Thalaiyar Falls is also known as Rat Tail falls and stands 975 feet tall in the state of Tamil Nadu. Thalaiyar fall is a 267th highest waterfall in the world, the third highest waterfall in India and the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu. The fall can be viewed from the Dum Dum Rock viewpoint located on the Batalugundu-Kodaikanal Ghat Road. A low concrete wall is constructed on the top edge of the fall on either side which makes the water flow in a rat tail shape. Manjalar River is the main watercourse of Thalaiyar Falls. The fall cannot be easily reached out by the general public as it is a trekker’s destination. Trekker’s can reach to the top of the fall which is challenging.

Location

Thalaiyar Falls located in the Palani Hills of Dindigul District in Tamil Nadu which is positioned in the southern part of India. Total elevation of the fall is 820 meters (2,690 ft.) and height of the fall is 975 ft. (297 m). The fall has a single drop in a horsetail shape.

Activities to Do

Trekkers can climb the falls during the dry season starting the hike from Manjalar dam. While hiking through the falls, a trail through potato fields and mango plantations can be enjoyed. September to May is the best months to visit the falls. The entry is free for tourists, but Thalaiyar Falls can be visited only from Mondays to Saturdays between 10:00 am to 06:00 pm. The location is the elite place for photography enthusiasts.

How to Reach

By Air

To reach Kodaikanal, the nearest airport is Madurai, which is 120 kms away and has daily connectivity from Bangalore, Chennai and Mumbai. From Madurai, a private cab or bus can take the visitors to Thalaiyar Falls.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Palani which is 3 hours away from Kodaikanal.

By Road

State transport or private buses run from Madurai, which is the shortest distance of 3 hours to reach Thalaiyar Falls through road.