The renovated British bungalow at Pachamalai
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The Forest Department has enhanced eco-tourism infrastructure in the lush green and serene Pachamalai, falling under the Tiruchi Forest Division near Thuraiyur, which has been attracting nature lovers and tourists. 

The infrastructure enhancements have been carried out under the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiatives (TANII) 2024-25 with an allocation of ₹1.1 crore.

Two eco huts have been constructed at Top Sengattupatti atop the Pachamalai as part of the department’s ongoing eco-tourism infrastructure enhancement, said a senior official. The eco huts have been provided with double cots, a separate dining place, restroom, and a verandah for visitors to enjoy the verdant environment on the hills. 

A British-era bungalow has been renovated as part of this initiative and made ready to accommodate tourists. The eco huts and the revamped British bungalow would be thrown open to the visitors soon, the official said. 

A part of the Eastern ghats, the scenic Pachamalai, which comes under the Thuraiyur Forest Range, is endowed with thick forest areas, ridges and valleys. It is home to various animal and bird species besides butterflies. A study undertaken by the Forest Department in December 2024 recorded as many as 126 butterfly species and a healthy butterfly population in the hill region. The hilly terrain has the popular Koraiyar and Mangalam waterfalls besides dedicated trekking routes at Sholamathi, Kalaimman Koil, and Kuthirai Paathai for the trekkers and adventure lovers.

Amenities at waterfalls

The officials said bathing facilities had been improved at the Koraiyar falls. This includes construction of safe access steps and provision of safety rails for secure bathing in the stream. Safety measures have also been put in place at Mangalam falls.  All these developments complement the existing two tree top accommodations which were established in 2015 to promote eco-tourism at Pachamalai.