Theni’s Hidden Gems & Offbeat Nature (2 Nights / 3 Days)

Time Area Activity Focus
Day 1: Remote Peaks & Trekkers’ Trails
Morning Bodinayakanur Bodi Mettu Viewpoint Start with a scenic drive up the ghat road to Bodi Mettu, a less crowded hill view point offering stunning vistas of the valley and cardamom estates below.
Late Morning Kurangani Region Kurangani – Sambalaru Trek Drive to the Kurangani Trek reception point. Take a guided, moderate trek (e.g., Kurangani – Sambalaru, check accessibility/permits) to see remote waterfalls and a quiet side of the hills.
Lunch Kurangani Village Local Lunch Have a simple, authentic Tamil lunch at a local eatery in the village or carry a packed meal.
Afternoon Meghamalai Foothill Chinna Suruli Falls (Cloudland Falls) Visit Chinna Suruli Falls near Kombaithozhu village. This waterfall is picturesque, less crowded than Suruli, and perfect for cooling off.
Evening Cumbum Valley Grape Garden Stroll Enjoy a walk through the lush Cumbum Valley Grape Farms, a unique agricultural sight, as the sun sets.
Day 2: Sacred Springs & Serene Valleys
Time Area Activity Description
Morning Varusanad Hills Mavoothu Velappar Temple Drive to Mavoothu. Trek or drive up the Varusanad Hill to this remote temple known for its natural spring (Theertha Thotti), believed to have medicinal properties.
Late Morning Periyakulam Kumbakkarai Falls Visit Kumbakkarai Falls. While semi-popular, it remains less commercialized than Suruli and is a classic hidden gem at the foothills of the Kodaikanal Hills.
Lunch Periyakulam Local Mango City Meal Enjoy lunch in Periyakulam, famed for its fresh produce.
Afternoon Andipatti Shanmuganathi Dam & Sothuparai Dam Visit the lesser-known Shanmuganathi Dam and the secluded Sothuparai Dam reservoir area for tranquil water views without the crowds of Vaigai.
Evening Theni Outskirts Kailasanathar Cave Temple Visit the ancient Kailasanathar Cave Temple (near Suruli) to view the rock-cut architecture and unique spiritual setting.
Day 3: Border Views, Unique Faith & Departure
Time Area Activity Description
Morning Border Area Ramakkalmedu Viewpoint Drive toward Kumily/Thekkady and visit Ramakkalmedu (in Kerala, but offers amazing panoramic views of the entire Theni and Cumbum plains). Also see the Kuravan and Kurathi Statue.
Late Morning Kuchanur Kuchanur Saneeswara Temple Make a pilgrimage to the unique Kuchanur Sri Saneeswara Bhagavan Temple, one of the only temples dedicated solely to Lord Shani in his self-manifested form.
Lunch Theni Town Final Meal & Check-out Have a final traditional meal and pick up any remaining local spices.
Afternoon Departure Drop-off Proceed to the Theni Bus Stand / Railway Station for your onward journey.