Theni and Kambam, located at the foothills of the majestic Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, are a treasure trove of natural beauty, adventure, and serene attractions. With lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, scenic tea estates, and tranquil dams, these towns are perfect for a rejuvenating getaway. This guide lists all the tourist places near Theni and Kambam, including detailed information on distances, activities, and the best ways to enjoy these spots.

Popular Tourist Places Near Theni

1. Meghamalai (High Wavy Mountains)

Distance from Theni: 43 km
Meghamalai is a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea plantations and lush forests. Perfect for trekkers and nature lovers, this destination is a paradise for anyone looking to escape into nature.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Entry Timings: Open all day
  • Best Season to Visit: October to May
  • Highlights: Meghamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Vellimalai viewpoint, and Manalar Dam.
  • Activities: Trekking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching.

2. Suruli Falls

Distance from Theni: 42 km
Suruli Falls is a two-tiered waterfall surrounded by dense greenery and hills, offering a refreshing experience for visitors.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹30 for adults, ₹10 for children
  • Entry Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Best Season to Visit: June to October
  • Highlights: Natural pools and nearby trekking trails.
  • Activities: Hiking and enjoying water cascades.

3. Vaigai Dam

Distance from Theni: 14 km
The Vaigai Dam is a family-friendly attraction that offers serene views, a sprawling garden, and a play area for children.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹10 per person
  • Entry Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Best Season to Visit: July to September during the monsoon.
  • Highlights: Boating and well-maintained parks.
  • Activities: Photography, picnics, and nature walks.

4. Kumbakkarai Falls

Distance from Theni: 30 km
Kumbakkarai Falls is a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy the cool cascades and scenic surroundings, perfect for a peaceful day out.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹10 per person
  • Entry Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Best Season to Visit: September to January
  • Highlights: Natural pools and dense greenery.
  • Activities: Swimming in shallow waters and picnicking.

5. Sothuparai Dam

Distance from Theni: 20 km
This dam is an excellent spot for those looking for tranquility and scenic beauty. The surrounding reservoir area is ideal for relaxation.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Breathtaking views of the dam and surrounding hills.
  • Activities: Nature walks, birdwatching, and photography.

6. Bodinayakanur

Distance from Theni: 16 km
Known as the “Cardamom Capital of India,” Bodinayakanur is famous for its sprawling cardamom plantations and serene environment.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: November to February
  • Highlights: Spices and scenic beauty.
  • Activities: Plantation walks, trekking, and spice shopping.

Theni Tourist Places Map

Top Tourist Spots Around Kambam

1. Kambam Valley

Distance from Theni: 40 km
The fertile Kambam Valley is surrounded by scenic vineyards and lush greenery, offering visitors a chance to experience rural beauty.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to February
  • Highlights: Picturesque landscapes, vineyards, and trekking trails.
  • Activities: Photography and vineyard tours.

2. Cumbum

Distance from Theni: 35 km
Cumbum is a tranquil town known for its serene atmosphere, scenic views, and sprawling farmlands.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: November to March
  • Highlights: Green farms and peaceful ambiance.
  • Activities: Cycling and photography.

3. Kurangani Hills

Distance from Theni: 27 km
Kurangani Hills is a trekker’s paradise offering excellent trails and panoramic views of the surrounding forests and mountains.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹50 per person
  • Best Season to Visit: September to February
  • Highlights: Scenic trekking trails and cool climate.
  • Activities: Trekking, camping, and photography.

4. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Distance from Theni: 40 km
Situated near Kambam, Kolukkumalai is the world’s highest tea estate, offering breathtaking views and a unique tea-making experience.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹100 for guided tours
  • Entry Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Sunrise photography and tea-tasting sessions.
  • Activities: Plantation tours, sunrise treks, and zipline adventures.

Adventure Activities Near Theni and Kambam

1. Ziplining at Kurangani Hills

Kurangani Hills offers an exciting ziplining experience for adventure enthusiasts. Glide over lush greenery and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Price: ₹500 to ₹1000 (varies by operator)
  • Best Time: October to February

2. Trekking at Kolukkumalai

Embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. The trail offers breathtaking views and cool weather.

  • Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
  • Price: ₹50 to ₹100 (entry fees for estate access)

3. Bamboo Rafting at Lower Camp

At Lower Camp near Kambam, visitors can enjoy bamboo rafting on calm waters surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

  • Price: ₹200 to ₹300 per person
  • Best Season: October to March

Theni Nearby Attractions for Day Trips

1. Thekkady

Distance from Theni: 43 km
Thekkady, known for its wildlife sanctuary, is a haven for nature and wildlife lovers.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹25 for adults, ₹10 for children
  • Entry Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Highlights: Wildlife safaris, bamboo rafting, and lush greenery.
  • Activities: Elephant rides, forest trekking, and boating.

2. Munnar

Distance from Theni: 70 km
Munnar, a popular hill station, is renowned for its sprawling tea estates, waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints.

  • Best Season to Visit: September to March
  • Highlights: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and Top Station.
  • Activities: Tea tours, hiking, and nature photography.

Waterfalls to Visit in Theni and Kambam

Apart from the popular Suruli Falls and Kumbakkarai Falls, here are some lesser-known waterfalls in and around Theni and Kambam:

1. Chinna Suruli Falls

Distance from Theni: 40 km
Known as the Cloud Land Falls, Chinna Suruli Falls is located at the foothills of the Meghamalai range. This enchanting waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is ideal for nature lovers.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Peaceful surroundings and cascading waters.

2. Velu Falls

Distance from Theni: 50 km
Nestled in the Meghamalai hills, Velu Falls is a small but serene waterfall. It’s perfect for visitors looking to explore offbeat locations.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: Post-monsoon (October to January)
  • Highlights: Ideal for photography and picnics.

3. Thoovanam Falls

Distance from Kambam: 65 km (near Thekkady)
Located within the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam Falls is a scenic spot where visitors can enjoy trekking and views of the cascading water amidst dense forest.

  • Entry Ticket Price: ₹20 for adults
  • Best Season to Visit: November to February
  • Highlights: Trekking trails and wildlife spotting

Dams to be visited in and Around Theni and Kambam

Theni and Kambam are home to several dams that offer scenic views, picnic spots, and serene reservoirs. Here are some more dams to explore:

1. Shanmuganathi Dam

Distance from Theni: 25 km
This dam is a small but picturesque spot surrounded by hills and greenery. It’s an excellent location for picnics and short day trips.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to February
  • Highlights: Peaceful ambiance and nearby hiking trails.

2. Lower Periyar Dam

Distance from Kambam: 25 km
Situated close to Kambam, this dam is part of the Periyar River and offers stunning views of the surrounding Western Ghats.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Sunset views and boating opportunities.

3. Mullaperiyar Dam

Distance from Kambam: 20 km
One of the most iconic dams near Kambam, the Mullaperiyar Dam is built across the Periyar River and offers breathtaking views.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: November to March
  • Highlights: Boating, photography, and scenic walks around the reservoir.

4. Manjalar Dam

Distance from Theni: 30 km
The Manjalar Dam is another peaceful spot, surrounded by hills and offering a serene escape from city life.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: Post-monsoon (October to January)
  • Highlights: Peaceful environment and picnic-friendly location.

5. Periyakulam Dam

Distance from Theni: 15 km
Located close to Theni, Periyakulam Dam is a lesser-known spot but perfect for a quick visit and enjoying quiet moments by the water.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Nearby trails and sunset views.

Rare and Offbeat Spots to Explore Near Theni and Kambam

If you’re looking to go beyond the commonly explored destinations and venture into rare, lesser-known spots near Theni and Kambam, here’s a list of hidden treasures that will make your trip truly unique:

1. Vattaparai Waterfalls

Distance from Theni: 40 km
This hidden gem lies deep within the forests near Periyakulam. Vattaparai Waterfalls is not widely known among tourists, making it a serene spot for nature lovers and explorers.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: Post-monsoon (October to January)
  • Highlights: Untouched natural beauty, dense forest trails, and a peaceful environment.
  • Activities: Trekking, nature photography, and birdwatching.

2. Kottagudi Valley (Top Station Hidden Route)

Distance from Theni: 50 km
Located on the route to Top Station, Kottagudi Valley is a breathtaking, lesser-known valley surrounded by misty mountains. It is a paradise for adventure seekers and photographers.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Panoramic views of the Western Ghats and hidden trekking trails.
  • Activities: Offbeat trekking, camping, and exploring the lush surroundings.

3. Cloud Land Viewpoint

Distance from Theni: 45 km (near Meghamalai)
This hidden viewpoint offers one of the best panoramic views of the Meghamalai hills. It’s a tranquil spot to enjoy sunrises and sunsets away from the crowds.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to February
  • Highlights: Mist-covered landscapes, untouched beauty, and solitude.
  • Activities: Photography and meditation in a serene setting.

4. Anayirangal Dam Backwaters

Distance from Kambam: 55 km
Located en route to Munnar, the Anayirangal Dam Backwaters is a pristine, rarely-visited spot. The dam is surrounded by tea plantations and offers a tranquil atmosphere.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: November to March
  • Highlights: Serene backwaters, scenic tea plantations, and boating opportunities.
  • Activities: Boating, walking through tea gardens, and relaxing by the dam.

5. Chinna Kallar Valley

Distance from Kambam: 60 km
Known as the “Second Wettest Place in India,” Chinna Kallar is a unique, offbeat spot near the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border. It is surrounded by thick forests and streams, offering a truly wild experience.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: July to January
  • Highlights: High rainfall, lush vegetation, and streams running through the forest.
  • Activities: Hiking and exploring jungle trails.

6. Iravangalar Dam

Distance from Theni: 60 km (near Meghamalai)
This remote dam, located in the Meghamalai region, is a little-known spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Serene surroundings and solitude.
  • Activities: Photography and quiet reflection amidst nature.

7. Kozhikarai Hills

Distance from Theni: 35 km
The Kozhikarai Hills is an untouched area ideal for adventurous travelers seeking unique trekking routes and quiet time in nature.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: November to February
  • Highlights: Offbeat trails, panoramic views, and complete isolation from tourist crowds.
  • Activities: Trekking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching.

8. Mangalamkombu Village

Distance from Theni: 38 km
Mangalamkombu is a small, peaceful village surrounded by hills, located on the way to Meghamalai. The area is known for its agriculture, particularly organic farming practices.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Rural charm, organic farms, and panoramic views of the valley.
  • Activities: Walking tours, interacting with locals, and learning about organic farming.

9. Pannaikadu

Distance from Theni: 32 km
Pannaikadu is a lesser-known hilly village near Theni, surrounded by coffee plantations and misty landscapes. It’s an offbeat destination for those seeking quiet retreats.

  • Entry Ticket Price: Free
  • Best Season to Visit: October to March
  • Highlights: Coffee estates, serene atmosphere, and small trekking trails.
  • Activities: Plantation walks, photography, and picnics.

Children’s Attractions in Theni

  • Vaigai Dam Park: A play area and well-maintained garden perfect for kids.
  • Thekkady Boating: Family-friendly boat rides on Periyar Lake.
  • Kumbakkarai Falls: Shallow pools for kids to play safely.
  • Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Fun and educational plantation tours.

Theni Full Travel Information

  • Best Time to Visit: October to February
  • How to Reach:
    • By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Madurai and Coimbatore.
    • By Train: The nearest railway station is Madurai Junction.
    • By Air: Madurai Airport is the closest, about 80 km away.
  • Accommodation: Resorts in Meghamalai, budget hotels in Theni, and homestays in Kambam.

Why Visit Theni and Kambam?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys stepping off the beaten path and discovering the rarest locations, these spots near Theni and Kambam will leave you with unforgettable memories.

  • Adventure: Trekking trails, forest hikes, and offbeat exploration.
  • Solitude: Escape from the tourist crowds and enjoy nature at its purest.
  • Unique Experiences: From exploring valleys and backwaters to mingling with rural life.

From mesmerizing waterfalls like Suruli Falls and Kumbakkarai Falls to adventure-packed destinations like Kurangani Hills and Kolukkumalai, Theni and Kambam offer an array of tourist attractions for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or scenic beauty, these towns have something for everyone. Plan your trip to Theni and Kambam today and create unforgettable memories!

Recent Posts