Discover Kerala’s Secret Waterfalls: A Guide

Did you know Kerala has 27 beautiful waterfalls? Each one has its own special beauty and charm. This guide talks about Kerala’s hidden waterfalls. They are tucked away in the Western Ghats’ greenery, missed by many tourists. We will cover places from the peaceful Thommankuthu Waterfalls to the grand Meenmutty. This guide is for nature lovers who want to find peace in nature’s embrace.

Key Takeaways

  • Kerala hosts a total of 27 captivating waterfalls.
  • Thommankuthu Waterfalls span seven picturesque steps.
  • Meenmutty Waterfalls are the second-largest in Kerala, cascading from a height of approximately 300 meters.
  • Bathing pools available at select waterfalls for visitor enjoyment.
  • Kerala’s secret waterfalls provide serene and scenic escapes from bustling tourist spots.

Introduction to Kerala Waterfalls

Kerala, with its calm backwaters and lovely tea gardens, also has stunning waterfalls. Many beautiful waterfalls in Kerala are not far from big cities like Kochi or Munnar. They offer great views and chances to swim, hike, and enjoy pure nature.

In Kerala, Athirapally Waterfall is amazing at 80 feet tall. It gets water from the peaceful Chalakudy River. This makes it a top spot in any guide about Kerala’s waterfalls. Vazhachal Waterfall is shorter but flows over rocks in a unique way. It’s also a home for many special plants and animals. These waterfalls give nature lovers thrilling adventures.

Meenmutty Waterfalls is super tall at 300 meters, making it Kerala’s second biggest. Soochipara Waterfalls, also called Sentinel Rock Waterfall, falls in three levels from 200 meters high. It joins the Chulika River, creating a wonderful view. Exploring these hidden waterfalls in Kerala is an exciting adventure with awesome sights.

Chethalayam is a waterfall that only shows up in some seasons. It is near the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. To see it, visitors must hike 4 kilometers through lovely nature. Kadachikunnu Waterfalls are in the Nilambur Forest. You need to walk 2 kilometers through green forests to get there.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls are perfect for family trips. They are 22 kilometers from Kalpetta and drop from 30 meters high. Palchuram Waterfalls are huge with four levels, falling from 300 meters. They are near Kannur and Wayanad. These waterfalls are highlighted in the Kerala waterfalls guide. The guide helps adventurers find the ideal waterfall.

Thusharagiri Waterfalls: A Mist-Capped Marvel

The Thusharagiri Waterfalls are about 53 km from Kozhikode. These stunning Kerala waterfalls are a great place for those looking to get away. Surrounded by peaceful nature and misty peaks, Thusharagiri is more than beautiful to look at.

Location and Accessibility

Getting to Thusharagiri Waterfalls is an adventure. From Kozhikode, you can drive through spicy-smelling plantations. The falls are close to other spots like Meenmutty Waterfalls, 41 km from Thiruvananthapuram, and Vazhachal Waterfalls, 65 km from Thrissur. It’s a great spot for those who love nature.

WaterfallDistanceNearest Major City
Chinnakanal Waterfalls17 kmMunnar
Thusharagiri Waterfalls53 kmKozhikode
Thommankuthu Waterfalls44 kmIdukki

Natural Beauty

Thusharagiri Waterfalls show nature’s untouched beauty with three main falls. Visitors hear the water’s music as it falls over rocks. Being closer to Thusharagiri unveils more of its wonder, making it one of the most stunning Kerala waterfalls. These secluded waterfalls offer peace and a deep connection with Kerala’s pure environment.

Exploring Athirappilly and Vazhachal Falls

Kerala is famous for its untouched beauty. A visit is incomplete without seeing Athirappilly Falls and Vazhachal Waterfalls. These places show the real beauty of Kerala.

Athirappilly Falls

Athirappilly Falls is Kerala’s biggest waterfall, standing tall at 25 meters. It is above sea level by 1,000 feet. This huge waterfall is in the Sholayar range, surrounded by green forests full of life. You can reach the falls by road. Cochin International Airport is the nearest, about 55-60 kilometers away. The closest train station is Chalakudy Railway Station, 30-35 kilometers away.

You can see the falls from different places, even from the bottom. There are places to stay near the falls, like “The Rainforest.” It’s 0.73 kilometers away and costs ₹10,000 a night. You can eat at places like “Hydel Palace Restaurant” and “The Banana Leaf”.

The falls open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets are ₹50 for adults and ₹10 for kids. Foreigners pay ₹200, and students pay ₹15. The best time to visit is from September to January. Then, the water flow is high. This makes the falls a top site in Kerala.

Vazhachal Waterfalls

Drive about 7 kilometers from Athirappilly to find Vazhachal Waterfalls. Though not as famous, Vazhachal is just as stunning. It is about 120 meters high. The water flows over rocks smoothly, making a peaceful place.

These falls are also close to Cochin Airport and Chalakudy Railway Station. You can enjoy the quiet and see other places too. Like the Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary & Dam, Charpa Waterfalls, and the beautiful Illithode.

The same fees and hours as Athirappilly apply here. Visiting these waterfalls adds to the beauty of a Kerala trip. You can choose the loud falls of Athirappilly or the calm of Vazhachal. Both promise a memorable time.

  1. Athirappilly Falls and Vazhachal Waterfalls show off Kerala’s untouched beauty.
  2. They are easy to get to, with airports and train stations nearby.
  3. They are wonderful places to visit, especially from September to January.

Exploring these falls means seeing local sites, natural wonders, and culture. It proves why they are top places in Kerala.

Hidden Gem: Thommankuthu Waterfall

Thommankuthu Waterfall is a beautiful, secluded spot in Kerala. It amazes visitors with its serenity and beauty. Located in Kerala’s green landscapes, it’s perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. The falls have seven steps, making a peaceful place for relaxation.

The Seven Cascades

The falls’ beauty comes from seven cascading steps. Each step forms a picturesque pool. These levels are more than 300 feet high, offering stunning views. Photography fans and hikers love exploring these cascades. They enjoy the sounds and sights of nature here.

secluded waterfalls Kerala

Swimming and Recreation

Thommankuthu Waterfall is great for swimming and fun. The cascades create natural pools perfect for dipping and diving. It’s a great spot for family or friend gatherings. Surrounded by greenery, it’s an escape from busy city life.

FeatureDescription
LocationHeart of Kerala
HeightOver 300 feet
Number of CascadesSeven
Main ActivitiesSwimming, Recreation, Waterfall Hikes
Best Visit TimeAny time after Monsoon

Palaruvi Waterfall: The Stream of Milk

Palaruvi Waterfall, known as the Stream of Milk, is one of Kerala’s most stunning waterfalls. It falls from a height of 300 feet, looking like milk. For adults, entry costs INR 25 and for kids, INR 10. The bus or van from the entrance is INR 50 per person.

The trip to Palaruvi includes a 20-minute bus ride and a hike. Remember to watch for leeches, don’t feed the monkeys, and bring snacks and water. The pools are great for a dip and fun with the family.

Here is some detailed visitor information:

FacilityDetails
Visiting Hours8 AM to 6 PM
Best Visiting SeasonJune to February
Nearest AirportThiruvananthapuram International Airport (90 kms)
Nearest Railway StationAryankavu (6 kms)
Parking FeeINR 70 per car
Entry Fee (Adult)INR 25
Entry Fee (Child)INR 10

Nearby places like Thenmala Dam, Vintage Bridge, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary are worth visiting. A trip here is unforgettable with both beauty and adventure.

Mankayam Waterfall: A Secluded Paradise

Find peace at Mankayam Waterfall, hidden in Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala. It sits 1640 feet high, offering a calm escape.

For an Agasthyamala waterfall visit, start near Brimore estate. The trip is serene, around 45 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram. You’ll reach a stunning view after trekking 1 km.

This waterfall is quiet, away from the crowd. It has the calm that Kerala’s waterfalls are famous for. It’s perfect for those who love nature.

Getting there is easy. Trivandrum International Airport is 55 km away. Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station is about 45 km from Brimore. Close by, you also have Ponmudi Hill Station (40 km) and Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary (25 km).

The area around Mankayam is rich in nature. With Agasthyarkoodam Peak close by and the Kallar River just 15 km away, it’s great for adventures.

Plan for your stay, meals, and fun, as costs vary. Yet, the beauty of Mankayam Waterfall makes it worth it. It refreshes your spirit and connects you with untouched nature.

FeatureDetails
Elevation of Mankayam Waterfalls1640 feet
Nearest AirportTrivandrum International Airport (55 km)
Nearest Railway StationThiruvananthapuram Central (45 km)
Distance from Thiruvananthapuram to Brimore45 km
Distance from Brimore to the Waterfall Base1 km
Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary Area128 square kilometers
Distance to Ponmudi Hill Station40 km
Distance to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary25 km
Agasthyarkoodam Peak Height1,868 meters
Distance to Kallar River15 km

Meenmutty and Soochipara Falls: Northern Treasures

Northern Kerala is a paradise for nature lovers. It has amazing waterfalls like Meenmutty Waterfall and Soochipara Falls. Both places offer beautiful sights and fun activities.

Meenmutty Waterfall

Meenmutty Waterfall is near Kalpetta in Wayanad, about 29 km away. It’s a big waterfall with three levels dropping from nearly 300 meters. There’s a green pool at the bottom for swimming. It’s easy to get to. This makes it a favorite spot for many tourists.

Visitors can hike through the forest to reach it. They’ll see awesome views of the forests and valleys.

Soochipara Waterfall

Soochipara is also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. It’s about 22 km from Kalpetta. This waterfall has three levels and is famous in Northern Kerala. To get there, you drive through beautiful scenery and hike in a forest. It’s a great place for people who love trekking and adventure. The pool at the bottom is good for swimming in summer. When it’s busy, it’s best to go early to enjoy it without too many people.

Meenmutty Waterfall and Soochipara Falls are important for Wayanad’s tourism. They are beautiful and have activities like swimming and trekking. They are must-see places in Northern Kerala.

Waterfall NameDistance from KalpettaNotable Features
Meenmutty Waterfall29 kmThree-tiered, 300 meters, emerald pool
Soochipara Waterfall22 kmThree-tiered, trekking trails, swimming pool
Kanthanpara Waterfall23 kmEasy access, dense forest surroundings
Chethalayam Waterfall37 kmLess crowded, serene environment
Palchuram Waterfall45 kmPicturesque location, less frequented

North Kerala has beautiful nature and quiet places. Its waterfalls are a refuge for those seeking peace. We must protect these places for everyone in the future.

Secret Waterfalls in Kerala

Kerala hides secret waterfalls that few people visit. These spots are peaceful escapes from crowded places. They show off Kerala’s calm and pretty views.

The Nyayamakad Waterfall in Munnar is a standout. It falls from 4921 feet up. It’s perfect for those looking for quiet and love nature. The Thoovanam Waterfall is inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s 1400 feet tall and fits right into the wild around it.

secret waterfalls in Kerala

Don’t miss Kerala’s other hidden waterfalls like Lakkom Waterfall. It’s 50 feet tall and sits in Idukki’s beautiful forests. Valara Waterfall in Adimaly is another must-see. It is 1000 feet tall and gives visitors a stunning view and a calm place to relax.

Meenvallam Waterfall in Palakkad is also special. It has five steps and is near Karimba town. It offers a peaceful spot for visitors. Finding places like this shows how Kerala has beautiful nature not everyone knows about.

  1. Nyayamakad Waterfall – 4921 feet, Munnar
  2. Thoovanam Waterfall – 1400 feet, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  3. Lakkom Waterfall – 50 feet, Idukki
  4. Valara Waterfall – 1000 feet, Adimaly
  5. Meenvallam Waterfall – Five-step cascade, Palakkad

If you’re ready for an adventure, these quiet waterfalls are perfect. They offer peace and beautiful scenery. It’s a chance to see the hidden beauty of Kerala.

Tips for Visiting Kerala’s Waterfalls

Plan your waterfall trip to Kerala with care. The monsoon season, from June to September, is the best time. Waterfalls are full then. But, it’s important to check the weather and any warnings.

Be kind to nature when visiting Kerala’s waterfalls. Don’t leave trash and stay on paths. Safety comes first on your treks and swims. Follow local rules to enjoy places like the big Athirappilly Falls or the three-tiered Meenmutty Falls.

Here are some tips for planning waterfall trips Kerala:

  • Look at the weather and listen to local advisories.
  • Dress right for trekking and wear good shoes.
  • Take enough water and snacks to stay hydrated.
  • Respect the animals and keep a safe distance.
  • Follow what the community and environment need.

Check out this table for info on Kerala’s waterfalls:

WaterfallHeightBest Time to VisitLocationSpecial Features
Athirappilly Falls80 ftJune to September60 km from KochiNiagara of India, whitewater rafting
Meenmutty FallsThree-tiered cascadesMonsoon SeasonWayanadScenic trails
Soochipara Falls200 ftJune to SeptemberVellarimala, WayanadRock climbing, dense forests
Palaruvi Falls300 ftJune to JanuaryAryankavuMedicinal properties in water
Thusharagiri FallsThree waterfallsYear-roundKozhikodeDense plantation backdrop

Always plan carefully for a safe and fun visit. This way, your Kerala waterfall trip will be great and safe.

Conclusion

Kerala’s waterfalls are true wonders of nature. They combine thrilling adventures with peaceful moments. The “Niagara of India,” Athirappilly Falls, flows 80 feet down into the Sholayar Forest. Then, there’s Thommankuthu with its seven cascades. Each spot offers something special for every visitor. Whether you are hiking the Western Ghats or floating in Kuttanad’s backwaters, Kerala’s beauty is unmatched.

For a full experience, don’t miss Kerala’s hidden waterfalls like Meenmutty and Soochipara. Also, consider a 2 nights 3 days tour package. It will help you discover spots like Vypin Island and Bekal Fort. These trips connect you with Kerala’s lush nature and rich culture.

This guide gives you all you need to find these treasures. Kerala’s waterfalls are not only beautiful but also promote eco-friendly tourism. Remember to visit the top waterfalls in Munnar during your trip. Each one adds a unique touch to Kerala, making it a must-visit in India’s south.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Kerala’s waterfalls?

The monsoon season is the best time to see Kerala’s waterfalls. This season runs from June to September. The waterfalls are full and beautiful during this time.

Are Kerala’s hidden waterfalls suitable for swimming?

Yes, you can swim in many of Kerala’s hidden waterfalls. Thommankuthu and Meenmutty have natural pools. Always check safety warnings and local guidelines first.

How can I access the Thusharagiri Waterfalls in Kerala?

Thusharagiri Waterfalls are 50 km from Kozhikode. You can get there by trekking through spice plantations. The trek adds adventure and lets you see natural beauty.

What makes Athirappilly Falls a popular attraction?

Athirappilly Falls is Kerala’s largest waterfall. It’s known for its strong flow and green forest around it. This waterfall is in a rich ecosystem and is easy to get to.

What activities can I do at Thommankuthu Waterfall?

You can swim, picnic, and walk at Thommankuthu Waterfall. It has seven cascades. It’s a great place for relaxing and fun in nature.

Are there facilities available at Palaruvi Waterfall?

Palaruvi Waterfall has changing rooms. This makes it good for families. The waterfall’s milky streams and scenery are very pretty.

What is special about Mankayam Waterfall?

Mankayam Waterfall is hidden near Brimore estate in the Agasthyamala ranges. It’s peaceful and beautiful. It’s a perfect place for a quiet break.

How are Meenmutty and Soochipara Falls different in terms of activities?

Meenmutty Falls is famous for its three-tier look and a pool for swimming. Soochipara Falls, or Sentinel Rock, is great for trekking and climbing.

Are there any secret waterfalls in Kerala worth exploring?

Kerala has many secret waterfalls that are quiet and beautiful. They are perfect for exploring away from the usual tourist spots.

What precautions should I take when visiting Kerala’s waterfalls?

Respect nature and follow safety and local rules at the waterfalls. Trek and swim safely. Visit during the right season for the best experience.

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