A tryst with the clouds – Meghamalai
Meghamalai, which means mountain of clouds, is definitely a mountain range among the clouds. Situated in Theni district of the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, with its lush green forests, never ending rows of hills and picturesque spots strewn around in abundance, Meghamalai is one of those places that you just cannot visit only once.
Popularly known as the High Wavy Mountains, this mountain range is part of the Western Ghats and is situated 1500kms above sea level. It is also the source of the Suruli River and also consists of Vellimalai (Silver Mountain) which is where the river Vaigai originates. Home to a two waterfalls and dotted with tea, coffee and cardamom estates, Meghamalai is a never ending source of rich flora and fauna.
Large aromatic tea estates, a number of dams and the pristine waterfalls are easily the main attractions this tourist spot offers. If you start on a trek through the hills, you are sure to come across with the varied wildlife that has made this evergreen mountain their home.
The staggering list includes animals like Nilgiri Tahr, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Langur, Lion-tailed Macaque, Common Langur, Smooth-coated Otter and the endangered Flying Squirrel. Birds like Red-whiskered Bulbul , White-browed Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, Pied Bush Chat, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Barn Swallow, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Brahminy Kite, Long-tailed Shrike and many other species make this place a treasure trove for bird watchers. It is also home to number of rare endangered species like the Great Indian Hornbills, Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Salim Ali’s Fruit Bat, Hutton’s Pit Viper and the Slender Loris.
Upper Manalaru, Maharaja Mettu and Iravangalaru are some of the forest regions that could be scaled with a good long trek and provides ample opportunities to experience the bountiful treasures of nature this range offers. Equipped with all the facilities required by tourists, this hidden destination in a sure place to let you unwind and relax in the lap of nature.
Filled with mesmeric views of the deep valley and the forest-covered hillsides, this place is much more than your quintessential tourist spot. If you are looking to spend weekend filled with serenity and at awe of nature, Meghamalai is for you.