Talakona is a improving tourism center which is being attracted by tourists a lot which is situated near to Tirupati-Madanapalli high way, in Sri Venkateswara National Park in Chittoor District of Andhrapradesh. With a height of 270 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh. At a distance of 49 KM from Tirupati, 220 KM from Chennai and 105 Kms from Chittoor, Talakona Falls are situated at a distance of 23 KM from Bakarapeta which is the nearest town. The waterfalls are placed amidst dense forest surrounded by natural beauty and greenery. It is believed that the water of Talakona Falls is enriched with healing powers.
With animal base consisting of endangered species 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 and medicinal plants Talakona is a good place to visit for animal lovers.
Activities:
Trekking, Water falls visit, Wild animal sighting, Bird Watching, Boating, Jungle safari drive, Canopy walk.
Facilities:
Log huts complex (Log huts, Dormitory and Cafeteria), Jungle Safari vehicle, Eco-trail paths, Guide facilities, Prakruti (Forest product sales).
Location:
From Renigunta Airport (75 Kms); From Tirupati (67 Kms) .
Situated close to this waterfall is a small temple dedicated to Lord Siddeswara Swamy. This temple is believed to be built by a devotee named Appa Swamy in 1811 AD. The temple is usually crowded by devotees during the festival of Shivaratri, which is a very popular event in this region. The falls have to be reached by 2 km trek from Siddeswara Swamy Temple which is the nearest motorable road to the falls. The duration of the trek is about 30 minutes (one way) through dense forest and slippery road.
Accommodation is also available in this dense forest; it gives immense pleasure for visitors to spend time during nights. One can find two different Guesthouses - Forest Guest House and TTD Guest House. The forest guest house is maintained by Forest Department of AP, where you have 6 Suites (rooms) and 2 Dormitories with attached toilets and cost is also very minimal, Room costs around Rs 600/- per day and Dormitory costs around Rs 1000/- per day.
TTD Guest House at Talakona is for pilgrims. There are 12 rooms and each room has two beds with attached toilets costing Rs 250/- per day. There is no advance or online booking for TTD rooms.
October to January is the best season to visit. Usually it takes one full day. There are several private transport facilities to Talakona Falls from Bakarapet, which has direct bus services from Tirupati and Chittoor. |
