Pampanal Waterfalls is a wildlife wonder in the serene districts of Idukki in Kerala. This beautiful waterfall, set in vales of greenery, silently woos any nature and adventure lovers. Being a tranquil retreat amidst lush green forests, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the place has everything to give an ideal vacation. It is just the place to be for any traveler. Tourists make sure to visit this waterfall while going around the peaceful landscapes of the state.
Quick Details About Pampanal Waterfalls
Elevation: 950 ft
Where To Stay: Green Berg Holiday Resorts, Silver Oak Plantation Bungalow, The Panoramic Getaway
Where To Eat: Saravana Bhavan, Rapsy Restaurant
Pampanal Waterfalls Timings: 24*7
Best Time To Visit Pampanal Waterfalls: June to November
Location
Photo credit: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons
Pampanal Waterfalls is one of the excellent tourist spots in Idukki district, Kerala. A blissful retreat in the lap of nature, the waterfall is one of the best scenes of natural beauty, making it an ideal place for enjoying the scenic beauty of the Western Ghats.
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
How To Reach Pampanal Waterfalls
Photo: Derek Sears / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Here are some best ways to reach the Pampanal Waterfalls:
By Road: The distance of the area of the falls is some 45 km from Munnar, and by car, you can reach it within an hour.
By Air: The nearest airport serving the falls is the Cochin International Airport, at a distance of around 78 km; from here, taxis and other transport services are easily available to the falls.
By Rail: The major railway station is Aluva Railway Station, which is about 65 km away from Pampanal. Local buses or taxis can be taken. This travel course will afford one a heart-stealing view of the countryside of Kerala.
Things To Do
1. Trekking
Photo: Victorbuian / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Pampanal Waterfalls are a treasure trove for trekkers. The tracks that lead to the waterfall unfold beautiful vistas, thereby offering an opportunity for the trekkers to get soaked in the abundance of natural beauty in Idukki. These tracks meander through dense woods, green tea estates, and spice gardens, some of which are graded as easy while others are rather strenuous. As you go up the mountain, you will realize how refreshing and cooler the air becomes, providing a sense of peace, and adventure.
Suggested Read: Trekking In Kerala
2. Photography
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
The green hills and the rocky landscape offer views that are excellent photographic opportunities, where waters cascade down. The best hours for photography are usually early in the morning or late afternoon, as then the soft sunlight exposes the falls and the surrounding green in a better manner. Lots of dramatic changes of light, shadow, water flow, and mist set free during the falling grant a lot of ground for endless creative possibilities.
3. Nature Walks
Photo credit: Mohan Babu V / Wikimedia Commons
Nature paths around Pampanal Waterfalls provide a peaceful and immersive way to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Idukki. Perfectly maintained trails will take one through tea gardens, spice plantations, and small patches of forests, making them ideal for studying various plant species, birds, and small mammals. Nature walks are very alluring to visitors of all age groups, especially families or nature lovers, amidst the serene surroundings, the sounds of birds calling, and leaves rustling.
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Kerala
Places To Visit Around
1. Mattupetty Dam
Photo credit: SijiR / Wikimedia Commons
The Mattupetty Dam is famous as a picnic spot with its enchanting settings amidst the Musgrave Mountains near Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala. Apart from twenty-six per cent of its water conservation and electricity generation, the dam also acts as a source that aids local cultivation. There are boating facilities around the dam, and pedal boats, speed boats, and rowboats can be hired.
Things To Do: Boating, Bird Watching
2. Eravikulam National Park
Photo credit: Gnome / Wikimedia Commons
Eravikulam National Park is one of the most famous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, located close to Munnar. The sanctuary is spread around nearly 97 square kilometers and has an enigmatic and rich diversity. It houses the endangered mountain goat, the Nilgiri Tahr, which is available uniquely in the Western Ghats. Another attraction here is the blooming of the Neelakurinji flowers, which happens once every 12 years. Guided wildlife safaris can reveal sightings of the Nilgiri Tahr, elephants, leopards, and scores of bird species.
Things To Do: Wildlife Safari, Nature Walks
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Kerala
3. Tea Museum
Photo credit: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
The Tea Museum in Munnar investigates the history and legacy behind tea production. Conceptualized by the Tata Tea Company, the museum displays antique tea-processing equipment, photographs, and old machinery. The process of tea-making, right from plucking to packaging, can be watched. The significance of tea in the local economy and culture is demonstrated at the museum. There is an opportunity for a tea-tasting session to let the visitor appreciate the different types of tea.
Things To Do: Museum Tour, Tea Tasting
4. Anamudi Peak
Photo credit: Mdmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in South India and belongs to the Western Ghats. Located within Eravikulam National Park, the peak may be visited by trekkers and nature lovers worldwide. The pass offers a panoramic view of the valleys covered with enormous green spread, dense forests, and meandering hills. Several varieties of blooms and fauna can be witnessed here, such as the Nilgiri Tahr and rare birds.
Things To Do: Trekking, Scenic Views
Suggested Read: Caves In Kerala
5. Cheeyappara Waterfalls
Photo credit: Mesoumyadashodisha / Wikimedia Commons
Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a lovely gift of nature in the district of Idukki in Kerala. Famed for its splashing waters and lush greenery, the waterfall cascades down in seven steps, especially when the tourist season is at a peak. Being easily reachable by road transport, it turns out to be a favorite stop for many. The surroundings are ideal for trekking, photography, and nature walks to imbibe the taste of the quiet beauty of the Western Ghats.
Things To Do: Trekking, Scenic Views
Other Factors To Consider
Photo credit: Iryna Tysiak / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip
Pampanal Waterfalls has varied accommodation options available, which can impact the average cost of your trip. Budget guesthouses and homestays can be availed at INR 1,000 to 2,000 per day for comfortable yet pocket-friendly stays. Budget hotels and resorts would be around INR 2,500-5,000 per day. Prices rise during peak seasons; therefore, pre-booking is advisable for the best deal.
Tips For Travelers
- Visit During Monsoon and Post-Monsoon Months: The best time to visit Pampanal Waterfalls is from June to November when the monsoon and post-monsoon are in full swing.
- Stay Hydrated During Treks: While trekking around these mesmerizing waterfalls, do not forget to stay hydrated. Kerala has a tropical climate, and excess physical strain can lead to dehydration. Therefore, carry ample water.
- Carry Basic First-Aid Supplies: While going on the trek to Pampanal Waterfalls, always carry a small first-aid kit containing painkillers, plasters, antiseptics, personal medicines, etc.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala With Family
Located in the tranquil district of Idukki, Pampanal Waterfalls is an ideal destination for nature and adventure lovers. Secluded scenic landscapes with luscious greens and falling waters make it an amazing retreat in the lap of nature. Pampanal Waterfalls will make sure your next visit to Kerala is a trip of natural beauty. Explore end-to-end tour packages for extra worry-free moments with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Vlad D / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only