Papanasam is a little hamlet not far from Tirunelveli, which is a popular picnic place. The waters here are renowned for their magical powers of atonement since, as the name “Papanasam” implies, they put a stop to all transgressions. In the surrounding mountains grow 108 plants that can be found nowhere else.
Having a great time here is easy because of all the fun activities you can do in the area. It is about 45 kilometres away from Tirunelveli, and the area is surrounded by a thick forest on all sides. It is an ideal location for individuals who are seeking the possibility of staying with their acquaintances.
Agasthiyar Falls, Thamirabarani river, Shiva temple and Papanasam dam are just a few of the mesmerising sights to see in Papanasam. Plus, Papanasam is well-known as a place of pilgrimage because of its potent waters.
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How to reach Papanasam?
By air: The international airport at Trivandrum, which serves the state of Kerala and is located around 180 kilometres from the city, is the closest airport. The domestic airport in Madurai is located approximately 140 kilometres away.
By train: The Ambasamudram railway station, which is about 5 kilometres distant, is the connection point for the city while travelling by train.
By road: This well-known destination offers convenient access to public transportation, including taxis and buses. When getting to the city, there is a good chance that you will use a car or a taxi.
Papanasam places to visit
Papanasam offers a wealth of attractions, ranging from its mythical and ancient origins to its breathtaking natural beauty, which is a visual treat for anybody who visits. These attractions acknowledge the importance of the local community and give it a more prominent role in the name of the attraction. If you have chosen to go to Papanasam, here are some of the best Papanasam places to see while you are there.
Papanasam Dam
The construction of this dam began during the time of the British Regime in India. The water that is stored behind the dam is pumped out and utilised to irrigate the rice fields that are located in the regions of Tirunelveli and Tuticorin. It encompasses an area of 147 square kilometres, a height of about 240 metres, a width of 5.4 metres, and a length of 265 metres.
It is stated that Parvati and Lord Shiva appeared in front of Saint Agasthiyar at this location, making it a sacred spot. In remembrance of this expedition, the Agasthiyar Temple has been constructed here. The gorgeous setting of the dam, flanked on all sides by high mountains and forests, has recently made it a well-liked site for picnics in recent years.
Agasthiyar falls
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Papanasam Falls, also named Agastya Falls, is situated nearly 42 kilometres from Tirunelveli. It is an important pilgrimage centre, and the waters there are believed to have the power to cleanse people of their sins, hence many people visit it. In close proximity to the waterfalls is also the Papavinasa Eshwara temple, which is dedicated to Siva. You may get a better sense of the surrounding area by going on a hike to Agasthiyar Falls.
Manimuthar falls
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About 14 kilometres away from Papanasam is a waterfall known as Manimuthar. This location is considered to be among the most significant attractions in the area. Make a stop at the Manimuthar dam before continuing on to Papanasam if you are heading to that destination from Tirunelveli.
Manjolai Hills
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This picture-perfect mountainous location is a landscape of emerald green tea estates, and it may be found tucked away above the Manimathur waterfall. The peace and quiet of the location make it an ideal destination for vacationers whose primary goal is to unwind and rest. In addition to that, it is a dream come true for the local hikers. Manjolai, which is renowned for its tea plantations and can be reached by travelling around 63 kilometres from Tirunelveli and 23 kilometres from Manimuthar.
Things to do at Papanasam
- It is possible to see creatures such as monkeys in their native surroundings if you go to areas with dense forests.
- You should click pictures of the local fauna while you’re in the woods, and you should also take some pictures of the temple’s architectural wonders.
- Take a trip to the enormous Papanasam dam, which was built over the Thamirabarani river in order to meet the region’s growing need for water, and experience the magnificent scenery of the dam while you’re there.
- Trekking through the dense woodland is sure to get your heart racing and your blood pounding.
- Take advantage of the fact that boating is sometimes allowed inside the Papanasam Dam, provided that the water is sufficiently high enough for it.
- Have a relaxing soak under the Agasthiyar Falls, where the water is crashing down with a great deal of power.
- Pay a visit to the revered Papanasar Swamy Temple, which is located in antiquity and is devoted to Lord Shiva.
- Another thing that adrenaline junkies like to do is ride their bikes to the peak of Manimuthar Falls.
- It is the best way to acquire a feel for the genuine culture of a location to sample a variety of the cuisine that is native to that area.
Best time to visit Papanasam
Papanasam is a picturesque place that is enjoyable to visit at any time of the year. However, if you want to get the most out of your trip, you should travel between the months of June to September. During this time, the weather is nice and delightful, and the volume of water in the reservoir and the falls are at a decent level since the monsoon season is when the rains fall.
Amazing facts about Papanasam
- The term Papanasar, given to the Lord, literally translates to “the remover of sins,” and it was from this moniker that the town got its name.
- The legend goes that the great sage Agasthiyar had a vision of Shiva and Parvathi near the waterfall now known as the Agasthiyar Fall.
- Rudraksha is used to create the whole Shiva ling that is housed inside the Papanasar Swamy temple.
- The Papanasam dam, constructed by the British during their rule, waters an area around 150 square kilometres in size.
- Because the river that runs through this area has a high concentration of copper, which, in the native language of Tamil, is referred to as thamiram, the river that flows through this area was given the name Thamirabarani.