Tamil Nadu: Velliangiri trek temporarily closed due to heavy rains

Tamil Nadu: The trek to the Velliangiri Mountains, located in the Western Ghats of Coimbatore district, has been temporarily suspended due to heavy rains. The administration took this decision for safety reasons, as the continuous rain has made the mountain paths slippery and treacherous. The closure of the trek has affected the journey of a large number of Shiva devotees who visit the temple every year during this period.

The Velliangiri Mountains, also known as the Kailash of the South, are considered a center of great faith for devotees of Lord Shiva. To reach the Swayambhu Linga Temple located here, devotees must cross seven hills, making the journey more difficult but spiritually significant. The area is renowned for both its natural beauty and religious significance.

The Velliangiri Andavar Temple attracts a large number of devotees every year. However, as per a court order, the Forest Department permits devotees to climb the mountain and view the Swayambhu Linga only from February 1st to the end of May each year. During this period, Shiva devotees from across the country arrive here and witness the sunrise with reverence.

The local administration and Forest Department state that climbing the mountain during the rainy season can be risky, as the paths are slippery and prone to landslides. Therefore, the decision to temporarily suspend the trek has been made. Officials have appealed to devotees to adhere to safety rules and plan their journey only after the weather returns to normal.

The Velliangiri region is a major center of faith for devotees not only from Coimbatore but also from several surrounding districts. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the arduous climb to visit Lord Shiva. The journey is considered physically demanding, but devotees view it as a spiritual experience.

The closure of the trek due to rain has affected local tourism and religious activities, but the administration maintains that the safety of pilgrims is the top priority. The situation may be reviewed and permission may be granted again once the weather improves.