Name: Thrissur
Rating: 4.2

Athirapally Falls, Thrissur Overview

Located 60 km from the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirapally Falls is a marvellous cascade of frothy waters that makes its way from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats. Also called as Bahubali Waterfall, this 80 ft high and 330 ft wide marvel is the largest waterfall in Kerala. It is often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India". From here, the Athirapally falls flows through the verdant greenery of Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea, creating a spectacular vista of scintillating water, emerald jungles and azure sky.

When you land in Athirapally, you are greeted with the sight of charming green Sholayar Peaks peering over the rushing gush of the falls. Standing against the backdrop of a rustling jungle foliage, this many films and music videos are shot here. Bird lovers cannot miss this place, for it is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. There is a pool above the falls where you can relax and unwind. To get a view of the waterfall, one needs to get down from the mountain for about 100 meters.

Another interesting fact to note is that the fall joins forces with the Chalakkudy river before reaching its final destination into the sea. There are a couple of water theme parks on the way to Athirappilly called Silver Storm and Dream World and many resorts as well.

Jungle Safari at Athirappilly Falls

The Tourism Promotion Council of the district in collaboration with the administrative body of Athirapilly organises daily jungle safaris from Chalakudy to Malakkappara. The safari takes you on a 90 km tour across the Sholayar range through the rainforests of Kerala. The prominent attractions covered are Kauthuka Park, Thumboormuzhy Dam, Butterfly garden, Vazhachal falls, Athirapally falls, hills, valleys, rainforest full of resident wildlife and tea gardens.

Athirapally Falls in Movies

The scenic beauty of Athirapally falls has always been attractive to filmmakers. Famous songs like "Jiya Jale" from Dil Se and Aishwarya Rai's "Barso Re Megha" from the movie Guru have been shot here showing the beautiful views of the falls. More recently, song sequences for the film "Bahubali" were shot here as well. Some scenes of English movies Before the Rains and Pirate's blood are shot here as well. Other notable films with scenes around the fall include: "Behne de" in the movie Raavan, "Chalo Chalain Mitwa" in the movie Nayak, "Sunta hai tera khuda" from Pukar, "Aaayi re aayi re khushi" from the movie Khushi and movies like "Sirf Tum" and "Madras Cafe. Although astonishing on the silver screen, the beauty of Athirapally is even more breathtaking in real life and makes it well worthy of a visit!

Trekking in Athirapally

The precarious yet thrilling pathways up to the falls is a treat for mountaineers who are looking for a quick adventure. The trek routes are very well maintained and you get to savour a spectacular view of the falls thoughout. Colourful birds and lots of monkeys will keep you company throughout the way, and if you're lucky some Samba deer might pay you a visit as well! Washrooms are available throughout the way for the convenience of the travellers. There is a path which takes you right to the base of the falls where the view is simply amazing. However, security personnel is deployed there, so be careful when you access this part of the trek.

Best Time To Visit Athirapally Falls

Though monsoon season provides the best views, trekking to the falls becomes difficult. The favourable time to visit the Athirapally falls, when you can enjoy both the beauty and the thrill, are from the month of September- January.

Traveling Around Athirapally Falls

Since this is a mountain region, the terrain is a bit undulating and it is advisable to be very careful while you tread the paths here. Entering the main waterfall area is prohibited for the safety of the people.

Stay Near Athirapally Falls

Athirapally has quite a few accommodation options if you wish to stay here for your vacation. Some of these include Rainforest Resort, Riverok Villas, Hydel Palace Hotel & Resorts, Bethania Resorts, Plantation Valley, Hotel Elite Palazzo and Lal Ranchan Homestay.

Sightseeing Around Athirapally Falls

Undeniably, the charm of this attraction lies in its virgin natural beauty. The sheer volume of the water that flows down the mountains is overwhelming and tranquillizing at the same time. The cool breeze coupled with the gentle chirping of birds from the forest nearby is a welcome change from the din of city life, and you will thoroughly enjoy a trip here with friends and family. The Vazhachal falls are also situated nearby, and you can couple this attraction with Athirapally.

Restaurants Near Athirapally Falls

Athirapally has a number of resorts and places to eat nearby. Some of these include Rainforest, Foliage and Greenvalley Motel. A few local outlets provide delicious snacks as well.

Tips For Visiting Athirapally Falls

1. Be very careful while walking towards the falls as the terrain is uneven
2. Carry an umbrella if you wish to keep dry
3. Walking shoes are a must
4. Entry to the main waterfalls is prohibited and the area is isolated with barbed wires

How To Reach Athirapally Falls

Located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirapally falls can be easily reached by roadway buses from Kochi. It takes roughly 2-3 hours to reach this destination from Kochi. You can reach the falls through 3 routes which are via Valparai, Angamaly and Chalakudy.