Vellagavi Village

Tired of the usual trails? Craving an adventure that goes beyond the footsteps and touches your soul?

Imagine stepping into a world where time slows down, where ancient traditions thrive amidst breathtaking natural beauty. We're inviting you on an extraordinary journey to Vellagavi – a hidden gem nestled deep within the verdant embrace of the Palani Hills, near Kodaikanal.

This isn't just another trek; it's an immersion. Our path to Vellagavi is a challenging yet utterly rewarding expedition through the heart of the Western Ghats rainforest. Picture this: narrow trails winding through lush foliage, the sweet scent of coffee and cardamom plantations, vibrant orange farms, and the refreshing spray of a tiny waterfall amidst pristine farmlands. This is a paradise for the seasoned hiker, a chance to truly disconnect and find solace in the untamed wilderness.

But Vellagavi offers so much more than just stunning scenery. As you emerge from the forest, you'll be greeted by a spiritual sanctuary unlike any other. The entire village is considered a sacred space, a testament to centuries of unwavering faith. Here, you'll literally walk barefoot into a unique cultural experience, as footwear is respectfully banned within the village boundaries. With over 25 small temples dotting the landscape – more than the number of houses – you'll witness a profound reverence that permeates every aspect of daily life.

You'll be welcomed into a community that embodies simplicity and warmth. Greeted by genuine smiles, you’ll observe houses adorned with vibrant kolam art, and witness children’s joyful play on Sundays. This is a self-sufficient village, thriving on farming and goat rearing, where life is lived in harmony with nature, free from the complexities of modern conveniences. Their contentment, despite hardships, is a powerful reminder of what truly matters.

This trek to Vellagavi is your chance to:

• Challenge yourself on an exhilarating journey through pristine rainforest.

• Witness unparalleled natural beauty, from fragrant plantations to hidden waterfalls.

• Immerse yourself in a unique cultural tapestry, where ancient traditions flourish.

• Experience the profound spirituality of a barefoot village, a living sanctuary.

• Disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with yourself amidst serenity.

• Feel refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired by a simple life full of peace.

This isn't just a walk; it's a transformative experience. It’s an opportunity to shed your worries, breathe the freshest mountain air, and discover a profound sense of tranquility. Vellagavi is more than a destination; it's a feeling, a way of life that will stay with you long after you've returned.

If you're a trekker who seeks genuine adventure, cultural depth, and a soulful escape, then pack your bags and prepare your spirit.

Vellagavi is waiting to unveil its wonders to you. Are you ready to answer the call?

Until January 2025, the trek to Vellagavi was accessible through only one route. Trekkers had to begin their journey from the Vattakanala village in Kodaikanal. After visiting Vellagavi, they would return to the same starting point the next day. The difficulty level of this trek ranged from moderate to slightly challenging for beginners, while experienced trekkers found it easy to moderate. 

Since January, Trek Tamil Nadu, a government program to manage special trekking routes in Tamilnadu , has taken this route under their control and opened  new trails  up to Kumbakarai Falls near Periyakulam, Theni district ,from vellagavi . The route goes 7 km downhill to Vellagavi village through the Vellagavi reserve forest. 

The new trek routes include 

• Down hill trek from Kodaikanal - Vellagagavi -Kumbakarai (14 Km)  - 

•  Uphill trek from Kumbakarai - Vellagavi -Kodaikanal(14 Km).

Also you can do circular trek route.

•  Kumbakarai - vellagavi -Kumbakarai- route

•  Vattakanal ,kodaikanal  - Vellagavi - Vattakanal ,Kodainakal route 

• Distance: Vattakanal is about 7km from Kodaikanal town.
• From Kodaikanal:
  • The road is narrow and hilly.
  • No direct buses run to Vattakanal; hire a taxi/cab (₹400–600).
  • Local buses exist but are infrequent and less convenient.
• From Dindigul or Madurai:
  • Take motorable highways to Kodaikanal, 
  • Several local transport buses are available from both places to kodaikanal , then proceed to Vattakanal as above.
• Road Tip: The drive offers scenic views in the Western Ghats but may be challenging due to narrow roads.

• Nearest Railway Stations:
  • Dindigul (~80km from Kodaikanal) — most convenient with many train options.
  • Palani (~64km)
  • Madurai (~120km)
• From Railway Station: Take a taxi or bus to Kodaikanal (3–5 hours), then a taxi to Vattakanal.

• Nearest Airports:
  • Madurai Airport (120km)
  • Trichy Airport (150km)
  • Coimbatore Airport (175km)
• From Airport: Hire a taxi or bus to Kodaikanal (4–5 hours), then a taxi to Vattakanal (cab fare: ₹2,500–3,500).
• Alternative: Fly to Bangalore or Chennai, then take an overnight bus to Kodaikanal.

• From Periyakulam:
  • Kumbakarai is 9km away.
  • Local buses run several times a day (fare ~₹5).
  • Taxis or auto-rickshaws available.
• From Dindigul:
  • About 66km to Periyakulam, then onward to Kumbakarai.
• From Theni:
  • About 30km to Periyakulam.
• From Madurai:
  • 80km to Periyakulam, then continue to Kumbakarai.
• Route: Scenic drive through the forested foothills of Kodaikanal.

• Nearest Railway Stations:
  • Dindigul (~66km from Periyakulam)
  • Madurai (~80km)
• No direct trains to Periyakulam/Kumbakarai:
  • Take a bus or taxi from Madurai or Dindigul to Periyakulam, then local transport to Kumbakarai.

• Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport (approx. 80km from Periyakulam).
• From Airport: Take a taxi or bus to Periyakulam, then onward to Kumbakarai.

• For Vellagavi, reach either Kodaikanal (for Vattakanal trek) or Periyakulam (for Kumbakarai trek).
• Final stretches always require local taxis or buses, and the roads can be scenic but winding.
• There is no direct rail to the trek starting points; last-mile travel is via road.

The Options you have are 

• You can join directly through Trekplore guided trek; we organize these periodically. you can book through clicking up on "trek booking form " button on Booking Procedure page 

• Alternatively, you can book your slot directly on the Trek Tamilnadu website (Cost Rs.3000 per person excluding GST).

• You can also plan your trek on a flexible date, and we will help you arrange transportation and booking.