Sundarapandiapuram Tourist Places | The Sunflower Town | The Town Of Roja
Instagrammable sunflower fields and the tune of A.R. Rahman take you to the beautiful hamlet of Sundarapandiapuram. You must have seen the 1992 Maniratnam classic Roja, and the female protagonist in the movie hails from this “beautiful” place.
Sundarapandiapuram is also the place where the blockbuster Andangkaka Kondakari song of the Anniyan movie was filmed.
The beautiful rock formations of the place were used in the song’s backdrop, and all of them featured caricatures of Sivaji Ganeshan, Kamal Haasan, MGR, and Rajinikanth painted on them.
These “Anniyan Rocks” are now one of the major tourist places in Sundarapandiapuram, especially for the movie buffs.
However, ecstatic about the beauty of the sunflowers, we have forgotten that Sundarapandiapuram is also a place soaked in spirituality. So, despite being a small municipal town, it is a melting pot of many things, and it is ideal for all types of tourists.
That’s why we decided to delve deeper while creating this Dream and Travel guide and tried presenting various aspects of this quaint town.
Where Is Sundarapandiapuram Located?
Sundarapandiapuram is located in the Tenkasi Taluka of the Tirunelveli District Tamil Nadu. Further, this quaint hamlet is located near the Western Ghat Mountains.
So, it enjoys a pleasant weather condition and breathtaking scenic beauty.
Moreover, as you enter the village, you will be greeted with a windmill and a combination of green and yellow shades. The paddy fields and sunflowers will sway their heads to welcome you.
How To Reach Sundarapandiapuram From Trivandrum?
Trivandrum is very close to the two most beautiful tourist destinations in South India. Many people visit Munnar (Kerala) from Trivandrum.
Now, with Sundarapandiapuram rising in popularity, many people take cabs or reserved cars from Trivandrum to Sundarapandiapuram.
The distance between Trivandrum and Sundarapandiapuram is around 120 Km. You can plan a self-drive between these two destinations if you have a car. Further, the most popular mode of transportation is a reserved cab or taxi.
It will take around 2 hours to reach Sundarapandiapuram from Trivandrum by road. The cost of taking a cab will be around INR 2.5k.
Gozo Cab is a popular cab service for Sundarapandiapuram to Trivandrum road journeys. You can call them at (+91) 9051877000.
How To Reach Tenkasi Town From Sundarapandiapuram?
Tenkasi, a nearby town celebrated for its spiritual significance, is only 11 Kms away from Sundarapandiapuram.
You can take a cab ride to Tenkasi from Sundarapandiapuram within less than 15 minutes. Cab charges will be around INR 350-400. Further, the picturesque route amidst lush greenery is a favorite of bikers.
If you especially pass through the iconic Iron Bridge (It is a part of the mountain rail line), you get to enjoy breathtaking river views and there are many “tea spots” on the way.
History And Background Of Sundarapandiapuram | Things No One Talks About
Founded by King Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan I, Sundarapandiapuram gets its name after the king. He was a great patron of Dravidian Culture and architecture.
Today, Sundarapandiapuram houses the 4000-year-old Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple, which is the oldest temple here.
Sundarapandiapuram Best Time To Visit | Know About Sundarapandiapuram Sunflower Season
The best time to visit Sundarapandiapuram for sightseeing and outdoor activities is between October to March. However, if you want to see the sunflowers in full bloom, mid-June to mid-July will be the ideal time for you.
If you plan a visit in June or July, you will enjoy the petrichor or the smell of fresh rain, the floral aromas, and the lush greenery around.
The table below shows a month-wise breakdown of temperature and rainfall here.
| Month | Highest Temperature (Degree Celsius) | Lowest Temperature(Degree Celsius) | Days of Rainfall |
| January | 31 | 20 | 4-5 |
| February | 32 | 22 | 4-5 |
| March | 35 | 23 | 10 |
| April | 36-37 | 23 | 20-22 |
| May | 36 | 25 | 20 |
| June | 33-35 | 25 | 15-16 |
| July | 30 | 24 | 10-12 |
| August | 30-31 | 22-24 | 20 |
| September | 31 | 22 | 24-25 |
| October | 30-31 | 23-24 | 25-26 |
| November | 31 | 23 | 30 |
| December | 27-29 | 22 | 15-18 |
Furthermore, if you want to visit Sundarapandiapuram as a pilgrim, you can plan your trip during the festivals. The major festivals here are Maha Shivaratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, Masi Magam and Tamil New Year.
The Landscape Of Sundarapandiapuram | Visit It To Know It
Everyone talks about the sunflower fields of Sundarapandiapuram. However, Unless you visit the village, you will not know how the Sal trees look and smell when swaying their heads in the wind.
Also, as you take a walk amidst tranquility, the sound of the rustling leaves and the chirpings of the birds fill your ears.
Further, Sundarapandiapuram is located in Tirunelveli, which is the penultimate state in Tamil Nadu. Many also call it the microcosm of the state. So, Sundarapandiapuram is a melting pot of a Kurinji or mountainous region thanks to the presence of Western Ghats.
It also has green forests and lakes adding a touch of serenity to the overall landscape.
Sundarapandiapuram Tourist Places And Major Attractions
Open Instagram, look for #sundarapandiapuram, and you will find around 5k posts. In most of these posts, people are having their #rojamovie moment.
However, Sundarapandiapuram is beyond the picturesque sunflower fields. You can also visit the film shoot locations and the temples here.
1. Explore The Sunflower Fields Of Sundarapandiapuram
Despite a not-so-great sunflower season 2024, the sunflower fields of Sundarapandiapuram still remain major attractions. Their vibrant natural beauty and the perks of being film locations continue to draw tourists, influencers, and photography enthusiasts.
Once you reach the Sundarapandiapuram bus stand by the road, you can take the road on the right to find the stretches of sunflower fields.
2. Visit The Temples Of Sundarapandiapuram
Sundarapandiapuram has three major temples with historical, architectural and religious importance. During the festive season, many community events or folk events take place around these temples.
‣ Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple
Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple or the Rukmini Satyabama Sameda Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple has the beautiful deity of Raja Gopala.
According to the locals, the idol of Raja Gopala here comes from the ashram of Sage Kanwar. This temple is a prominent pilgrimage site for the Vaisnavites. Here, Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Raja Gopala, and people offer prayers to be blessed with a child.
The 4000-year-old temple has a humble architecture, unlike the grand temples of South India.
Two other revered temples to visit in Sundarapandiapuram are Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple and Sri Muppudathi Amman Temple.
3. Visit The Film Shooting Locations Of Sundarapandiapuram
Films like Roja, Karuthamma, and Anniyan were shot at Sundarapandiapuram. The dramatic rock formations, windmills, and sunflower fields are also used in many Tamil sitcoms.
Of course, these film shooting spots draw many tourists, and even taking photographs in some of these places is chargeable. For example, taking photographs in private sunflower fields may cost you around INR 25-50.
Further, Puliyur Para, earlier known as Roja Para, and now famous as Anniyan Para, is another popular film shooting location at Sundarapandiapuram.
4. Plan A Visit To Courtallam Falls
If you have planned a 4-5 day trip in Sundarapandiapuram, you must make a plan to visit the Courtallam Main Falls and Courtallam Old Falls in Tenkasi. You can also visit the Five Falls here.
The water here falls in multiple strands and passes through dramatic and layered rocks.
5. Tenkasi: A Nearby Hotspot You Must Visit
Tenkasi awaits with the sound of the windmills, the trumpets of elephants, and the chirpings of birds. The misty mountains (Tenkasi is in the foothills of the Western Ghat) transport you to another world. Further, it is home to the Courtallam Falls I have talked about in the previous section.
It also has Shenbagadevi Falls and the Kasi Viswanathar Temple. In this context, you must know that Tenkasi in Tamil means the Kashi of South, and it is even referred to as the land of waterfalls.
The Buddhist Temple for World Peace here again tells us why this place is of great spiritual importance.
Moreover, as an example of the rich local art scenario here, Tenkasi has Chitra Sabhai, where all the paintings are done using herbal colors.
Also, when you are in Tenkasi, don’t forget to try the Border Parotta.
Things To Do In Sundarapandiapuram: Activities And Experiences You Can’t Miss
The things to do in Sundarapandiapuram are a handful. It is home to many temples with historical, religious and architectural significance. So, in the morning, you can plan a visit to these temples.
Also, throughout the day, you can plan the following activities.
- Visiting the nearby sunflower fields, watching the farmers in action, learning about sunflower harvesting and taking photographs.
- You can visit the nearby villages, be familiar with their lifestyle and try authentic Sundarapandiapuram cuisines there. Explore the local market to collect spices and handicrafts.
- Also, you can plan a hike to the nearby hills and falls. Plan a day to Tenkasi, Courtallam and Kalakkad if you have time.
You must make your trip to Sundarapandiapuram meaningful by learning about the pastoral lifestyle, local history, and the temples’ spiritual, religious, and architectural significance.
Moreover, you will get the best photographs for your socials here.
Lifestyle At Sundarapandiapuram | The Ultimate Pastoral Charm
Sundarapandiapuram has a pastoral lifestyle. People here are dependent on farming sunflower seeds, chilly, and onion. Paddy is the main crop produced here and some people are associated with coconut farming.
Further, the Brahmin community living here in Agraharms or Brahmin colonies is associated with worship and religious practices.
Moreover, as you explore the local village, you will come across many weaves, craftsmen, and potters. Further, many people weave baskets or do moreâ.
Sundarapandiapuram is very proud of its tradition and culture. So, even today, you will find colorful Rangolis called Kolam at the entrance of the village houses. These handmade rangolis are made using rice flour, which can be consumed by birds and ants.
In addition, garland making and playing the Pallankuzhi folk game here show how the tribe is respectful of their tradition.
Accommodation At Sundarapandiapuram And Travel Tips | A Dream And Travel Note
So, where to eat and where to stay at Sundarapandiapuram? This tourist town has hotels, guest houses, and homestays as tourist accommodations. And as always, we will recommend you choose homestays for complete assimilation of the local culture.
Nevertheless, here are the best accommodation options at Sundarapandiapuram for you.
| Sundarapandiapuram Hotels | Sundarapandiapuram Homestays |
| Kings palace Address: Madurai Road, TenkasiContact No: 04633 280 636 | The Kuttalam Heritage Address: Shenkottai, Kuttalam Main RoadContact No: 04633 233 022 |
| The Mount View Castle Address: Shenbagadevi Street, Old Courtallam Main Road | Saaral Resorts Courtallam Address: 42/42A, Shencottai Road, Courtallam Contact No: 04633-283601, 04633-283602, 04633-283603, 04633-283604 Mobile Phone: +91 9941019075 |
Now, you must pay attention to these travel tips if you are traveling to Sundarapandiapuram for the first time.
- You must carry enough goodies for you as restaurants and eateries are fewer in number in this humble hamlet.
- Further, carry cash. You will not find ATMs everywhere, and digital payments are not accepted in many places.
- Sundarapandiapuram is most famous for its stretches of sunflower fields. Wear comfortable and loose cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat while exploring these fields.
Moreover, remember that Sundarapandiapuram is a modest place. So, dress moderately and remain respectful to the local tribes.
Also, the economy of this place is majorly dependent on agriculture. Therefore, do not cause any damage to the plants or crops.
A Visit To Sundarapandiapuram | Sundarapandiapuram Itinerary Done Right
Sundarapandiapuram is a humble weekend getaway from more prominent destinations like Trivandrum/Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) and Madurai (Tamil Nadu). Both these places are around 4 hours drive from Sundarapandiapuram.
You can plan a stay at Sundarapandiapuram for two days, and on the first day, you can explore the patches of sunflower fields and the village. The next day, you can visit the temples and plan a return in the late evening.
However, if you want to explore nearby attractions like Courtallam Falls or Tirunelveli, you must plan a 4-5 day. Here is a sample 5-day itinerary for your Sundarapandiapuram trip.
- Day 1:
Reach Sundarapandiapuram, freshen up, and visit the Sri Muppudathi Amman Temple. Then, explore the sunflower fields.
In the late afternoon, you can visit the local market to buy spices, handicrafts, and fresh produce.
- Day 2:
You can plan a trek or visit the Manjolai Hills and enjoy nature at its best.
- Day 3:
Offer prayers at the Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple in the morning and explore the local village and its crafts. You can even plan a lunch with a local family.
- Day 4:
Start your day with prayers at the Sri Rajagopala Swamy Temple and set out for Courtallam Falls and Tirunelveli.
- Day 5:
During this trip, visit the sunflower fields for the last time and capture the memories. Pack your bag and plan the return.
Your Sundarapandiapuram itinerary does not need to be packed with activities or don’t rush the things to do. Keep it relaxed and fulfilling, just like the place itself!
Sundarapandiapuram Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers about Sundarapandiapuram.
The distance between Sundarapandiapuram and Chennai is around 637 Kms. You can fly to the Tuticorin Airport from Chennai and then travel by road to reach Sundarapandiapuram.
Further, you can take a train from Chennai to the Tirunelveli Railway Station. 16127
Guruvayur Express and 20665 Tirunelveli Vande Bharat Express are some trains plying between these two stations.
Sundarapandiapuram is in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. The postal code of this place is 627858.
There is no official data about the population of Sundarapandiapuram at present. The 2021 census could not take place due to Covid-19 restrictions.
However, the town’s estimated population in 2025 is 12,800, and we can get the actual data only after the 2025 census is conducted.
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