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.
Explore Rajapalayam
Temples, waterfalls & the Western Ghats
About Rajapalayam
Rajapalayam is a town in Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu, set at the foot of the Western Ghats. Green hills rise just west of town, giving it a pleasant setting and easy access to waterfalls and forest.
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 visiting the temple towns of Srivilliputhur and Sankarankovil, and the Courtallam falls.
Places to Visit Near Us
Distances are approximate, by road from Rajapalayam town.
In town
Sanjeevi Hills
A green hill in Rajapalayam with a temple at the top and wide views over the town and the Ghats.
Approx. 25 km
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.
Approx. 30 km
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, roughly 80 to 90 km away. Taxis are available from the airport.
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, roughly 80 to 90 km away by road.
What are the best places to visit near Rajapalayam?
Popular places include Ayyanar Falls, Sanjeevi Hills, Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, the Srivilliputhur Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary, Sankarankovil and Courtallam waterfalls.
Where can I stay in Rajapalayam?
Nesam Grand is a hotel in Rajapalayam with air-conditioned rooms and suites. You can view our rooms and contact us by phone or WhatsApp.
Your Base in Rajapalayam
Stay at Nesam Grand and explore the temples, falls and hills around town. Our front desk can help you arrange a taxi.