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Areekkal or Areeckal Waterfalls, located amidst the peaceful environments of Piravom, Kerala, is a natural beauty waiting to be explored. This perennial wonder is known for its cascading waters, creating a destination that incites peace for lovers of nature and adventure seekers. Areekkal Waterfalls, situated in the western part of Kerala, offers a serene place with a pleasant view. Usually, it is through the countryside that the traveller reaches this fall, and en route gets to see the best of Kerala’s rural lustre and natural wealth.
Quick Details About Areekkal Waterfalls
Elevation: About 200 metres above mean sea level
Where To Stay: There are some guest houses and resorts in Piravom. Accommodation facilities are also available in Ernakulam, which is about 35 km away from here.
Where To Eat: Some local food joints in Piravom serve delicious Kerala food. However, other food facilities are available in Ernakulam.
Timings: It can be visited from early morning till evening, but there are no precise timings.
Best time To Visit: June to November
Location
Photo: Bibi Thandumpurath Mathai / Wikimedia Commons
Areekkal Waterfalls is situated in the beautiful Piravom district of Ernakulam, India. This place is approachable by road; therefore, Piravom will provide its visitors with a soothing hideout amid the quintessence of Kerala’s village countryside. It is a perfect place for those who love natural aesthetics and want to spend quality time reposing under the charm of Nature in the Western Ghats.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala
How To Reach Areekkal Waterfalls
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Areekkal has good access to roads. NH85 from Ernakulam to Piravom will take approximately 1 – 1.5 hours.
By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Areekkal, around 45 km away. From there, one can easily hire taxi services.
By Rail: Ernakulam Junction, at a distance of 35 km, is the nearest major railway station from Areekkal. One can hire taxis or board local buses to enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside of Kerala.
Things To Do
1. Trekking
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons
One of the major activities that come as an add-on to the Areekkal Waterfalls is the trekking facility, offering adventurers an experience amidst the scenic beauty of Piravom’s lush landscapes. The pine trails wind through lush estates of tea and spice plantations and offer great views of hills and valleys. As one goes higher up to the waterfall, the trail becomes more immersive to feel the serenity of the atmosphere and the beauty of nature.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala With Family
2. Photography
Photo: Rameshng / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation
Areekkal Waterfalls is a paradise for photographers because of its mesmerising and picturesque beauty. With all its grace and elegance amidst the rocks and pea-green hills, the dazzling falling water sets a photographer’s vision. Changing the colour of lights with the changing time of day can give many options to click various views and moods of the falls and their surroundings.
3. Nature Walks
Photo: Tatiana Syrikova / Pexels / Image Only For Representation
Nature walks around Areekkal Waterfalls offer the opportunity to connect with the tranquil beauty of Piravom’s countryside. Well-marked trails cross tea gardens, spice plantations, and small patches of forest, taking you through the Tapestry of Biodiversity in the region. You will be able to see and cross native flora and fauna while going across the gardens, hear the musical sounds of chirping birds, and relish the atmosphere of freshness with every breath of mountain air. These walks are ideal for a family, nature lover, or anyone who seeks a peaceful respite in the lap of nature.
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kerala
4. Picnicking
Photo: Colombus Metropolitan Library / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation
Picnicking is very common at Areekkal Waterfalls, where tourists can relax and chill out in a calm environment. Several picnic places have been marked apart from the waterfall, where tourists can come and enjoy their meal slowly along with their friends and family. You may lay down a picnic mat, indulge in the local food, and enjoy that ambience with the sound of running water gushing in the background. This blow of breeze and shade from the trees in all directions make this place an excellent timeout to sit and relax and gather some energy amidst the lively places of Kerala.
Places To Visit Around Areekkal Waterfalls, Piravom
1. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre
Photo: Abhijeet Sajeev / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, near Perumbavoor, the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre has become one of the most famous centres in India for training and maintenance. It is not just a place to witness elephants but also a place to study and experience the beautiful cultural heritage of Kerala, which is closely knit with the wild creatures living in the state. It is an excellent chance to have a very close acquaintance with elephants. The centre also provides information about the conservation measures undertaken to rescue these beautiful animals.
Things To Do: Elephant bathing, Elephant feeding, and Elephant rides
Suggested Read: Jungle Safari In Kerala
2. Malayattoor Church
Photo: Athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
Malayattoor Church is a Christian pilgrim spot in the village of Malayattoor Ernakulam district in Kerala. This is supposedly the place where St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, had prayed during his mission in India. Standing atop Malayattoor Hill, one can admire the beautiful countryside and the winding Periyar River below. A place like this attracts many pilgrims and tourists who want to climb the hill, visit the church, and feel the serenity of the atmosphere. This uphill journey is a physical and spiritual one through the rich Christian heritage of Kerala, offering one a serene retreat amidst its natural beauty.
Things To Do: Pilgrimage trek, Prayer and reflection, Scenic views
3. Thommankuthu Waterfalls
Photo: Kiran Gopi / Wikimedia Commons
Located by Thodupuzha under the Idukki district of Kerala, Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a set of lovely waterfalls placed amidst dense forests and rocky cliffs. This place is known widely for its seven-step waterfalls- each presenting a varied and enchanting view. Visitors would be able to reach each of the waterfalls after a trek through the lush green premises and would be able to get a feel of the peaceful environment along with the natural beauty that would be visible all around. Thommankuthu is also a noted eco-tourism destination for undertaking nature walks, birdwatching, rock climbing, and rappelling.
Things To Do: Trekking, Nature walks, Picnicking
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kerala
4. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Thekkady, Kerala, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is diverse in biodiversity and an example of great scenic beauty. This sanctuary houses highly diversified flora and fauna, like the elephants, tigers, and winged cures of several rare species. This is possible through safaris and nature walks beside boat cruises on the Periyar Lake, an arch of grandeur. The dense forests, the wildlife in the ambience, and, further, the conservation efforts in preserving such pristine ecosystems make up the experiences this sanctuary has to offer.
Things To Do: Wildlife Safari, Boat cruises on Periyar Lake, Nature walks
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ray Bilcliff / Pexels /Image Only For Representation
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average visit cost to Areeckal Waterfalls varies according to the accommodation type. The village abounds in guesthouses, and homestay options for budget travellers range from INR 1,000 to 2,000 per day. These options will certainly provide the budget necessities but also allow you to have a comfortable stay without pinching your pocket. On the other hand, the price of mid-range accommodations, including hotels and resorts, begins from INR 2,500 to 5,000 per day. The fares are also subject to changes during the peak tourist season, so booking is desirable to resume the desired stay at cost-effective prices.
Tips For Travellers To Areekkal Waterfalls
When you are planning a trip to Areekkal waterfalls, you have to take care of the following important advice so that you can enjoy and have a safe journey with no losses:
- Visit During Monsoon And Post-Monsoon Months: The monsoon season, falling between June and September, is perfect for visiting Areeckal Waterfalls because immediately afterwards, the water flow peaks. This offers a good view of the waterfall with lush green surroundings.
- Stay Hydrated During Treks: The humidity in Kerala, coupled with the experience you will experience while embarking on a trek, will probably dehydrate you. So, drink water regularly and keep your body hydrated to stay lively and fresh during your travels.
- Carry Basic First-Aid Supplies: While trekking on the trails near Areekkal Waterfalls, it will certainly be helpful to have some basic first-aid supplies with you, like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and painkillers. It may be one thing that you will find useful in case of minor injuries or discomfort.
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
Hidden in the heart of the green stretches of the Western Ghats, Areeckal Waterfalls in Piravom, Kerala, is one of the calm and scenic spots. It is a perfect base for a retreat into the laps of nature by a nature enthusiast and an adventure lover due to the cascading waters merged with tranquillity. Visit TripXL, offering end-to-end holiday packages for a completely hassle-free holiday.
Cover Photo: Manuela Adler / Pexels / Image Only For Representation
