Talakona

The Talakona (Telugu: తలకోన) waterfall is in Sri Venkateswara National Park, Chittoor District of Andhra pradesh in India. With a 270 feet (82 m)-fall, Talakona is the highest waterfall in the Andhra pradesh state. Talakona is also known for the Lord Siddheswara Swamy Temple, which is located close to the waterfall.

Location

Talakona is located in Nerabailu village in Yerravaripalem Mandal of Chittoor District. It is located 49 kilometres (30 mi) from Pileru, 58 kilometres (36 mi) from Tirupathi, 220 kilometres (140 mi) from Chennai, and 105 kilometres (65 mi) from Chittoor and 250 kilometres (160 mi) from Banglore.

Talakona is a place in Yerravaripalem Mandal of Chittoor District near Tirupati about 49km away. It is a resort well endowed with waterfalls, dense forests and wildlife. Mostly famous for its waterfalls, Talakona has the most wholesome and serene atmosphere. This area was declared as biosphere reserve during 1989-90 due to the presence of rich variety of flora and fauna.

Etymology

Orchid- Habenaria roxburghii in Talakona forest, in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India.

Talakona literally means head hill in Telugu (tala - head and kona - hill). However, Thalakona allegorically means “the head of the Seshachalam hills” as these mountains are believed to be the starting point of the Tirumala mountain ranges..

Flora and Fauna

The Talakona forests host certain rare and endangered species of animals like Slender Loris, Indian Giant Squirrel, Mouse Deer, Golden Gecko, Panther, Porcupine, Chital and Sambar. Endemic species like Red Sander, Cycas beddomeii and Enteda like giant plants are also found in this region. The forest is mostly covered with sandalwood trees with some valuable medicinal plants.

Tourism

Rustic Butterfly in Talakona forest, in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India.

The waterfalls is amidst beauty and greenery. The water of the Talakona is enriched with herbs and people believe that it has healing properties. Talakona was declared as Bio-Sphere Reserve during 1989-90 because of wide variety of plant species present in the region (Pictures of Butterflies & Wild Flowers of Talakona forest). A long and treacherous trekking route leads to the top of the hill, which can be reached by multiple paths. Talakona hills geographically is considered a part of Eastern Ghats.

There is a beautiful waterfall falling deep into the valley from solid rock cliff on the upper reaches. According to the local residents, it is said that the origin of water is difficult to be traced out since an underground stream suddenly surfaces here and this water has healing properties since it passes through lot of herbs of medicinal values.

There is a 240 meter long canopy rope walk, about 35 to 40 feet height, giving a thrilling experience to the visitors while walking. There are mighty trees around with birds and monkeys accompanying during the canopy walk. There are number of trek routes in different categories giving an option for you to choose a route that fits you.

You also come across an ancient Siva temple which is flooded with devotees during Sivarathri festival. There are also deep caves scattered over the mountains where it is believed that sages meditate eternally. A stream line flows near canopy walk area where a bathing ghat is under construction.

References

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