Visible as fine silver linings on the lush green tropical canvas from a distance, the waterfalls in Kerala turn into all-singing-all-dancing spectacles when approached. Nature seems to impregnate the playful streams of Western Ghats and born out of the intimate relationship are the gorgeous cascades that roll the drums loud to announce their advent. When in Kerala, you are always in close proximity to not one or two, but arrays of waterfalls and missing even one may make you regret later. So next time you are in the God’s own country, find out which of these wonders you are close to and don’t miss the visit.
Most Beautiful Waterfalls In Kerala
Athirappilly Waterfalls (82 ft.; June-January)
Kerala’s highest fall enjoys a celebrity status for having featured in numerous Bollywood and regional language movies. Enjoy this roaring beauty from various vantage points or trek to its bottom for incredible views. The lush green splendor of thick Sholayar forests acts as the perfect background while the melodies of the falling water add to the dramatic settings. Athirappilly falss are sure one amongst the 5 most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala.
How to Reach: Nearest airport is Kochi (about 40 km.) while the closest railway station is Chalakudi (34 km.). Buses ply from the major tourist destinations like Kochi, Coimbatore and Munnar.
Things to Know: Timings are 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. (tickets issued till 05:00 p.m.). Entry fee is INR 15 per head. Fascinating beauty during monsoons (June-September), but trekking and swimming may be risky. Nearby activities include rafting, jungle safaris, camping, bird watching, and trekking.
Soochipara Falls (656 ft.; September-February)
Montane, deciduous and evergreen forests lend rich magnificence to the stunning Soochipara Falls (also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls). The three-tired cataract is listed among waterfalls in Kerala for the efforts that have been put to keep it clean and plastic-free. Swimming and rock climbing add adventure value to this hotspot.
How to Reach: Calicut International Airport (102 km.) and Kozhikode Railway Station (92 km.). Taxis and cabs can be hired from Calicut or Sultan Bathery (the drive reveals spectacular tea gardens and spice plantations) to reach the parking from where you must walk around 2 km. to reach the fall.
Things to Know: Timings are 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Entry fee include INR 80 per person and INR 40 for a camera (In case you carry a plastic bottle, you have to get it tagged and pay INR 50 that gets refunded on return). Beware of leeches during monsoons. Don’t miss the nearby attractions like Chembra Peak, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and Edakkal ancient caves.
Palaruvi Falls (299 ft., June-January)This horsetail fall descends like a ‘stream of milk’ and leaves the spectators completely hypnotized. Extremely popular among the local residents for picnics, it also forms a small pool of water which is believed to possess herbal medicinal properties. Taking bath in the water is believed as great for skin healing and rejuvenation. Trekking through the dense forests, crossing small streams, to reach the fall is a bonus for the visitors.The falls are so beautiful that these deserve to be listed amongst the 5 most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala.
How to Reach: Trivandrum International Airport (103 km.) and Aryankavu Railway Station (about 6 km.). Buses, jeeps and cabs are available until the parking point.
Things to Know: Timings are 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. Entry fees include INR 20 (Indians), INR 40 (foreigners) and INR 10/20/30/50 for two-wheelers/cars-jeeps/minibuses/buses. Nearby attractions are Thenmala Dam, Ashtamudi Lake, Paravur Lake and Kollam.
Meenmutty Falls (985 ft.; October-May)Throwing down its water in 3 steps, it is among the largest falls in India and among the preferred choices for those planning a Kerala waterfall tour. During monsoons, voluminous water falling from great height thrills but it is not advised to get too close to the fall. Plan to visit post monsoons and you would be blessed with charismatic beauty and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views amidst luxuriant forests.
How to Reach: Calicut (Kozhikode) has the closest airport as well as railway station, about 110 km. away. A trekking route of about 2-3 km. must be traversed to reach the fall.
Things to Know: Timings are 08:00 a.m. to 05:30 p.m. (tickets are issued between 07:30 a.m. and 04:30 p.m.). Entry fee is INR 30/60 for Indians/foreigners. Permission is required from the local authorities. Plastics and alcohol are prohibited. Plan to visit the close attractions like Banasura Sagar Dam, Muthanga Sanctuary, Kalpetta and Pookode Lake.
Thommankuthu Waterfalls (300 ft., June-November)The enthralling seven-tiered waterfall is now a celebrated eco-tourism destination in Kerala. Apart from drinking in the marvelous views of this cascade, you may indulge in activities like fishing, bird-watching (from an exciting wooden tree-hut), trekking (an outstanding 12 km. trek through picturesque hills) and more. Several pools formed by the water and presence of numerous caves make it a true paradise.
How to Reach: Cochin (about 65 km.) has the nearest airport as well as railway station. Buses and taxis can be hired from the nearest town of Thodupuzha.
Things to Know: Timings are from 10:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. Entry fee is INR 10/20 for children/adults. You would be awestruck to find several other small and big waterfalls in the close vicinity. The strikingly beautiful hill station of Munnar is only about 67 km. away.
Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls (82 ft.; June to August)Situated 7 km. away from Achencoil in Kollam District, Kumbhavurutty is one of the most popular waterfalls in Kerala, nestled amidst charming environ and luxuriant foliage.
How to Reach: KSRTC buses regularly ply from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam to Achencoil. Car rentals are also available.
Things to Know: It is a great trekking spot and is blessed with rich flora and fauna. Opening hours are Monday-Sunday from 07:00 am to 05:00 pm.
Aruvikkuzhy Falls (100 ft.; October to February)Aruvikkuzhy Falls in Pathanamthitta is truly a jewel in the crown of Kozhencherrys scenic beauty, making it one of the Kerala best waterfalls.
How to Reach: Nearest railway station is Thiruvalla (29 km.) and nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport (131 km.). Bus services are available from Thiruvalla.
Things to Know: Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Paliakara Church and Muloor Smarakam are some popular nearby places to visit. Accommodation is available in Pathanamthitta at as low as INR 1000 for one night.
Adyanpara Falls (350 ft.; September to December)This stunning cascading waterfall in Malappuram is tucked amidst lush green forest with exotic flora and fauna that make it an ideal place for picnic.
How to Reach: Nilambur (16 km.) is the nearest railway station and Calicut International Airport (58 km.) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: Do not visit the waterfall during summer and monsoon. It is also one of the best places to spot rare species of birds.
Attukad Waterfalls (4160 ft.; January to December)Located between Munnar and Pallivasal in Idukki District, Atuukad Waterfalls is a sheer feast for the eyes. Rolling hills, lush forest and rugged terrain make it an idea trekking destination.
How to Reach: Cochin International Airport (101 km.) is the nearest airport and Aluva (102 km.) is the nearest railway station.
Things to Know: The waterfall is famous for its stunning beauty and long trekking trails through the forests. Local guides are available for trekking.
Cheeyappara Waterfalls (1000 ft.; October to May)Cheeyappara is one of the most beautiful Kerala waterfalls India and is a great destination for eco-tourism. The water here cascades down over seven steps, enhancing its beauty and wilderness.
How to Reach: Aluva (109 km. from Munnar) is the nearest railway station and Cochin International Airport (108 km. from Munnar) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: It is one of the most important excursion points in Cochin. It is also a popular trekking spot.
Chethalayam Falls (2975 ft.; September to February)Situated 11 km. from Sulthan Bathery in Wayanad District, Chethalayam is one of the most beautiful yet lesser known waterfalls in Kerala. Sprawling greenery and exotic flora and fauna make it an ideal trekking and hiking destination. Your Kerala waterfalls tour should include Chethalayam.
How to Reach: Kozhikode (97 km. from Sulthan Bathery) is the nearest railway station and Calicut International Airport (120 km. from Sulthan Bathery) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: Ideal for trekking and hiking. Do visit Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary for a comprehensive experience.
Kalakkayam Falls (1640 ft.; November to February)
If you havent been to Kalakkayam Falls, you havent seen it all! Tucked amidst beautiful milieu that defies words, the waterfall and its cool water is the secret to ultimate relaxation. It is located in Idinijar near Palode.
How to Reach: Thiruvananthapuram Central (50 km.) is the nearest railway station and Trivandrum International Airport (60 km.) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: Expect crowds during public holidays and weekends. Monsoon rains can cause flash floods and there may be restrictions to pool entry. One can trek from Palode (9 km.) to reach the waterfall.
Kanthanpara Falls (98 ft.; October to May) Via narrow meandering roads and through lush tea gardens and coffee plantations, you reach Kanthanpara Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Kerala. It is a beautiful picnic spot and a great trekking destination, while lush forest at the background adds to its charm.
How to Reach: Kozhikode (95 km.) is the nearest railway station and Calicut International Airport (86 km.) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: An ideal place for picnic, swimming and sightseeing. It is also popular for incredible trekking and camping opportunities.
Keezharkuth Falls (200 ft., September to May)
Popularly known as Rainbow Falls, Keezharkuth Falls in Idukki District cascades down a stupendous height of 200 feet, set amidst luxuriant environ and pristine forests of Kaithappara Hills.
How to Reach: Kottayam (71 km.) is the nearest railway station and Cochin International Airport (68 km.) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: Reaching the waterfall requires a 10 km. trek through the jungle where you can encounter porcupines, wild pigs and even elephants. Camping, mountaineering and rock climbing are also popular here.
Madammakkulam Falls (300 ft., January to December)
The Madammakkulam Falls is a sheer marvel for nature lovers, located at Peermedu in Idukki District. It is a beautiful pond under a gushing waterfall, bounded by deep woods that enhance the charm of this place. It is a must-see in your Kerala waterfalls tour.
How to Reach: Kottayam (75 km.) is the nearest railway station and Cochin (121 km.) houses the nearest airport.
Things to Know: It is a popular excursion and picnic spot, ideal for family getaways.
Meenvallam Falls (25 ft., November to May)One of the best-kept secrets of Central Kerala, Meenvallam finds its way through the stunning Kalladikode Hills, making it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala.
How to Reach: Palakkad Town (29 km.) is the nearest railway station and Coimbatore International Airport (95 km.) in Tamil Nadu are the nearest airport.
Things to Know: The waterfall is reachable by a 2 km. trek from the car park at Koomankundu. Monsoon can be dangerous and the waterfall mostly remains closed during this time. Accommodation is available at Palakkad Town.
Perunthenaruvi Falls (100 ft., September to May)One of the top waterfalls in Kerala, Perunthenaruvi is situated amidst dense forest of Sabarimala, where the water gushes out through a gorge, exhibiting breathtaking beauty to behold forever.
How to Reach: Thiruvalla (44 km.) is the nearest railway station and Trivandrum (138 km.) is the nearest international airport.
Things to Know: The rocky terrain can be slippery and dangerous during Monsoon. It is rarely crowded which makes it an ideal spot for a secluded picnic.
Power House Waterfalls (6561 ft., January to December)The stunning Munnar waterfall, also known as Chinnakanal Waterfall, is blessed with bountiful beauty and charisma. It cascades from a breathtaking height of 6561 feet, making it a powerhouse of roaring water and scenic beauty.
How to Reach: Aluva (106 km.) is the nearest railway station and Cochin (105 km.) is the nearest international airport.
Things to Know: It is a captivating place to relax on your way to Thekaddy or Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Thommankuthu Waterfalls (4922 ft., September to May) The beautiful seven-step waterfall is one of the best in Kerala and truly a travellers paradise. It is one of the ultimate places for adventure and fun, tucked amidst lush beauty of dense forests and picturesque ambiance.
How to Reach: Aluva (65 km.) is the nearest railway station and Cochin (52 km.) is the nearest airport.
Things to Know: Visiting hours is 10:00 am to 06:00pm. Boating, picnic, trekking and fishing are popular activities here. There is a 12 km. trekking trail up the hill and through the thick woods.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls (246 ft.; September to December) A beautiful assortment of cascades form the Thusharagiri Waterfalls, located east of Kozhikode. The first three of these waterfalls are easily accessible, lying within 500 metres. But the others need hiking through the hills and forest.
How to Reach: Kozhikode (50 km.) is the nearest railway station and Calicut International Airport (23 km. from Kozhikode) is the closest airport.
Things to Know: Start early morning if you wish to trek and reach the waterfall. It is also an ideal spot for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers and rock climbers. There are few accommodation options near the waterfall.
Vellari Mala Waterfalls
The gorgeous waterfall is nestled amidst the breathtaking Vellari Mala Peak, lying at an altitude of 6725 feet. Rocky terrain, misty landscape, exotic wildlife and verdant environ with numerous brooks make it an ideal adventure spot.
How to Reach: Nilambur (26 km.) is the nearest railway station and Calicut (40 km.) is the nearest international airport.
Things to Know: Besides being a trekkers paradise, it is also a popular picnic spot situated near Thusharagiri in Kozhikode district.
Kerala waterfalls India tours celebrate wilderness, adventure, romance, and life. Be the guest of nature at these fabulous spots and you would find your journey in the southernmost state absolutely pleasing.
In case you are planning for a Kerala Honeymoon Tour Package (read special offbeat tips on Honeymoon in Kerala on Kerala Honeymoon Tour Packages ), do ensure that you keep a few of these waterfalls in your tour itinerary which would make your Kerala Honeymoon tour even more romantic. For any assistance on this you may write to us on info@waytoindia.com .