Kerala is not just about backwaters and houseboats. It also has beautiful waterfalls hidden in forests and hills. These waterfalls are great for photos, trekking, and family picnics. Make sure to visit a few on your Kerala trip.
Kerala is pretty green heaven of South India, and when people talk about Kerala, it’s usually about backwaters, Asyurveda, houseboats, or Munnar. While these are lovely experiences, many travelers miss out on something equally beautiful — waterfalls in Kerala. These natural wonders are tucked away in the forests, along mountain paths, or near quiet villages.
Most tourists stick to the main sightseeing points and skip exploring these waterfalls. But believe it or not, some of the best waterfalls in Kerala are not only gorgeous but also perfect for photography, trekking, and a peaceful picnic with family. Consider our best Kerala tour packages to make sure at least a couple of waterfalls are on your list.
The sound of water crashing down rocks, surrounded by thick green forests and cool mist, creates a magical vibe. Some falls are big and famous, while others are smaller and lesser-known — but each one has its charm. Let’s take a look at 10 of the most popular waterfalls in Kerala that you must explore on your next trip.
Called the famous waterfall in Kerala, Athirappilly is often compared to Niagara Falls. Surrounded by Sholayar forests, the falls drop from 80 feet, creating a thunderous sound and mist. You can view it from above or walk down to see the entire stretch. Monsoon is the best time when the falls are in full force, and the greenery around is breathtaking.
This is the second-highest waterfall in Kerala, falling from 300 feet in three stages. Reaching the falls involves a 2 km trek through Wayanad’s dense forest. It’s an adventure-lovers’ paradise and a great escape for those looking to enjoy Kerala’s raw beauty. Make sure to wear good shoes and carry water for the trek.
Also called Sentinel Rock Falls, this is one of the most famous waterfalls in Kerala for families and couples. The drive to the falls is scenic, with tea estates on both sides. After a short 15-minute walk from the parking, you reach the fall. There’s a natural pool below, perfect for a dip if the water flow isn’t too strong.
Not far from Athirappilly, Vazhachal is more about calm beauty. The water here flows gently over wide rocks, making it ideal for quiet relaxation. It’s a good place for kids and elderly visitors who want to enjoy a scenic spot without much walking. If you’re visiting Kerala in June, the rain enhances the greenery and beauty of this place.
This one’s a true nature lover’s delight — a chain of seven waterfalls located deep inside the forest. It’s a bit of a trek, but worth every step. The sound of the water and chirping birds gives a peaceful jungle feel. Among all waterfalls in Kerala, this one stands out for its unique structure and adventure vibes.
“Palaruvi” means “stream of milk” — and that’s exactly how the water looks as it drops from 300 feet. This is one of the best waterfalls in Kerala for families because there are separate safe bathing areas for men and women. Surrounded by thick forest, it’s peaceful, clean, and refreshing.
On your way to Munnar, you’ll find Cheeyappara Falls right beside the road. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and click a few pictures. The fall has multiple steps flowing down large rocks. In monsoon, it gets heavy and mighty. This is one of the easily accessible water falls in Kerala that requires no trekking.
Very close to Cheeyappara, Valara is another roadside beauty. It drops down into a thick forest, and though you can’t go close to it, the view from the road is beautiful. It is a hidden gem, often overlooked but definitely worth a stop while exploring the Places to visit in Kerala.
Less crowded and more raw, this waterfall offers natural beauty in its purest form. Located in a remote village, it’s one of the few water falls in Kerala that hasn’t been overly commercialized. The water here is wide rather than tall, flowing over large rock slabs and creating mini pools along the way.
Located inside the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, this is one of the secret but famous waterfalls in Kerala. The journey involves a scenic drive and a small trek through the forest. You need permission to enter the sanctuary, but the mix of greenery, wildlife, and water makes it a complete nature trip.
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A. Athirappilly Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Kerala. It falls from a height of 80 feet and is located in Thrissur district. It’s also the most visited waterfall in the state due to its size and beauty.
A. The top 5 waterfalls in Kerala are Athirappilly, Meenmutty, Soochipara, Vazhachal, and Palaruvi. These are known for scenic views, accessibility, and popularity among tourists. Each one offers a different experience, from trekking to safe bathing areas.
A. Kerala has around 27 well-known waterfalls, spread across districts like Wayanad, Idukki, and Thrissur. Many are seasonal and active during the monsoon, while others have year-round water flow. Some are also located inside forest areas or sanctuaries.
A. Yes, the waterfall shown in Bahubali is real. It is Athirappilly Waterfall in Kerala. Some scenes were digitally enhanced, but the main waterfall location exists and is a popular tourist spot near Thrissur and Chalakudy town.
