Shenbagathoppu Waterfall

About:

Shenbaga Thoppu, a forest area about 8 km west from Srivilliputtur, is an excellent option for trekking. Though there is no proper bus service to reach here, the place can be accessed by two-wheeler or even by cycle.

The forests are situated on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, with only 6.3% of the total geographical area under forest cover. The mountain slopes are home to many rare and endemic varieties of flora and fauna. Established in 1989, the Shenbagathoppu Wildlife Sanctuary spans 480 square kilometers and is located in Srivilliputtur taluk. The sanctuary is contiguous with the Periyar Tiger Reserve to the southwest and the Megamalai Reserve Forest to the northwest, with altitudes ranging from 100 to 2010 meters above sea level. It is also known for protecting the endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel (Ratufa macrora), an arboreal species.

The sanctuary hosts a rich diversity of wildlife, including various birds, mammals, reptiles, and butterflies. Common sightings include resident and migratory elephants, tigers, leopards, Nilgiri thar, spotted deer, barking deer, sambar, wild boar, porcupines, Nilgiri langur, lion-tailed macaque, common langur, slender loris, bonnet macaque, sloth bear, and flying squirrel. Over 100 bird species have been identified here, including the rare Great Indian Hornbill.

To conserve these forest areas, annual leases for the collection of fruits and other minor forest products have been halted. Initiatives include the planting of fruit-bearing trees and other vegetation to increase food sources and maintain canopy continuity. Soil conservation and water harvesting measures have also been implemented to improve the habitat.

There are some waterfalls on the way, you can take bath and enjoy. People from surrounding will gather here especially during the winter and rainy seasons. The river and water falls (Meenvetti Parai) are so famous. Many people visit this nice place everyday from Srivilliputtur, Rajapalayam and Sivakasi regularly. This place is shelter for many tribal communities.

Location Info:

Climate/Weather:

The climate around Shenbagathoppu Waterfall is tropical, with variations across seasons:

• Summer (March to May): Temperatures can range from 25°C to 35°C. The weather is warm and slightly humid, with limited rainfall.
• Monsoon (June to September): The area receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, refreshing the vegetation and increasing the waterfall's flow. Temperatures usually range from 22°C to 30°C.
• Winter (October to February): Winters are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This is the best season for visitors, as the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Shenbagathoppu Waterfall is from October to February, when the climate is ideal for trekking and exploring the natural surroundings.

Interesting places to Visit:

Ayyanar Koil (Ayyanar Falls)

Ayyanar Falls is located on the slope of Western Ghats, It has waterfalls and a temple. It provides good opportunity for woodland mountain climbing. Dam is situated on the way to Ayyanar Falls which is providing water for the whole city.

Sanjeevi Hills

Sanjeevi Hills is situated in Rajapalayam on the way to Chatrapatti. The calm and serene ambience makes it a favorite spot for tourists. Tradition recounts that in order to save the unconscious Lakshmana, Hanuman, the monkey god carried the entire Sanjeevi Hill with the herbal plants to Sri Lanka and threw it away afterwards. It is said that the thrown down hill is the Sanjeevi Hills.

Srivilliputtur

Srivilliputhur is a city and a municipality in Virudhunagar district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is on the Virudhunagar - Tenkasi line of the Southern Railway, about 74 km south of Madurai and well connected by road and rail with Madurai, Sivakasi, Tenkasi, Tirunelveli and Sattur.

The primary landmark of Srivilliputtur is 12-tiered tower structure dedicated to the Lord of Srivilliputtur, known as Vatapatrasayee. The tower of this temple rises 192 feet high and is the official symbol of the Government of Tamilnadu. It is said to have been built by Periyaazhvar, the father-in-law of the Lord, with a purse of gold that he won in debates held in the palace of Pandya King Vallabhadeva. The Government of Tamil Nadu uses this temple tower as part of its symbol. Another wonder in Srivilliputtur is Chariot which runs on AdiPuram. Srivilliputhur is well known for its ancient heritage and devotinal contributions.

How to Reach:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Madurai Airport, approximately 80 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire taxis or use local transport to reach Srivilliputtur and then proceed to the waterfall.
• By Train: The closest railway station is Srivilliputtur Railway Station, about 8 km from the waterfall. Visitors can take a taxi or local transport from the station to reach Shenbagathoppu.
• By Road: Shenbagathoppu is accessible by two-wheeler, cycle, or car from Srivilliputtur. However, public transportation options like buses may be limited. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available from Srivilliputtur to the waterfall area.

Note: Due to the remote location, it is advisable to plan transportation in advance, especially for the last leg from Srivilliputtur to Shenbagathoppu.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

• Indian Oil Petrol Pump - Near Srivilliputtur Bus Stand, Srivilliputtur
• HP Petrol Pump - Sri Vigneswara Fuels - Madurai Road, Srivilliputtur
• Bharat Petroleum Petrol Pump - Near Srivilliputtur Railway Station, Srivilliputtur
• Essar Petrol Pump - Rajapalayam Road, Srivilliputtur

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Here are some accommodation options near Shenbagathoppu Waterfall in Srivilliputtur:

• Hotel Western Gatz - A comfortable hotel in Srivilliputtur with modern amenities and dining options.
• ABM Grande - Located in Srivilliputtur, this hotel offers cozy rooms and great service.
• Sri Balaji Residency - A budget-friendly option in Srivilliputtur with basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
• Meghamalai Estate Bungalows - For those seeking a rustic experience amidst nature, these bungalows offer a unique stay near Meghamalai.
• Guest Houses and Homestays - Various guest houses and homestays are available in and around Srivilliputtur for budget-conscious travelers.

It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as options near the waterfall are limited.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Stations:

• Police Station - Virudhunagar, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
• Bazaar Police Station - SH 184, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu 626001
• Pandian Nagar Police Station - SH 184, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
• Police Station - NH 7, Tirumangalam, Madurai, Tamil Nadu
• Sivakasi East Police Station - P.K.N Road, Sivakasi, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
• Sivakasi Main Police Station - Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
• Police Station - Thiruparankundram, Madurai, Tamil Nadu

Nearest Hospitals:

• J.K. Nursing Home - 272, A, Thiruchuli Road, Aruppukottai, Tamil Nadu 626101 | Phone: 04563 222941
• Christian Mission Hospital - East Marret Street, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 | Phone: 0452 2326458
• Visaka Poly Clinic - #1 Katarapalayam, T.P.K Main Road, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 | Phone: 0452 2338275
• Government Hospital, Srivilliputtur - Srivilliputtur, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu | Phone: 04563 260249
• Virudhunagar Government District Hospital - Madurai Road, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu 626001 | Phone: 04562 252345

Tourist Helpline: Tamil Nadu Tourism Helpline | Phone: 1800-425-3111

Shenbagathoppu Waterfall