanapatti:
The main shrine in Devadanapatti is Kamatchi Amman Temple. It is situated on the banks of the Manjal river. This temple is 3 kms from Devadanapatti in Theni District. In this temple, the doors to the sanctum sanctorum are never opened, and all the pujas are offered only to the portalsThe special puja performed in the evening to the accompaniment of local musical instruments is a spectacular audio-visual feast.............more
Periyakulam:
Periyakulam is an important town in Theni District. It is situated 16 kms from Theni and located in the foothills of Kodaikkanal. Mangoes of this town are very popular. Mango is the largest harvest here, considered second only to Salem, and is exported to foreign countries. During summer the climate is cool at night, like Kodaikkanal. Periyakulam is connected with all major towns in Tamil Nadu by road. Nearest Airport is Madurai (80 kms). Budget accommodation is availab............more
Balasubramaniya Temple:
One of the important temples in Periyakulam is Arulmigu Balasubramanya Temple. This was constructed by Rajendra Chola nearly 2000 years ago. Once king Rajendra Chola went for hunting in Agamalai near the banks of the Varaha river. There a pig was feeding milk to its young ones. The king unknowingly killed the pig. Seeing the hunger of the young pigs, Lord Muruga fed the piglets. King Rajendra Chola saw this amazing sight, and constructed this temple in memory of this Divine event. This temple is considered equal to Kasi. Since Brahma theertha runs in this river it is believed that any incurable disease is cured when we have a bath in this river water.The idol of Lord Muruga with six faces seems to have been pierced from the ground-under. Lord Muruga, seen here with his consorts, blesses all his devotees. The old name of Periyakulam is Kuzhanthai Maanagaram.....................more
Sothupparai Dam:
Sothupparai dam is located at 12 kms from Periyakulam. This dam is built across the Varaha river. It is a beautiful picnic spot. The vide expanse of stored water is an impressive sight.....................more
Kumbakkarai Falls:
An amazing feet of Nature, the Kumbakkarai Falls is yet another jewel in the crown of Tamilnadu's tourist attractions. Comparatively less known, these falls offer a breath taking view of the fascinating interaction between gushing water and solid rocks. Add a verdant and wild backdrop and you have an exquisite sight. Situated on the foothills of the Kodaikkanal hills, the falls is located at 8 kms from Periyakulam. The water from these falls is full of the goodness of mineral and herbs......................more
Kannagi Temple:
Kannagi temple which witnesses a single day festivity during Chitra Pournami day is in the interstate border..........more
Veerapandi:
Gowmariamman Temple which is located here attracts many pilgrims. This 14th century temple was built by the Pendya King Veerapandi.The Pandya Kind is said to have regained his vision by praying to Govmariyamman and Kanneeswaramudaiyar. Close by the temple, the perennial Mullai river runs its course. The temple is nearly 8 kms from Theni..........more
Kuchanur:
Saturn or Saneeswarar is the main deity worshipped in Kuchanur. In this temple Lord Sani is present in splendid isolation bereft of the other planets. Here he is known as Kuchanooran. The Temple is located at Kuchanoor near Chinnamanur of Theni District on the bank of main channel of River Surabhi.The Chief deity Seneeswaran in the man God and its Genesis was on it own and not created (Suyambu). In all temples Saneeswaran in either of Navagrahah or he remain in separate sannithi. Where as in kuchanoor the Lord exists as prime deity Saneeswaran is other wise called as "Kuchanooran" King Dinakaran ruled "Kulinga" country with its capital Mainagar. His son chandravathana through astrology predicted that his father was suffering for seven and a half-years, which could be overcome by praying Lord Saneeswaran Chandravathanan ventured into forest, created Lord Saneeswaran's image out of iron and started prayering Lord Saneeswaran. Impressed by his devotees's prayer before him at Kuchanoor where the present temple is located............more
Chinnamanur:
This was formerly known as "Harikesarinallur" and it is mentioned in "Tholkappium". This municipal town is a business hub for the nearby villages. Weekly Shandy here is very popular. Sivagamiamman Temple located on the banks of the Mullai river is worth visiting....................more
Theertha Thotti:
This natural spring is located on the Madurai-Kochi national highway between Theni and Bodinayakkanur. Subramanya Temple here is a popular pilgrim centre....................more
Uthamapalayam:
Uthamapalayam has two old temples one dedicated to Lord Shiva, Sri Kaalahasthiishwara Swami temple, and the other one to Lord VishNu, Sri Narasimha Swami temple. Sri Kaalahasthishwara Swami temple is situated on the bank of river periyaaru, where it runs uththaravaahini (towards north), which is considered quite auspicious. It is amid of green paddy fields.It is said that one of the devotee here used to go to Kaalahasthi regularly. When he became old he was not able to go to Kaalahasthi to pray the Lord. So the God of Kaalahasthi appeared in this village to bless him. Hence the place is called Dhakshina Kaalahasthi or ThenKalathasthi.It is a history that three kings who ruled the nearby regions came to a war pact and started constructing the temple at this place. The temple also lodges some nice paintings belonging to Naayakkar dynasty.Sri Narasimha Swami temple is situated inside the town..........more
Suruli Falls:
The Suruli Falls which falls from a height of 150 feet gathers into a pool, flows for a short distance and again plummets to a depth of 40 feet, offering a spectacular sight of nature's raw and wild beauty. The dense forest that surround it provide an awesome backdrop. Facilities are available for men and women to bathe separately in This falls. The special feature of the fall is that it is "a round the year" fall. However, the best season to visit is June - October, when the thickness of the water column is astounding. The beauty of this fall finds mention in Tamil Epic, Silappathikaram written by poet Ilango Kailasanathar Temple Cave is located near Suruli Falls. There are 18 caves in and around the Suruli falls. The Kailasanathar Cave Temple is situated 800 metres above the fall and lhas a spring, which possesses water of curative powers. A Dargah named after Abubacker Masthan is another important place of worship in Suruli. This is the place where the body of Abubacker Masthan is interred. This is very close to the cave temple of Kailasanatha. Abubacker was a Muslim mystic who lived around the 1630s.One more temple for Lord Kartikeya is also located near the falls which is called Suruli Velappar Temple. Devotees carry pots of milk on Saturdays in the Tamil month of Chithirai to this temple..........more
Meghamalai:
This scenic place is dotted with tea estates and cardamom plantations. Situated at an elevation of 1500 metres above sea level, the place is rich in flora and fauna.......more
Velli Malai:
A densely forested place replete with natural flora and fauna is located 6.5 kms from Theni in the Varushanadu hill ranges............more
Cloud Land Falls ( Chinna Suruli):
Situated 54 kms from Theni near Kombaithozhu Village. These falls originate in the Megamalai - This is popularly known as Chinna Suruli...........more
Mullaiperiyar Dam:
The Mullai Periyar dam is of a unique distinction of being one of the oldest irrigation Projects in the country for diversion of water to meet out the requirements of the drought prone area of the deficit water State of Tamilnadu in the concept of Trans-basin. This dam was constructed during the year 1887-1898 across the river Periyar based on the lease deed of 1886.Even though the catchments water spread and the dam are being located in the territory of State of Kerala, the dam is being owned, maintained and operated by Government of Tamilnadu. The water from the Periyar Lake is being diverted through the water shed cutting and a subterrancan tunnel to Vairavanar River and thence to Suruliyar & Vaigai. Before construction of fore-bay dam, all the waters were hurled out from the month of the tunnel. After constructing fore bay dam, all the water drawn from Periyar lake and fore bay dam has been let out into Vairavanar River from tail race of power house after utilization for power generation.........more
Bodinayakkanur:
Located on the foot hills of the West Ghats, this town is popular for cardamom mango and coffee market............more
Bodi Mettu:
A hill resort situated at a height of 4500 feet, it is a most scenic place. It is 26 kms from Bodinayakkanur...........more
Tiger Falls:
A dainty fall on the route to Munnar between Bodi and Bodimettu from Theni.............more
Kodaikkanal:
Situated at the southern tip of the upper Palani hills in the Western Ghats, this beautiful hill station is one of the most famous tourist spots in the South. At a height of 2133 m above sea level. Kodai, as it is popularly known, is set amidst the wooded slopes and "Shola" forests of the ghats, making for a very pleasant climate throughout the year. This hill resort is known for hill plantains and plums. Several varieties of flowers abound here, including the Kurinji, which blossoms once in twelve....................more
Palani:
This is one of the most famous pilgrim centers of the South. The temple is situated on a hill top and is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. The presiding deity here is called Dandayathapani and the idol is made of medicinal herbs. There is an electrically operated winch from the foot to the top of the hill for those pilgrims who prefer not to use the steps..........more
Madurai :
Madurai is more than 2500 years old and was an important cultural and commercial centre even as early as 550 A.D., when the Pandyas made it their capital. Modern Madurai is a burgeoning commercial centre and temple city..........more
Places of interest:
  • Meenakshi Amman Temple
  • Tirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
  • Gandhi Museum
  • Mariamman Teppakulam
  • Koodal Azhagar Temple
..............more