Must doKathakali evening in Fort Kochi
Watch the performers put on their make-up, then see Kerala's classical dance-drama up close.
WhereThrissur district, on the Chalakudy River
From KochiAbout 73 km, 2 hours
HeightAbout 80 ft (24 m)
Best monthsJune to October for the full flow
Time1 to 2 hours
ParentsTop view easy; the base is steep
Check before you go: Timings, fees and access can change with the season, festivals and weather. Check the latest timings before you go; on our trips we confirm them for you.
Athirappilly Falls, on the Chalakudy River in Thrissur district, is Kerala's largest waterfall, about 80 feet high and much wider than it is tall. It is about 73 km from Kochi, roughly 2 hours by road. It is fullest from June to October; the paths are easier in the drier months after.
Why Athirapally is called the Niagara of India
The falls are not very tall, but they are wide, spreading across a broad rock face in several streams. That width, and the roar in the monsoon, earned Athirapally its nickname. The river comes down from the Sholayar ranges of the Western Ghats through thick forest.
Is it okay for parents?
Some effortStepsA paved path down to the base
WalkingModerate, with a climb back up
Viewing the Athirappilly waterfall
- Top viewpoint: a short, paved walk from the entrance, easy for all ages.
- The base: a steeper path down to the bottom of the falls; the climb back takes effort.
- Vazhachal Falls: a smaller cascade a short drive upstream, worth a quick stop.
An entry fee is collected at the gate. The area is a forest zone, so stay on the paths and keep away from the water's edge in the monsoon.
Veg and Jain food
Simple snacks near the entrance.
Experiences nearby
Do more with locals
Must do
Nature & slowTea estate morning in Munnar
Walk the tea slopes in the cool morning, see how the leaf is processed, then taste it fresh.
AdventureCycling through the tea estates
Ride quiet estate roads through the tea hills, with stops for the views.
Food & peopleSpice plantation walk in Thekkady
See pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves growing, with a farmer who knows every plant.
AdventureJungle walk in Periyar
A guided walk in the Periyar forest, looking for birds, giant squirrels and signs of elephants.
Nature & slowVillage canoe ride on the backwaters
Slip into the narrow canals a houseboat cannot reach, past homes, paddy and toddy shops.
Food & peopleHome-cooked sadya lunch
A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, with a family in a backwater village.
FAQ
Athirapally Falls: your questions
When is Athirappilly waterfall at its best?
From June to October, when the river is full. After that the flow drops, but the paths are drier.
Can parents walk to the bottom of Athirapally Falls?
The top viewpoint is easy. The path to the base is steep, so most elders are happier at the top.
Can you swim at Athirappilly?
No. The river is fast and dangerous near the falls, and swimming is not allowed.
Is Athirappilly a day trip from Kochi?
Yes, about 2 hours each way. It also works as a stop on the drive from Kochi to Munnar.
Is Vazhachal worth adding to Athirappilly?
Yes. It is a short drive upstream and takes only half an hour more.
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