Fonte da India, Monte Alegre do Sul, Brazil

## Overview Fonte da Índia is a public drinking spring located in the charming city of Monte Alegre do Sul, a small municipality in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Nestled in a region known for its mineral-rich waters and natural beauty, this spring has long held cultural significance for the local community. According to local tradition, indigenous peoples used this water source for many years before European colonization, and the spring's name — "Fonte da Índia" (Spring of the Indian Woman) — reflects that deep ancestral connection to the land and its natural resources. Monte Alegre do Sul sits in the Serra da Mantiqueira foothills, an area celebrated across Brazil for its mineral springs and hydrothermal circuit. The geology of the region, characterized by crystalline rock formations, naturally filters groundwater and contributes to the mineral content that has made these springs popular destinations for generations. Fonte da Índia is one of several springs in the area that have historically been used as drinking water sources by both indigenous communities and later settlers. The spring is publicly accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the region. ## Directions 1. Head to **Avenida Viriato Valente** in Monte Alegre do Sul, São Paulo, Brazil. 2. The spring is located along or near this avenue within the city. Look for signage indicating "Fonte da Índia." 3. **GPS Coordinates:** -22.687166, -46.677834 — use these in your preferred navigation app (Google Maps, Waze, etc.) for precise routing to the spring. *Note: Detailed turn-by-turn directions from outside the city were not provided in the original listing. Using GPS navigation is recommended for the most reliable route.* ## What to Expect Fonte da Índia is a publicly accessible spring situated within the urban area of Monte Alegre do Sul, making it relatively easy to reach compared to more remote natural springs. Visitors can expect a designated spring outlet where water flows freely for collection. The spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors alike, though water quality can vary with seasonal conditions. Monte Alegre do Sul is part of the broader "Circuito das Águas Paulista" (São Paulo Water Circuit), a tourism route connecting several towns in the region that are famous for their natural mineral springs. If you're visiting Fonte da Índia, consider exploring other springs and natural attractions in the surrounding area to make the most of your trip. The spring is open around the clock with no entry fees, so you can visit at any time that suits your schedule. Bringing your own containers for water collection is recommended, as there may not be facilities on-site.