HOGENAKKAL - YELAGIRI (FROM CHENNAI)

At a distance of 47 km from Dharmapuri, 85 km from Salem, 114 km from Yercaud, 146 km from Bangalore, 180 km from Mysore, 217 km from Coimbatore, and 345 km from Chennai, Hogenakkal Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. Formed over Kaveri River, it is one of the top places to visit in Tamilnadu, and among the best waterfalls in India.

Often referred to as the 'Niagara of India', Hogenakkal is also one of the wonderful tourist places to visit near Bangalore & Chennai. When the River Kaveri enters the Tamil Nadu border after winding its way through the state of Karnataka, it descends down the lofty landscape forming the Hogenakkal Waterfalls. The Carbonatite rocks found near the waterfall are one of the oldest in the world. The two Kannada words 'Hoge' means 'Smoke' and 'Kal' means 'Rocks' .....

At a distance of 1 km from Athanavur Bus Stop, Punganoor Lake is a man-made lake located in the center of the Yelagiri Hills. It is one of the most famous artificial lakes in Tamil Nadu, and among the popular tourist places in Yelagiri Hills.

Punganoor Lake covers nearly 60 sq. m of land. There is also a fountain in the middle and boating facilities are available. There is a garden named the 'Mughal Garden' right next to the lake. The Punganur lake is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature as part of Yelagiri tour packages.

The boat club here offers pedal and motorboat rides. The waters of the lake are calm and serene. There's a walking track around the lake circumference, a children's park, a small tree top viewpoint, and few shops. One can take a short walk along the lakeside. Children can enjoy the swings and slides .....

At a distance of 400 m from Punganoor Lake and 1.3 km from Athanavur Bus Stop, the Velavan Temple is a famous temple and is located on one of the highest peaks of the Yelagiri Hills. It is among popular Yelagiri tourist places.

The Velavan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan. This beautiful temple was constructed in 1964. The temple is located atop of a hillock and it also serves as a viewing point. From the temple complex one can see the panoramic view of the green valleys of Yelagiri.

At the temple, one can find a huge statue of the mythological character Ghatothgajan in a standing posture. Highlight of the temple is the statue of Lord Murugan and Valli in the form of Kuravan and Kurathi. Lord Ganesha has a separate shrine within the Velavan temple. At the top of the mountain, temple bells are placed.

The yearly festival of this .....

At a distance of 5.4 km from Punganoor Lake and 4.5 km from Athanavur Bus Stop, Nilavoor Lake is one of the popular Yelagiri tourist places and is frequented by boating enthusiasts.

Nilavoor Lake is an artificial lake located in Nilavoor village. It is a small lake more like a pond, with a garden on its banks. The lake is indeed a tranquil and peaceful place to relax in the deep serenity away from the hassles of busy life. One can take a short walk along the lake side and also enjoy a boat ride. The lake offers pedal and motor boat rides.

This small lake offers captivating views of the nearby surroundings and hilly terrains while enjoying boating in the calm water. There is also a Devi Temple belonging to Kadavu Nachiya close to the region around the lake. Recently, the Thambiran Lotus Pond has been constructed at the Nilavoor Lake.

Moksha Vimochana Temple is also located near the Nilavoor .....

At a distance of 1 km from Punganoor Lake and 750 m from Athanavur Bus Stop, The Nature Park is one of the best tourist places to visit in Yelagiri.

Nature Park is located adjacent to Punganoor Lake, spread over an area of 12 acres. Several species of plants suited to the rocky terrain of the region have been planted in the park. The park also has an artificial waterfall. There is bathing facility available in this cascade. The nature park is very well maintained and it is studded with plenty of varieties of trees, well laid out walk ways, beautifully lighted fountain and so on.

The nature park contains a children's park, a musical fountain, an aquarium, a seasonal garden, a bamboo house, a poly house to name a few attractions. It is a perfect place for both kids and elders. The musical fountain has the water dancing to popular songs. The musical fountains show is there at 7 PM every day. .....