Courtallam (Kutralam) in Tenkasi district is called the “Spa of South India” for its many waterfalls. The season is during the south-west monsoon, roughly June to September, when light rain (saaral) keeps the falls full. The main falls are Main Falls (Peraruvi), Five Falls (Aintharuvi), Old Courtallam Falls and Tiger Falls. Courtallam is about 55 km from Tirunelveli, 160 km from Madurai and about 110 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
When is the Courtallam season?
The best time is June to September. Water flow depends on the monsoon each year; in a weak monsoon the falls can be thin, and after very heavy rain the police may stop bathing for safety. Check the latest news before you go.
Waterfalls in Courtallam
- Main Falls (Peraruvi) — the biggest and busiest, right next to the Kutralanathar Temple.
- Five Falls (Aintharuvi) — the water splits into five streams; about 5 km from Main Falls.
- Old Courtallam Falls — about 8 km away, popular for bathing.
- Tiger Falls and Chitraruvi — smaller, quieter falls.
- Shenbagadevi Falls and Honey Falls — inside forest areas with restricted access.
Distance to Courtallam
| From | Approx. distance | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Tenkasi | 6 km | 15 min |
| Tirunelveli | 55 km | 1.5 hrs |
| Thiruvananthapuram | 110 km | 3 hrs |
| Madurai | 160 km | 3.5 hrs |
| Sabarimala (Pamba) | 180 km | 5 hrs |
| Chennai | 640 km | 11–12 hrs |
Nearby places
Combine Courtallam with Thenmala eco-tourism and the Palaruvi falls across the Kerala border, the Kasi Viswanathar Temple in Tenkasi, and Papanasam and Manimuthar near Ambasamudram.