Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, is known for its lush greenery, serene backwaters, and beautiful waterfalls. Here are the top Kerala waterfalls you should not miss while your visit in this South Indian state.
Located in Thrissur district, Athirappilly Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Kerala, with a height of 80 feet. These waterfalls became famous for not just their view but the endemic species found in the surrounding dense forests. Researchers have found four endangered species of the Hornbill here, the only place they thrive in the entire Western Ghats. Surrounded by dense forests and wildlife, it is a popular tourist spot and has also been featured in many movies.
Located in Wayanad district, Meenmutty Waterfalls is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of 984 feet. Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls are dangerous during rainy seasons due to high inflow and many people have drowned since 1991. Meenmutty falls is surrounded by Lush green tea plantations making the hike to the falls a memorable experience. It is a popular trekking spot and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Meenmutty Waterfalls is located near Banasura Sagar Dam.
Located in Wayanad district, Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of 656 feet. It is surrounded by dense forests and offers a great spot for trekking and rock climbing. The falls offers a cliff face that is used for rock climbing. The word "Soochipara" translates to "needle rock" in the local language, which refers to the unique shape of the rocks near the waterfall.
Located in Idukki district, Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a seven-step waterfall that cascades down from a height of 1,500 feet. It is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a great spot for picnics and nature walks. Thommankuthu Falls isn’t one large waterfall but a series of waterfalls cascading in seven steps spread over 12 km. Every waterfall forms a pool, where you can swim, it is a part of River Kannadiyaar. This seven-step waterfall is one of the popular ecotourism sites of Kerala, and people come here mostly for trekking.
Located in Kollam district, Palaruvi Waterfalls is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of 300 feet. It is the 32nd highest waterfall in India. It is surrounded by dense forests and offers a great spot for swimming and picnics. The waterfall is also known as white horse’s tail as the falls are narrow at the top and widen at the bottom- just like a horse’s tail. A local belief is that the water from the pools has healing properties. The water flows through areas of medicinal herbs before reaching the falls and many come here to take a dip in the medicinal waters.
Kombaikani Waterfalls or Meenmutty Falls in Trivandrum is a beautiful waterfall nestled amidst the scenic Western Ghats. It is a three-tiered waterfall, and the water cascades down from a height of around 300 feet. The surrounding area is lush and green, creating a serene and picturesque setting. This waterfall is located in the Kombaikani forest area near Nedumangad, which is around 45 kilometers from Trivandrum.
These waterfalls in Kerala are a must-visit for anyone visiting God's own country and offer a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of city life.