Splash out: God's own country's most amazing waterfalls

Would you believe that even in the peak Indian summer you can experience a full blown waterfall with large rapids, and very forceful water sprays in Kerala? Nature puts on a great show for us to enjoy in the setting of Kerala’s dense forests along the rolling ranges of the Western Ghats. This article will run you by the famous waterfalls in Kerala, its environs and unique experiences you could consider while you explore them.
 

Athirapally waterfalls 

By far the best waterfalls in Kerala, Athirapally, curiously nicknamed the ‘Niagara of India’ makes for a magnificent sight as the Chalakudy River takes an 80 feet plunge onto dark granite below. The route to the spot is brilliantly scenic through meandering roads into wilderness of the dense forests. The best view is from the bottom of the waterfalls which can be reached by a slightly adventurous trail along the slippery mountain. But trust me as you hear the loud noise and feel the refreshing water spray you will treat yourself to an impressive view worth the little trouble.

Famed Bollywood location, this waterfall is a slice of heaven in Kerala which should not be missed

Planning a trip here: 

80 km from Kochi, a trip to Athirapally can be planned as a day trip from Kochi or as part of an off-beat package covering thattekad (bird sanctuary), Poomala and Kodanad elephant camp. The best experience at Athirapally waterfalls is during monsoon (July-September) 

A unique experience @ Athirapally - Rainforest resort

Rs.10000+

Per Room (min)

Rainforest Resort

How would it feel like to stay in the midst of a virgin rainforest and draw your curtains to a breath-taking waterfall view right from your living room. One of a kind experience!

Good For: Boutique Stay Lovers, Nature Lovers

Best Times: June - September

Visit
Duration: 2 days for forest lovers

A boutique hotel set in 7 acres of virgin rainforest. The restaurant opens out of the lawns with 180-degree view of the waterfalls. Chic interiors with a touch of minimalism

Activities at Athirapally

• Take a dip in the infinity pool with the mighty falls as the background. This is taking water therapy to a whole new level
• Guided jungle trek (subject to approval of the forest department) is a chance to see the rare hornbill
• Day trip to Kodanad Elephant camp 
• Nothing refreshes the mind as much as standing at the foot of the falls and being enveloped in the magical, cleansing spray
• Spend a day with the tribesmen of Sholayar
• Shop for local honey, bamboo hats from village vendors

Waterfalls in Wayanad: Meenmutty, Soochipara

Among the best waterfalls in Kerala and the one most unspoiled in its natural setting. On reaching the point, we can gaze at the sheets of water falling nearly 300 meters down a cliff in three distinct stages. Each of its three tiers requires a separate hike through a moist, deciduous forest. The hike through long woods, greenish hillsides peppered with plantations is slightly tiresome but the waterfalls are worth it. Also you get to see exotic caves which house Neolithic age carvings along your trek.

Meenmutty is the second largest waterfall in the whole state of Kerala, located in an unspoilt scenic surrounding.

Planning a trip here

The Meenmutty falls are generally enjoyed by nature lovers and adventure seekers. A trip here is best planned as part of slow holidays enjoying the natural setting in Wayanad. October to March would be the best time to visit Meenmutty
 

Thommankuthu Waterfalls

Located near Thodupuzha, this palace is famous for numerous waterfalls. The uniqueness is that it is a seven-step waterfall and for each step in the cascade there is a pool beneath before the next step offering numerous possibilities for having a dip. To enjoy this place to the fullest, undertake an adventurous trek up to the top (Approximately 12 km) of the hill at the source of the fall. The safer zone below with shallow pools is suitable for the less adventurous. The falls are named after tribal leader Thomban who was washed away near the waterfall. 

This secluded seven-step waterfalls offers a great combination of trek and waterfalls experience

Planning a trip here: 

As the place is less frequented, facilities are not really great. Plan visiting this place as part of an idukki offbeat tour.
 

Palaruvi Waterfalls 

Palaruvi literally means milky stream and it truly lives up to its name offering a picturesque site of a majestic fall cascading from a height of 300m. The uniqueness is in the fact that the stream has medicinal properties and unlike many other waterfalls in Kerala, it is very approachable. Like many other Kerala waterfalls, Palaruvi is seasonal and mostly dries up in the midst of summer. The water collects in pond in which visitors can take a dip. The trek up to the fall through dense jungle and the setting in the back drop of greenery makes this location a memorable experience

This seasonal waterfall in south Kerala which is very approachable and makes for a good outing

Planning a trip here: 

Located very near the Thenmala Eco Tourism spot, a trip here can be combined with an offbeat experience of the Kollam backwaters, adventure zone at Thenmala and heritage zone at punaloor.

Vazhachal Waterfalls

Located around 70 km from Thrissur and hardly 5 km from Athirapally falls Kerala; this is yet another Kerala waterfalls at the entrance of the Sholayar. This majestic fall of the Chalakudy River in the setting amidst green foliage and rocky terrain is an awesome sight. The place is well set to sit, relax and view the rapidly running waters. There is a small park and well laid platform on the banks to walk by the running waters

The place is well set to sit, relax and view the rapidly running waters away from the crowds

Planning a trip here: 

Being very close to Athirapally, it can be tagged along in the same journey time permitting. 

General tips for waterfalls in Kerala:

Many of the famous waterfalls in Kerala are seasonal with few exceptions like the Athirapally and Meenmutty falls. So be wary of this while planning your trip.While the most exotic Kerala waterfalls are located in isolated areas, during the season time from September to March many local waterfalls also become a worthwhile experience. For example enroute Munnar, waterfalls like Cheeyapara and Attukad have a charm of their own. 

Have a great holidaying experience in Kerala. Until then, if you do have any questions about experiencing the Kerala waterfalls you can leave a comment below. Happy travelling!