Chinnakanal Waterfalls, also called Power House Waterfalls, is situated in Chinnakanal village on the Thekkady-Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary route, approximately one kilometre from National Highway 49. This serene spot is perfect for unwinding and appreciating the beauty of nature, and it is tucked away in Munnar, a charming hill station in Kerala. The perfect getaway for anyone looking for peace, adventure, or a restorative break amid breathtaking natural beauty is Chinnakanal Waterfalls.
Location
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Chinnakanal Waterfalls are situated in Kerala’s Idukki district, close to the village of Chinnakanal, around 16 km from Munnar. The waterfall is situated in the breathtaking Western Ghats, encircled by verdant tea plantations. Its closeness to Munnar heightens its appeal and offers a peaceful experience amidst Kerala’s magnificent mountains.
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How to Reach Chinnakanal Waterfalls
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By Road: You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Munnar to Chinnakanal. The scenic beauty of the tea gardens and lush green surroundings can be viewed during your journey.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva, which is nearly 130 kilometres away from Munnar. From there, you could hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest, about 120 kilometres away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar and then to Chinnakanal.
Places to Visit Around Chinnakanal Waterfalls
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Here is the list of the best idyllic destinations around the Chinnakanal waterfalls that you should explore on your trip:
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1. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Photo: Arun Muralidhar / Wikimedia Commons
Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation in Munnar is well-known for its distinctive tea leaves. These premium leaves are chosen, precisely processed, and manually packed to ensure the highest quality. The plantation’s colonial-era business still uses traditional tea-processing processes, preserving a piece of history. You can go on a safari around the tea estate, go down the picturesque hills and take a guided tour of the ancient factory.
Location: 30 km from Chinnakanal
Best Time To Visit: August To October
2. Mattupetty Dam
Photo: Rrjanbiah / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The purpose of the sturdy concrete gravity dam, known as the Mattupetty Dam, was to generate electricity and conserve water. Situated at an elevation of 1700 metres, it is close to Anamudi mountain and nestled inside Munnar’s hills. The reflection of the neighbouring tea gardens in the river is the dam’s most exquisite feature. Speed boating is available, arranged by the Idukki District Tourism Promotion Council.
Location: Near Munnar and Idukki District
Best time to Visit: August to May
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3. Anayirankal Dam Reservoir
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Anayirankal Dam, erected in the 1960s, is one of the biggest earthen dams and among the first to employ concrete. It is well located amid lush tea plantations and evergreen woodlands. The dam is easily accessible, lying only 22 kilometres from Munnar, a prominent hill town in Kerala. The nearest railway station is Aluva, which is around 127 kilometres away, while the closest airports are Cochin International Airport (127 kilometres) and Madurai Airport (141 kilometres).
Location: Near Munnar – Kumily Road
Best time to Visit: Throughout the Year
Where to Stay
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Around the Chinnakanal Waterfalls, there are numerous lodging options to suit a range of price ranges. Luxurious accommodations can be found at Club Mahindra Resort and Sterling Munnar, while The Siena Village is renowned for its tranquil and natural beauty. Moreover, distinctive homestays offer a more genuine and personal experience. Chinnakanal offers a range of solutions to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for luxury or a homely, intimate feel.
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Where to Eat
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Chinnakanal and its surroundings offer a diverse range of culinary options. Local restaurants serve traditional South Indian dishes like dosas, idlis, and Kerala-style curries. RAPSY Restaurant and Saravana Bhavan, both in Munnar, offer a wider range of Indian and international cuisines.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chinnakanal Waterfalls is best visited between September and May. The falls are most spectacular and powerful during these months when the weather is pleasant. The winter months of November through February bring cool temperatures that are perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August, brings a lot of rain, it also makes the scenery more beautiful, so it’s a great time for people who like lush, picturesque views. Rainfall replenishes the water flow, which adds to the beauty of waterfalls.
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Other Factors to Consider
Photo: Daniel Kraft / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
- Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes and light jackets.
- Safety: Care while walking on slippery areas near the waterfalls.
- Average Cost: It costs around ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 per person.
- Keep a first-aid kit handy.
- Respect the natural surroundings and avoid littering.
- You can hire a local guide for a better and more informative experience.
Chinnakanal Waterfalls is the place to be when one considers a place that rightly balances the essence of nature, calmness, and adventure all in one place. This majestic waterfall, against the backdrop of green hills and tea plantations, is one thing no visitor to Kerala should miss. So don’t wait to plan a visit to Chinnakanal Waterfalls with TripXL and get enchanted with the landscapes of Kerala.
Cover Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons