Athirappalli And Vazhachal Waterfalls
Famous for its magnificent waterfalls, Athirappalli is a perennial picnic place in Kerala. It is about 63 kilometers from Thrissur. The falls are simply majestic and watching the gushing water fall from a height of 80 feet is an experience that fills you with awe and wonder. The surrounding greenery is an added attraction of Athirappalli.
Athirappally Falls form part of the Chalakkudy River which originates from the might Western Ghats. The Sholayar forest ranges lie close by.
Vazhachal Waterfalls
A visit to Athirappalli is incomplete without a visit to Vazhachal. Vazhachal Waterfalls are only a few kilometers from Athirappalli Falls. The forests surrounding the Vazhachal Waterfalls are famous for their population of the endangered Hornbill. Four different species of this bird have been found here making it a favourite haunt of bird watchers.
Best time to visit
Monsoon is undoubtedly the best time to visit Athirappalli because the Falls are at their mightiest during this time. Unfortunately, if you decide to visit between June and September, there is a high probability that you will not be able to get near the Falls or bathe in the river. It can be quite adventurous and dangerous, you know. A better option is to visit in the months of October and November. Be sure to bring an umbrella or a parasol with you because the sun can be quite harsh and beat down on you mercilessly. When you play in the river, you will probably not realize it but the experience can be quite exhausting and you may find yourself sapped of all the energy before you even reach near the Falls. Remember that in order to reach the base of the Falls, you have to walk down a short distance from where you first arrive. It is important to conserve some energy for this so bring a cap or a parasol. And bring some water as well.
Getting there
The nearest railway station is Chalakudy which is about 30 km away. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport which is about 53 km from Thrissur.