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Athirapally Falls is situated in Vali Athirapally Panchayat in Chalakudy Taluk of Thrissur District in Kerala, on the Chalakudy River, which originates from the upper reaches of the Western Ghats at the entrance of Sholayar ranges. It is the largest waterfall in Kerala, which stands at 81.5 feet tall. Just a short drive from Athirapally to the Vazhachal Falls, which is close to dense green forests that are home to many endangered and endemic species of flora and fauna.

There is another waterfall on the way from Athirapally to Vazhachal Falls, near the road, which is locally called Charpa Falls.

Athirapally Falls is the largest waterfall in Kerala and is nicknamed “The Niagara of South India”.

The 145 km long Chalakudy River originates in the Annamalai mountains of the Western a and flows through the Vazhachal forest towards the Arabian Sea. The river starts smooth but becomes more turbulent as it nears Athirapally. At Athirapally Falls the water searches around big rocks and cascades down in three separate plumes.

The journey to Athirapally itself is a religious passage. The route is twisting, running through dense rainforests that occasionally open out and let you see some exotic animals and rare species of plants. As one gets closer to the falls, far off rumble becomes louder, which reveals the power and beauty that lies ahead. From time to time this creates colorful rainbows in the sunlight under cloudy skies.

Not only does Athirapally Waterfalls provide an eye-catching spectacle but it also is an ecological haven. Some of the endangered wildlife found in these woods are the great Hornbill and Lion-Tailed Macaque among others. This combination of aesthetic values and environmental significance is what makes Athirapally Falls a must-go place for eco-tourists as well as adrenaline lovers alike.

The super hit movie ‘Bahubali’ and some portions of the iconic song ‘Jiya Jale’ were shot in the backdrop of Athirapally waterfalls.

Check article about athirapally in wikipedia

How to Reach

Nearest railway station: Chalakudy railway station is about 28 km from Athirapally, however, all trains do not stop at the station. The major stations nearby are Thrissur (52km) and Ernakulam (57km).

Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, which is 55km away from Athirappally Falls. Taxies and buses are available from the airport.

Bus Stations: Private and state buses also go to Athirapally from Chalakudy. There are regular departures from the Bus stands approximatelyevery hour. Athirappally is well connected to major cities Thrissur, Kochi, and Palakkad.

Check out our latest blog on 10 Best Tourist Locations in kerala 2024

Entry Timings and Fees

The entry for visitors starts at 8:30 in the morning and closes at 5:30 in the evening.

• Athirapally Falls Entrance Fees
• Children: 10Rupees
• Adults: 20-50 Rupees
• Foreigners: 200 Rupees
• Camera Fees: 20 Rupees
• Parking Fees: 10-30 Rupees (depending on vehicle type)

Best Time to Visit Athirappally

Athirapally waterfalls never dry out and can be visited anytime during the year. However, though the waterfall appears in its full Glory during monsoon, heavy rains cause inconvenience. Hence the best time to visit is from September to January.

This is because:

• The weather becomes pleasant and comfortable for visitors.
• The water flow in the waterfalls is still decent.
• The beautiful waterfalls complemented by the green glow of the nearby forests
• Perfect time for trekking and discovering the periphery of the forest since temp is decently fresh.
• Quieter (at least with fewer tourists) than in high tourist season.
• It is just the right weather for camping, trekking, and all other activities!
• Athirapally Falls must be visited during September and January as it is the time when the real beauty of this place, cool weather, and a bunch of activities all come in sync.

Activities And Attractions Nearby

Attractions:

1, Vazhachal Waterfalls:

7km from Athirapally Falls.

Timing – 8:00 am- 5:00 pm

It is a beauty flowing through the doorway of the Sholayar Forest.

Exotic wildlife is another attraction this fall. The beautiful waterfalls complemented by the green glow of the nearby forests

2, Charpa Waterfalls:

 3.4km from Athirapally Falls.

It is a part of the Chalakudy River, connecting Athirapally and Vazhachal.

Surrounded by blooming green and serenity, it is an exceptional choice for couples to visit.

3, Munakkal Beach:

 61km from Athirapally Falls.

A 400-meter open-air auditorium, 1300 meter walk away, toilets, food courts, skateboarding grip for children and a rain shelter are the main attractions.

4, Peechi Dam:

74km from Athirapally Falls.

One of the oldest dams in Kerala.

Elephants may be seen on the bank of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.

5, The Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Dam:

 47km from Athirapally Falls.

It has more than 580 species of flowering plants.

Elephants, sambars, guars, Malabar squirrels, and sloth bears can be seen here.

6, Muniyattukkunu:

  28km from Athirapally Falls.

Renowned for its cool climate year-round, lush greenery, and great atmosphere.

7, Sholayar Dam:

53.3km from Athirapally Falls.

It is Asia’s second-largest and biggest rock dam.

8, Thumboormuzhi Dam:

 14km from Athirapally Falls.

Also known as ‘Butterfly Garden’.

The magnificent garden is home to 148 different species of butterflies.

9, Kodanad Elephant Training Centre:

41.5km from Athirapilly Falls.

It is every animal lover’s paradise.

The entry for Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is 50 Rupees for adults and 20 Rupees for kids.

10, Namami Spa and Wellness Centre:

10km from Athirapally Falls.

It is a wellness sanctuary and a retreat.

Provides all five-star facilities.

11, Silver Strom Water Theme Park

11.1km from Athirapally Falls.

It comprises dry rides, water rides, a wave pool, a rain dance floor, and a snow park.

One of the best eco-friendly parks in India.

12, Illithode

9.8km from Athirapally Falls.

The best eco-tourist spot for tourists who love bird watching, adventure, nature walking, and photography.

Athirappaly serves as the perfect base to explore other destinations in Kerala.  The charming town of Thrissur, known for its vibrant festivals and rich cultural heritage, is just a short drive away. You can also venture further to Munnar, a hill station in the Idukki district renowned for its breathtaking scenery and tea plantations.

Attractions:

Kerala Tourism Department also offers the following adventures:

• Malakkapara Jungle Safari
• Valparai Hill Safari
• Nelliyambathi Farm Tour
• Athirapally Mazha Yathtra
• Sholayar Wildlife Safari.

Food and Accommodation

The area around Athirapally Waterfalls has an array of food and lodging available for every wallet size. Here are some:

Food:

1, Local Food: You can head to local restaurants and have traditional Kerala dishes like idiyappam and appam with stew.

2, Seafood: Savor fresh prawns and crabs at the seafood eateries near waterfalls.

3, Street Food: vada, paniyaram and pazhampori.

Accommodation:

1, Luxury Resorts – Luxury options that include Athirapally Green Trees, Rainforest Resort, Somerset Greenways, etc.

2, Choose budget hotels, guesthouses, or home Specially. Repositories

3, Treehouses: You can stay in treehouse resorts like the one above, called “Treehouse Athirapally”

CampingPut your tent near the waterfall for a back-to-nature retreat.

The beauty of the Falls

Forest wildlife in the area includes the Indian elephant Bengal tiger Indian leopard, gaur, sambar, and lion-tailed macaque. Athirapalli Vazhachal area is the only forest in which all four South Indian species of hornbills- the great hornbill, Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar grey hornbill, and the Indian grey hornbill are found living together.

Vazhachal forest division is the second most biodiverse area in the State.

The International Bird Association has declared it an important bird area.

The river provides a habitat for 85 species of freshwater fishes among these 35 are endemic species.

Plantations in the area contain teak bamboo and eucalyptus.

The journey from Chalakkudy to the Athirappilly Falls passes through a landscape of winding roads, small villages, and green trees. Visitors can reach the top of the waterfall by a paved path that leads through thick bamboo groups. From Angamaly, the route is in the midst of an Oil Palm Reserve at Ezhattumugham tourism village. A steep narrow path or a wide staired path can be taken to the bottom of the falls. The falls attract visitors from across India, especially during the monsoon months.

Jungle safaris are organised by the Thrissur district Tourism Promotion Council with the Athirapally Destination Management Council from Chalakudy to Malakappara.

The Athirapally Waterfalls, surrounded by the luxuriant foliage of Thrissur district in Kerala, attest to the grandeur and magnificence of nature. Referred to as the “Niagara of India” too often, these falls attract tourists to their mightiness and captivating beauty. As it tumbles down about 80 feet high from the Chalakudy River, this results in a spine-chilling sight that is fierce but placid.

Travelling towards Athirapally is itself a magical experience with twisty paths bordered by thick forests full of various plants and animals. Before one can reach the falls, which are far away, the loud noise becomes even louder thereby making it more thrilling as one awaits this visual feast. On arrival one is greeted with a wide view of water crashing over rocky cliffs into a bubbly pool below. The mist that rises after such an impact adds some enchanting touch to its surroundings thus often producing rainbows that shine under sunlight.

The athletic area is equally captivating. People who want to explore or have deep thoughts about how great nature should sit beneath them will find shelter among shady trees. Not forgetting when it’s most powerful during monsoons or dry seasons when it shows other features of its loveliness.

Flora And Fauna Around the Waterfalls

In the Sholayar ranges of Kerala, there are Athirapally Waterfalls which are set among thick green foliage. It is more than just a beautiful place to see but also home to many types of plants and animals. At the point where you get close to the falls, a compact mass of tropical rainforest, consisting of various plant species such as towering teak trees to finely wrought ferns and orchids will welcome visitors. These moist surroundings create an ideal environment for both endemic and migratory birds.

This forested area around Athirapally houses some very rare and endangered wild animals. Elephants are very common in this place; they walk through bushy vegetation or take a bath in nearby streams. The elusive lion-tailed macaque – arboreal monkey found only in this region gracefully swings from one treetop to another. For bird watchers, this is a truly special location; it is full of different kinds of birds like hornbills, Malabar pied hornbills as well as many other types of kingfishers.

There are so many freshwater fish and amphibians that live in the Chalakudy River that supplies water for the falls. This rich ecosystem not only increases attractiveness for tourists seeking out Athirapally Waterfalls but also reveals the ecological importance of the site.

Tips for an Enjoyable Trip

1, Best Time to Visit: Monsoon (June – September) this will be Mesmerizing to Watch.

2, Let us throw our best foot forward- Wear Shoes with comfortable soles or hiking boots as you may have to climb up the waterfall.

3, Carry water and Snacks.

4, Respect Nature: Be respectful to nature and do not disturb its living organisms.

5, Take a Guide: Spend for an overview or sign up with directed excursions for the falls as well as, possibly the other forests.

6, If I can make crowds, then plan your tours as per the season and according to how many people are going.

7, Shooting Falling Waters: Fresh and Esthetic Photos of Waterfalls with their Sceneries

8, Savor Local Foodstuff: Eat lip-tingling authentic Kerala recipes from its best local kitchens.

9, PLAN Ahead: Book your reservations in advance; book your overnight accommodations and tours early.

10, Safety First Always – Beware of the Danger! Be mindful of safety issues. No dangerous pitfalls.

11, Swim in water tanks with open-air systems sustainably designed so that the waters ebb and flow through them.

12, Explore — Surroundings Forests Nearby Are Great to Wander Into14. Study Local Customs: Know the local customs or local history and culture of the area.

 13, Picnic – make it one and eat it while you admire the view.

 14, By paying attention to these tips, your trip to Athirapally Falls is likely to long be etched in your memory.