Magnificent tour of Athirapali

Kerala, in southern India, is often referred to as "God's Own Country." This is a tropical state with national traditions and lush untouched beauty. Most of all, Kerala is famous for waterfalls, elephants and temple festivals. The pace of life in the state is slow, which makes Kerala a great place to relax.

The unique sights of Kerala guarantee a relaxing and exciting holiday. This coastal state is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. A distinctive culture and extremely picturesque nature, which contrasts with the fast-paced modern world, make Kerala an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Athirapali Falls is one of the most popular and the largest waterfall in Kerala and is the perfect place to enjoy the monsoons with your significant other. Effervescent silver drops of a waterfall into the lush green forest are home to species such as the Great Indian Hornbill, the Cochin Forest Turtle, and the Nilgiri Langur.

It is like the "Niagara Falls of India." It becomes even more impressive during the monsoon season. The largest waterfall in the state of Kerala boasts breathtaking views and the picturesque nature of the surrounding areas. You will enjoy the waterfalls flowing around you, and it was a very peaceful and relaxing stay there. Let's talk in detail about this magnificent tour of Athirapali.

Why should we visit Athirapali?

Athirapali are located at the entrance of the Sholayar forest ranges, and the main host town is Chalakudy. It is famous for two nearby waterfalls. The largest waterfall in Kerala is about 80 feet high on the Chalakudy River, flowing west. Athirapali Falls is 1000 feet above sea level and is located exactly in the forest area.

It is the favorite place of some film directors for their movie shooting, and many movie sequences of Indian movies were shot here. The Tamil film Punnagai Mannan was shot near the falls. He made the falls so famous in Tamil Nadu that they nicknamed them "Punnagai Mannan Falls."

The path leading to Athirapali is well maintained, and the breezes from the waterfalls are impressive. This is one of the best places in the world that shows the beauty of nature, and the journey is worth it. It is worth trekking at the base and experiencing the waterfall's flow. The roar of water and a mist of water droplets that light up in thousands of colors when the sunbeam hits paints a pretty picture. Enjoy the lovely weather and the beauty of flora and fauna. The cool spray covering a large area near the falls makes Athirapali a scenic spot. The waterfall of Vazhachal waterfall is close to lush green forests.

Athirapali is only 25 kilometers away from Kochi International Airport. This enchanting waterfall is one of Kerala's top picnic spots, and its vacation packages are top-rated. This is a good place for relaxation of the mind and great for being immersed in nature.

Things to do

• By trekking or river rafting, you can explore the beautiful area of Athirapali falls.
• Enjoy the sound of the boisterous waters hitting those rocky bottoms. Hear the call of nature and enjoy it.
• Enjoy the incredible spectacle of light and shadow, of the sun's rays peeking out from behind the leaves and falling onto the sparkling water.
• Go for a fun, relaxing picnic time with your friends and family.
• Follow bird watching, Have fun and capture these enigmatic creatures through your camera.
• Here you can enjoy the fascinations of the Sholayar hills and go down from the waterfalls to the bottom.

The Athirapali is most spectacular destination in Kerala (India).

The stunningly beautiful Athirapali Falls is located on the Chalakudy River in the Thrissur district of Kerala. It is the largest and most beautiful waterfall in Kerala. You can visit Athirapali Falls at any time of the year as it never dries up. Athirapali region comprises four falls fed by the Chalakudy River, which originated from the Western Ghats. This 80-foot-tall waterfall is 330 feet wide. The majestic Athirapali in the scenic background of the dense and verdant rainforest is an incomparable attraction of Kerala.

The view of Athirapali in the monsoon is simply stunning. You can see the stream of water on the rocks and the mist near the falls. You can even hear thunder and see mist at Athirapali destination. Athirapali is as scenic as this waterfall: a well-maintained road through the dense green forests, mountains, and valleys. While traveling on this road, you will enjoy a pleasant mild temperature.

Along the way, you will get the stunning long view of Athirapali Falls. During the monsoon, the entire site becomes crowded. In the post-monsoon season, you can reach the foot of Athirapali Falls. It will bring a fantastic view of this waterfall from a different perspective.

Two more beautiful waterfalls are located within a few kilometers from Athirapali Falls called Charpa and Vazhachal. The Charpa waterfall is very close to the road. You can enjoy the water spray from this picturesque waterfall during the monsoon. Unlike the Athirapali fall, Vazhachal is a sloppy fall, but it is worth seeing.

Interesting facts and curiosities

• The waterfall is 80 feet tall.
• Its gushing streams lead to the formation of the Chalakudy River.
• It is a reservoir of exotic freshwater fish. More than 85 species of fish are found here.
• It houses rich Malabar wildlife made up of animals like sambar, lion-tailed macaque, leopard, bison, elephants, etc.
• The only region of the Western Ghats where different endangered species of Hornbill are seen.
• Mani Ratnam's Ravaan was shot here. Aishwarya bathing in the waterfalls scene was filmed here.
• Former Union environment minister and congressional leader Jairam Ramesh have called this enchanting waterfall hidden in this diverse rainforest a "Silent Valley."

What are the most famous landmarks to visit in Athirapali?

The most popular attractions to visit in Athirapali are:

• Athirapali Falls
• Vazhachal Falls
• Charpa Waterfall
• Chalakudy River
• Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Athirapali Falls

Athirapali is famous among tourists. It is one of the amazing and charming places to visit in Kerala. Another famous waterfall to visit is Vazhachal Waterfall. Athirapali Falls is part of the Chalakudy River and is about 80 feet high. Athirapali is easily reached from Chalakudy by car or bus from Chalakudy's private bus terminal.

Athirapali Waterfall is not the highest in India but the largest and most impressive in Kerala. Said to be the 'Niagara of India,' the water plunges 24.3 meters down through lush green forests and cascades from a panoramic expanse of 330 feet wide. Visitors can take a walk in the lush green riparian forest nearby with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Keep your eye out for Indian gray hornbills, giant hornbills, Malabar gray hornbills, Malabar hornbills, Sambar, Asian elephants, and several aquatic species. In addition, this fall also made appearances in several Hindi and Malayalam films due to its incredible beauty. And this beauty doubles from June to September.

Vazhachal Falls

Located on the southern coast of India, Vazhachal Falls is another great place for excursions. It is located just 5 km from Athirapali Falls, so make a point to visit these falls along the way. Here you will see the natural gardens around the Vazhachal falls that add to the lush vegetation and charm of the landscape. Situated near the west-flowing Chalakudy River, the falls look even more spectacular when they burst forth from the monsoons.

Another favorite family place is the Vazhachal waterfalls. These waterfalls have become famous for their appearance and the endemic flora and fauna found in dense forests. Researchers have found four endangered species of Hornbill here, the only place where they thrive in all Western Ghats. The ornithologists attach great importance to this place, and bird watchers can meet many rare and colorful species.

Charpa Waterfall

Among the many places to see during a sightseeing tour in Thrissur, Cheppara is one you can't afford to miss. The stunning surroundings of this place have a magnetic attraction that will leave you enchanted the whole time you are here. Its incredible attraction makes it even more beautiful.

Charpa Falls is a waterfall located in Athirapali panchayath in the Thrissur district of Kerala. This waterfall is situated on the west-flowing Chalakudy River between the most famous Athirapali Falls and Vazhachal Falls. It is a popular destination for those tourists who visit Athirapali and Vazhachal Falls. It is located close to the road, and water splashes in the monsoon months. During the dry season, water no longer flows.

Chalakudy River

The Chalakudy River or Chalakudy Puzha is the fifth-longest river in Kerala, India. The river flows through the Thrissur District and two more districts of Kerala. The Chalakudy River, in the strict geological sense, is a tributary of the Periyar River. The government and other agencies treat it as a separate river for all practical purposes. The river has earned its name because it flows along the banks of Chalakudy, the main settlement along the river's course. It is perhaps the most pristine and pristine river in the state and even in India due to the limited number of industries and waste disposal around it.
The Chalakudy River and its basin were one of the most affected rivers during the 2018 Kerala floods. Although the river has its source in the Anamalai region of Tamil Nadu, it is a collection of some of the significant tributaries originating from Parambikulam, Kuriyarkutti, Sholayar, Karapara, and Anakayam in Kerala.

The Chalakudy River is one of the few rivers in Kerala with relic riparian vegetation at a substantial level. The main threat has been submersion due to reservoirs. Like Athirapali Falls and Vazhachal Falls, the famous waterfalls are situated on this river. The hydroelectric projects on the Chalakkudy River are the Sholayar Hydroelectric Project and the Peringalkuttu Hydroelectric Project. For irrigation purposes, the Thumboormoozhy Dam is built across this river.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Elephants are considered in Kerala as auspicious animals. There is no major festival or celebration in Kerala that does not celebrate massive elephant processions. Considered an essential part of our culture, elephants are adored, revered, and groomed with the utmost care and respect.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is one of Kerala's biggest and largest elephant training centers. Since the ban on trapping elephants entered into force, this place was destined to be one of the leading training centers for elephants in Kerala. Muthanga in Wayanad and Konni in Pathanamthitta are two other elephant training centers. The one at PunnathurKotta in Thrissur is home to more than 40 elephants specially groomed for the Guruvayur Temple. It is undoubtedly a paradise for elephant lovers to see these majestic animals.

Other nearby attractions near the Athirapali

• A series of waterfalls, dams, and sanctuaries are located in the surrounding area. This includes Sholayar Dam, Kudoormad Falls, Malayattur Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
• The Thumbormuzhi Dam and Garden are exciting tourist destinations.
• Paniely Poru and Abhayaranyam Zoo are 12 km from Athirapali.
• Peringalkuthu Dam and Kodanand Elephant Training Center are other great destinations within a 10 km radius.

Thus, a short way from this picturesque city of temples, Thrissur, lays a tropical paradise waiting to reveal its mystery. Athirapali, with its outstanding natural beauty and vibrant wildlife, is here to captivate you.

You can also enjoy Jungle Safari, organized by the District Tourism Promotion Council. There are two amusement parks near Athirapali. The Silver Storm theme park and the Dream World theme park. So don't miss these paradisiacal destinations and include them in your next tour.

How do I get to Athirapali?

• By Air: The closest airport to AthirapallyKochi International Airport.
• By Train: Chalakudy station is the nearest railway station to Athirapali, about 28 km.
• By Road: Athirapali is well connected to other cities in Kerala and is only 55 km from Kochi.

The best time to visit Athirapali

The best season to visit Athirapali is between June and December. But after January, the water is at a superficial level to enjoy a good swim without much crowd. This is a must-visit place for the family to entertain their children and an excellent destination for memorable selfies. Tickets can be purchased at the counter just outside the entrance.

The river is dangerous, especially during the rainy season, due to the slippery condition of the rocks, and the rock bed has deep trenches hidden between. Also, the current can change suddenly and could lead to fatal accidents. Proper provisions prevent mishaps during swimming, and a police camp is always posted there.

Restaurants near the Athirapali

• DJ Bakery, located on Malayattor road, is the closest restaurant.
• Noorjehans Hot Pans and Swadh, the multi-cuisine family restaurant, is 46 km. Both places are close to Thrissur.
• Rose Bowl and the Midnight Cruise at South Chalakudy are not far.
• Bethania Garden Restaurant in Thumbormuzhi and Water Gate in Athirapali offer a great alternative.

Tips for travelers

Athirapali waterfalls, one of the most visited waterfalls in South India, especially Kerala, are magnificent. It is the tranquility in the lap of nature and the seat of extreme scenic beauty. Therefore, it makes it an attractive place for all kinds of people.

The natural scenic beauty and wildlife make it an adorable attraction for tourists. Its gushing streams and bustling waters are ideal for swimming and swimming in the cradle of nature. Adventure sports such as trekking and rafting make it a good option for adventure lovers. Therefore, it makes it an attractive place for all kinds of people. Here are some tips for tourists who want to travel to Athirapali.

• The waterfalls are located at a distance of 15 minutes walking from the entrance. Therefore, it requires quite a bit of walking on uneven forest terrain. So wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
• To enjoy the waterfall to the complete plan with enough time in hand. It will require considerable time. Therefore, keep half a day allotted for this.
• Remember that you are traveling within a forest region. So please, don't litter the place with wrappers.
• Beware of burnable equipment such as matches and cigarettes.
• Food and water supplies are not available here. So keep in mind Bring the necessary items.

Bottom line

Due to its extraordinary vastness and diversity, India is an exotic country that could be explored for years twice. Its iconic culture and religions span thousands of years in the past, and its recent history includes centuries under colonial rule; ultimately, independence has only been granted relatively recently.

The vibrant and unknown sights, sounds, and colors of Athirapali Falls, everywhere in India, feast on visitors' senses. Water enthusiasts can enjoy Kerala at any time of the year.  Its shallow water levels in the Small Falls make it less dangerous and enjoyable. The sound of water flowing from distant places has a calming effect: in the rain and breathing in the cool air. With all there is to see and do, filling your itinerary with a unique and magnificent tour of Athirapali won't be a problem.