Meghamalai is a mountain range located in the Theni district near Kumily, Tamil Nadu. It is situated at an altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level. It is covered with cardamom plantations and tea plantations, a practice started by the Britishers during their rule in this area. Due to the cool atmosphere and green mountain ranges, Meghamalai has now become the first choice for the majority of tourists visiting the Theni district and travelling south India.
Meghamalai can be reached by a 45 km mountain pass from Chinnamanur in the Theni district. Tourists from Chennai and other areas can reach Theni by train. Several hairpin bends in the route from Chinnamanur to Meghamalai are also one the reasons that this tourist destination is now being visited by many. Driving to the mountain ranges is never boring as you pass through tea and cardamom farms on both sides.
There is also a Tiger Reserve at Meghamalai. It was created by the government of India in 2021. It is the fifth Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu. However, due to the existence of Tiger Reserve, there are a few restrictions which are imposed by the forest officials in the area. As per reports, people can visit Meghamalai from 6 AM to 6 PM only.
Manalaru Dam is located 4 km from Meghamalai Bus Stand. Through this dam, you can watch the Kambham valleys and settlements of the Theni district. Misty mountain peaks, lush green valleys and forest stretches as far as the eye can see make for a great experience. The Department of Tourism has planned to introduce a boat or ferry service to enable tourists to access the area. Six dams on the hill and the originating place of Suruli Thertham are popular attractions for tourists. Meghamalai Falls or Suruli Falls is on the Suruli River which originates from Meghamalai hills.
Meghamalai binds us with plants, wildlife, more than a hundred species of birds, and green scenery in every direction. The last extensive study of flora in the bio-diversity-rich Meghamalai was in the early 1980s. Since then, no comprehensive research on vegetation has been done in this area. As an alternative to Ooty and Kodaikanal, Meghamalai is a boon for those who want to go on a mountain tour at a low cost.
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