Water Falls

Water Falls

Waterfall & River Conditions Under Close Watch as Flood Alerts Issued

While Agasthiyar Falls (also called Papanasam Falls) is a perennial waterfall in Tirunelveli district known for flowing year-round and attracting visitors for its scenic beauty and religious significance near Papanasanathar Temple, recent flood alerts were issued for the Thamirabarani River and waterfalls due to rising water flows from sustained rainfall. Emergency teams were placed on standby and authorities continually monitored the Tamirabarani water levels to protect public safety. Though this report wasn’t exclusively about a single waterfall closure, it reflects how waterfall spots and surrounding river systems in Tirunelveli remain vulnerable during heavy monsoon seasons and are actively managed for visitor safety.

Water Falls

Heavy rain pounds Nellai and Tenkasi

Due to extremely heavy rainfall over Tirunelveli and adjoining Tenkasi districts, the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve (KMTR) authorities banned entry to Manimuthar waterfalls as the water cascaded in high volume and the terrain became dangerous for visitors. With Papanasam and Manimuthar dams receiving huge inflows, reservoir levels rose significantly. The torrential downpours also triggered flooding in low-lying residential areas like Ambasamudram and Kallidaikurichi, isolating some localities and causing officials to declare a school and college holiday to safeguard residents. Along with Manimuthar, entry restrictions were also applied at Courtallam waterfalls and other popular spots to ensure public safety during the intense rainfall.

Water Falls

Multiple Waterfalls in Manjolai Hills Closed Due to Persistent Rain

Manjolai Hills in Tirunelveli district witnessed very heavy rain for consecutive days, which led the KMTR administration to close access to both Manimuthar and Agasthiyar falls along with the Thalaiyanai region to protect the public from unpredictable water surges and slippery terrain. In addition to closing waterfall attractions, the district set up emergency response teams — including State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) — to assist with safety and evacuation if needed. Officials also warned locals to avoid riverbanks and unstable areas as catchment water continued to rise.

Water Falls

Ongoing Bathing Bans at Courtallam & Surrounding Waterfalls After Monsoon Rains

During the southwest monsoon in 2025, continuous rain over Tirunelveli and Tenkasi prompted the district administrations to extend bans on bathing at Courtallam Falls (including Main Falls and Five Falls) for multiple days in May. Heavy inflows from monsoon showers increased river and waterfall discharge dramatically, leading officials to prioritize safety over tourism. Despite these restrictions, many visitors gathered near private waterfalls and dams, hoping for sightseeing opportunities — though authorities remained firm on the necessity of restrictions due to unsafe conditions.