Whether you’re a nature lover, trekker, photographer, or spiritual seeker, the waterfalls in Kerala promise an unforgettable experience. Kerala, nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is a land of emerald landscapes, serene backwaters, and vibrant culture. Among its many natural treasures, waterfalls hold a special place—each one a unique spectacle of sound, motion, and mist. 

This guide explores Kerala’s most iconic and offbeat waterfalls, their seasonal charm, nearby attractions, and travel tips to help you plan your perfect waterfall trail.

 

 

🏞️ 1. Athirappilly Waterfalls – The Niagara of India

  • Location: Thrissur District

  • Height: 80 feet

  • River: Chalakudy River

  • Best Time to Visit: June to October (monsoon)

Athirappilly is Kerala’s most famous waterfall, known for its cinematic beauty and thunderous flow. Surrounded by dense Sholayar forests, it’s a favorite among filmmakers and honeymooners. The nearby Vazhachal and Charpa Falls make it a perfect weekend circuit.

Nearby Attractions: Vazhachal Falls, Sholayar Dam, Malayattoor Wildlife Sanctuary
Activities: Trekking, river rafting, birdwatching

 

 

🌿 2. Meenmutty Waterfalls – The Wild Cascade of Wayanad

  • Location: Wayanad District

  • Height: 300 feet (three-tiered)

  • Best Time to Visit: October to May

Hidden in the heart of Wayanad’s forests, Meenmutty is one of Kerala’s tallest waterfalls. Reaching it requires a 2 km trek through dense jungle, making it ideal for adventure seekers.

Nearby Attractions: Banasura Sagar Dam, Soochipara Falls, Edakkal Caves
Activities: Trekking, nature photography

 

 

🏞️ 3. Soochipara Waterfalls – Sentinel Rock Falls

  • Location: Wayanad District

  • Height: 200 feet

  • Best Time to Visit: September to March

Soochipara, meaning “Needle Rock,” is a three-tiered waterfall surrounded by deciduous forests. It’s popular for rock climbing and swimming in the natural pool below.

Nearby Attractions: Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake
Activities: Rock climbing, swimming, forest walks

 

 

🌊 4. Palaruvi Waterfalls – The Stream of Milk

  • Location: Kollam District

  • Height: 300 feet

  • Best Time to Visit: June to January

Palaruvi, meaning “milky stream,” is a single-drop waterfall that flows through a medicinal forest. It’s believed to have healing properties and is ideal for family picnics.

Nearby Attractions: Thenmala Ecotourism, Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary
Activities: Forest bathing, nature trails

 

 

🏞️ 5. Thommankuthu Waterfalls – The Seven-Step Wonder

  • Location: Idukki District

  • Height: Series of seven cascades

  • Best Time to Visit: August to February

Thommankuthu is a scenic waterfall complex with seven steps and natural pools. It’s a hotspot for eco-tourism and trekking.

Nearby Attractions: Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Munnar
Activities: Trekking, camping, birdwatching

 

 

🌿 6. Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls – Roadside Beauties

  • Location: Between Neriamangalam and Adimali

  • Height: Cheeyappara (7 steps), Valara (single drop)

  • Best Time to Visit: June to November

These twin waterfalls are easily accessible from the Kochi–Munnar highway and offer stunning views during the monsoon.

Nearby Attractions: Munnar tea estates, Spice gardens
Activities: Photography, roadside picnics

 

 

🌊 7. Attukad Waterfalls – Misty Romance in Munnar

  • Location: Munnar

  • Height: Moderate

  • Best Time to Visit: July to September

Attukad is a dreamy waterfall nestled between rolling hills and tea plantations. It’s a favorite among honeymooners and monsoon travelers.

Nearby Attractions: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam
Activities: Tea trail walks, monsoon photography

 

 

🏞️ 8. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls – Hidden Gem of Kottayam

  • Location: Kottayam District

  • Height: 100 feet

  • Best Time to Visit: June to September

Aruvikkuzhi is a lesser-known waterfall surrounded by rubber plantations and churches. It’s perfect for a quiet nature escape.

Nearby Attractions: Kumarakom, Vembanad Lake
Activities: Village walks, birdwatching

 

 

🌿 9. Adyanpara Waterfalls – Forest Retreat in Nilambur

  • Location: Malappuram District

  • Height: Seasonal flow

  • Best Time to Visit: July to October

Adyanpara is a seasonal waterfall located in the pristine forests of Nilambur. It’s ideal for eco-tourists and those seeking solitude.

Nearby Attractions: Teak Museum, Conolly’s Plot
Activities: Forest trekking, heritage exploration

 

 

🌊 10. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls – The Honey Stream

  • Location: Pathanamthitta District

  • Height: Wide cascade

  • Best Time to Visit: August to December

Perunthenaruvi is a wide waterfall on the Pamba River, known for its honey-colored flow and spiritual significance.

Nearby Attractions: Sabarimala, Gavi Ecotourism
Activities: River walks, spiritual tourism

 

 

📅 Best Time to Visit Kerala’s Waterfalls

Season

Months

Highlights

Monsoon

Jun – Sep

Full flow, misty landscapes, lush greenery

Post-Monsoon

Oct – Feb

Safe trekking, clear skies, photography

Summer

Mar – May

Low water levels, fewer crowds

 

 

🧭 Suggested 5-Day Waterfall Trail Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kochi → Visit Athirappilly & Vazhachal
Day 2: Drive to Munnar → Explore Attukad & Cheeyappara
Day 3: Trek to Soochipara & Meenmutty in Wayanad
Day 4: Visit Palaruvi & Thenmala Ecotourism
Day 5: Relax at Aruvikkuzhi or Perunthenaruvi → Departure

 

 

📝 Travel Tips

  • Safety First: Avoid slippery rocks and strong currents during monsoon

  • Footwear: Wear trekking shoes or sandals with grip

  • Photography: Carry waterproof gear and wide-angle lenses

  • Local Guides: Hire for forest treks and hidden trails

  • Eco-Conscious: Carry reusable bottles, avoid littering

 

 

🌐 Sources

 

 

Final Thoughts
Waterfalls in Kerala are more than scenic spots—they’re living expressions of the state’s monsoon magic and ecological diversity. Whether you’re chasing misty cascades or meditating by forest streams, Kerala’s waterfalls invite you to pause, breathe, and reconnect with nature’s rhythm.