Athirapally Waterfalls: Kerala’s Own Natural Wonder!

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Do you recall the iconic scene of Shiva Lingam lifting in the movie Bahubali? This captivating scene was filmed against the majestic backdrop of the astounding Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala, also known as Bahubali Waterfalls.

Athirapally is located about 60 km from Thrissur district in Kerala and is often referred to as the ‘Niagara Falls of India’. The falls plunge from a height of about 80 feet, dividing into four streams that form a giant pool before flowing through the lush green forests of Vazhachal.

The Athirapally Water Falls, nestled in the heart of the Western Ghats, are a sight to behold. This beautiful location attracts nature and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world who come to marvel at its sheer beauty and scenic surroundings.

If you’re a traveller, backpacker, birdwatcher, photographer, trekker, nature lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then you should book your Kerala tour packages with SOTC. Their package includes a visit to the magnificent Athirapally Waterfalls and the surrounding areas, promising an unforgettable experience.

The Historical Significance of Athirapally Falls, Pariyaram, Kerala

The Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala are considered a sacred site by various indigenous tribes, such as the Malayarayan, the Kadar, and the Muthivan, who have lived there for centuries. The significance of this place is also mentioned in local folklore and ancient texts, which adds to its historical importance. If you are interested in learning more about the history of this magnificent waterfall, you can sit down with a local and gain knowledge about it.

Where can you find Athirapally Falls?

Athirapally Water Falls is located in Athirapally Panchayat at the border of Ernakulam and Thrissur district of Kerala. However, it originates from the Western Ghats, specifically at the entrance of the Sholayar region. It cascades from a height of 80 feet as the roar of its several streams is heard across the lush green forests of Vazhachal.

How to reach Athirapally Waterfalls?

Athirapally in Kerala can be accessed via rail, road, or air, depending on your starting point. For example, if you are coming from Delhi, you must board a flight to Cochin and take a cab to the falls. However, if you are local, you can drive through a scenic route to reach the spellbinding Athirapally Falls. Let’s discuss all the routes to Athirapally Waterfalls in the next paragraph.

Air

As mentioned above, you must fly to Cochin International Airport in Nedumbassery. You can book a direct cab to the Athirapally Water Falls, located 45 km from the airport. It takes about 2 hours to reach the falls. Other nearby airports are Coimbatore, Madurai, and Calicut.

Rail

The closest railway station to Athirapally Waterfalls is Chalakudy, 30 km away, and Angamaly, about 33 km from the falls. You can get down at Ernakulam or Aluva to reach your destination.

Road

If you are from the south of Kerala, you can take the Chalakudy route (through Kanjirappily). However, if you are an adventurer, you can drive through the tea estates of Valparai before penetrating through the verdant forests of Vazhacahl and capturing some breathtaking images of mother nature.

Athirapally Waterfalls Ticket price

Visiting the breathtaking Athirappilly Waterfalls promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s splendour. Before embarking on this adventure, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the ticket prices and entry fees to make the most of your visit.

• Adults- Rs.50
• Children- Rs. 10
• Foreigners – Rs.200
• Students- Rs.15

The visiting time to the falls is between 8 AM and 9 PM daily.

Best time to visit Athirapally Waterfalls

Athirapally Falls is a sight to behold throughout the year. However, trekking in the surrounding area can be difficult for tourists during the monsoon season. So, the most favourable time to visit Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala, is between June and October.

However, the best time to visit the area is around September and October, when the forest is lush, and the emerald landscape surrounding the Athirappilly Falls is a treat to the eyes.

If you are comfortable with easy trekking on damp trails, you can plan your itinerary around July and August when the water is twice its usual size and the weather is delightful. Additionally, there are fewer people around during this time, so you can fully relax and enjoy the healing energy of nature while rejuvenating your senses.

Things to do in Athirapally Falls

Besides marvelling at the breathtaking Athirapally in Kerala, visitors can engage in beautiful activities like birdwatching, hiking, camping, and more. Let’s discuss some of the top things to do in Athirapally WaterFalls.

1. Trekking

It takes about 15 minutes to reach Athirapally Waterfalls, and the trail is full of mesmerising birds, lush greenery, and serene views of the forest. Even though the trek is short and easy, we suggest you carry a water bottle, stay hydrated, and enjoy the scenic route to the falls.

There are washrooms along the way. We advise you to keep your belongings, such as food and water bottles, close since there are many monkeys willing to snatch them away.

Rest assured, you will have a gala time hiking through the path that will take you down the base of the falls. However, you should follow some security guidelines before you jump into the pool.

2. Birdwatching

From the majestic Great Hornbill to the beautiful Malabar Trogon, Athirapally Falls is where you will find colourful indigenous and migratory birds throughout the day.  Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or simply an observer of all the beautiful things that grow in nature, birdwatching in Athirapally should be on your list.

On your trek to the falls, you will naturally encounter various birds. However, locals offer guided tours to enhance your interest in the activity. In fact, our customised Kerala tour packages also include birdwatching for those interested.

3. Sightseeing

Apart from the awe-inspiring sight of the Athirapally Water Falls dropping in four streams of milky white water (330 feet wide), you will come across a lot of stupendous sights, including the panoramic vistas of Vazhachal forests, rocky cliffs, wonderful streams, and the Arabian Sea.

If the weather is clear, you may spot a few waterfalls that may not be as grand as Athirapally Falls but carry their charm. All of this, however, takes a back seat when the cool breeze kisses your skin, making you realise what’s truly important in life.

4. Photography

Athirapally in Kerala is a dream for not just trekkers and nature lovers but also shutterbugs, thanks to its emerald forest, murmuring streams, scenic trails, and gorgeous cliffside. The thundering descent of the waterfalls, the misty spray rising from the pool, the diverse wildlife, colours of the flora set up an enchanting backdrop for both professional and amateur photographers. So, you must carry a good camera with you!

5. Camping

One of the most immersive experiences amidst the tranquilising beauty of the Athriapally in Kerala is lighting a bonfire and setting up a camp near the falls. However, if you aren’t an experienced camper, we suggest booking your camping experience with SOTC’s exclusive Kerala tour packages.

Some popular resorts may arrange camps for you, including Athirapally River Resort, Rainforest Resort, Riverok Villas, and Bethania Resort. They know safe places in the forest to set up the tents, which might not be the case with you. So, avoid setting them up yourself, as it can be dangerous at night.

6. Jungle Safari

Thrissur Tourism organises exclusive jungle safaris on request. These safaris start from Chalakudy to Malakkappara while travelling through the dense forests of the Sholayur ranges in the Western Ghats.

The safari covers the top attractions near the falls, including Thumboormuzhy Dam, Vazhachal Falls, Butterfly Park, and more. As you drive through the forest, you may encounter wild animals, including Sambal Deer and a variety of flora.

Places to visit near Athirapally Falls

The beauty of Athirapally waterfalls Kerala is enchanting enough to attract thousands of visitors daily. However, what makes it a perfect holiday destination is its connectivity to other tourist destinations, like Sholayar Dam, Charpa Waterfalls, and Vazhachal Waterfalls, known for their unique charm and natural beauty.

You may not be able to see everything in one visit, but here are a few must-see tourist attractions for your next visit to Athirapally Waterfalls.

1. Sholayar Dam

Stretching at 20 km at about 53 km from Athirapally in Kerala, Sholayar Dam is one of the most famous places to visit near Athirapally Waterfalls. It is an extensive water reservoir, the biggest in Asia, that offers a mesmerising view of meandering streams from the top. However, the dam is quite deep, so be safe, especially if you are with children.

You can hire a cab from the Athirapally WaterFalls to reach the dam.

2. Vazhachal Falls

After visiting Athirapally Waterfalls, you can easily access Vazhachal Falls which is only 7 km away. Additionally, you can visit Vazhachal Falls using the same ticket that you used for Athirapally Falls.

Vazhachal Falls originates from the Chalakudy River and flows through the Sholayar forest. If you enjoy trekking, it is recommended to hike from Athirapally Waterfalls to Vazhachal Falls. Alternatively, you can also hire a cab to travel between the two attractions.

3. The Thumboormuzhi Dam

A scenic spot located 14 km from the Athirapally WaterFalls, the Thumboormuzhi Dam, also known as Butterfly Garden, offers panoramic views of the Chalakudy River.

It also makes for the perfect picnic spot as it is a vast park home to over 140 butterfly species. Imagine colourful butterflies fluttering around a magnificent garden dotted with vibrant flowers! A must-visit for family!

4. Charpa Waterfalls

Cascading down a rocky terrain connecting Athirapally and Vazhachal roads, Charpa Waterfalls break out from the River Chalakudy. A hidden gem between the two most famous waterfalls in Kerala, Charpa Falls exudes a serene charm, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat amid nature’s bounty. The best part? You don’t have to pay any fee to visit these falls!

5. Illithode

Nestled about 9 km from Athirapally Water Falls, Kerala, Illithode is a paradise for nature lovers. One of the best eco-tourist spots in the country, Illithode is woven with the lushness of blooming trees, songs of murmuring streams, and the chirping of birds that fill up this forest area.

This is your go-to attraction if you want to de-clutter your thoughts or get away from large crowds. Do not skip dipping in the freshwater, as it will recharge your senses.  Illithode is a 10-minute walk from the parking spot. You will need to hire a cab from the Athirapally Waterfalls. 

6. Silver Storm Water Theme Park

A big and beautiful theme park close to the incredible Athirapally Water Falls, this one is for water enthusiasts of all ages, not just children. With an array of thrilling rides, including wave pools, water slides, rain dance floors, dry rides, a snow park, and more, Silver Storm Water truly brings out the child in you!

It is an eco-friendly park growing amid the abundance of nature and invites visitors and locals alike to swim in its freshwater pools. There is a ticket price to enter the park for the general public and special prices for students.

7. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

If you want to learn about elephant conservation and training, you should visit the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre. This centre is located 40 km away from the Athirapally Waterfalls, and it offers an excellent opportunity to witness how the elephants are bathed, fed, and trained by mahouts.

Besides, you may also get a glimpse of other animals and birds during your tour. The centre is surrounded by blooming trees and beautiful flowers, making it an ideal place to take a nature walk with your friends or family.

Tips for visitors

• Respect the locals and the environment surrounding the place. Be a responsible tourist and avoid littering the area or disturbing wildlife.
• Follow the security guidelines and rules laid down by the local authority.
• Use local transport to travel around the area.
• Stay hydrated, especially when trekking to the falls or the forest area.
• Be polite to locals, vendors, cab drivers, etc.
• If your budget is higher than usual, book your stay at a treehouse near the waterfall.

Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala is more than a tourist spot, especially for those seeking to heal their heart, mind, and soul in the lap of nature. No one can visit this place just once—you will keep coming back to experience its glory. Book the Kerala tour packages from SOTC now and treat yourself to the captivating Athirapally Waterfalls.

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