The Niagara Falls of India
Located 60 km from the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirappally Falls is a marvellous cascade of frothy waters that makes its way from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats. This 80 ft high and 330 ft wide marvel is situated at the entrance of the Sholayar ranges and is often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India”. From here, the Athirappally falls flows through the verdant greenery of Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea, creating a spectacular vista of scintillating water, emerald jungles and azure sky.
Vazhachal has exotic fauna on display that have people forming a beeline to visit throughout the year. Rare bird sightings, including
On arriving in Athirappally, you are greeted by the sight of charming green Sholayar Peaks peering over the rushing gush of the falls. Standing against the backdrop of a rustling jungle foliage, the scenery is as picturesque as it can get. Bird lovers cannot miss this place, for it is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. There is a pool above the falls where one can relax and unwind. To get a view of the waterfall, one needs to descent 100m from the mountain. rare species of the hornbill, make it a bird lover’s paradise. This marvellous wonder as the perfect backdrop for an adventurous trip. The natural beauty presents an ideal shooting location that will surely mesmerise any who sees it.
Another interesting fact to note is that the fall merges with the Chalakkudy river before reaching its final destination into the sea. Owing to its scenic beauty, it is one of the most popular picnic spots in Kerala. There are a couple of water theme parks on the way to Athirappally called Silver Storm and Dream World and many resorts as well.
Trekking in Athirappally The precarious yet thrilling pathways up to the falls is a treat for mountaineers who are looking for a quick adventure. The trek routes are very well maintained and you get to savour a spectacular view of the falls thoughout. Colourful birds and lots of monkeys can be spotted throughout the way, and if you’re lucky some Samba deer might pay you a visit as well! Washrooms are available throughout the way for the convenience of the travellers. There is a path which takes you right to the base of the falls where the view is simply amazing. However, security personnel is deployed there, so be careful when you access this part of the trek.
Athirappally Falls in Bollywood Movies The scenic beauty of Athirappally falls has always been attractive to filmmakers. Famous songs like “Jiya Jale” from Dil Se and Aishwarya Rai’s “Barso Re Megha” from the movie Guru have been shot here showing the beautiful views of the falls. More recently, song sequences for the fi lm “Bahubali” were shot here as well. Although astonishing on the silver screen, the beauty of Athirappally is even more breathtaking in real life and makes it well worthy of a visit!
Best Time to Visit Since the region experiences tropical weather the best time to visit here will be either monsoon or winters when the climate here remains pleasant. Tourists who are coming specially to see the Athirappally waterfall should visit here during the monsoon season to see it in full glory.
Winter (November to February): 22° C- 30° C November marks the commencement of winter season and remains till the mid of February. The minimum and maximum temperature of this magnifi cent city remain in between 22°C to 30° C respectively. It can be a good time to visit for tourists who want to take part in adventure activities.
Summer (March to May): 23° C- 38° C Due to the hot, and humid climate typical of Kerala summer isn’t an ideal time to visit Athirapally. During the summer season the minimum temperature still remains on the warmer side and the maximum temperature remains around 38° C. Although its hot and humid outside one can still relax indoors.
Monsoon (June to October) From June till September, the region receives heavy rainfall. To enjoy the bliss of rain, a number of travelers from diff erent parts of the country as well as the world often visit here with their dear and near ones. Tourists visiting Athirappally especially to see waterfall should go for the tour during the monsoon season.
How to Reach Athirappally Falls Located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirappally falls can be easily reached by roadway buses from Kochi. It takes roughly 2-3 hours to reach this destination from Kochi. You can reach the falls through 3 routes which are via Valparai, Angamaly and Chalakudy.
Getting Around Athirappally Falls Since this is a mountain region, the terrain is a bit undulating and it is advisable to be very careful while you tread the paths here. Entering the main waterfall area is prohibited due to safety reasons.
Where to Stay Athirappally has quite a few accommodation options if you wish to stay here for your vacation. Some of these include Rainforest Resort, Riverok Villas, Hydel Palace Hotel & Resorts, Bethania Resorts, Plantation Valley, Hotel Elite Palazzo and Lal Ranchan Homestay.
Sightseeing in Athirappally Falls Undeniably, the charm of this attraction lies in its virgin natural beauty. The sheer volume of the water that flows down the mountains is overwhelming and mesmerizing at the same time. The cool breeze coupled with the gentle chirping of birds from the forest nearby is a welcome change from the din of city life, and you will thoroughly enjoy a trip here with friends and family. The Vazhachal falls are also situated nearby, and you can couple this attraction with Athirapally.
Best Restaurants Nearby Athirappally has a number of resorts and places to eat nearby. Some of these include Rainforest, Foliage and Greenvalley Motel. A few local outlets provide delicious snacks as well.
Tips
- Be very careful while walking towards the falls as the terrain is uneven
- Carry an umbrella if you wish to keep dry
- Walking shoes are a must
- Entry to the main waterfalls is prohibited and the area is isolated with barbed wires Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Thrissur (Major station) about 63 km and Chalakkudy, about 35 km. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, is located about 33.5 km via NH 544 from Athirappally