Introduction
Hey Amigos, if you are an American tourist or any foreigner and planning to visit India for the first time, then Athirappilly Waterfalls must be on your bucket list in 2025.
It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala(India). The water falls from a height of 82 feet, creating a stunning roar and mist that feels like a dream.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or high on adrenaline, Athirappilly is the place you don’t have to miss. I visited Athirappilly waterfall in July last year and captured some amazing pictures and videos for my Instagram, and it gave me the unforgettable experience of a lifetime.
Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon Season (June to September) is one of the best times to witness the falls at their most dramatic and powerful nature covered with greenery all around.
- During Winter (October to February), the atmosphere is more pleasant and ideal for exploration and photography.
For the best experience, avoid the peak afternoon hours when it can get hot and humid.
How to Reach Athirappilly Waterfalls?
Athirappilly waterfall is easily reachable and is located just about 70 km from Kochi and 30 km from Chalakudi.
Just one little advice from my personal experience is that please start your journey early morning so you can reach during the daytime, and your day become fruitful.
Due to my sleeping issues at night, I started my journey at 12 o’clock afternoon from Kochi and reached Athirappilly around 4 o’clock.
So I got very little time to explore, despite that also I captured some stunning photos & at the end of the day I’m a very happy soul.
Transportations options
- By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport (38 km away). Taxis can take you to the falls for around $50–60 USD(4k-5k INR).
- By Train: Chalakudi is the nearest railway station. Take a train to Chalakudi and catch a bus or taxi to the falls.
- By Road: Public buses from Kochi and Thrissur to Chalakudi are frequent and affordable.
How i reached?
I took a Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus from Ernakulam South to Chalakudi for just 63 INR.
After feeling my stomach with the local meal at the bus station, I jumped on another bus to Athirappilly for 40 INR.
The bus journey was really amazing due to the scenic view of the changing landscape, little drops of rain from windows directly on my face, and both sides of the road covered with full of greenery. Those are the moments you always dream of.
Entry Fees and Safety Guidelines
Entry Fees for Indian Adults are 40 INR, for children 10 INR & if you are foreign tourist than you have to pay 150 INR.
Visiting Hours:
The waterfall welcomes everyone daily, with entry available from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. So it’s better to arrive before eight o’clock, there is no rush of the crowd and you can enjoy nature in peace.
Some Safety tips you can’t ignore
- The rocks around the waterfall are very slippery so shoes with good grip are essential.
- Do not ignore the necessary guidelines and precautions given by the authorities as the flow of the Chalakudi River is in full swing during the rainy season.
- Refrain from getting too close to the edge of the water.
Instagram-Worthy Spots
1.Top view of the waterfall
The moment I arrive, I’m greeted by a peaceful river with shallow waters where many tourists can be seen enjoying a refreshing dip, playing, and having fun with their children.
Since I was there for the perfect photos, I decided to skip that spot. But, as the river flows down, it transforms into the breathtaking Athirappilly Waterfalls.
The view from the top was just mindblowing. Watching the water roar down with the surrounding river and jungle spread out below is a sight you’ll want to capture forever.
2. Base of the waterfall
After seeing the majestic form of the waterfall from above, I couldn’t stop myself from going down. A small path leads us down to the waterfall.
The entire path is surrounded by lush greenery and trees, which will make you feel the deep peace and atmosphere of the forest.
The closer you go, the louder the roar of the waterfall becomes – every step makes you realize how dwarfed you are in front of nature.
It takes about seven minutes to reach the base, but the moment you get it, every moment becomes precious.
As soon as your eyes first fall on the waterfall, you are immediately reminded of a scene from the Indian blockbuster movie “Baahubali” in which Prabhas(Famous Indian Actor) carries the entire Shivlinga on his shoulders and carries it towards the waterfall.
As the water hits the rocks below with such force from a height of 82 feet, the atmosphere becomes captivating, tiny droplets of water fly into the air and drench you completely.
But honestly, this is an experience that makes you feel more alive than ever before.
Some Useful Photography Tips:
For those perfect landscape shots of a waterfall, don’t forget to bring a wide-angle lens and ND filters. These will help you take those beautiful slow shutter images of the silky motion of waterfalls, which you generally see on Instagram. To make those photos even more appealing, make use of natural elements like leaves, branches, and rocks in the foreground. These small details will add depth and make your images more dynamic & eye-catching.
Cinematic Fame
Did you know that many famous films have been shot at Athirappilly Waterfalls?
The combination of the stunning beauty of Athirappilly Waterfalls and nature has always made it a popular location for Bollywood and regional films.
Some of the notable movies shot here include:
• Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) – We still remember this film because of the amazing direction of director Rajamouli and the beauty of Athirappilly Waterfalls.
• Guru (2007) – You must remember Aishwarya Rai’s song “Barsho Re Megha Megha” which was shot here.
• Dil Se (1998) – How can you forget the amazing song “Jiya Jale” featured on Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta.
• Raavan (2010) – This Mani Ratnam masterpiece showcased Athirappilly’s raw beauty perfectly in every possible way.
For movie buffs like me, a visit to Athirappilly is like, to see real-life film set, where nature and cinema unite together.
Activities to Make Your Trip Memorable
1.Natures Peace and bird watching
If you love nature, then definitely you love trekking through beautiful forest trails. Along the way, you can see varieties of species of plants and enjoy glimpses of amazing wildlife.
These trails are perfect for one who looking to explore and connect with the peaceful beauty of nature.
The Sholayar forests around Athirappilly are also a haven for bird watchers.
• Birds to Spot : The great hornbill (the state bird of Kerala), Malabar pied hornbill, Malabar gray hornbill, and the Indian gray hornbill are found living together.
2. adventure activities
For the adventure seekers out there, Athirappilly isn’t just about the beauty of waterfalls. The nearby Chalakudy River also offers exciting activities like trekking through dense green forests and rafting down the flow of the river.
It’s the perfect way to add a little thrill to your nature escape.
Local Meals and Food Options
Kerala’s food is as vibrant as its landscapes.
Dishes You Must Try:
- Traditional Kerala vegetarian meal with sambhar & don’t forget to take Avial, and Thoran if you are not comfortable with Non-vegetarian food.
- If you love seafood, Kerala is also very famous for its Fresh seafood such as prawns, crabs, and lobsters.
Nearby Attractions
1.charpa and vazhachal waterfalls
Just a short drive away, these serene waterfalls offer a calmer yet equally enchanting experience.
2.Thumboormuzhi dam and butterfly park
Have an amazing experience with colorful butterflies fluttering around, a fun play area for children, and a beautiful hanging bridge. It’s the perfect spot for families and nature lovers to enjoy together.
tips for pleasant experiance
Packing Essentials:
Lightweight, breathable clothing.
Sturdy shoes.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Respect Nature:
Avoid littering.
Follow eco-tourism principles.
Engage Locally:
Interact with villagers to learn about Kerala’s rich traditions.
Conclusion
So, Athirappilly Waterfalls is not just an ordinary tourist spot. It’s an experience that rejuvenates the soul.
Its mixture of raw beauty, adventure, and peace makes it a must-visit for every traveller looking to escape the ordinary.
So buddies get out of your beds and pack your bags, capture memories for a lifetime, and think about why you haven’t added this destination to your bucket list yet.
FAQs
Q1. Which is the ideal time to visit Athirappilly Waterfalls?
Monsoon (June–September) for full flow and raw beauty of falls, October–February for pleasant and clear weather.
Q2. Are there accommodations near the falls?
Yes, options range from budget lodges to luxury resorts, many offering scenic views.
Q3. Can I swim at Athirappilly?
Swimming is not allowed due to heavy currents and slippery rocks.
Q4. How can foreign travelers reach Athirappilly?
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is just 40 kilometers away. You can hire a taxi from there or use public transport to reach.
Q5. Things I should not forget to pack for the trip?
Comfortable clothes, shoes with good grips, sunscreen lotion & insect repellent.
Hello! I hope you’re having a great day. Good luck 🙂