Situated 40 kilometres from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, Pollachi enjoys a pleasant climate year-round thanks to its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Western Ghats. This charming town is renowned for hosting the largest jaggery market in Asia and the largest cattle market in South Asia. Thanks to its unique geographical location, Pollachi is graced with numerous picturesque locations that every traveller should include in their itinerary. Here are a few must-visit places in Pollachi to experience its captivating beauty.
Nestled within the Anamalai Mountain range, at an elevation of 800 feet above sea level, Topslip constitutes a pristine segment of the Indira Gandhi National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary finds its home within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, set apart from the Nilgiri Hills to the north by the Palghat Gap. Beyond its serene and hilly landscapes, Topslip also boasts an incredible tiger reserve.
The Anaimalai Hills, also called Anamala Hills, compose a mountain range traversing the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, defining the southern extremity of the Western Ghats. While they are recognised for harbouring South India's loftiest peak, they are also adorned with expansive tea and coffee plantations gracing their lower slopes. This region boasts extensive monsoon forests characterised by Sago, Rosewood, Sandalwood, and Teak trees. It serves as a sought-after trekking destination in South India, providing a cool and misty sanctuary from the tropical heat.
Monkey Falls is a picturesque waterfall, descending into a pool from a height of approximately 60 feet near Aliyar Dam. This cascade, enveloped by lush evergreen forests and imposing cliffs, harmoniously blends into the natural landscape. It ranks as one of Pollachi's premier tourist attractions. While the waterfall's allure is undeniable, it's important to note that during the monsoon season, when water levels surge, it can pose some risks. Nevertheless, taking a refreshing dip in these falls is a delightful experience. As the name suggests, you'll also encounter several monkeys in the area, so it's advisable to exercise caution and safeguard your belongings.
The charming town of Valparai, nestled within the Anamalai mountain ranges of the Western Ghats, offers an ideal destination for those seeking an offbeat vacation experience. Surrounded by vast tea and coffee plantations, this region presents many sightseeing opportunities. From waterfalls to dams to scenic viewpoints, the numerous tourist attractions in Valparai provide an excellent way to savour the delightful weather and the breathtaking natural surroundings.
You can embark on a spiritual journey in Pollachi at another remarkable location. To label this temple as an architectural or scientific wonder would not be an overstatement. If you visit this temple from June to September, the airflow force can be so strong that it might seem as though it's pushing you back when you attempt to enter.
Getting There
To reach Pollachi in Tamil Nadu, you have several transportation options. The nearest major airport is Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), approximately 45 kilometres away. From there, you can travel to Pollachi by road. If you prefer the railway, the closest railway station is Pollachi Junction (POY), providing good connectivity within Tamil Nadu and beyond. Once at the station, you can easily find taxis, auto-rickshaws, or buses to reach the town centre. Pollachi is accessible by road as well, situated on National Highway 209 (NH209), making it well-connected to neighbouring cities like Coimbatore and Palakkad.