About 6 min by car
Sanjeevi Malai
A green hill in Rajapalayam with a temple at the top and wide views over the town and the Ghats.
Places to Visit in and Around Rajapalayam
Temples, waterfalls & the Western Ghats
About Rajapalayam
Rajapalayam is a town in Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu, at the foot of the Western Ghats. Green hills rise just west of town, with waterfalls and forest within easy reach.
The town is known for its textile and spinning mills, its mango groves, and the Rajapalayam hound, a native Indian dog breed named after the town.
It is a convenient base for the temple towns of Srivilliputhur and Sankarankovil, and for the Courtallam falls.
In and Near Rajapalayam
Travel times are from Hotel Nesam Grand; distances are approximate, by road from Rajapalayam.
Approx. 12 km
Ayyanar Falls
A waterfall and temple in the forested foothills west of town. Best after the monsoon rains, when the falls are full.
About 18 min by car
Srivilliputhur Andal Temple
One of the 108 Divya Desams. Its tall temple tower appears on the Tamil Nadu state emblem. The town is also famous for Srivilliputhur palkova.
About 26 min by car
Grizzled Squirrel Sanctuary
The Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary protects the rare grizzled giant squirrel. Shenbagathoppu is the usual entry point.
Approx. 35 km
Sankarankovil
Home of the Sankaranarayanar Temple, where Shiva and Vishnu are worshipped together as one form.
Approx. 65 km
Courtallam Falls
Known as the "Spa of South India", with several waterfalls. The main season is June to September.
How to Reach Rajapalayam
By Train
Rajapalayam station is on the Madurai to Sengottai line, with trains to Madurai and Chennai, including the Podhigai Express.
By Road
On NH 744 between Madurai and Tenkasi. Regular buses run from Madurai, Virudhunagar, Sivakasi and Tenkasi.
By Air
Madurai Airport is the nearest, about 1 hour 40 minutes by car from Hotel Nesam Grand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rajapalayam?
Rajapalayam is a town in Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu, at the foot of the Western Ghats. It lies on the Madurai to Tenkasi route (NH 744).
How do I reach Rajapalayam by train?
Rajapalayam railway station is on the Madurai to Sengottai line. Trains connect it to Madurai and Chennai, including the Podhigai Express.
Which is the nearest airport to Rajapalayam?
Madurai Airport is the nearest airport, about 1 hour 40 minutes by car.
What are the best places to visit near Rajapalayam?
Popular places include Sanjeevi Malai, Ayyanar Falls, Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, Sankarankovil and Courtallam Falls.
Where can I stay in Rajapalayam?
Hotel Nesam Grand is on Hospital Road near the Old Bus Stand, a short walk from Rajapalayam Railway Station. It has AC and non-AC rooms. See the rooms.
Your Base in Rajapalayam
Stay at Hotel Nesam Grand and explore the temples, falls and hills around town. Our front desk can help you arrange a taxi.