Mumbai: In the southern stretch of Tamil Nadu, where the Western Ghats tower with lush greenery and rivers carve their way through rolling hills, lies a hidden treasure—Tenkasi. Often overshadowed by popular tourist hubs, Tenkasi is slowly emerging as a go-to destination for nature lovers, pilgrims, and seekers of solitude.
This tranquil town, rich with spiritual history and awe-inspiring landscapes, offers more than a mere escape—it promises a soulful experience. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring age-old temples, or simply soaking in the clean, cool air, Tenkasi is a journey waiting to rejuvenate your senses.
Tenkasi: Land of sacred architecture and timeless traditions
The roots of Tenkasi stretch deep into Tamil history. The town earned its name ‘Kasi of the South’ thanks to the divine Kasi Viswanathar Temple.
Legend holds that Lord Viswanatha appeared in the dream of Pandya king Parakrama Pandyan, prompting him to build this temple in the 13th century. Temple inscriptions dating back to 1384 CE speak of the town’s vibrant spiritual life, with gifts of villages and homes to Brahmanas for reciting sacred texts.
Today, the Kasi Viswanathar Temple stands not just as a religious icon but also as a marvel of Dravidian architecture, located beside the peaceful Seevalaperi Pond. Other noteworthy temples in the region include the Kulasekharanathar Temple, the Anggalap Parameshwari Temple, and the Kannimaramman Temple with its serene adjoining pond. These sacred sites, steeped in mythology and tradition, lend the town a unique spiritual rhythm.
Courtallam – Nature’s Spa
Tenkasi’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the Courtallam Falls, often hailed as the ‘Spa of South India.’ Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, these waterfalls are not only breathtakingly beautiful but are also believed to have medicinal properties, thanks to the herbal-rich forests they flow through.
Courtallam boasts seven distinct waterfalls, each with its charm:
- Belaavo (Main Falls) – The tallest and most visited, with water descending from 60 metres.
- Chitraruvi (Small Falls) – Gentler and divided bathing spots for men and women.
- FIVE FALLS (AINTHARUVI) – Five streams falling in harmony like a natural fountain.
- TIGER FALLS (puliyaruvi) – A safe and shallow spot, ideal for children.
- Old Courtallam Falls – A peaceful alternative to the more crowded main falls.
- Shenbagadevi Falls – Named after the aromatic Shenbaga (champak) trees lining its course, accessible by a forest trail and home to a temple.
- Honey Falls (Thenaruvi) – A stunning cascade hidden between rocks, requiring a forest trek. Though officially restricted, it still attracts adventurers.
Each waterfall presents an invigorating connection to nature, where healing waters meet sacred landscapes.
Beyond the Falls – Dams, Sunflowers, and Cinematic Charms
The beauty of Tenkasi doesn’t end at its waterfalls. Explore further and you’ll find tranquil picnic spots like Gundaru Dam and Adavinainar Dam surrounded by hills and lakes. These spots are perfect for a quiet afternoon in nature.
A little drive away lies Sundarapandiapuram, a village that bursts into yellow brilliance with its sunflower fields—so cinematic that filmmakers, including Mani Ratnam, have captured its essence in movies like Roja.
Sundarapandiapuram is also spiritually significant with ancient temples like the Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple, believed to be over 4000 years old, and others such as Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple and Sri Muppudathi Amman Temple—each echoing the sacredness embedded deep in this region.
Culinary and Cultural Treat
Being a temple town, Tenkasi offers delightful vegetarian food inspired by Tamil traditions. However, for seafood lovers, fresh river fish and local delicacies are readily available. Local markets and roadside eateries serve up simple yet satisfying meals that reflect the warmth and earthiness of the region.
Getting to tenkasi
Tenkasi is well-connected despite its offbeat appeal. The Trivandrum International Airport is about 122 km away. By train, the town is linked to major cities in Tamil Nadu, and frequent bus services as well as taxis make travel by road convenient and scenic.
Tenkasi is more than just a tourist spot—it is an experience that combines spiritual awakening, natural healing, and cultural richness. Whether you’re trekking to hidden waterfalls, praying in ancient temples, or simply gazing at fields swaying in the breeze, the town invites you to slow down and connect with the soul of Tamil Nadu.
No matter how many times you visit Tenkasi, there will always be something left to discover. With its serene ambience, untouched beauty, and layers of history, it remains one of South India’s most enchanting yet underexplored destinations. Let your next getaway be a journey into the heart of Tenkasi—a place where beauty and faith flow as freely as its sacred rivers.
