Shenkottai, Tenkasi

Shenkottai is a town and a municipality in the Tenkasi district of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is located about 42 kilometres (26 mi) from the district headquarters, Tenkasi. Shenkottai is the gateway to the Western Ghats and is surrounded by hills and forests. The town is known for its temples, waterfalls, and traditional crafts.

History

Shenkottai is an ancient town with a long history. It is mentioned in several ancient Tamil texts, including the Sangam literature. The town was once a major trading center and was also a major military base.

Geography

Shenkottai is situated on the banks of the Chittar River, a tributary of the Tamirabarani River. The town is located in a hilly region with an average elevation of 120 meters (394 feet) above sea level.

Demographics

According to the 2011 Indian census, Shenkottai had a population of 26,823 people. The majority of the population is Hindu, with a small minority of Muslims and Christians. The town is multilingual, with Tamil being the official language and the most widely spoken language. Telugu, Kannada, and Urdu are also spoken by significant minorities.

Economy

Shenkottai’s economy is based on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The town is known for its rice, sugarcane, and banana crops. Shenkottai is also a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and its temples. The town is also home to a number of small-scale industries, including textile mills, food processing plants, and engineering firms.

Education

Shenkottai has a number of schools and colleges. The town is home to the Shenkottai Government Arts College, which is affiliated with the University of Madras.

Culture

Shenkottai has a rich culture and heritage. The town is home to a number of temples, festivals, and traditions. The town is also known for its handicrafts, which include pottery, weaving, and wood carving.

Tourism

Shenkottai is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and its temples. The town is home to a number of waterfalls, including the Shenkottai Falls, the Ariyamangalam Falls, and the Kottakudi Falls. Shenkottai is also home to a number of temples, including the Shenkottai Murugan Temple, the Shenkottai Shiva Temple, and the Shenkottai Amman Temple.

Transportation

Shenkottai is well-connected by road and rail. The town is situated on the National Highway NH7, which connects Chennai to Kanyakumari. Shenkottai also has a railway station on the Chennai-Tuticorin line.