Manjolai Hill Station - Tamilnadu
The scenic location set deep into the dense woods of Western Ghat Ranges in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve Area. This unexplored region lies in the Tirunelveli district of the South Indian state Tamil Nadu.
Situated at an altitude of 1160meters above the sea level, Manjolai hills still remains an unexplored region with a mystical beauty.
It is also called as “Poor Man's Ooty” for its tranquil ambience and scenic locations. Prior permission from the forest department is insisted as the location is to be reached moving within the forest.
Tourist Attractions in Manjolai
The Manjolai region, tucked away in the lush Western Ghats, is a hidden gem that blends natural beauty, tea plantations, waterfalls, and heritage. Manjolai has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
Tea Estates
Manimuthar Tea Estate - A scenic estate surrounded by plantations and a dam with rolling green hills. Here visitors can enjoy the refreshing aroma of fresh tea leaves.
Manjolai Tea Estate - With unexpected drizzles and picturesque plantation, this landscape provides a sense of tranquility.
Dams & Water Bodies
Kuttiyar Dam - Surrounded by greenery, this dam is a calm retreat for nature lovers.
Upper Kodayar Dam - A scenic dam with views of forests and valleys.
Kakkachi Lake - A lake known for its calm waters and peaceful surroundings with a colonial golf course.
Tarzan Pool - A natural forest pool, perfect for a dip in the wild.
Manimuthar Falls - A majestic waterfall, famous for its gushing waters.
Viewpoints
Kuthiravetti - A viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats.
Nalumukku - A cool place, ideal for spending time amidst nature.
Heritage
Singampatty Zamin Palace- A historic palace reflecting the grandeur of the Singampatty Zamin family.
Vanapetchi Amman Temple- A revered temple drawing devotees and visitors alike.
Things To Do in Manjolai
The best time to visit Manjolai Hills is between November and March. Trekking is suggested for adventure seekers to explore into the woods. The Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger reserve area is a protected zone and the travelers need to obtain prior permission to go into the area. Similar condition does exist for visiting the Upper Kodayar Dam. Visiting the lake, enjoying at the various mini water falls, resting and relaxing in the lap of nature are the best things you can do during your trip to Manjolai Hills.
How to reach:
Air Airport nearest to Manjolai Hills is at Tuticorin and you can reach the destination via Tirunelveli crossing a distance of 100kms.
By Rail:The nearest rail head is at Tirunelveli from where Manjolai is at a distance of 63kms.
By Road:Tirunelveli is a place well connected with the major cities of Tamilnadu and the other nearby states. From Tirunelveli, public transport ply at regular intervals to the destination.
Travel Essentials to Carry
Carry a few basic necessities with you, as the location is situated in a dense forest where there are limited amenities. Also, bring a water bottle and some light snacks to keep you energized on a long trek or journey. On winter visits, wear light woolens and comfortable shoes for safe and convenient trekking.
You might not see pharmacies or shops selling personal essentials, so bring your own. You can also take a camera or binoculars along with you if you enjoy nature photography or birdwatching.
Entry Rules and Permissions
Manjolai is located within the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, where you will require permission from the forest department in advance to stay overnight there or trek for more than a day. This rule is adhered to strictly to save the forests and animals and keep visitors safe from wild attacks. In addition, no cars can drive inside the link without a permit, so plan accordingly or get permission to avoid any last-minute issues.
Accommodation Options
You can prefer a stay in Tirunelveli or other towns nearby if you want to visit the hills for a day. For a comfortable stay, book guest houses and estate bungalows in advance for a homely experience. By staying near the tea estates, you get an opportunity to wake up to misty mornings and fresh air.
Things to Avoid in Manjolai
Avoid littering around, especially when you are touring around the location of the protected Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. Refrain from disturbing animals, picking at plants, or making too much noise, as it will affect the balance of the environment.
People need to stay on marked paths and avoid private tea estates unless permission has been granted. To maintain the calm atmosphere and for responsible tourism, drinking, bonfires, and plastic are not recommended there.
Avoid Relying on Mobile Networks
In this station, many places have little or no cell service for most of the major networks, so it's hard to stay connected on the road. Travelers shouldn't count on having mobile data to get to their destinations or send and receive messages. It may be a good idea to let your family know ahead of time, download maps before you leave, and take note of important contacts in case you get caught short in the remote area.
Cash Essentials in Manjolai
There are no ATMs in the vicinity, and cards and online payments are not accepted at most shops and homestays. Before going there, make sure to have enough money with you. You can draw cash in towns like Tirunelveli, which is enroute.
It's also hard to use mobile banking because the internet and mobile signals are so poor. It's much easier to travel with some cash on hand, making your trip smoother.