Siruvani Waterfalls, Coimbatore
Siruvani
Waterfalls named are located 35 km (22 mi) west of Coimbatore City in the Western Ghats & located at a distance of 50 Kms
from Palakkad & 535 Kms from Chennai. It is also known as Kovai Courtallam.
The reservoir at Siruvani was built for Tamil Nadu by the Kerala Government
with funds collected by the Tamil Nadu government to meet the drinking water
requirements of Coimbatore city. The gateways on either side of the road across
the dam are typical of the Kerala and Tamil architectural styles. Siruvani is
also home to certain tribals like the Mudugars and Irulars. Water from Siruvani River is renowned for its taste and
mineral properties, and the view from the falls and the dam is a great tourist
attraction.
The sweetness has
been attributed to the vegetation and rocks through which the water flows
through in the Attapady area.
The visitors are
not allowed to see the falls after 5 pm as it located in the center part of a
dense forest. The Siruvani River that makes this beautiful waterfall is the
main source to supply water to Coimbatore city. The water in this river is
famous for its taste and it is typically known to be the second sweetest lake
water in the world. With an outstanding panoramic view, the Siruvani dam is
extremely beautiful and breathe taking. The dam is interlinked by canals and
tunnels for confining Aliyar, Parambikulam, Nirar, Sholiyar, Thunakadavu,
Palar, Thekadi rivers for the purpose of generating power and irrigation.
The falls can be
reached by about 4 Kms trek from the nearest road point between Siruvani Dam
and Madavarayapuram. The falls are best seen in monsoon season between June and
October. The upper part of the falls is dangerous with deep cliffs and tourist
usually enjoy the beauty and bathing at bottom of the falls.
These falls are
very close to Siruvani Dam (5 Kms away) which provides drinking water for
Coimbatore City. Siruvani Dam is connected by frequent buses from Coimbatore.
History
The Siruvani dam,
located in Kerala close to the picturesque Attapady valley, has an interesting
history. The Government gave its approval for construction of the `masonry
gravity' dam in February 1915; work did not start immediately, if we correlate
the information from the Archaeology Department, Tamil Nadu Water Supply and
Drainage (TWAD) Board and the district gazette.
The villagers of
Boluvampatti and Alandurai opposed the scheme, as they feared it would affect
them. But they were convinced about the benefits of bringing Siruvani water to
a town that was growing. Construction finally began in 1927. But it was no easy
task, for the dam site was in an extremely unfriendly terrain. Worse, wild
animals frequented the place. So, all those engaged in construction work stayed
in the guesthouse near Iruttu pallam. They rode their way to the dam site on
horses with gunmen providing security. Even now, a visit to the Siruvani dam is
not much different (except for the fact that you don't have to travel on a
horse).
Forest guards
continue to accompany those who visit the dam. The initial cost of construction
was Rs. 2, 17,725 (for 23 feet). And, the reason for selecting the site - it
had perennial streams. The area below the Siruvani, Muthikulam falls, Gobiyaru,
Solaiyaru, Pattiyaru, Veeraru and Paambaru falls, the main sources of supply,
was identified for construction. There were even plans to commission a
hydroelectric project at Siruvani. But the move was dropped as the Pykara
project in the Nilgiris was mooted at the time.
Major and minor
construction works continued till 1984 and the total cost worked out to Rs.
26.12 Crores. The drawal from the dam was in 1931 was 113 lakh litres for a
population of more than 95,000. All those who complain about inadequate water
supply from Siruvani, take heart. Water shortage is nothing new. In the 1970s,
the drawal was scaled down to 130 lakh litres from 186 lakh litres in the
summer as inflow into the Muthikulam reduced by half.
Visitor information
The Siruvani
waterfalls and dam are considered one of the top tourist attractions in the
town of Coimbatore and Palakkad. The vegetation in these hills comprise of
grasslands, shrub lands, and forests. Trekking, nature walk, bird watching, and
wildlife safari can be arranged by the forest department on request. This is an
excellent spot for nature lovers and photo enthusiasts. Both the Siruvani
waterfalls and dam are covered by dense forests. While trekking care must be
taken to keep you and your group safe. The hills have wild animals in them so
make sure to not provoke them. So ensure safety and be on constant alert. Make
sure to carry ample water while trekking. It is important to carry proper gear
and equipment too. Restrict your baggage to fifteen kilograms. Do not pollute
the trail and make sure to dispose of your garbage in the right manner after
descending from the peak. Wear clothes that will keep you comfortable.
Photography here is a must as the scenic view here is not an everyday
occurrence.
It is situated at
Siruvani Hills at a distance 35 km away from Coimbatore & 6 km (3.7 mi) from Karunya University. Sadivayal Check
post; where an entry fee Rs. 50 is charged, at the gateway to the waterfalls.
Private vehicles are not allowed after this point; however vehicles arranged by
forest department can be used for the conveyance to the point where trek is to
be started. No extra charges for this service. Almost 1km trek/walk through
forest required to reach exact place for bathing.
Bus lines 59C, 59,
14E, and the Siruvani and Sadivayal buses, ply at regular intervals from Coimbatore
(Gandhipuram Town bus stand). Other interesting projects/places nearby
are Parambikulam, Aliyar, Sholiyar, Palar rivers and the Anaimalai Hills range.
While traveling to
the Siruvani waterfalls, make sure to park your vehicles in the parking area
only. Stopping at inappropriate places may cause unnecessary trouble to the
general public. Waterfalls in general, have rocks and slippery surfaces,
parents are advices to never leave their child unattended. Drinking alcohol and
smoking near the waterfalls are strictly prohibited. Wear appropriate shoes and
clothes while visiting the waterfalls. Avoid wearing leather shoes and shoes
that are slippery. The above mentioned tips will help you keep your
sight-seeing safe and fun.
Location
Siruvani fall is
located near a place named Siruvani which is about 35 km away from Coimbatore.
It is situated at 10.938011°N 76.687177°E coordinates.
Connectivity
By Road: Coimbatore has six major arterial roads which connects it to major
cities. Several private and government buses are operated from Coimbatore and
Palakkad.
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Coimbatore Junction & Palakad
Station.
By Air: Nearest airport terminal is Coimbatore International Airport
Season/ When to visit
Ideal time to visit
Siruvani waterfall is after the monsoon season as during this time the beauty
of the waterfall is in its full charm.
