If you wish to witness the miracles of nature, Athirappilly Waterfalls is a perfect place. Located in Thrissur District in Kerala on the Chalakudy River, it is the largest waterfall in the state with a height of 81.5 feet. It is also known as the “Niagara of South India” for its breathtaking beauty, surrounded by dense green Sholayar Reserve Forest.
The fall is a popular site for river bathing, forest hiking and picnics. So, if you are looking for a thrilling experience in the realm of nature, here is a complete guide to the Athirappilly waterfalls.
How to Reach Athirappilly Waterfalls
The Athirappilly waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in Kerala and is easily accessible through road, rail and air from the major cities of the country.
By Air
Cochin International Airport, located about 55 km away, is the nearest airport to reach the waterfall. From the airport, you can take a taxi to reach your accommodation. Moreover, there are numerous hotels in Thrissur offering private cab facilities for the convenience of the guests.
In case you have a day or two to explore Kochi, there are budget hotels in Kochi offering a comfortable stay and easy access to the famous tourist attractions.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to Athirappilly Waterfalls is the Chalakkudy Railway Station, 30 km away.
By Road
The waterfall is easily accessible by taxi or by bus from the Chalakkudy bus terminal. Also, since the waterfall is located in the thick forests on a state highway connecting Tamil Nadu and Kerala, travel at night is not permitted. The checkpoints at either end close by 6:30 PM IST.
Best Time to Visit Athirapally Waterfalls
Athirappilly Waterfalls is located in the state of Kerala, which experiences tropical and humid climatic conditions. The summer season from March to May accompanies hot and humid weather. The temperature in the season soars to around 38 degrees Celsius.
Although the weather is not ideal for outdoor activities but one can enjoy indoor activities and sports during this time of the year. And since it’s not the peak tourist season, you can easily find hotels in Thrissur at a low price.
The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until October. The state during the season experiences moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the day. It is the best time to visit Athirapally Waterfalls as the waterfall is at its peak during the season, offering breathtaking views.
Post-monsoon and winter season, from November to February, is also considered an ideal time to visit the waterfall as the weather is pleasant and cool to explore outdoors. The temperature during this time ranges between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius. It is the best time for adventure lovers as you can enjoy treks and hikes around the waterfall during this time of the year.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: INR 40 for Indians, INR 10 for children and INR 150 for foreigners.
Things to Do at Athirapally Waterfalls
The waterfall is located in the realm of nature, surrounded by dense forest filled with flora and fauna. There are endless things to do at the Athirapally Waterfall for photographers, nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can enjoy a trek up to the waterfall or explore nearby waterfalls like Vazhachal Waterfalls to make your trip worth the visit.
Additionally, you can also walk to the Thumboormuzhi Hanging Bridge for stunning views of the surroundings. Other things to do in the area include river bathing at Anakkayam and Thumboormuzhi, a visit to the Butterfly Garden or jungle safaris.
Places to visit near Athirapally Waterfalls
1. Vazhachal Waterfalls
Located 5 km above the Athirapally Waterfall, Vazhachal Waterfalls is one of its kind, a small yet picturesque waterfall that pours over inclined, flat rocky slopes in a chain of small rapids surrounded by dense forests.
It is a perfect place to visit for photographers and nature lovers.
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September to January) when the flow is strong yet safe.
2. Charpa Falls
This cascading waterfall is just 2 km from the Athirapally Waterfall and offers an eye-catching view of a cascade on the way between Athirapally and Vazhachal.
It is a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the refreshing views.
- Timings & Fee: Open all day.
- Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June to August) to witness the spectacular gushing flow.
3. Sholayar Dam
Located 14 km from Athriapally, the Sholayar Dam is a concrete dam built across the Chalakkudi River in Thrissur. The area consists of the main Sholayar Dam, Sholayar Flanking and Sholayar Saddle Dam.
It is a perfect place to spot butterflies and enjoy picnics with your loved ones.
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry fee: INR 15 for adults.
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings.
4. Thumboormuzhi Dam
With the misty twists of the forested routes of the Sholayar ranges, the Thumboormuzhi Dam is located between Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
It is located 55 km away from the Athirapally Waterfalls and offers breathtaking panoramic views of untouched hills and thick vegetation.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year.
5. Malakkappara
It is one of the offbeat hill stations in Kerala, marking an entry point to the Valparai plateau.
Located around 65 km from the Athirapally Waterfalls, the area includes spacious green tea plantations and patches of thick forests, making it one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts and bikers seeking solitude.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor sightseeing.
6. Anakkayam Lake
Anakkayam, translated as Elephant Pit or Elephant Trough, is a well-maintained lake located 20 km away from Athirapally Waterfall. One can reach the lake by driving through narrow, often rough forest roads, making it an adventurous journey.
The place offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere to enjoy a relaxing time amidst nature’s realm.
- Timings: Open All Day.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and winter months, as roads can become slippery due to heavy rainfall in the monsoon season.
So, if you are looking for an incredible experience of watching breathtaking waterfalls in India, dense forests and rare species, the Athirapally Waterfall is a must-visit place for you.
For an affordable and comfortable accommodation on your trip, you can book your stay at Treebo hotels in Thrissur.
You can book your hotel from Treebo Club’s website or app and get additional benefits.
