Thalaiyar Falls, also known as Rat Tail Falls is a waterfall on the Manjalar River, a tributary of the Vaigai River, located in the Devadanapatti of Theni District, Tamil Nadu State, South India. It is 975 ft (297 m) tall and is the highest waterfall in Tamil Nadu, the sixth highest waterfall in India and the 267th highest in the world. On a clear day Rat Tail Falls is visible from the Dum Dum Rock viewpoint on the Batlagundu-Kodaikanal Ghat Road, 3.6 kilometres (2.2 mi) away to the west. It appears across the valley as a long thin white strip of cascading water on a background of black rock cliff face that juts out of the foothills.
The very edge at the top of the Falls has a low concrete wall on either side concentrating the flow of water to focus the falls into a better rat tail shape. One can walk along the wall and get near the center of the falls. Just below one wall is a large flat rock about 5 ft (1.5 m) wide. One can get down to the edge of the rock to look directly straight down to see a little river at the bottom continuing placidly through the forest. Looking back up to the side, one can watch the water in freefall, mostly silent. The noise of the crashing water below doesn't rise up. The only noise is the water pushing around the stone walls, and some smaller falls just upstream.
The river water coming to the falls, though 9 km (5.6 mi) downstream from Perumal Malai village and apparently clear, may be polluted, and visitors to the area are advised to avoid drinking it.
How To Reach
The distance between Kodaikanal Bus Stand and Thalaiyar Falls is around 20 kilometres, which will usually take you somewhere around 48 to 60 minutes to cover the entire distance, depending upon the traffic.
The best way to reach Thalaiyar Falls from Kodaikanal Bus Stand is to either rent a private car or hire a taxi, which is also the fastest alternative.
However, a cheaper alternative is to take the many tourist or state buses which can take you to the falls. This route will also take a lot more time due to its long route.
Best time To Visit
The best time to visit Thalaiyar Falls is from October to March, during the winter and early months of spring, and then, between July and early September, during the monsoon season.
From October to March, Kodaikanal experiences the onset of winter, followed by the cold months and early spring. During this time, the water levels of Thalaiyar Falls are enjoyable, in addition to the weather being very favourable to pay a visit to this majestic attraction.
March onwards, until the beginning of July, the summer season sets in the region. The water during this time starts reducing. On harsher days, when the temperatures soar over 40 degrees Celsius, the water in the falls is as good as nil. So, it is best to avoid visiting the falls during this time of the year.
Next comes monsoon, between July and early September, when the falls is at its absolute best. Water gushes to the falls from the hills above, making for a spectacular sight.
Hiking At Thalaiyar Falls
Hiking is amongst the most popular adventurous activities you can do at Thalaiyar Falls. However, it is only allowed at the bottom of the falls, and that too only during the summers and winters (the dry seasons).
The hiking to Thalaiyar Falls begins at Manjalar Dam, which is a very scenic place. This is especially because the dam passes through various beautiful potato fields and mango farms present around the area of Manjalar Reservoir. From here, one needs to hike up along the course of the water till they reach a small temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. Thereafter, hikers should keep following the course of the stream.
It is here where the actual climb up the stream starts. During the hike, you will come across many difficult areas and large, slippery boulders, which you would need to cross to ultimately arrive at the base of the Thalaiyar Falls. The entire hike covers around 15 kilometers and takes a full day.
Why Should One Visit Thalaiyar Falls?
Enriched with the goodness of the Palani Hills is the Thalaiyar Waterfalls, one of the famous waterfalls of Tamilnadu. Thalaiyar Falls is popular among its travellers for being the highest one in the state and also finds its special mention in the worldwide count. People describe the view of this famed tourist attraction from the Dum Dum Rock viewpoint on the Batlagundu-Kodaikanal Ghat Road located 3.6 km towards the west as the best part of their holiday experience in Tamilnadu. Moreover, adventure lovers have the opportunity to hike from the Manjalar Dam and reach close to the bottom of this tourist spot during the dry season. On the way, travellers get to refresh themselves with the fragrant mango orchards and potato cultivation that are set up near the Manjalar Reservoir. The way from there leads to the prismatic shrine of Goddess Kamakshi.
