About

The Athirapally Falls (also Athirapalli, Athirappally)  also knows as "The Niagara of India" Situated around 55 kilometers northeast of the Kochi International Airport. located in Athirapally about 33 kilometers east of Chalakkudi in the Thrissur district of Kerala.  Located on the west-flowing Chalakudy River near the Vazhachal Forest Division and the Sholayar ranges, this 24-meter (80 ft) waterfall and the nearby Vazhachal Falls are popular tourist destinations. Athirapally falls are as magical as they are majestic, especially during the monsoon where the entire ecosystem comes to life. The biggest waterfalls in Kerala the Athirapally falls are known for its scenic beauty and serene naturalistic atmosphere and provide a relaxing escape for those wanting to leave the hustle and bustle of the city and escape into natural un-spoilt by the passing of time. The winding roads surrounded by dense forests and the presence of 2 water theme parks make this place a must see for anyone visiting Kerala.

the entrance to the Athirapally falls is steep and is a 2 km trek to the Athirapally Falls. As you walk higher and higher, the forest area is quiet and you can hear different types of birds singing and recognize each bird from its voice. During monsoon, the trek turns slippery and is filled with little frogs jumping here and there. Walk around 15 minutes and you can hear the gigantic voice of the falls and lo! As you climb up, you can see the river flowing past huge rocks and trees. The falls are so huge that for a minute you can't believe that they can be so huge. You also thank yourself, that the trek is worth it as you again go down towards the falls. You find little children bathing in the river and a few steps ahead and the water goes down!  the sight has been a favorite with film directors for their locations. Mani Ratnam's Raavan, Dil Se, Guru, and Iruvar have been shot here. It has been said that Abhishek Bachchan made that much-talked-about jump into the river here. However, it is still not confirmed whether Abhishek used a body double or not for this!  If one is on a holiday to Kerala, then a visit to the Athirapally Falls becomes a must-watch experience as it is a favorite destination for all those who love the magnificence of nature and beauty. Hire a taxi that takes you to the falls and there are some good resorts also nearby, where you can halt for lunch or dinner. The ideal time to visit the Falls is during the monsoon when the rainwater is falling on the river, and fishermen are busy catching fish sitting by the river. Swimming here is not recommended during this time, however, you can still find local villagers swimming in unknown waters. 

Best time to visit 

Athirappally falls never dry out and can be visited anytime during the year. Though the waterfall appears in its full glory during monsoons, heavy rains can cause great inconvenience. So, the best time to visit here is immediately after monsoons.

Getting there

• By Air – Nearest airport is Kochi airport. The distance from Kochi to Athirapally falls is 55 KMs. You can hire a taxi from the airport to falls.
• By Train – Chalakkudy is the nearest railways station (30 KMs). It is on the main trunk line and is connected to all parts of the country.
  
• By Bus – There are buses going to the falls from major towns in Kerala.
  

The distance of Athirapally Falls to Munnar is 140 KMs

Tips

• The falls were in full flow with the monsoons barely a few days over, the dense rain forest and the beautiful Chalakudi river making a beautiful scene.
• Remember that you are traveling inside a forest region. So, don't expect very good restaurants, eatable options are very limited so we suggest you to carry enough food, water, and baby foods along with you.
• we would recommend visiting the falls early in the morning around 8 AM to get a clear sky and low haze.
• Do not go the edge of the waterfalls. The rocks may be slippery and it may prove fatal.
• Walk down to the bottom of waterfalls. Do not try to go to the middle of the river to click pictures. The water force is very high and there are whirlpools. The rocks are slippery. Stand on the side and enjoy the panoramic view of the falls.
• The waterfalls are at a distance of 15 minutes of walk (about 2 km) from the entrance. Hence, it requires quite a fair amount of walking on an irregular forest terrain. So wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
  
• If you're running short of time  Spend less time on the hill for a top view. The view down there in front of the fall is pure bliss, So spend more time over there.
  
• As it is in the forest area, you are not permitted to visit after evening.
• bathing is allowed above the falls only so if you plan to take a dip to go higher first.
• Weekends attract huge crowds from nearby Ernakulam and Thrissur; likewise public holidays. Those who want to enjoy nature, peace, and quiet are better off coming on a weekday
  

Timings