Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is endowed with a plethora of natural beauty, ranging from immaculate rivers and tumbling waterfalls to verdant hills and thick woods. In addition to being breathtaking sceneries, these waterfalls are perfect for swimming, hiking, and taking nature photos. Kerala’s waterfalls provide the ideal balance of excitement and tranquilly for any traveler, with misty hills as their backdrop and emerald surroundings.
Here are a few of Kerala’s most well-known waterfalls that draw tourists, hikers, and photographers from all over the world.
1. Athirappilly Waterfalls – The Niagara Falls of India
Located in the Thrissur district, Athirappilly Waterfalls is Kerala’s most famous waterfall and largest waterfall. It drops from a height of 80 feet into the Chalakudy River, producing a large roar as it babbles over the edge and generates a curtain of mist that you cannot help but gaze at.
The area is surrounded by a lush green forest of Sholayar, which is a habitat for elephants, hornbills, and butterflies; which makes it a beautiful place for nature photography. There are trails to trek along the river that offer an adventurous hike alongside the river, with stunning views of the falling water from numerous vantage points.
If you want to swim in the pools below the falls, you can, during safe swimming seasons, which is especially the case from September to January, when the water flow is more moderate. Athirappilly has also been popularized as a Bollywood film shooting location in movies such as Raavan and Bahubali.
2. Vazhachal Waterfalls – A Photographerโs Heaven
Only about 5 km from Athirappilly lies another enchanting spectacle in the Chalakudy River, Vazhachal Waterfalls. Unlike the steep drop of Athirappilly, Vazhachal is a sloping cascade flowing through rocks and dense forest with an off-the-beaten path feel. Because of the rocky scenery and forest reflections, this is a favorite place for nature photographers.
The Vazhachal Forest Division also offers guided trekking trails, bird tours, and butterfly watching in a setting that is perfect for an eco-tourism excursion.
3. Meenmutty Waterfalls – The Savage Beauty of Wayanad
Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the most powerful Waterfalls in all of Kerala. It is a triple-tiered waterfall, with an impressive drop of 300 meters in height! To get to the falls you must trek through 2 km of forest, which has made this waterfall a favourite among trekkers and adventure seekers alike. The trek is through thick tropical forest, where there is a chance you may see exotic birds or beautiful butterflies.
The final view of the falls is spectacular; water thunders into the pool below, creating a mist that is perfect for photography. Depending on the season swimming is permitted in safe places in the pool below.
4. Soochipara (Sentinel Rock) Waterfalls โ Adventure Awaits
Located near Meppadi in Wayanad, Soochipara Waterfalls is a three-tiered cascade surrounded by thick forest and rocky cliffs. The name “Soochipara” means “Needle Rock,” referring to the sharp rock formations in the area. Visitors must trek approximately 2 kilometers through tea estates and dense forest paths to reach the falls – it is a good hike, moderate in difficulty, but fun.
The base of the waterfall forms a natural swimming pool, a refreshing place to cool off. Soochipara represents a photographer’s paradise, particularly during the “magic hour” when the sunlight rays cascade through the mist. The views of surrounding valleys and tea gardens are simply amazing.
5. Thusharagiri Waterfalls โ The Snowy Pleasure
Thusharagiri Waterfalls in Kozhikode district translates as “snow capped mountains” when referring to the white mist created by the flowing waters. The place itself has an attractive sequence of waterfalls caused by the Chalippuzha River, which is surrounded by this area of rubber plantations and tropical forests. Thusharagiri is one of the finest trekking destinations in Kerala.
The main trek trail is a lovely and adventurous trek through the smaller waterfalls and viewpoints up to the origin of the Chalippuzha River. Trekking enthusiasts can also take a trek of five kilometers to reach the upper most falls, which requires considerably more effort. The natural pools created by the waterfalls below are safe for swimming, and the topography will provide postcard pictures for photographers.
6. Palaruvi Waterfalls – The Stream of Milk
Located in the Kollam district, Palaruvi Waterfalls is one of the most scenic waterfalls in southern Kerala. The word โPalaruviโ means โstream of milk,โ and the waterfall is as its name describes, cascading in streams of milky white down a height of 300 feet. Palaruvi is surrounded by thick vegetation, and many believe that it has healing properties due to the minerals in the water.
A natural pool forms at the base of the waterfall which is an ideal place to swim and have a picnic. There are also viewing platforms and dedicated shallow swimming areas for family or couples where it is safe to swim. Photographers will find the contrast of white water swimming against the deep green of forest foliage to be a beautiful shot to take.
7. Power House (Chinnakanal) Waterfalls – An Enchanting Spot in Munnar
Situated approximately 18 kilometers from Munnar along the route to Thekkady, Power House Waterfalls, is a natural spectacle that cascades down from a height of 2,000 meters. The waterfall is nestled in the midst of scenic tea gardens and is a result of the streams from the Western Ghats. This location is perfect for lovers’ photography, especially during ammo foggy morning when the waterfall is surrounded by beautiful fog.
There are lots of trekking opportunities up nearby hills and valleys, making it a great site for adventure. Swimming is not encouraged due to the strong current, but you can take unlimited photographs of the scenery above and below the falls.
8. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls โ The Golden Stream of Pathanamthitta
Located deep within the forests of Pathanamthitta district, Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is also wonderfully known for its golden water reflecting sunlightโthe name itself, in fact, translates to, โThe Great Honey Stream.โ Although it is not as tall as some other falls, it is also well-known for its width and safe places to swim.
The rocky terrain provides visitors with relaxing places to soak in the view, while its gentle flow also makes it a respectable option for family-friendly picnics. Photographers are often tempted by the dying light of sunset hitting the golden watersโsuch a fantastic scene. Trekkers can take on nearby trails winding through the forested hills, or excursions that lead to tribal settlements.
9. Keezharkuthu Waterfalls โ The Rainbow Falls
Keezharkuthu Waterfalls is situated near Idukki and cascades down a height of 1,500 meters as one single stream, forming a continuous curtain of water that is often accompanied by rainbows. It is a prime location for trekking as well as rock climbing; there are several guided treks through tea gardens and forests in the area.
The area abundant with medicinal plants makes it also a prime eco-tourism destination. Best of all, the mist and sunlight often create brilliant rainbows that make for wonderful photography. During the dry months, swimming is allowed in the lower pools.
10. Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls โ The Best Kept Secret of Thenmala
Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls is located close to then famous Thenmala Eco-Tourism area, known for being one of Kerala’s pristine and unspoiled places and less crowded. The water flows down several levels into a shallow pool surrounded by forests.
Guests can trek through dense forest trails to reach the base, which makes it an ideal location for adventuring and nature lovers.
Conclusion
The water is crystal-clear and perfect for swimming during the post-monsoon months. The tranquil setting of Kumbhavurutty Waterfalls and its proximity to the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary offers significant benefits for photography and birdwatching.
The waterfalls of Kerala are not just an extraordinary natural landscape; they are adventures, places of calm, and a visual feast for photographers’ imaginations โ from majestic Athirappilly Falls to the tiny hidden waterfall, Kumbhavurutty Falls, with each offering something special for every type of traveller. For trekkers, the popular trails of Soochipara and Meenmutty are sure to amaze with a thrilling hike through forested paths. For swimmers, Palaruvi and Perunthenaruvi are two accessiblility fantastic options for swimming, as both are safe areas for swimming with beautiful expedited views.
For photographers, every waterfall is a masterpiece of light, mist, and motion. So whatever you are looking for, be it a peaceful moment, an adventure, or the perfect Instagram photo, Kerala’s waterfalls will take you in their beauty and ancient sense of being โ every drop of falling water has its own beautiful, destructive, powerful and peaceful story to tell.