Athirappilly is the largest waterfall in Kerala, where the Chalakudy River pours over a wide rock ledge in a roaring curtain of white water. Surrounded by forest, it is often called the Niagara of South India.

The river and the falls

The Chalakudy River rises in the Anaimalai hills of the Western Ghats and flows about 145 kilometres to the Arabian Sea. Near Athirappilly it grows faster and rougher, then drops about 25 metres, splitting around great rocks into several separate falls.

The forest around it

The falls sit at the edge of the Vazhachal forests, one of the richest wildlife areas in Kerala. Elephants, leopards, gaur, sambar and lion-tailed macaques live here, the area is recognised as an Important Bird Area, and the river holds dozens of fish species found only in this region.

Seeing the falls

A paved path from the entrance leads through bamboo groves to a viewpoint at the top of the falls. From there a steep, narrow trail and a wider stepped path go down to the bottom, where the spray drifts across the rocks.

When to visit

The falls are at their most powerful in the monsoon months, from June to September. December to February is drier and easier for walking, with a gentler flow. The road through the forest is closed at night, with checkpoints shutting in the evening, so plan to leave before dark.

Tips for your visit

• Vazhachal Falls — another beautiful cascade, about 3 km upstream.
• Charpa Falls — tumbles right beside the road, about 2.5 km away.
• Getting there — Chalakudy, about 30 km away, is the nearest railway station.
• Go early — the falls are busiest at weekends and on holidays.