Suruli falls is a famous tourist attraction located in Theni District in Tamil Nadu. It is 56 kms from Theni and 10 kms from Cumbum. Madurai is almost 123 kms away from the falls and it lies on the way to Periyar National Park. Suruli falls is located in the midst of beautiful landscape. It is two stage cascading waterfall that falls from a height of 150 feet. The waterfall is also known as "Chinna Suruli" and "Cloud Land Falls". Suruli River, the mouth of the falls originates from the Meghamalai Mountain range. The fall gathers into a pool, flows a short distance and then again plunges for an additional 40 feet. It thus provides a spectacular view of the beauty of the nature.
History of Suruli Falls
Suruli falls finds its mention in the Tamil epic "Silappathikaram" written by poet Ilango Adigal. The fall is located in the Pothigai Malai, regarded as a holy and spiritual center. There are 18 caves located near this waterfall. It is believed that they have their connection with Tamil Saints. A dargah has also been built near the falls. It has been named in memory of the Muslim Mystic Abubacker Mastan. He resided here in this area in the 1630s. The place has now regarded as a pilgrimage centre and is visited and worshipped by many devotees. The Suruli Velappar Temple near the falls is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya.
Pilgrims near Suruli Falls
The Suruli Falls comprises of many tourist places and pilgrimage centres. Every year the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department celebrates Summer Festival at Suruli Falls. The "Kailash Nath Temple Cave" is a significant pilgrimage centre located in the vicinity of the falls. It is built at a height of 800 meters above the falls. A spring believed to have curative powers is also located here. There is another temple located near Suruli Falls known as "Suruli Velappar Temple". The deity here is offered pots of milk by the devotees. The 18 caves here are adorned with rock cut architectural work that date back to the 18th century.
Tourism of Suruli Falls
Suruli Falls located in the midst of dense forest and wild flora serves as an ideal spot for nature lovers. The surrounding greenery and the calm and quite ambience add charm to the spot. Separate bathing areas have been made for men and women. There are grape gardens surrounding the Suruli Falls. Tourists can also stop here to buy some freshly ripened grapes from the garden. Apart from these there are other attractions located at a short distance nearby the Suruli Falls. Some of them are listed below:
•Ayyanar Falls,
•Idukki Dam
•Kakki Reservoir
•Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
•Mullaperiyar Dam
•Periyar Tiger Reserve
•Shanmunagathi Dam
•Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary
•Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
•Ponmudi Dam
•Narasimha Parvata
•Tea, Coffee, Pepper, Cardamom and Cinnamon Plantation at Megamalai,
•Shanmunagathi Dam
•Vagamon
Best Time to Visit Suruli Falls
Suruli Falls is thus a perfect destination for outing. The place is visited by tourists throughout the year. However, the most important time to visit the spot is during the months from June to October.
Route to Suruli Falls
Suruli Falls is well connected with all modes of transport. The nearest airports are located at Madurai, Tiruchirapalli and Coimbatore. Chennai is the only International Airport in Tamil Nadu. One can reach Dindigul by train and get road transport for about 120 km to reach Suruli Falls. Tourists can also avail the bus services from Madurai to Theni. Bus facilities are also available from Cumbum and Uthamapalayam. The magnificent waterfall can also be accessed through Kerala.
