Once you’ve experienced any great waterfall in the world, you are struck with an insatiable longing to see all the waterfalls. Whether you plan on taking a dip or simply taking in the view, these impressive waterfalls in Kerala will surely quench that yearning! From Athirappilly’s massive ‘Baahubali’ waterfall to the mystical Cheeyappara, these magical realms await you!
Waterfalls come in all varieties – big, tall, shallow, vast, deep, small but rocky, milky, watery, and wonderfully picturesque. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll want to visit all of them!
Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country, is in the most southern part of India. The state is one of the most beautiful places in India offering captivating and breathtaking sights for tourists.
The landscapes, waterfalls, backwaters, and hill stations are all well-known tourist destinations and offer viewers great experiences and fun times. Out of these, the waterfalls in Kerala are especially known for their beauty, power, and uniqueness.
Kerala waterfalls are a sight that you will never forget! It is a must to explore their natural charm at least once! From the north to the south, the state of Kerala has the best waterfalls in the country!
Here is a list of the 20 most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala worthy of your bucket list which you just can’t afford to miss! You will be stunned by these mesmerizing waterfalls of Kerala on your trip to Kerala!
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1. Athirappilly Waterfalls, Athirappilly
Athirappilly Waterfalls are not only the most famous waterfalls in Kerala but also among the most attractive waterfalls in India. Offering scenic beauty, the Athirappilly Waterfalls fall from about a height of 25 meters above sea level.
Athirappilly Waterfalls are one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala. The waterfall offers a great view of the Sholayar Hills. It’s also a major shooting location for movies, the most iconic of them being the Indian blockbuster Baahubali!
Peaking around monsoons, it appears to be totally secluded in a thick forest in the Western Ghats when you approach from the road, yet it’s easily accessible from a paved path leading to the bottom of the waterfalls.
The road to Athirappilly Waterfalls lies adjacent to the banks of the river where the water keeps flowing silently and incessantly. The waterfall falls in three levels (or tiers) adjacent to each other with the central one being the largest.
There is also a small trek through a paved pathway down to view the falls. The entrance fee to Athirappilly Waterfalls is INR 50/-. You can carry water in Tupperware bottles as it is a plastic-free zone. Stalls near the entrance to Athirappilly Waterfalls Kerala serve tea and snacks.
NOTE: The walk to Athirappilly Waterfalls from the ticket counter is rather long. However, the waterfall is elderly-and-kids-friendly till the top (unless you trek down) so it shouldn’t be a problem.
Athirappilly Waterfalls is 32 km from Chalakudy, 122 km from Kottayam, 269 km from Thiruvananthapuram, 100 km from Munnar, 174 km from Coimbatore, 59 km from Thrissur, and 73 km from Kochi.
The best time to visit Athirappilly Waterfalls is during September, October, November, December, and January. Kochi is the nearest airport to Athirappilly Waterfalls.
ALSO SEE – Athirappilly Falls Pocket Guide: Photos, Routes, Timings & Entry Fee
2. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Wayanad
Though this waterfall is a less-known attraction in Northern Kerala, it’s a pretty big deal as it is the second-highest waterfall in Kerala after Athirappilly. Falling from a height of 300 meters above sea level, Meenmutty Waterfalls in Kerala is a spectacular view tucked inside a forest!
Meenmutty Waterfalls can also be reached via a 3-km trek through rocky terrain which is a popular trekking spot in these parts. The place also gives a spectacular view of the Banasura Sagar Dam. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala!
When you visit Meenmutty Waterfalls, you have to walk almost for a kilometer through a narrow pathway and trees on both sides with a soothing river tributary coming down from the waterfall on one side. The main waterfall at the top is not ideal to bathe in due to its massive force.
You can choose to explore tourist spots that are downstream with a lot of smaller waterfalls where the water is more gentle. In monsoons, the water in the middle of the river offers the experience of a natural Jacuzzi which is unique and comfortable.
Meenmutty Waterfalls is ideal for a one-day trip and the post-monsoon months are the best time to visit Meenmutty Waterfalls. It’s located 48 km from Sulthan Bathery, 25 km from Kalpetta, and 5 km from Banasura Sagar Dam.
The entrance fee to Meenmutty Waterfalls is INR 36/- and the waterfall is open from 10 AM to 5 PM on all days.
3. Palaruvi Waterfalls, Kollam
Palaruvi Waterfalls is in the Senthuruney Wildlife Sanctuary in Kollam District of Kerala. Since “Pal” means milk, the name translates to ‘stream of milk. As the name indicates, the waterfall looks just like milk falling from a height of 92 meters above sea level courtesy of its crystal clear freshwater.
The waterfall stream is ideal for swimming and is a major picnic spot in the country. The Palaruvi Waterfalls are located inside a dense forest and one can reach it by trekking, which in itself is a great and memorable experience at these waterfalls in Kerala.
The best time to visit Palaruvi Waterfalls is during June, July, August, September, October, November, December, and January.
Located in the district of Kollam, the places to visit around Palaruvi Waterfalls are Thenmala Dam and Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary. To experience a great getaway, visit the Palaruvi waterfalls in Kerala right after the monsoon season ends when the waterfall is flowing in its full might and glory!
4. Thoovanam Waterfalls, Munnar
Located inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam Waterfalls in Munnar is a beautiful place to visit in Kerala. Thoovanam Waterfalls is about a 3-km trek from Alampatty eco-friendly zone located 50 km from Munnar and 10 km from Marayoor.
Thoovanam Waterfalls is also a major trekking trail. Walking through the forest to reach this waterfall is a pleasant and peaceful experience with endearing sights of deer, butterflies, and insects along the way.
The serene and wonderful sights you encounter while trekking inside the forest to reach the falls are spectacular. The best time to visit the Thoovanam Falls is during the post-monsoon months and this place is ideal for a one-day trip.
Thoovanam Waterfalls is a major vacation spot in Kerala and absolutely safe to visit. Once you buy the tickets, a forest guide will accompany you to the waterfalls. You should definitely not miss it!
5. Lakkom Waterfalls, Munnar
Located 1.5 km from Marayoor and 40 km from Munnar, Lakkom is one of the best waterfalls in Kerala giving visitors a great getaway experience. Lakkom Waterfalls is small but charming, coming down a steep hill and emerging over rocks out of a thick forest.
You can twiddle your toes in the clear water and take a dip in the somewhat deeper parts of the pool if you are adventurous. You can also sit on the rocks and put your legs underwater.
Even though Lakkom Waterfalls is not too deep, the rocks are slippery underfoot. Some places you can explore near Lakkom Waterfalls include Eravikulam National Park and the Marayoor Dolmens of Munnar.
The best time to visit Lakkom Waterfalls is during the months of October, November, December, and January.
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6. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls, Perunad
Perunthenaruvi is a wonderful waterfall located 44 km from Thiruvalla and 26 km from Pathanamthitta. It is ideal for a one-day trip and the surrounding green forests give a spectacular experience to visitors.
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is calm and peaceful where the only disturbance is the intense roaring of the waterfall. However, it may not be the best place to bring your kids since the rocks are slippery and swimming is forbidden in this waterfall. This place is not kid-friendly.
The name Perunthenaruvi originates from the words Perunthen meaning great honey and Aruvi meaning stream, which translates to a ‘stream of green honey’ in the local language. The best time to visit the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is during March, April, May, June, July, and August.
There is also another scenic and rather interesting spot nearby called Panakudanthi Aruvi which is located 1 km from Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls. Here, you’ll be able to see water flowing inside a palm tree!
7. Vazhachal Falls, Thrissur
Vazhachal Waterfalls is a little ahead of the Athirapally Falls even though it is a smaller one higher up the mountain. The breathtaking waterfalls are located 7 km from Athirappilly and 75 km from Kochi.
There is a park on the way to Vazhachal Falls and the fencing is very close to the falls so one can get a close view of the falls.
Vazhachal Falls has a lot of natural pools and rocks all around which makes it all look lovely. There are many benches to sit in the nearby garden area and this place is kid-friendly as well as elderly-friendly.
The travel route to Vazhachal is rich with flora and fauna and includes dense green forests too. The waterfall is 120 meters high and ideal for a one-day trip.
The best time to visit the Vazhachal Waterfalls is during September, October, November, December, and January.
8. Chethalayam Waterfalls, Wayanad
Visiting Chethalayam Waterfalls requires special permission from the Kerala Forest Department. One can reach the Chethalayam Waterfalls via a 4-km trek. The pathway leading to the waterfall is quite scenic and full of tall trees and lush greenery.
Trekking is a major activity from Kidangand to the waterfall and is loved by trekking enthusiasts who frequent this place. Rock climbing is also a part of the trek.
Post-monsoon is the best time to visit Chethalayam Falls as this waterfall is small and dries up during the summer season. This place is ideal for a one-day trip. Chethalayam Waterfalls in Kerala is located about 12 km from Sulthan Bathery and 37 km from Kalpetta.
The famed Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary lies nearby and is a must-visit when one is exploring the Chethalayam Waterfalls in Wayanad, Kerala.
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9. Soochipara Waterfalls, Wayanad
Also called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, Soochipara Waterfalls is one of the most attractive waterfalls in the Wayanad district.
The waterfall is tucked at a height of 200 meters above sea level. The Soochipara Waterfall is located 46 km from Sulthan Bathery, 24 km from Kalpetta, and 13 km from Meppadi.
The Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is a major adventure spot as it is famous for its trekking activities. The Sentinel Rock is also an ideal spot for rock climbing.
The best time to visit the Soochipara Waterfalls is between June to October and it is ideal for a one-day trip. Chembra Peak, Kanthapara Falls, and Vaduvanchaal are the best locations to explore near Soochipara Waterfalls in Kerala.
10. Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Thodupuzha
Located 20 km from Thodupuzha, 48 km from Munnar, and 25 km from Idukki, Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a marvelous waterfall dropping from a massive height of 1,500 meters above sea level.
The view from the waterfall is breathtaking and trekking in the surrounding hilly areas is a refreshing activity when visiting Thommankuthu Waterfalls. The best time to visit Thommankuthu Waterfalls in Kerala is during the monsoon season.
The best places to visit near Thommankuthu Waterfalls are Varambetta Mosque, Karalad Lake, Banasura Hill, and Kakkayam Dam.
11. Valara Waterfalls, Adimaly
Valara Waterfalls is on the way to Munnar and is situated next to the Cheeyappara Waterfalls adorned by dense forests. The waterfall is around 300 meters high and provides a great view of the surrounding greenery to visitors.
The region is also well-known for trekking. Valara Waterfalls is one of the most wonderful waterfalls in Kerala and can be covered with a one-day tour.
The best time to visit the waterfall is post-monsoon. Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on the way to Munnar.
During the rainy season, the flow of this waterfall is massive, while in summer the water flow thins down into a few single streams trickling down the rocks. It is an ideal place to visit right after the monsoon season ends, but be wary of the slippery terrain.
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12. Cheeyappara Waterfalls, Adimaly
Cheeyappara Waterfalls is located next to the Valara Waterfalls and is quite a gorgeous place to visit. The Cheeyappara Waterfalls is tucked between lush dense forests and is a chain of the Deviyar River Waterfalls.
It is an ideal location for trekking, rock climbing, and exploration. Cheeyappara Waterfalls is located 42 km from Munnar and is a major destination in Kerala ideal for a one-day trip.
When you travel to Munnar, you can easily stop over at the Cheeyapara and Valara Waterfalls for a quick break as these are two of the most beautiful waterfalls on the way to Munnar.
13. Power House Waterfalls, Munnar
On the way to Munnar from Thekkady, you will be able to see the enchanting Power House Waterfalls famed for its resplendent natural beauty. Tucked snugly amid lush tea plantations and green mountains, this waterfall stands out in boundless glory.
Believed to have healing powers and great medicinal properties, this waterfall in Kerala is highly regarded as a great gift of nature. The sacred waterfall originates from Sita Devi Lake situated in Devikulam.
Power House Waterfalls is also called Chinnakanal Waterfalls, deriving its second name from the Chinnakanal village it is located in.
Chinnakanal village is a mere 18 km away from Munnar. So it’s conveniently easy to visit this waterfall if you are traveling to Munnar by road. You can make a stopover at this place and see the spectacular beauty of the gushing water!
You will be able to see various types of Ayurvedic plants while walking to this waterfall through the jungle. You can have a fun picnic by the waterfall, or take a refreshing swim in its pool to relax.
There is no entry fee and this waterfall remains open for the public from 6 AM to 5:30 PM every day.
14. Nyayamakad Waterfalls, Munnar
Nyayamakad Waterfalls is a hidden gem of Kerala. It is 10 km away from Munnar situated between Rajamala and Munnar in the Kanan Devi Hills.
It is here that you’ll get to witness just how amazing and majestic a huge mass of water falling from a massive height of 1,600 meters looks!
The magnificent Nyayamakad Waterfalls is the favorite spot of adventure seekers and trekking enthusiasts. Trekking and forest hiking are enjoyable and fascinating activities here, owing to the great terrain and lush scenery around!
You will also get to bask in glorious views of the Anamudi hills and the valleys of Western Ghats from here. Rare and endemic animals like the Nilgiri Tahr can also be spotted here along with Malabar civets, barking deer, grey jungle fowl, and sambar deer as the waterfall is situated inside the Eravikulam National Park.
You can also indulge in trout fishing while having a fun family picnic. There are several activities to try at this waterfall that will make your visit worthwhile.
It is ideal to visit the Nyayamakad Waterfalls in winter between October and February rather than in the monsoon season. There is no entry fee and the place remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
ALSO SEE – Eravikulam National Park in Munnar
15. Keezharkuthu Waterfalls, Munnar
Your experience at Keezharkuthu Waterfalls en route to Munnar could be a lot like Nyayamakad Waterfalls, though both have many unique attributes too.
Here too you can participate in activities like mountaineering, rock climbing, camping, and trekking while enjoying the grandeur of nature.
Tourists visit this waterfall to see the rainbows that form at the base of this waterfall falling from a height of 1,500 meters.
Prior authorization from the Forest Department of Kerala is mandatory to visit the Keezharkuthu Waterfalls in Kerala.
16. Meenvallam Waterfalls, Palakkad
Meenvallam Waterfalls is another wonderful gift of nature situated deep into the jungles. The lush green forests enveloping this majestic waterfall are an extension of the Silent Valley National Park.
Meenvallam Waterfalls is one of the 10 waterfalls in Kerala that fall between Palakkad and Mannarkkad. Incidentally, Meenvallam is the last one in order.
There are 5 steps, or tiers, of the waterfall with each ranging from 100 feet to 125 feet in height. It originates from the Kalladikode Hills and is also known as Meenvallom.
There is also a hydel project in operation at the spot. The perfect time to visit the waterfall is in October right after the monsoon season ends. The entry fee is INR 20/- per person and it remains open for the public between 9 AM to 5 PM every day.
17. Kombaikani Waterfalls, Trivandrum
Kombaikani Waterfalls offers a spectacular sight of water cascading at full speed from the upper region of the Neyyar Reservoir.
It is located near Kallar on the way to Ponmudi from Thiruvananthapuram. Keep a look out for this reservoir on your way up and you’ll be able to locate the waterfall’s starting point.
It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the rich treasures of nature. The dense forest surrounding the waterfall is home to varied birds and animals.
If you do not wish to get lost while locating it, you can hire a local guide to accompany you to reach the mighty Kombaikani Waterfalls. Your hotel or tour operator can easily arrange one for you.
The best time to visit Kombaikani Waterfall is from November to February.
18. Thusharagiri Waterfalls, Kozhikode
Thushargiri Waterfalls is located near the Kodencherry village 50 km away from Kozhikode. The word ‘Thushargiri’ stands for snow-capped mountains, referring to the snowy waterfall cascading from a massive height and forming a pool of froth and misty clouds at the bottom!
Thusharagiri Waterfalls is a collection of three waterfalls. The highest of them is the Thenpara Falls where the water descends from a height of 75 meters.
It is popular among tourists who consider it a trekker’s paradise. Trekking enthusiasts love to climb the scenic trails leading to this waterfall and enjoy the pristine beauty all around.
Tourists can also explore the nearby Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary after they visit the waterfall. Visit this wonderful destination between September and December for the best experience.
19. Attukad Waterfalls, Munnar
Attukad Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala and the most sought-after destination for trekkers because of its terrific trails.
As you trek, you will find the majestic Attukad Waterfalls on one side and the rolling Nilgiri Hills on the other. The visuals from this place are beyond spectacular!
Attukad Waterfalls is situated between Pallivasal and Munnar in the Idukki district. It is a preferred picnic spot for tourists.
You can visit Attukad Waterfalls both in monsoon and winter.
20. Dhoni Waterfalls, Palakkad
Dhoni Waterfalls is also surrounded by thick reserve forests. Dhoni Waterfalls is just a 3-hour trek away from the enchanting Dhoni Hills which are around 15 km away from Palakkad.
In this serene place amid the greenery and the birds, you will see hundreds of cattle of Swiss variety roaming around. There is also a picturesque farmhouse nearby.
On your way, you can also visit the Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, one of the oldest Shiva temples in the region.
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Tips & guidelines for visiting the waterfalls in Kerala
- Carry water in non-plastic bottles as most of the waterfalls in Kerala are plastic-free zones.
- Wear comfortable and water-resistant trekking shoes, sports shoes, or flat footwear with good grip. Avoid heels and boots at all costs.
- Carry sunglasses and a hat even if you’re visiting in winter or monsoon.
- There is abundant monkey menace in some Kerala waterfalls. Be careful and do not display electronic gadgets or food items openly.
- Most of the waterfalls in Kerala close by 5 PM. Schedule your tour accordingly or visit early morning.
Adorned with spectacular sights of tea estates, spice plantations, hills, mountains, forests, and backwaters, Kerala is popular for its unmatched beauty. Along with all its natural landscapes, these waterfalls in Kerala are bound to steal your heart! Pack your bags and get ready to explore the most enchanting realms of God’s own Country!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which one is the largest waterfall in Kerala?
Athirappilly Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Kerela. It falls from a height of around 25 meters.
Where is Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located inside Thoovanam Waterfalls.
From which spot can you see the Banasura Sagar Dam?
You can see the Banasura Sagar Dam from Meenmutty Waterfalls.
What does Palaruvi Waterfall look like?
Palaruvi Waterfall looks like a stream of milk.
Which waterfalls have banned swimming?
Swimming is banned at Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls.
What is the other name of Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls?
The other name of Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is the Stream of Green Honey.
What other places can you visit near Thommankuthu Waterfalls?
Varambetta Mosque, Karalad Lake, Banasura Hill, and Kakkayam Dam are the places you can visit near Thommankuthu Waterfalls.
Which waterfall is near Athirappilly Waterfalls?
Vazhachal Waterfalls is the nearest waterfall to Athirappilly Falls located only 7 km from it.
What is the other name of Soochipara Waterfalls?
Soochipara Waterfalls is also known as the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls.
Does Keezharkuthu Waterfall require prior permission?
Yes, you need to get permission from the Forest Department of Kerala to visit the Keezharkuthu Waterfall.
How do I get to Athirapally waterfalls?
Athirapally Waterfalls, one of the famous waterfalls in Kerala, is located 25 meters above sea level at the Chalakudy River in Thrissur district of Kerala. The waterfall is just 30 km from Chalakudy village and 55 kms from Thrissur town.
Which is the highest waterfall in Kerala?
Athirapally Waterfalls is the highest waterfall in Kerala, which stands tall at 25 meters. Athirappilly Waterfalls originates from the Western Ghats and is located at the beginning of the Sholayar Ranges. It is also known as the Niagara Falls of India.
How many waterfalls are there in Kerala?
Kerala waterfalls are known to entice travelers around the world with their mesmerizing beauty. There are 27 waterfalls in Kerala that are a sight for sore eyes.
Which is the second biggest waterfall in Kerala?
The Meenmutty Waterfalls is the second biggest waterfall in Kerala. It’s situated inside a forest and is well-known for trekking.
Which waterfall is shown in the movie Baahubali?
Athirapally Waterfalls is shown in Baahubali. It’s the unbeatable view of the falls surrounded by hills that makes it one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the country.
Is Athirapally worth visiting?
Athirapally Waterfalls is a well-known tourist destination and is definitely worth visiting. During the monsoon season, the waterfall can be seen at its full might.
