Periyakulam facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Periyakulam KuzhanthaimaaNagar
Town
Varaha Nathi, View from Thenkarai
Nickname(s):  Mango city
Periyakulam Location in Tamil Nadu
Country	India
State	Tamil Nadu
Zone	Madurai
District	Theni
Government
• Type	Second Grade Municipality
• Body	Periyakulam Municipality
Area
• Total	12 km2 (5 sq mi)
Elevation	326 m (1,070 ft)
Population  (2011)
• Total	42,976
Languages
• Official	Tamil
Time zone	UTC+5:30 (IST)
PIN	625601
Telephone code	04546
Vehicle registration	TN-60
Website	https://www.tnurbantree.tn.gov.in/periyakulam/

Periyakulam is a lively town and a municipality in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu, a state in South India. It is often called the "northern gateway" to the Theni district. In 2011, about 42,976 people lived here.

What's in a Name?

The name Periyakulam comes from two Tamil words. "Periya" means "big," and "kulam" means "lake." So, the town's name means "big lake." In old Tamil writings, it was also known as Kulainthai Managaram.

A Look at History

Periyakulam is home to several very old temples. The Balasubramaniam Swamy temple stands by the Varaha river. The Periyakovil Temple and Karanamoorthy Swamy temple are located near the Periyakulam pond. On the hills to the southeast, you can find the Kailasanathar temple.

Exploring Periyakulam's Geography

Periyakulam is a very scenic city. It sits on the banks of the Varaganathi, a river that flows all year round. Behind it, you can see the tall Kodaikanal hills. The town is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, which are mountain ranges. This area is very fertile, meaning it's great for farming.

The "Mango City"

Periyakulam is famous for its delicious mangoes. Because so many mangoes are grown here, it's known as the "Mango City." A large part of Tamil Nadu's mango supply comes from this town.

Weather and Climate

The weather in Periyakulam is usually pleasant. It gets most of its rain from October to December during the northeast monsoon. In summer, temperatures can reach about 40°C (104°F). In winter, temperatures are milder, usually between 18°C (64°F) and 29.6°C (85°F). The town gets about 105 cm (41 inches) of rain each year.

People and Languages

Population Details

In 2011, Periyakulam had a population of 42,976 people. There were slightly more females than males, with 1,013 females for every 1,000 males. Most people in the town can read and write, with a literacy rate of nearly 80%.

Local Languages

Tamil is the main language spoken in Periyakulam and the areas around it. The local way of speaking Tamil is similar to the Madurai dialect.

Culture and Town Layout

Periyakulam is not just known for its mangoes. It's also famous for its sweet water, which comes from the Berijam Lake in Kodaikanal. The town has pleasant weather throughout the year.

The Varaha river divides Periyakulam into two main parts: Thenkarai (the southern side) and Vadakarai (the northern side). The streets in the town were planned in a special way, reflecting old community settlements. Periyakulam has many historical treasures, including old buildings, writings, and temples. It's also seen as a special and holy place by many.

Fun Places to Visit

Periyakulam and its surroundings offer many interesting places to visit. Here are a few:

• Sothuparai Dam: About 9 km away.
• Kumbakarai Falls: About 8 km from town.
• Theertha Thotti: Only 2 km away.
• Vaigai Dam: About 15 km away.
• Manjalar Dam: About 18 km away.
• Kodaikanal: A popular hill station, about 49 km away via Kumbakarai.
• Thekkady: About 80 km away.
• Surulithirtham: About 60 km away.
• Munnar: About 103 km away.

Kumbakkarai Waterfalls

The Kumbakkarai waterfalls are a popular spot. Years ago, in 1942, a kind businessman named Thiru K Chellam Iyer helped make the falls safer and more enjoyable for visitors. He cleared dangerous pits and built changing rooms and stairs. Thanks to his efforts, Kumbakkarai waterfalls became a well-loved tourist attraction.

Learning and Education

Periyakulam has good educational facilities.

• Victoria Memorial High School provides education for students in the town.
• The Horticultural College & Research Institute (HC & RI) is located here. It's part of the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University.
• There is also a Government Nursing College in Periyakulam.

Colleges in Periyakulam

• Jayaraj Annapakiyan College of Arts and Science
• Government College of Horticulture
• VPV College of Engineering
• Mary Matha College of Arts and Science
• Government College of Nursing
• Devangar Polytechnic College
• Thanga Muthu Polytechnic College
• Thiraviyam Group of Institutions

Famous People from Periyakulam

Many talented individuals come from Periyakulam:

• Bala: A well-known film director who won a National Film Award.
• Mu. Metha: A respected Tamil poet.
• O. Panneerselvam: A politician who served as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
• Singampuli: A popular film actor.
• Major Sundarrajan: A famous film actor.
• VISHAL SOUNDARAPANDIAN: A mechanical engineer.

See also

In Spanish: Periyakulam para niños