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Nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats, Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls in Vechoochira is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Derived from the Malayalam words meaning “great honey stream,” it is an accurate reflection of the sweet experience that awaits you at the waterfalls. While not the tallest waterfall in Kerala, Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls captivates with its expansive width rather than sheer height. The view of the waterfall making its journey through rocks in small streams is spectacular. The waterfall later merges gracefully with the holy River Pamba downstream. Here is everything you need to know about the famous waterfalls in Perunthenaruvi.
Quick Details About Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls, Vechoochira
Height: 100 ft or 30 metres, but it’s a slanting cascade instead of a vertical drop.
Best Time To Visit Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls: Visit during the monsoon season (June to September) for the most spectacular flow. Avoid the summer months as the flow of the falls dwindles substantially during those dry months.
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls Timings: The waterfalls are open 24 hours, but it is advisable and safer to plan your visit from sunrise to sunset because of the remote location of the falls.
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls Location
Photo: Prajaneeshp / Wikimedia Commons
If you are wondering where the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls are, it is located on the Western Ghats of the Sahyadri Range in Kerala’s Central Travancore region. These waterfalls are one of the most famous in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. It is located 30 km away from the city of Pathanamthitta. Dense forests of the Sabarimala region surround these scenic falls, which are only 132 kilometres away from Thiruvananthapuram.
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
How To Reach Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
Photo: Sujithnairv / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls by road, railway, and air.
By Road: To reach this popular tourist attraction, visitors can hire a cab or take the frequent buses running from Chengannur to the waterfalls. If driving, follow the scenic route with winding roads from Ranni to Athikkayam to Kudamurutti to Perunthenaruvi.
By Rail: The nearest railway stations are at Thiruvalla and Chengannur, located about 31 km and 25 km away from the city of Pathanamthitta.
By Air: The closest airport to the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport located 109 km from Pathanamthitta. Cochin International Airport is also located about 133 km from the city. You can hire a taxi or pre-booked cab from the airport to reach the waterfalls.
Things To Do At The Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
1. Trekking
Photo: Prajaneeshp / Wikimedia Commons
For adventurous explorers, the long hike to the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is ideal for exploring the surrounding forests. The woods are thick with plenty of birds and butterflies, and you may also spot some wildlife if you are lucky. All in all, the lush greenery and exotic flora along the trail to the waterfall make it a memorable experience.
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kerala
2. Photography
Photo: kseb.in / Wikimedia Commons
The falls are a great spot for those who wish to capture Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls photos with its scenic streams and lush greenery. The place is often visited by nature lovers and photographers desirous of capturing the waterfalls’ beauty from various angles.
Places To Visit Around Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
1. Sabarimala Sri Dharmasastha Temple
Photo: Sanket_Mishra / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
A revered pilgrimage site, Sabarimala Temple attracts devotees from far and wide. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa and is known for its annual pilgrimage season. The trek to the temple through the forested hills is an adventure in itself. The Sabarimala Sree Dharmasastha Temple is visited in hoards by pilgrims offering their prayers to Lord Ayyappa. It is the most famous and prominent among all the Sastha temples in Kerala.
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Kerala
2. Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple
Photo: Akhilan / Wikimedia Commons
Located along the banks of the River Pamba, the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is also known as Parthasarathy. It is one of the 108 “Divya Desams,” which are temples of Vishnu highly revered by the 12 Alwars (poet saints). The temple has been constructed in typical Kerala architectural style, which is best showcased in its Divya Prabandha. This ancient temple is one of the most important Krishna temples in Kerala, alongside the Guruvayur Temple, Trichambaram Temple, Thiruvarppu and Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple.
Things To Do: The annual snake boat race held here during the Onam festival is also something worth witnessing at least once.
3. Konni Forest Reserve
Photo: Roger de la Harpe / Shutterstock /Image For Representation Only
Covering an area of about 331.66 square kilometres, the Konni Forest Division is the first forest reserve in Kerala. It was declared on 9 October 1888 under the Travancore Forest Act of 1887. The forest area is brimming with many endemic species of the Western Ghats. Visitors can explore the Konni Forest Reserve while trekking through its lush greenery. Nature lovers can keep an eye out for elephants and other native species, which often wander around in these areas.
Things To Do: Trekking, jeep rides, photography, bird-watching
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala
4. Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple
Photo: Dvellakat / Wikimedia Commons
Kaviyoor Mahadevar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is among the oldest temples in the state. It is located in Kaviyoor of Pathanamthitta district and boasts stunning architecture and a serene ambience. The intricate stone carvings and the sacred pond add to its charm. Located on the gorgeous Manimala River, visiting this temple is always a pleasant experience. The temple dates back to the 10th century, and its presiding deities are Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and Lord Hanuman. It is believed that Lord Rama himself installed the Shivlinga of this temple during his return journey to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana.
5. Gavi Forest
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Visitors to the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls can also explore the nearby Gavi forest, known for its biodiversity and serene landscapes. It is a picturesque forest area at an elevation of 1036 m (3399 ft), surrounded by lush tea plantations and scenic valleys. The forest lies in the buffer zone of the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve. The speciality of Gavi is the serene and pristine evergreen forests that are rich in flora and fauna. It has also been listed among the best eco-tourism centres in India.
Things To Do: Trekking, wildlife encounters, bird watching, nature photography
Suggested Read: Jungle Safari In Kerala
Where To Stay
Photo: Khadeeja Yasser / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
While there aren’t many accommodations directly at the falls, nearby towns like Ranni have some good options to stay at. Ranni is 20 km from the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls. There is something in every range and preference like good budget hotels like Krupa Residency, famous luxury hotels like Zodiac Heritage Hotel, and comfortable homestays like Zarahs Homestay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Devika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Local eateries and restaurants at Ranni serve some good Kerala cuisine such as spicy curries, appams, and fresh seafood. Some of the popular ones are The Happy Dine Restaurant, Brothers Family Restaurant, Beevis Kitchen, Spice Inn and Aarya Bhavan.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Summer In Kerala
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is budget-friendly, making it affordable to all. There is a nominal entry fee of ₹30 (for adults) and ₹15 (for children).
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike. Sturdy shoes are essential for exploring rocky terrain.
- Be cautious near the falls as the rocks can be slippery.
- Be careful while bathing in the pond. The waterfall could gain momentum at any time.
- Be mindful that the waterfall is seasonal and is in its complete glory during monsoon.
- Be cautious of the leeches that can be found in abundance here, especially during the rainy season.
- Carry water and snacks.
- Respect the natural environment, carry your trash and do not litter.
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls is one of the hidden gems of Kerala that deserves more limelight than it gets. Immerse yourself in its magic, and let nature’s grandeur leave you spellbound. A symphony of water, rocks, and greenery at the Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls invites you to create some beautiful and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and embark on your journey with TripXL. We promise you a trip to remember!
Cover Photo: Prajaneeshp / Wikimedia Commons
