The Unforgettable Experience of Agaya Gangai Waterfall
Quick Info:
Location: Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu, Google Maps
Altitude: 1300 meters or 4,265 feet (approximate)
Famous For: Waterfalls, Trekking, Hiking, and Ancient temples
Ideal Duration:1 to 2 days
Nearest Airport: Trichy
Nearest Railway station: Salem
The Agaya Gangai Waterfalls timings: 6 AM to 7 PM.
Nature’s Paradise – Agaya Gangai Waterfalls:
Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls located in the Kolli Hills of Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India. Water from the Agaya Gangai Falls flows to the Arapaleshwara Temple atop the Kolli Hills through the Gangai Panchanati forest. It is a natural waterfall that is created by the River Aiyaru and is surrounded by lush green forests and steep hills, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The waterfall is situated in the dense forest area of the eastern Ghats, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.
As the waterfall is surrounded by lush green forest and beautiful hills it becomes the perfect spot for trekking and hiking. The trek is not very difficult, but it requires some physical fitness. For regular trekkers, it is just a moderate level of difficulty but for beginners, it is a bit difficult when compared as the steps are steep. As the trek is surrounded by the forest, visitors can see a variety of flora, and fauna, and also spot some rare species of birds and animals in the forest
during the trek.
One must climb 1196 steps to get to Agaya Gangai Waterfalls. The steps are quite steep and the climb down takes 10 mins whereas the climb up takes 20-25 mins. On the route, many shelters are constructed for resting purposes. The Pambati Siddhar Cave, which is close to Agaya Gangai Waterfall, can also be visited.
The journey to the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. You can view nature’s gorgeous beauty throughout the beautiful and scenic journey. Visitors must exercise caution when traveling on rocky terrain as the hike lasts for about 2-3 hours and must wear appropriate footwear due to the route’s slippery conditions, especially during the monsoon season.
A small village called Puliyancholai at the base of the Kolli Hills serves as the starting point of this trek whereas the breathtaking Agaya Gangai Waterfalls is the final point. For a 2-day trek, the first pit stop is Arapaliswarar Temple, however, if you want to shorten the hike to one day the latest time to enter the Agaya Gangai Falls is at 3 PM. To spend some relaxing time at the falls, it is advised to take two days hike. The water flow is good in January, which makes the terrain slick. In addition to the monsoon season, you can do trekking here year-round because the climate is generally pleasant.
The waterfall is about 300 feet high, and the water flows down from the rocky cliffs in a series of cascades. The view of the waterfall is spectacular, and the sound of the falling water is mesmerizing. The water hits the rocks and creates a magical misty environment. You can feel the mist hitting your face while walking around.
As you get to the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, you get to calm yourself in the rejuvenating water. During the hot summers, cooling down in crystal-clear, cold water is the ideal way to escape from the heat. A picnic with friends and family is another activity people can engage in close to the falls. Around the waterfall, there are many shady spots and chairs where people can relax and take some rest.
Key Points to follow:
- For a 2-day trek, plan your stay accordingly as very few accommodations are available on Kolli Hills.
- You would not find many restaurant options so keep your food packed in advance. Beware of monkeys at the waterfalls.
- As you will be carrying snacks and food, pls do not pollute or drop your plastic waste away. Keep mother nature clean and safe.
- Carry cash as other payment options are not available.
- Check if there is water before planning your trip.
Ways to Reach Agaya Gangai Waterfalls:
By Road:
There are bus facilities from Namakkal and also government bus services from Salem. You can also hire a taxi to the nearest station or airport.
By Rail:
The nearest Railway station is Salem Junction Railway Station. And it is the nearest to the Kolli Hills, located at a distance of about 90 km.
By Air:
Tiruchirappalli Airport is the closest airport terminal, and Trichy Domestic Airport is the closest airport to Kolli Hills.
Places to visit near Agaya Gangai Waterfalls:
Arapaleshwara Temple:
The ancient Chola empire constructed the Arapaleshwara Temple in Tamil Nadu’s well-known Kolli Hills. It was regarded as a well-known Shiva temple in South India.
Siddhar Caves:
In Tamil Nadu’s Kolli Hills, the Siddhar Caves are renowned, serene, and close to Agaya Gangai waterfalls. The local legend claimed that sages lived here and engaged in certain medical practices while also cultivating therapeutic herbs. Still today, these plants were discovered around the caves.
Kolli Hills:
It is a trivial mountain range, located in the Namakkal region. Part of the Eastern Ghats is the Kolli Hills. The Kolli Hills span a 280 km area. Since there is a goddess called Kollippavai at the top of the hill, it is also known as “Kolli Malai,” which translates to “Mountains of Death.” According to mythology, the images on the hilltops are of a ghost who lured innocent passersby to their death. Moreover, the hill has been mentioned in several Tamil literary works, including Purananur, Silappathigaram, Ainkurnur, and Manimekalai.
Muthugapatti Periyar Swamy Temple:
The temple is a well-known destination for pilgrims and is situated at the base of the Kolli Hills. An idol of God is located beneath a banyan tree, in the temple’s open space.
Conclusion:
In short, anyone that enjoys nature and adventure should visit the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls. If you’re seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Agaya Gangai Waterfalls, a hidden gem in the Namakkal district, is the ideal destination.
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