Athirapally Escapade-Where Water, Forests, and Wildlife Converge

Athirapally Waterfalls is a majestic cascade waterfall located in the Thrissur district, near the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It is formed by the Chalakudy River as it cascades down from a height of approximately 24 meters. The river flows through a narrow passage and plunges over a rocky cliff, creating a breathtaking sight. The waterfalls are situated amidst dense forests and lush greenery, making it a picturesque and serene location. The entire area around the falls is rich in biodiversity and serves as a habitat for various species of plants, birds, and animals.

The best time to visit Athirapally Waterfalls is during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the water flow is at its peak. The Waterfalls become a roaring spectacle during this time, and the lush greenery around the falls is in full bloom.

Besides the waterfalls, there are other attractions in the area worth exploring. Vazhachal Waterfalls, which is just a few kilometers downstream from Athirapally, is another beautiful waterfall worth visiting. Moreover, the surrounding forests offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and trekking.

The scenic beauty of Athirapally Waterfalls has made it a sought-after filming location for various Indian movies. Several films, including Bollywood and regional movies, have been shot here.

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Apart from the magnificent Athirapally Waterfalls, the region around Athirapally offers several other tourist attractions worth exploring. Here are some popular places to visit near Athirapally-

Vazhachal Waterfalls- Located just a few kilometers downstream from Athirapally, Vazhachal Waterfalls is another beautiful cascade worth visiting. Like Athirapally, Vazhachal is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene atmosphere.

Charpa Waterfalls- Charpa Waterfalls is another picturesque waterfall situated in close proximity to Athirapally. It is a smaller waterfall but equally captivating, offering a peaceful setting for visitors.

Thumboormuzhi Dam and Butterfly Garden- Thumboormuzhi Dam is a scenic spot where the Chalakudy River flows through the dam’s gates, creating a mini waterfall. Nearby, you can also visit the Butterfly Garden, a park dedicated to various species of butterflies.

Sholayar Dam- Sholayar Dam is a popular tourist spot located a short distance from Athirapally. The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is an ideal place for a peaceful picnic.

Poringalkuthu Dam- Another dam in the area, Poringalkuthu Dam, is worth a visit for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to enjoy boating.

Athirapally River Valley- The entire Athirapally River Valley is a beautiful region to explore. The lush forests, winding rivers, and diverse wildlife make it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.

Malakkappara Tea Gardens-If you’re interested in tea plantations, a visit to the Malakkappara Tea Gardens is a must. The tea estates offer stunning vistas of rolling green hills and are perfect for a leisurely walk.

Athirapally Forest Range- The forested areas surrounding Athirapally are part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest range is rich in biodiversity and provides opportunities for nature walks and wildlife spotting.

Ezhattumugham- Located on the banks of the Periyar River, Ezhattumugham is a serene spot with vast stretches of sandbanks and beautiful river views.

There are several resorts in and around Athirapally that offer comfortable accommodations amidst the scenic beauty of the region. Please note that new resorts may have opened, and the status of existing ones might have changed since then. It’s essential to check the latest reviews and availability before making a reservation. Here are some popular resorts in Athirapally-

Rainforest Resort Athirapally-This eco-friendly resort is nestled amidst the lush rainforests near the Athirapally Waterfalls. It offers well-appointed rooms, modern amenities, and beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Athirapally River Resort- Situated along the Chalakudy River, this resort provides a tranquil setting and comfortable accommodations. The serene ambiance and the sound of the flowing river make it a peaceful retreat.

Bethania Resort-Bethania Resort is located in the scenic countryside, offering cottages and rooms with views of the waterfalls and the nearby forest. It’s an excellent place to relax and unwind in nature’s lap.

Hydel Palace Hotel & Resorts- This resort offers a blend of modern facilities and traditional architecture. It is located near the Athirapally Waterfalls and provides a comfortable stay amidst natural surroundings.

Green Trees Resort- Nestled amidst lush greenery, Green Trees Resort offers spacious rooms and cottages with all the necessary amenities. It is a great place to connect with nature and explore nearby attractions.

Athirappilly Mist Resort- This resort offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to treehouses. The resort is surrounded by plantations and provides a serene ambiance for a relaxing stay.

Forte Kochi Resort-Though not located directly in Athirapally Kerala, this resort is situated in nearby Kochi and offers a luxurious and tranquil escape. It’s a great option for those looking for upscale accommodations.

Athirapally Kerala offers a range of hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. It’s important to note that the availability and status of hotels may have changed since then, so it’s best to check for the latest information and reviews before making a reservation. Here are some hotels in Athirapally-

Hotel Athirappilly Residency- This hotel is located near Athirapally Waterfalls and offers comfortable rooms and essential amenities for a convenient stay.

Hotel Raindrops- Situated in the picturesque surroundings of Athirapally, this hotel provides cozy rooms with views of the waterfalls and the lush greenery.

Joys Palace- Located in Thrissur, which is a short distance from Athirapally, Joys Palace is a luxury hotel offering top-notch amenities and services.

Hotel Niya Regency- This hotel is situated in Chalakudy, which is close to Athirapally. It provides well-furnished rooms and a restaurant serving various cuisines.

Riverok Villas- Riverok Villas offer cottages and rooms with a view of the Chalakudy River and the surrounding hills. It’s a serene and peaceful place to stay.

The Kandath Tharavad- This is a heritage property located near Athirapally Waterfalls. It offers a unique experience of staying in a traditional Kerala home.

Hotel Kunnathurmana Heritage Ayurveda Heritage and Lake Resort- Though a little farther from Athirapally, this resort offers a tranquil stay with Ayurvedic treatments and a beautiful view of a lake.

The nearest major airport to Athirapally Kerala is the Cochin International Airport, located about 55 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other available transport options to reach Athirapally. The nearest railway station to Athirapally is the Chalakudy Railway Station, which is about 30 kilometers away. Chalakudy is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Athirapally.

Athirapally Kerala is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by private car, taxi, or bus. The region is accessible from various cities and towns in Kerala, as well as neighboring states. National Highway 544 (NH 544) passes through Athirapally, making it easily accessible by road.

Kochi to Athirapally

Athirapally Kerala is approximately 70 kilometers from Kochi, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours by road, depending on traffic conditions. Athirapally is about 60 kilometers from Thrissur, and the drive usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you reach Athirapally, you can explore the local attractions and nearby places by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Some resorts and hotels also provide transportation facilities for sightseeing and excursions.