Arani to Namakkal - The Rock Fort Temple and Poultry Capital of India
Namakkal, located approximately 200 km from Arani on the Salem-Trichy highway, is a unique town built around a massive natural granite rock rising 60 metres from the plains. The town is renowned for two very different claims to fame ??? the ancient Narasimha Swamy Temple inside a cave at the base of the rock, and being the National Poultry Capital of India with the highest egg production in the country. It is also famous for truck body building and lorry transportation.
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 200 km via Salem (NH-44)
- Travel Time: 3.5 to 4 hours
- Best Route: Arani to Tiruvannamalai to Salem to Namakkal (NH-44)
Top Attractions in Namakkal
- Namakkal Rock Fort - A 60-metre granite monolith with a fort on top (Krishnagiri Fort); the steep climb provides beautiful views of the town and the surrounding countryside
- Narasimha Swamy Cave Temple - Located at the base of the rock; houses a 5-metre reclining Narasimha idol carved from a single rock inside a natural cave. The adjacent Ranganathaswamy Temple has a large 8-metre reclining Vishnu statue.
- Anjaneyar Temple - An unusual temple where Anjaneya (Hanuman) is depicted without Rama and Sita ??? very rare in Tamil Nadu temple iconography
- Santhai (Thursday Market) - The weekly market on Thursdays is a massive trade event for poultry, eggs, grains, and livestock; a fascinating cultural experience
- Kolli Hills - 60 km from Namakkal; a beautiful hidden hill station with 70 hairpin bends, Agaya Gangai waterfalls, and Arapaleeswarar Temple; ideal for adventurous travellers
Kolli Hills Side Trip
From Namakkal, the drive to Kolli Hills through 70 hairpin bends is an adventure in itself. The hill station at 1,300 metres has waterfalls, medicinal herb gardens, and the dramatic Agaya Gangai Falls dropping 90 metres. Best visited November to February.
Taxi Fare from Arani to Namakkal
- Sedan: Starting from Rs 2,600 one way
- SUV: Starting from Rs 3,800 one way
Book your Arani to Namakkal taxi and discover the hidden gem of North Tamil Nadu!
