Shenbaga Devi Falls (Chembakadevi Falls), Courtallam,
Thirunelveli
Shenbaga
Devi Falls is one of the revered places in the region. The beautiful waterfall
is positioned on the way to Honey Falls. This location can also be accessed
from the Main Falls, which is also a popular trekking route. It is located at a
distance of 2 Kms from the Main Falls and 3 Kms from Courtallam Bus Stand. The
water source of Shenbaga Devi Falls is the River Chitraru. Thenaruvi or Honey
Falls continue to flow through the River Chitraru, as the Shenbaga Devi
Falls.
A rock
bordered pool is a visitor’s delight, as they enjoy swimming and bathing in its
waters. As good as a whole family of 10 members can enjoy in this large water
body, unlike the other cascades. However, the entrance to the falls is
restricted during the monsoon months, due to the heavy flow of water. Sitting
by the pool of the falls, with a surrounding view of the Kutralam Valley, adds
to the heavenly beauty of the cascade.
Shenbaga
Devi Falls is named after the name of nearby village, Shenbaga Devi that
features a temple of Goddess Shenbaga Devi, reincarnation of Goddess Durga. Owing
to religious significance, devotees visit the place in large number to pay
homage. During full moon days large crowds visit this temple. Fragrant Shenbaga
flowers on the way to the temple are a popular buy to be offered at the shrine.
Shenbaga Devi falls is situated above Chitraruvi Falls.
Shenbaga
Devi falls can be reached by trekking for 30 minutes and the water flows from a
height of 42 feet (14 Meters). The falls are surrounded by Shenbaga trees that
bear fragrant Shenbaga flowers that are offered to Amman in Shenbaga Devi
Temple. Any festival done in Thirukutralanaathar Temple starts from this Shenbaga
Devi temple. During the Tamil month of Chithirai a ten day festival is arranged
which ends in a special prayer on Pournami (Full Moon).
