Athirappilly Waterfalls
Athirapally Falls – The Majestic Niagara of India
Cascading powerfully from a height of 80 feet, the breathtaking Athirapally Falls is Kerala’s most iconic natural wonder — often called the “Niagara of India.” Located on the Chalakudy River in the Thrissur district, this majestic waterfall is a mesmerizing display of nature’s grandeur, surrounded by lush forests, misty hills, and the soothing rhythm of falling water.
Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or film enthusiast, Athirapally Falls promises an experience that will leave you spellbound.
Where Beauty Meets Power
Athirapally is more than just a waterfall — it’s a complete sensory experience. As the Chalakudy River tumbles down massive rocks, the thunderous roar and mist create a dramatic yet peaceful ambiance. The area around the falls is rich in biodiversity, forming part of the Sholayar Range of the Western Ghats, home to rare species like the Great Hornbill and Malabar Grey Hornbill.
From above, the waterfall offers a panoramic view of the river snaking through dense greenery; from below, it’s an awe-inspiring sight of raw natural power meeting serene landscapes.
Top Things to Do at Athirapally Falls
View the Waterfall from Different Angles: Trek to the base of the falls for a close-up view or enjoy panoramic shots from the viewing platform above.
Trekking: Take the forest trail that leads through lush pathways, with viewpoints offering different perspectives of the falls.
Photography & Filming: Capture the waterfall’s splendor — featured in famous Indian movies like Bahubali, Raavan, and Guru.
Explore Nearby Vazhachal Falls: Just 5 km away, Vazhachal Falls offers a gentler yet equally stunning experience.
Wildlife Spotting: Visit the nearby Athirapally-Vazhachal Ecotourism area, where birdwatchers can spot hornbills, kingfishers, and butterflies.
Picnic by the River: Relax in shaded spots and enjoy the refreshing cool breeze of the Western Ghats.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Athirapally Falls is from September to January, when the monsoon-fed waterfall is at its most spectacular yet accessible. The monsoon season (June–August) offers the most powerful flow, but trails may be slippery.
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMEntry Fee: ₹50 per person (additional charges for parking and camera use)
How to Reach
Location: Athirapally, 60 km from Thrissur, 70 km from Kochi, Kerala
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (40 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chalakudy Railway Station (32 km)
By Road: Easily accessible via taxis and buses from Kochi, Thrissur, and Aluva.
Nearby Attractions
Vazhachal Falls – A scenic waterfall 5 km away, ideal for families and picnics.
Charpa Falls – A seasonal waterfall along the route, perfect during monsoons.
Athirapally Water Theme Park & Elephant Camp – Great for kids and wildlife enthusiasts.
Sholayar Dam & Forest Drive – A must for adventurers and nature photographers.
Why Visit Athirapally Falls?
Witness Kerala’s largest and most spectacular waterfall
Explore lush rainforests and scenic trekking trails
Perfect for nature photography, picnics, and film lovers
Combine with Vazhachal Falls and Sholayar forests for a complete day trip