An off-beat tourist destination in Kodaikanal, Poombarai Viewing Point is in a tiny hamlet called Poombarai village. This is another picturesque tourist spot in Kodai Hills, surrounded by stunning terraced landscapes enveloped by green mountains and valleys. This vantage point is in Poombarai village, a major tourist attraction. This small village is quite famous for its garlic production, colourful houses, and lush green hills seen from the Poombarai Viewing Point. If you are planning a trip to Kodaikanal and are confused about visiting this place, read this article till the end, and you will be convinced to explore this place for some hidden natural beauty.
Poombarai Viewing Point: A Hidden Gem in Kodai Hills
Image Credit: R.K.PRAGADHEESH for Wikimedia Commons
Located on Mannavanur-Kodaikanal road, this vantage point offers a picturesque view of the colourful houses of Poombarai village. Poombarai Viewing Point is located at a height of 1,920 metres amidst the Palani Hills. Situated just 50 km from Kodaikanal, this viewpoint is in Poombarai, a tiny hamlet famous for its garlic production. From this viewpoint, you can see breathtaking views of terraced fields and vast, lush greenery. All these things make this place a picture-perfect tourist destination in Kodaikanal, adorned with the view of colourful houses with roofs set amidst the enticing hills.
Another reason to visit Poombarai Viewing Point is Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple, popularly known as Murugan Temple. According to legends, this temple has a rich history of around 3,000 years. Built by the Chera dynasty, it is dedicated to Lord Muruga. The major festival celebrated here is ‘Ther Thiruvizha,’ when the deity is taken out in a procession.
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Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple: A Major Attraction In Poombarai Viewing Point
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At a mere 10 meters, there is this famous temple, the Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple, which forms the epicentre of Poombarai Viewing Point. It is believed that around 3000 years ago, Bhogar consecrated this temple to a Tamil Siddhar who lived between 550 and 300 BC.
The main deity in the temple is Lord Murugan, and the idol of the god is believed to have been made by Bhogar only, using an alloy of nine metals. According to the legends, Bhogar discovered the elixir of immortality and travelled to China in those times.
Top Places To See Near Poombarai Viewing Point
Several places near Poombarai Viewing Point are worth exploring. Some of the most popular tourist spots near this place are given below:
1. Berijam Lake
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If you are taking some time off in Kodaikanal and looking for a tourist spot near Poombarai Viewing Point,, Berijam Lake should be your next stop. Among all the beautiful lakes of Kodaikanal, Berijam Lake is a true marvel of nature that is worth visiting in Kodaikanal. Nestled amidst the most beautiful landscapes of Upper Palani Hills, this lake is an ideal tourist spot for tourists who love to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Berijam Lake is located inside a conserved forest area promising a diverse variety of wildlife, including animals like bison, Nilgiri langur, Indian elephants, and Malabar giant squirrel, and varieties of birds like pale-rumped swallows, crested serpent eagles, pariah the blue chat, and Blyth’s reed-warbler kites.
Location: 26 km from Poombarai Viewing Point
Timings: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
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2. Pine Forest
Image Credit: KARTY JazZ for Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the southwest of Kodaikanal, Pine Forest is a well-preserved woodland and a peaceful retreat in the lap of Mother Nature. Towering pine trees and the serene ambience of the Pine Forest make it one of the most prominent tourist spots in Kodaikanal. Taken care of by the government of Tamil Nadu, this place is quite a popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal and a favourite spot among nature enthusiasts, photographers, and walkers. As the name suggests, there are many pine trees in this forest and along with that, you can also spot eucalyptus trees and some wild growth of mushroom vegetation that are popular as magic mushrooms as they are believed to be hallucinogenic.
Location: 15 km from Poombarai Viewing Point
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
3. Silver Cascade Falls
Image Credit: R.K.PRAGADHEESH for Wikimedia Commons
The Silver Cascade Falls is a famous must-visit waterfall in Kodaikanal. Its sparkling clean water infused with several healing properties makes it a prominent tourist spot near Poombarai Viewing Point. Formed from the remains of Kodai Lake, this waterfall is a beautiful sight for those who love to admire the beauty of nature and soak in fresh air. Once you are here, you feel like you are in heaven as this waterfall is located at 2318 meters, and the water cascades down from 180 feet. Apart from admiring the scenic beauty around this place, you can also enjoy the pool at the bottom of the waterfall, where you can take a dip for a rejuvenating experience.
Location: 26 km from Poombarai Viewing Point
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
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4. Liril Falls
Liril Falls is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Kodaikanal. A famous advertisement for the soap brand Liril was shot in 1985 featuring Preity Zinta. This is the place where you can witness the ultimate beauty of Kodaikanal. Also known as Pambar Falls, this place promises a breathtaking view of water pouring down majestically over rocky terrain. Located close to the Kodaikanal Bus Stand, this waterfall is formed at the confluence of the Kodaikanal’s water reservoir and the Vaigai River. Many tourists visit this spot in Kodaikanal and fall in love with the lush green landscapes surrounding the waterfall. You can also dip in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall.
Location: 19 km from Poombarai Viewing Point
Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Tips To Consider While Visiting Poombarai Viewing Point
- The weather in Poombarai remains variable and unpredictable. Hence, it would be best if you carried some warm clothes
- Locals around Poombarai village do not speak English, so you might face some problems communicating with them
- There are no hotels or cottages in the vicinity of the Poombarai Viewing Point, so you need to keep your trip short
- You will find some small shops selling tea and other refreshments around the viewing point
- You won’t find any ATMs around this place, so make sure you keep cash in hand
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A dream of sipping coffee or tea and enjoying the breathtaking views of green valleys and clouds hovering around you can come true at Poombarai Viewing Point. From this vantage point, you can see the spectacular view of the distant hills that will refresh your spirits. Check out the garlic market around Poombarai village, especially the ‘Malai Poondu’, the hill garlic. This variety of garlic is acclaimed for its distinct flavour and medicinal value. So, if you have not sorted your itinerary for a trip to Tamil Nadu, you can add the viewing Point to your list of the must-visit places in Tamil Nadu for some quality time amidst nature.
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Cover Image Credit: Siva Prakash for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Poombarai Viewing Point
What is special about Poombarai Viewing Point that makes it worth the visit?
Poombarai Viewing Point, located in a beautiful village, is situated in the middle of the Western ghats. This place attracts many tourists for its natural beauty, stunning views of the lush greenery and an ancient temple. Hence, it is quite a popular tourist spot in Kodaikanal for those who love nature and history.
How high is Poombarai Viewing Point?
Poombarai Viewing Point stands tall at a height of 1,920 meters in the Palani hills amidst the terraced fields and vast, lush greenery.
How old is Poombarai Murugan Temple?
The Murugan Temple at Poombarai is around 3000 years old. One interesting fact about the temple is that the idol of the main deity, Lord Murugan, is made of an alloy of nine metals called DASHABASHANA.
How to reach Poombarai Viewing Point from Kodaikanal?
Poombarai Viewing Point is located around 20 km from Kodaikanal. You can easily hire a taxi or drive your vehicle to reach Poombarai Viewing Point from Kodaikanal via Kodai Observatory Road.
Are there any hotels to stay around Poombarai Village?
Poombarai is still an off-beat tourist place that has not been developed much yet. Hence, you will not find any hotel or cottage in this beautiful village.
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