Looking for the perfect weekend road trips from Trichy to beat the heat?
The region surrounding Trichy is home to several stunning waterfalls, each offering a unique experience. While a few lie just beyond the 50 km radius I covered in our hidden places guide. They are all well within reach for a refreshing day trip or weekend escape.
From the adventurous treks of Kolli Hills to the serene forest cascades of Pachaimalai. Here are the top 7 waterfalls near Trichy you must visit.
Waterfall Comparison Table
| Waterfall | Distance from Trichy | Height | Best Season | Entry Fee | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puliyancholai Falls | 76 km | ~300 ft | June–July | Free | Easy |
| Mangalam Falls | ~61 km | Moderate | Dec–Mar | Free | Moderate |
| Koraiyar Falls | 72 km | ~60 ft deep pool | Oct–Feb | Free | Challenging |
| Agaya Gangai Falls | 138 km | 300 ft | Post-monsoon | Free | Challenging |
| Etterumaipaazhi Falls | ~80 km | Moderate | Monsoon | Free | Very Challenging |
| Mayil Uthu Falls | ~85 km | Moderate | Monsoon | Free | Challenging |
| Puthur Falls | ~75 km | Seasonal | Monsoon | Free | Moderate |
1. Puliyancholai Falls: The Weekend Favorite
Distance: 76 km | Height: 300 ft cascade | Entry: Free
Located at the foothills of the Kolli Hills.. Puliyancholai Falls is a favorite for day-trippers from Trichy. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest and tamarind groves. Making it an ideal spot for a picnic and a refreshing dip in the natural pool. The 1.5-2 hour journey (approx. 79.7 km) makes it accessible for a quick getaway .
Key Data: Open 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM; free entry; 79.7 km from Trichy; 1-2 hour trip duration.
Travel Tip: Visit in June-July for the best water flow. Check our Puliyancholai falls guide for detailed timings and safety tips.
2. Mangalam Falls: Reopened with New Safety Features
Distance: ~61 km | Best Season: December-March | Entry: Free
Nestled deep in the Pachaimalai Hills near Thuraiyur. Mangalam Falls is known for its perennial flow. After a ₹10 lakh renovation under the TANII program.
The falls reopened with protective handrails and a concrete base for safer bathing. Visitors still request more amenities like drinking water, restrooms, and better approach roads.
Key Data: 14 km from Top Sengattupatti; ₹10 lakh safety railings; perennial flow .
Travel Tip: Access is via a gravel road from Chinna Mangalam village. Plan ahead during monsoon weeks for the best flow .
3. Koraiyar Falls: The Adventurer’s Reward
Distance: 72 km | Season: October-February | Entry: Free
Koraiyar Falls in the Pachaimalai Hills is a stunning sight, with water plunging into a 60-foot-deep reservoir surrounded by black stone rocks. It’s a seasonal marvel that requires a 3 km forest trek to reach.
Recent government investment of ₹4.27 crore has added 800-meter stone steps and a new bathing area.
Key Data: 72 km from Trichy; 60 ft deep pool; 400m rugged trek; 300-400 seasonal visitors.
Travel Tip: Only attempt this trek during the dry season (October-February) to avoid dangerous flash floods.
4. Agaya Gangai Falls: The 300-Foot Spectacle
Distance: 138 km | Height: 300 ft | Entry: Free
Though further away, the majestic Agaya Gangai Falls is worth the journey. It is a breathtaking 300-foot cascade in the Kolli Hills. Created when the River Aiyaru descends the rocky terrain. The rewarding view comes after a challenging trek of about 1,300 steps from the Arapaleeswarar Temple.
Key Data: 138 km from Trichy; 300 ft high; 1,300 steps; medicinal properties .
Travel Tip: Start early to complete the trek and return before evening. The journey to Kolli Hills itself offers stunning views.
5. Etterumaipaazhi Falls: A Hidden Secret
Distance: ~80 km | Season: Post-monsoon | Entry: Free
Located near Mangalam Falls.. Etterumaipaazhi Falls requires a 600-meter climb down through a path with no steps . It remains one of the least explored and most pristine spots in the region.
Key Data: 600m climb down; no steps; accessed via Chinna Mangalam .
Travel Tip: This is only for experienced trekkers. Inform locals before venturing and carry a reliable GPS device.
6. Mayil Uthu Falls
Distance: ~85 km | Season: Monsoon | Entry: Free
One of the lesser-known waterfalls in Pachaimalai.. Mayil Uthu Falls is a hidden gem for true nature lovers seeking solitude. Access requires local guidance and bush-bashing skills.
Travel Tip: Contact the Forest Department eco-tourism office at Top Sengattupatti for permissions and a local guide.
7. Puthur Falls
Distance: ~75 km | Season: Monsoon | Entry: Free
Close to Koraiyar.. Puthur Falls is a developing eco-tourism spot with a new 2 km approach road and parking lots. It’s easier to access than Koraiyar but still requires a short jungle walk.
Travel Tip: Visit during October-November for the best water flow. Combine with Koraiyar Falls for a full day of exploration.
Planning Your Waterfall Weekend
Recommended Itinerary
- Day 1: Start early for Puliyancholai Falls (76 km). Spend the morning swimming and trekking.
- Day 2: Head to Pachaimalai Hills for Koraiyar Falls and Mangalam Falls.
Essential Checklist
- Check Weather: Post-monsoon (October-March) is safest and most rewarding.
- Pack Essentials: Carry water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a camera.
- Safety: Avoid waterfalls during heavy rain to prevent flash floods.
- Bookings: For treks, book through the Forest Department (Top Sengattupatti).
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the closest waterfall to Trichy?
Mukkombu Dam (a man-made reservoir) is the closest at 18 km. For natural waterfalls.. Puliyancholai (76 km) is the nearest.
2. Are there entry fees for these waterfalls?
Most are free. Some remote treks may require a nominal forest permit fee.
3. What is the best time to visit waterfalls near Trichy?
October to February offers the best water flow and pleasant weather .
4. Do I need a guide for Koraiyar Falls?
Yes, a local guide is highly recommended. Contact the District Forest Office for permissions .
5. Can I visit Agaya Gangai Falls in one day?
Yes, but leave Trichy by 5 AM. The 1,300-step trek requires 3-4 hours round trip.
Conclusion
The waterfalls near Trichy offer something for everyone. From a relaxed family picnic at Puliyancholai to the adrenaline of trekking to Agaya Gangai. While most of these falls are just beyond the 50 km radius. They are perfect for a weekend road trip from Trichy.
For more detailed adventure guides, check out our Pachaimalai hill tour article or explore our weekend road trips from Trichy for other exciting destinations!
