7 Famous Waterfalls Near Wayanad
Wayanad, a hill district in Kerala, has abundant natural beauty and several fantastic tourist spots. Settled along the beautiful terrains of the Western Ghats, this destination is full of lush green forests and rich vegetation. Wayanad is best known for its magnificent and picturesque waterfalls, originating from rivers and rivulets.
The section below highlights the best waterfalls in Wayanad, helping you streamline your search!
List of Waterfalls Near Wayanad to Visit
Here is a complete list of 7 waterfalls in Wayanad that you must visit once in your life.
1. Soochipara Waterfalls, Vellarimala
Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is one of the few three-tiered waterfalls in India. A part of the River Chulika, Soochipara Waterfalls provides a perfect opportunity to witness a waterfall in a lush environment.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 656 ft.
- Entry Fee:
- Indian adults - ₹50 per person
- Indian children/students - ₹30 per person
- Foreigners - ₹90 per person
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Book a cab from Calicut International Airport to Soochippara. You need to trek the rest of the distance from Soochippara to the waterfalls.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Things to Do: Trekking, swimming, rock climbing, picnicking and photography
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hours
2. Kanthanpara Waterfalls, Meppadi
Situated amidst two green tea plantations, Kanthanpara Waterfalls is one of the top attractions in Wayanad. This crystal-clear fall, surrounded by dense forests and tall rocks, provides a soothing and tranquil ambience.
Its proximity to Soochipara Waterfalls presents an ideal getaway to witness two natural falls in Wayanad over a minimum of time. Kanthanpara Waterfalls is the ultimate place for a family trip or a wholesome picnic.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 100 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free of cost
- Timing: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
- How to Reach: Book a cab from Meppadi, which is about 8 kilometres away from the waterfalls.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Things to Do: Birdwatching, trekking or visiting the tea and coffee plantations
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
3. Chethalayam Waterfalls, Kidanganad
Settled in Sulthan Bathery, Chethalayam Waterfalls is the shortest waterfall in Wayanad. Despite its short height, this natural attraction is surprisingly pleasant and attracts several tourists. Its mountainous landscape, with thick forests and rich wildlife, makes this waterfall famous among nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 100 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free of cost
- Timing: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via cab to Kidangand. Once you reach the village, walk up to the waterfall.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, wildlife exploration and birdwatching
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
4. Meenmutty Waterfalls, Thondernad
Another three-tiered waterfall, Meenmutty Waterfall, is the biggest waterfall in Wayanad and the second-largest in Kerala. This waterbody is easily accessible, and you can reach it after trekking 2 kilometres into Mepadi Forest Range. The view of its water gushing down with vigorous flow from the towering heights will leave you speechless.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 984 ft.
- Entry Fee:
- Adults: ₹30 per person
- Children: ₹15 per person
- Foreigners: ₹60 per person
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
- How to Reach: Catch a train and get down at Kozhikode Railway Station, which is about 91 kilometres away from the waterfalls. From there, you can book a cab or taxi to reach this destination.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Things to Do: Trekking, rock climbing, photography rappelling and swimming
- Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
5. Palchuram Waterfalls, Thondernad
Another addition to the list of best waterfalls in Wayanad is the four-stepped Palchuram Waterfalls. Lying at the confluence of the Kannur and Wayanad districts, it is one of the largest waterfalls covered by Arecanut trees and deciduous forests.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 984 ft.
- Entry Fee: Free of cost
- Timing: Throughout the day
- How to Reach: Book a cab or taxi from Calicut International Airport or Kozhikode Railway Station.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August
- Things to Do: Swimming, sightseeing and tree house staycation
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
6. Kadachikunnu Waterfalls, Kalpetta
One of the underrated waterfalls in Wayanad, Kadachikunnu Waterfall, lies deep into the Nilambur forests. A trip to this waterfall starts with a 2-kilometre hike from Padivayal through the dense jungle. A hidden gem in Wayanad, Kadachikunnu Waterfalls attracts a lesser crowd and offers a peaceful and calm environment.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: NA
- Entry Fee: Free of cost
- Timing: Throughout the day
- How to Reach: Via private vehicle or a hired cab, through Meppadi-Vaduvanchal road
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
- Things to Do: Trekking, forest exploration, picnicking, sightseeing and photography
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
7. Arippara Waterfalls, Kozhikode
The list of best falls in Wayanad will only be complete with the mention of Arippara Waterfalls. Arippara Waterfalls originates from the Iruvanjipuzha River and flows through different places near the Nellipoyil village before ultimately cascading down the hills of Arippara.
More Details:
- Height of Waterfall: 1400 ft.
- Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
- Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- How to Reach: Via cab or taxi from Kodencheri, which is about 11 kilometres away
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
- Things to Do: Picnicking, swimming, sightseeing and trekking
- Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
This is the complete list of waterfalls in Wayanad you must explore on your trip. The above section has also provided all the relevant details you might require while planning a getaway to these waterfalls. So now, all you have to do is pack your bags and witness the natural wonders of Wayanad.
FAQs About Best Waterfalls in Wayanad
What is the best time for trekking in Kanthanpara Waterfall?
Trekking in the Kanthanpara Waterfall is allowed during the day, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. However, remember to wear your trekking gear and shoes if you plan to hike.
What are the rules of trekking in Arippara Waterfalls?
Visitors are not allowed to trek in Arippara Waterfalls during the rainy season since the area is prone to floods. Even during the summer season, the undercurrents of the riverbed are voluminous. Hence, only expert trekkers and swimmers can go for a long trek around the Arippara Waterfalls.
How far is Meenmutty Waterfalls from Cochin International Airport?
Meenmutty Waterfalls rests within a distance of about 240 kilometres from Cochin International Airport. The waterfall is easily accessible from the airport via NH 183A.