Experience the Natural Beauty of Courtallam: 3-Day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Explore the Falls
   Starting Point: Courtallam Bus Stand
   Time and Distance: 45 minutes (16 km) from bus stand

   Start your trip by visiting Main Falls. This waterfall is the most popular and easily accessible within the Courtallam area. It has a special feature of natural hydrotherapy with a bathing area; visit early as it can get crowded. After, head to Five Falls (approximately 7 km from Main Falls), known as the five streams that fall from a height of about 150 feet. Along the way, make a pitstop at Old Courtallam Bridge for a scenic view of the river and vegetation.

2. Day 2: Visit the Ancient Temples
   Starting Point: Five Falls
   Time and Distance: 30 minutes (4 km) from Five Falls

   Begin the day by visiting the Thirumalai Kanta Swamy Temple, located in the Western Ghats and is one of the oldest temples in the region. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a 5-tier gopuram that is visible from far away. Closeby is the Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple, a divine Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its architecture is a mix of Chola, Pandya and vibrant Kerala styles, and it is a popular place to witness weddings within the community.

3. Day 3: Experience Nature and Scenic Vistas
   Starting Point: Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple
   Time and Distance: 45 minutes (16 km) from Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple

   Travel to the Courtallam Eco Park which has daunting and scenic spots unheard off. Experience the park via a mini train, a treetop walk, and an exotic peacock garden. For nature-lovers, Agasthiyar Falls, also known as Papanasam Falls, is a must visit. The falls originate from the River Thamirabarani and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. For panoramic views, travel to Mundanthurai-Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, where you can spot endangered species such as tigers and elephants in their natural habitats.

Time and Cost Estimates:

• Main Falls (1-2 hours, free)
• Five Falls (2 hours, free)
• Old Courtallam Bridge (30 minutes, free)
• Thirumalai Kanta Swamy Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Tenkasi Kasi Viswanathar Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Courtallam Eco Park (3-4 hours, INR 50)
• Agasthiyar Falls (2-3 hours, free)
• Mundanthurai-Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park (2-3 hours, INR 100)
Total Estimated Costs: INR 150 ($2)

Useful Tips:

If you have extra time, consider visiting Kuttralanathar Temple, situated in the nearby city of Tirunelveli. It is another ancient temple that honors Lord Shiva and has a pond for bathing and performing religious rituals. However, if you're short on time, skip the Mundanthurai-Kalakad Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park and expand the temple visit or spend more time at Courtallam Eco Park. Depending on the weather, make sure to pack some essential items, including sunscreen, hats, and bug spray. Lastly, since most of the locations are within natural reserves, try to be sustainable and not litter the area.