The majestic waterfalls in Kerala, emerging from numerous meandering streams and emanating their angelic charm while descending, can instill a zing in your heart and add a rhythm to your soul. Pick up on their unique swishing sound as you surrender yourself to their dazzling spell and silently pray for more such opportunities to be preserved for eternity.
Athirappilly Waterfalls
Located at a distance of 47 km from Thrissur and 40 km from Kochi, this highest fall of Kerala, with roaring water flowing amidst the lush Sholayar forests and joining the serene Chalakudi River, may numb your senses for some moments. This is also perhaps the reason why this place has been used for the shooting of famous movies like “Baahubali” and “Ravan”. Trek to its bottom to salvage stunning views or indulge in activities like rafting, jungle safaris, camping or bird watching. And, most importantly, do not miss the Vazhachal Waterfalls, just 5km away in the Ernakulam district.
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Entry fee: Rs 15 per head
Palaruvi Falls or ‘The Stream of Milk’
The misty white water gives this waterfall, located in the Kollam district, its name. Trek through dense forests, enjoy lovely picnics or even bath in the medicinal water of a small pool formed by this waterfall in South Kerala, to get rid of skin problems. Nearby attractions include Thenmala Dam, Ashtamudi Lake, Paravur Lake and Kollam.
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Entry fee: INR 20 (Indians), INR 40 (foreigners).
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Embark upon a 2km trek to reach this biggest three step waterfall presenting a marvelous sight. Capture mesmerizing views of sunset and sunrise, but do not get too near. Also, refrain from carrying alcohol or plastics as they are strictly forbidden. Nearby visiting places include Banasura Sagar Dam, Muthanga Sanctuary, Ponmudi Waterfalls, Kalpetta and Pookode Lake.
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Entry fee: INR 30/60 for Indians/foreigners. You also need to have permission from local authorities to enter.
Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls
As this waterfall in Kochi-Madurai highway pours down seven steps and meets the Valara waterfalls, it creates a fantastic view for you to cherish. Trek vigorously or organize quaint picnics while relishing its surging sprays.
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Soochipara Falls
Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, this one passing through deciduous trees, and finally joining the Chaliyar River, is bound to make you notice the extensive efforts put in by its managing board to ensure that it remains clean and plastic free. So, climb rocks, swim or relax in guesthouses on the waterfall stretch, but do not pollute the area. You may also visit nearby locations like Chembra Peak, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, and Edakkal ancient caves.
Entry fee: INR 80 per person and INR 40 for a camera.
Thommankuthu Falls
Trekking around this waterfall situated near the town of Thodupuzha, bestows an amazing experience, for, in addition to its unique flora and fauna, trekkers may also explore caves found along the mountain paths. Bath, boat or fish but before anything, make sure to get a permit from the forest department.
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Chethalayam Falls
One of the smallest waterfalls of Kerala, Chethalayam Falls gets loads of tourists every year, especially during the monsoon season. But, avoid going in summer when the stream dries up, and when you do visit, look around for birds that nest in the trees around the falls. If time permits, visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
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Aruvikkuzhy Falls
To see this waterfall in its total glory, pay a visit on a cheerful, sunny day, when the radiant rays of the sun brighten its pleasant surroundings. One of the best attractions of the Kottayam district, make elaborate plans to enjoy sumptuous picnics or watch birds for hours once you reach here. Popular nearby places are Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple, Paliakara Church, and Muloor Smaraka.
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Kanthanpara Falls
To reach this small but accessible waterfall, you need to pass through mesmerizing tea gardens and coffee plantations. Falling from an altitude of 30 meters, it presents a wonderful view. There are a lot of activities too like swimming, trekking, and camping that you may avail.
Thusharagiri Waterfalls
With its water spraying down like snow from the Western Ghats, this one truly lives up to its name; “Tushargiri” meaning “snow-capped mountains”. For seeing the origin of this waterfall, you need to trek uphill for 5 km. Other nearby waterfalls include the Earattumukku, Thanni Muthassi, and Mazhavil Chattam falls.
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Power House Waterfalls
Located at a distance of 18 km from Munnar, this waterfall is supposed to have originated from a lake at Devikulam, known as ‘Sita Devi Kulam’. Falling from a height of 2000 meters, it hails as one of Kerala’s top tourist attractions for its serene tea estates and enchanting flora and fauna. Trek down the hills to swim in the picturesque pool found at the bottom of the falls.
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Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
Relax and rejuvenate yourself in the picturesque location of this waterfall by the bank of Pampa River in the Pathanamthitta District, 128 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Literally meaning “honey stream,” its water descends into a pool, after flowing through multiple streams. Top nearby attractions are Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple, Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, Konni Forest Reserve, and Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple.
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Vazhvanthol Waterfalls
Placed at a distance of 45 km from Trivandrum city, this waterfall in the Bonacaud region can be your ideal holiday destination for carefree bird watching or enjoying the pristine beauty of nature in a calm atmosphere. Only watch out for the slippery rocks.
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Entry fee: INR 35 per person.
Siruvani Falls
Organize a pleasant trip to this waterfall in Boluavampatti village, at a distance of 37km from Coimbatore and get involved in trekking, bird watching or wildlife safari. Quench your thirst with its sweet water when you get exhausted.
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Entry fee: INR 25 per person.
Mankayam Waterfalls
The cool and clear water of this waterfall is said to possess medicinal properties, since the forest area from which it comes, is full of herbal plants. Bath and rejuvenate yourself while soaking in the aura of this waterfall near Palode in Nedumangad Taluk. Two other waterfalls to look out for are the Kalakayam and Kurisadi falls.
Keralam Kundu Waterfalls
Located in the middle of Silent Valley, this oldest waterfall offers a nice ambiance. You may refresh yourself in minutes by diving into a large pond, formed at the center, but be careful since slippery rocks may prove dangerous. Also, carry along enough water and food as there are no shops nearby.
Meenvallam Waterfalls
This waterfall, situated in Palakkad district, originates from the Thuppanadu River and falls in steps from heights of 5 to 45 meters.
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It’s not every day that one gets an opportunity to steal away from the maddening restraints of monotonous life. So, when you do receive one, wear it out by basking in the heavenly glow of these majestic waterfalls to realize the true essence of life.