Parvathamalai trekking trails, located within Tamil Nadu near Thenmathimangalam in the middle of Tamil Nadu, offer some spectacular trekking opportunities in The Eastern Ghats' trekking trails. Just 30km away from Thiruvannamalai district lies this breathtaking area which forms part of Parvathamalai Reserved Forest that forms an integral part of Pudupalayam mountain range.
Parvathamalai Hill is steeped in myth and legend. Attracting adventure travelers of all kinds, according to ancient tradition this hill was one of Sanjeevani Mountain, named for being carried by Lord Hanuman in Hindu epic Ramayana. Additionally, Parvathamalai boasts rare plants known for their medicinal benefits which have long been sought-after throughout time.
Parvathamalai trek route
Parvathamalai's scenic trail provides stunning views of the Eastern Ghats. However, to enjoy it fully it requires exertion - with rough terrain making hiking strenuous at times; but as with any worthwhile trek stunning scenery can only be enjoyed after pushing through difficult sections - and Parvathamalai trek does not disappoint here!
This article contains all the details necessary for planning the Parvathamalai trek - it will serve as an indispensable guideline!
There are two trek routes you have the choice of taking: Thenmathimangalam and Kadaladi routes are both options available to you for exploring this stunning region, but we suggest opting for Thenmathimangalam if you are new or experienced hiker. Kadaladi may be less crowded but more challenging. We advise taking Thenmathimangalam in particular as being easier.
Your journey begins in Thenmathimangalam and continues through to Parvathamalai entry point and Sri Pachaiyamman Temple, situated between it and Parvathamalai hillside. Walk down towards your left or take a taxi; its distance is roughly 1.5km from Bus stop.
Visits to temples are enjoyable experiences in Tamil Nadu. Walking along its picturesque routes provides an enjoyable walking experience, particularly when combined with devotional music and chants emanating from within them. When coupled with soft morning fog, they make for an unforgettable journey.
If you arrive by car, there is the option of parking it near the church in one of their designated spaces.
On foot, you will pass by an area of forest security and Sri Anjaneya Temple before beginning to traverse through forests. Be sure to carry along with you your government ID card just in case there are checkpoints along your route - these birds include Bar Headed Goose. Monsoon months bring lush greenery and tiny streams of running water.
After about 30 minutes of hiking, you'll arrive at Veerabhadra temple where free meals will be offered and recharges can be performed on phones by staff members of the temple.
The trail on the left leads uphill with over 1200 steps of stone that wind through dense forest with various animal and plant life, providing strenuous hiking conditions. It is important to maintain an even pace, carry enough fluids, and take frequent rest breaks when necessary. When reaching the summit of these steps it becomes slippery with large rocks surrounding you; clear markings of arrows will direct your journey down it; after crossing this treacherous path is the stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva offering stunning panoramic views of distant mountains as you go by it - providing time to relax before continuing your travels further down this treacherous path!
Trail winds its way through dense woods with tree roots spanning all corners of the Earth. Following it will bring you to Kadaladi-Thenmathimangalam intersection; typically an hour away from Veerabhadra temple. At the junction stop briefly and have lunch before continuing your trek onwards. When reaching this junction prepare yourself for what could possibly be one of the hardest portions of your trek ahead!
Ascending Parvathamalai's summit begins with an uphill struggle over rugged terrain with numerous outcrops of rock, massive chunks, and metal railings that may or may not be present. Once this first leg is complete, eventually you will arrive at Kadaparai Hill where stopping briefly can offer breathtaking views that encompass and extend well beyond Eastern Ghats before continuing forward with your trek.
Kadaparai Hill rises at an acute angle of 70 degrees and requires construction of iron rods that serve as unofficial staircase to make climbing its steep incline more thrilling. Once at the top, you can quickly cross across towards series of iron vertical stairs that bridge between hills which could cause vertigo; once across, look out for series of ladder crossings made out of iron that provide additional access. Once on this route, it won't take you too long before reaching its last leg of adventure!
Idukku Paarai in Tamil Nadu offers a path with steps crafted of stone with large boulders. Its narrow path accommodates only one person at once. At its conclusion you will come upon Parvathamalai Temple on its summit; synthetic steps provide access to reach this destination.
Before descending the Eastern Ghats, take time to admire its lush landscapes. Descending involves taking an unfamiliar route that begins with an abrupt climb before connecting back up with a standard route for climbing. Don't hesitate to seek assistance if you find yourself feeling uncertain or disoriented along your journey!
Trek HighlightsÂ
An Engaging and Enthralling Journey
The Parvathamalai trail offers an unforgettable day hike that requires perseverance to navigate its rugged terrain with rocks and obstacles, offering thrill-seekers excitement within South India. It makes a fantastic choice of adventure vacation.
Parvathamalai Forests are home to numerous rare plants and birds such as Orange Breasted Green Pigeon and Bar Headed Goose that inhabit this region.
Exploring the Eastern Ghats
Eastern Ghats landscape on the trail is truly special, offering visitors an unforgettable moment viewed from its summit covered in clouds. Tourists marvel at stunning panoramic views of valleys and mountains beneath.
At all times when on the trail, keep an eye out for iron staircases and ladder crossings.
Be mindful when traveling near areas containing steel ladders or stairs as these may pose potential dangers. To stay safe, it's imperative that you move with caution, taking time and taking your time so as to avoid any dangers that might present themselves.
As soon as you pass Veerabhadra temple, the trail turns into a long and challenging climb that may prove especially taxing on those not in good physical condition or lacking adequate preparation for trek. To prevent dehydration and burnout, drink lots of water throughout your trek while making time to rest regularly*
Descending Down the Steep Staircase
Navigating a narrow, steep path can be dauntingly difficult due to both its narrow width and steep ascent, so being aware of where each step you take is essential for maintaining stability and balance. To do this safely.
Best time for Parvathamalai Trek
If you want an unforgettable adventure, take the Parvathamalai hike from September through February. The climate makes for an enjoyable trek through forest zones.
Monsoon season often brings rainy conditions which create slippery surfaces on rocks and iron areas that pose difficulties to climbers. Climbers should try avoiding trekking in these areas when the weather is wet; otherwise summer heat could make trekking uncomfortable as well as more demanding.
How to reach
Thenmathimangalam lies only minutes away from Thiruvannamalai and can easily be reached either via car or public transit from Chennai.
If traveling from Chennai, TNSTC's regular bus service can help get you to Thiruvannamalai. With its route covering approximately 195 miles between them and an expected journey time between 4-5 hours; tickets typically range in price between INR 200 and 300 for this route.
To reach Parvathamalai entrance at Thenmathimangalam from Thiruvannamalai, an express bus from Thiruvannamalai will bring you straight there.
