Ahthirapally Water falls: The Niagra of India

Remember the lush green rain soaked backdrop of the film “RAVANA”?
People who have seen this film would find it difficult to forget the location where some parts of this film was shot. Thanks to director of the film for showcasing this place brilliantly in this film.

The place is called Athirapally and it hosts the Athirapally Waterfalls famously known as “Niagra of India”.
The place is a majestic combination of Waterfalls, rivers and rainforest. Traditionally tropical rain forest of this types are known as “Jewels of Eearth” due to abundance of plant and animal life. Various rare species of reptiles, mammals and amphibians are often found here.

Getting there

The place is in the Trichur district of Kerala and well connected to the Cochin International Airport by road. The west flowing Chalukdudi river plummets 80 ft with a resounding crash and a strong spray that awes and drenches you in equal measure. The best time of visit is in monsoon when it is swollen at its best.

The railway station nearest Athirappilly Falls is 30 kilometers to the west in Chalakudi Railway Station, and the nearest airport is Kochi International Airport, about 55 kilometers southwest of the waterfall and 58 kilometers south of City of Trichur. Athirappilly is easily reachable from Chalakudy by taxi or by bus from the Chalakudy private bus terminal. As this place is situated on the highways connecting Tamil Nadu and Kerala, amidst thick forest, so night riding is not advised.

The Place

The Sholayer forest which surrounds this place whispers all the time. You feel like sleeping into a different world. The place is home to Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, bison, sambar, and lion-tailed macaque. So spotting exotic animals and birds just enriches your experience.
One can Trek down to the base of the mighty Athirapally falls. Experiencing the water fall . Just close your eyes and feel the blessings spray down on you; when you open your eyes again, you feel like a new person.
You can even take a picnic hamper with you down to the base of the Waterfall. takes around 20 minutes to reach the bottom. Pathways are constructed for easy movement.The roar of the waterfall and a gurgling stream welcomes you at the bottom.

Nearby Places of Interest

Charpa Falls
To the east of Athirappally is the enchanting but lesser known Charpa falls which plunges on to the road during monsoon. It is a sight to watch and enjoy.

Anakkayam
It is located about 20 km from Chalakudy on the Sholayar Peringalkuthu route. Anakkayam means the “Elephant pit”. It is noted for a lake with cool and placid waters. The place is a forest untouched by human encroachments and is a haven for those who wish to escape from concrete jungles. It attracts the visitor with its bubbling streams, natural rock formations and flora.

Water Theme Parks
For those who want a little extra recreation there are two water theme parks nearby with plenty of adventure games and water sports.

Malakapara Tea Gardens
For the adventurous, a family safari through the deep forest and high ranges ( Western Ghats ) complemented with lots of hairpin curves takes you to the fascinating sculptured beauty of Malakapara tea Gardens. Along the route if you are lucky you may end up seeing some good wildlife.

Thumpurmuzhi Gardens
Thumpurmuzhi is an ideal stopover with its garden, scenic splendor and a classic waterfall.

Peringalkuthu & Sholayar Dams
Deep in the forest on the way to Valpara are the two dams that generate hydroelectric power to the state. Entry to the dam site is with special permission only.

Vazhachal Forest Gardens
With the abundant flora and even herbal plantation maintained by the forest department, Vazhachal is a Botanists treasure trove.

Resorts

Tourism is booming in this place. There are so many good resorts which offer nice accommodation. In some resorts you can enjoy the beauty of waterfall right from the attached balcony. Some of the best resorts are:
RAINFOREST
RIVERROK VILLAS
BETHANIA RESORTS