Amirthi Waterfall
Amirthi Forest Reserve, located approximately 25 kilometers south of Vellore in Tamil Nadu, is a notable destination for nature enthusiasts. The reserve encompasses the Amirthi Zoological Park, a 25-hectare area established in 1967, which serves both as a tourist spot and a wildlife sanctuary.

Quick facts
| Location | Address: Amirthi Waterfall, Javadu Hills, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu, IndiaDistrict: VelloreNearest City: VelloreBest Time to Visit: October to March (Monsoon and Post-Monsoon) |
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About Amirthi Waterfall
The area is lush with trees, herbal plants and different varieties of birds and animals. There is a small waterfall tucked away amidst the ravines and hills.Located under the Javadu Hills of Tellai, Amirthi offers a reasonable getaway. There is a play park for kids. You can enjoy a good walk along the meandering path cut along the rock steps. Check out accommodation options and facilities from the local forest authorities.
Climate/Weather
Summer (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C, generally hot and dry. Reduced water flow at the waterfall may be observed.
Monsoon (July to September): Moderate to heavy rainfall rejuvenates the waterfall, making it a beautiful time for visits.
Post-Monsoon and Winter (October to February): Cooler temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, with the waterfall in steady flow and the surroundings lush and green.
For the latest weather updates, check local forecasts before planning your visit.
Interesting Places to Visit
- Amirthi Zoological Park: A 25-hectare zoological park with diverse flora and fauna, including spotted deer, peacocks, monkeys, and a children’s play area. Ideal for family picnics and nature walks.
- Javadu Hills: Known for its lush greenery, sandalwood plantations, and tribal settlements, the hills provide scenic trekking opportunities and beautiful viewpoints.
- Vellore Fort: A historical fort located in the city of Vellore, featuring impressive architecture, the Jalakandeswarar Temple, and a moat. It offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Sripuram Golden Temple: Located near Vellore, this temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi is known for its unique gold-coated structure and spiritual ambiance.
- Yelagiri Hills: Approximately 90 km from Vellore, Yelagiri is a hill station with beautiful lakes, trekking trails, and nature parks, making it an ideal day trip.
Nearest Visiting Places
- Vellore Fort: A 16th-century fort known for its impressive architecture and history, featuring the Jalakandeswarar Temple and a museum. Located in Vellore city.
- Golden Temple: A spiritual landmark in Vellore dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi. This temple is renowned for its unique gold-plated structure and star-shaped pathway.
- Javadu Hills: Scenic hills offering lush greenery, trekking trails, and insight into tribal life. Great for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Yelagiri Hills: A hill station about 90 km from Vellore, known for activities like trekking and boating at Punganoor Lake. It’s a peaceful retreat with beautiful landscapes.
- Periyar Park: A serene park in Vellore with gardens, walking trails, and a lake, perfect for picnics and family outings.
Nearest Petrol Pump
When visiting Amirthi Waterfall near Vellore, Tamil Nadu, it’s advisable to refuel in Vellore city before heading towards the waterfall, as fuel stations become sparse in the rural areas leading to Amirthi. Here are some petrol pumps in Vellore:
- Indian Oil Petrol Pump
Located on Vellore-Amirthi Road, this station offers fuel services and basic amenities for travelers heading towards Amirthi Waterfall. - Bharat Petroleum Station
Situated near Katpadi Junction, this petrol pump provides quality fuel and is accessible for those traveling from Vellore city. - Hindustan Petroleum Outlet
Found on the Vellore-Chittoor Road, this station offers fuel services and a convenience store for travelers. - Nayara Energy Fuel Station
Located on the Vellore-Tiruvannamalai Road, this petrol pump provides fuel services and is known for its customer service.
Ensuring your vehicle has sufficient fuel will contribute to a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation
Accommodation near Amirthi Waterfall in the nearest town includes budget lodges, guesthouses, and forest rest houses. Book ahead on weekends.
Help Line/Phone Number
Police: Emergency: 100 | Control Room: 0416-2252501 | WhatsApp: 9092700100
Fire: 101
Ambulance: 102 | Accident Helpline: 108
Hospitals:
- CMC Vellore: 0416-2281000 | Patient Queries: +91 8000338855 | WhatsApp: +91 9385285957
- Govt. Vellore Medical College: 0416-2261900
Location info
Address: Amirthi Waterfall, Javadu Hills, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu, India
District: Vellore
Nearest City: Vellore
Best Time to Visit: October to March (Monsoon and Post-Monsoon)
Best time to visit Amirthi Waterfall
Post-monsoon (October–February) when the waterfall is at its fullest with the most spectacular flow. Early morning (7–9 AM) offers the best light for photography. Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon when water levels are dangerously high.
Timings & opening hours
Best visited during daylight hours (7:00 AM–5:00 PM). The waterfall is most accessible during the dry season (post-monsoon to early summer). Access may be restricted during heavy monsoon due to dangerous water levels.
Entry fee & tickets
Entry fee: INR 10–20 per person. Parking: INR 20–50 for vehicles. Some waterfalls within forest reserves or tourism complexes may have combined entry tickets.
Duration needed
1–2 hours including the walk to the waterfall and time spent enjoying the scenery. If trekking from a farther distance, allow 3–4 hours round trip. A visit combining nearby attractions may take half a day.
Safety tips
DO NOT swim or bathe directly under the waterfall — strong currents and submerged rocks pose serious danger. Slippery rocks near the waterfall are extremely hazardous. Stay behind safety barriers. Watch for leeches during monsoon. Avoid visiting after dark. Follow forest department guidelines.
Things to carry
- Change of Clothes: You will likely get wet.
- Waterproof Bag: Protect phone, camera, and wallet.
- Comfortable Footwear with Grip: Rocks are slippery.
- Towel: For drying off.
- Insect Repellent: Waterfall areas have mosquitoes.
Nearest airport, railway & bus
Nearest airport: Madurai International Airport (IXM) for southern waterfalls, Coimbatore International Airport (CJB) for western, Salem Airport (SXV) for northern. Nearest railway station: the nearest station in the closest town. By road: most waterfalls are approachable by bus and taxi.
Mobile network coverage
Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.
Food & restaurants nearby
Near Amirthi Waterfall, local food stalls offer Tamil Nadu snacks and refreshments. Visitors can enjoy fresh coconut water, roasted peanuts, bhajji, and seasonal fruits from nearby vendors. For full meals, nearby towns have restaurants serving traditional South Indian dishes like idli, dosa, rice meals, and curries. Packing a picnic is popular for families visiting the falls.
History of Amirthi Waterfall
Amirthi Waterfall is one of the scenic waterfalls of Tamil Nadu, formed by a stream or river cascading down the hills of the Western Ghats. The waterfall has been a natural landmark for local communities for generations, providing water for agriculture and serving as a popular natural retreat. Its surroundings are rich in biodiversity with native flora and fauna.
Things to do at Amirthi Waterfall
Enjoy the spectacular view of water cascading down the rock face, especially impressive during the post-monsoon season. Take photographs of the waterfall and surrounding forest landscape. Walk on the designated trails around the waterfall to appreciate the full scale of the cascade.
Things to visit & highlights
The main waterfall cascade with its pool at the base. The surrounding forest landscape with its rich biodiversity. Viewpoints along the approach trail offering different perspectives of the waterfall. Nearby streams and rock formations.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Amirthi Waterfall? Post-monsoon season (October–February) when the waterfall is at its fullest. Early morning offers the best lighting for photography.
Is swimming safe at Amirthi Waterfall? Swimming is generally not recommended due to strong currents and submerged rocks. Some areas with gentle pools may be safe for wading — check locally.
How difficult is the trek to Amirthi Waterfall? The walk varies from an easy 5–15 minute stroll to a moderate 20–30 minute trek depending on the specific waterfall. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.
Rules & restrictions
Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.
Best photography spots
The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.
Visitor information
Please check locally for current visitor information.
How to reach Amirthi Waterfall
By Road: From Vellore, Amirthi is about 25 kilometers away, and you can reach it by car, taxi, or bus. The journey takes around 45 minutes. From Chennai, it’s approximately 150 kilometers (3 to 4 hours by car via NH 48).By Rail: The nearest railway station is Katpadi Junction in Vellore. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Amirthi Zoological Park.By Air: The closest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 130 kilometers away. From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Vellore, then proceed to Amirthi.Access to the Waterfall: After arriving at Amirthi Zoological Park, you’ll need to complete a 1.5-kilometer trek to reach the waterfall. The trail is well-marked and scenic, offering views of the surrounding forest.Tip: Check local weather conditions before your visit, especially during the monsoon season, and bring comfortable trekking shoes and sufficient water.
Map & location view
This section is being updated and will be available shortly.
Photo gallery of Amirthi Waterfall
Video gallery
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