Tucked right inside the lush green Western Ghats of Kerala is Attukad Waterfalls, a scene of natural beauty that attracts travellers with its serene environment and stunning cascades. This waterfall, placed at Pallivasal, near Munnar in Idukki District, is beautifully seen when the water tumbles from great heights, presenting a view of nature’s power and beauty in naked form. This is a beautiful place to the extent that visual beauty, being a real getaway into the lap of nature, becomes a vital visit for anyone who wants to explore God’s Own Country.
Quick Details About Attukad Waterfalls
Height Of The Falls: Approximately 30 metres (98 feet)
Nearest Railway Station: Aluva, about 120 km from the falls
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons
In the Idukki district of Kerala, Attukad Waterfalls is surrounded by dense forests and tea plantations. Another set of scintillating landscapes of Munnar, a popular hill station famous for its tea gardens, undulating hills, and cool climate, are the falls. With their pure surroundings and the symphony of falling water, Attukad Waterfalls are indeed a nature lover’s and photographer’s paradise.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Munnar
How To Reach Attukad Waterfalls
Here is the list of ways to reach scenic Attukad Waterfalls. However nearby routes and trekking options are also available.
Photo: Hari K Patibanda / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: It is located at a distance of about 9 km away from Munnar town. You can hire a taxi or take a local Munnar bus to the falls.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Attukad Waterfalls is Aluva, which is 120 km away. You can hire a taxi from Aluva or use the bus service to reach Munnar.
By Air: The nearest airport to Attukad Waterfalls is Cochin International Airport, about 110 km from Munnar. You can hire a taxi from the airport or board a bus to Munnar.
Things To Do At Attukad Waterfalls
Attukad Waterfalls is a haven for thousands of activities that interest nature lovers, thrill seekers, and those who want to escape it all. Here are some of the best things to do at Attukad Waterfalls:
1. Trekking
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The surroundings of Attukad Waterfalls have been indeed a paradise for trekkers. These trails take one through dense forests, tea plantations, and rolling hills. They are challenging but rewarding. The treks will also be graded according to their intensity to suit both novice and more experienced trekkers. While hiking, so much diversity in flora and fauna makes the journey just as exciting as the destination.
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala
2. Photography
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
To take Attukad Waterfalls photos is indeed a photographer’s dream. With the beautiful waterfall being shot in lush green surroundings and dramatic landscapes falling on the backdrop, there are plenty of excellent frames that this place can give to any photographer. To a pro or an amateur, the beauty of this place will act as an inspiration. What adds to the never-ending creative possibilities is dramatic light and shadows, mist rising from the falls, and radiant colours of flora.
3. Picnicking
Photo: John Mbenguè / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Picnicking at Attukad Waterfalls is most apt because of the serenity here. The fresh environment, accompanied by the splashing sound of water and picturesque surroundings, has all the ingredients for spending the day with family and friends. Get a picnic hamper filled with your favourite snacks and enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala
4. Bird Watching
Photo: Rhododendrites / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The area around Attukad Waterfalls is also a place for bird watching. As the forests are thick and there is much biodiversity, many birds are attracted to this area. Making it an excellent spot for watching birds, identifying unique species, hearing their sweet calls, and watching them play around naturally.
Places To Visit Around Attukad Waterfalls
1. Munnar Tea Gardens
Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons
The Munnar tea gardens are a big hit and sprawl in views of neatly manicured tea plantations. One can have a guided tour through the functioning tea factory to learn how to make tea, and visitors can taste various tea varieties. The lush green landscape with freshness exuding from the tea leaves is a lovely experience. A guided tour of the tea plantations’ tea plants reveals to the guests the process of the leaves, from plucking to its final processing.
Things To Do: Take incredible snaps of the landscape
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Munnar
2. Mattupetty Dam
Photo: DdraconiandevilL7 / Wikimedia Commons
Mattupetty Dam, 13 km from Munnar, is famous for its boating facilities and excellent scenic spots. A panoramic view of the reservoir and the nearby hills is the other unique feature of this place. This dam is an ideal picnic spot to sit by the water and relax. The serene ambience and the picturesque views make it a favourite destination for many visitors. Mattupetty Dam is perfect for nature lovers and tranquillity seekers.
Things To Do: Reservoir Boating, Picnic by the reservoir, Scenic beauty of the surrounding hills, Wildlife spotting
3. Eravikulam National Park
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
It is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offers the most picturesque views of residences; one can view wildlife in its natural habitat at Eravikulam National Park. Famous for the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years, bathing these hills in a blue hue, it is a heaven for nature buffs and wildlife photographers alike. Enough in this pristine sanctuary, with green landscapes and a cool climate, charms nature lovers and wildlife photographers.
Things To Do: Observe the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Trek on scenic trails
Suggested Read: Theme Parks In Munnar
4. Echo Point
Photo: BinoBose / Wikimedia Commons
As the name suggests, Echo Point is an artificially developed spot with a natural echo phenomenon. It is one of the best picnic and leisure time walking places. The location is well known for its splendid view of hills and lakes, making it an optimum spot for relaxation or simply soaking in the beauty around. There is also a tranquil lake that further enhances the area’s natural beauty, thus attracting families and nature lovers alike.
Things To Do: Capture the beautiful views with your camera
5. Top Station
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at an altitude of 1,880 metres, this is the highest point of Munnar and overlooks panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. On offer are some of the finest views of sunrise and sunset. The place combines natural beauty with historical significance because it was once a trans-shipment point for tea. It’s a perfect spot for those who love scenic vistas and peaceful environments.
Things To Do: Enjoy the Panoramic views of the Western Ghats, Come at sunrise or sunset for views
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Munnar With Family
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Thomas Bresson / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Attukad Waterfalls is quite an inexpensive affair. There is no question of any entry fee to be paid for visiting the waterfalls. However, a parking charge may be levied. A range of choices is available at Munnar, from budget homestays to luxury-class resorts to suit all kinds of visitors.
Tips To Travellers
- Safety: Be careful of the slippery rocks and currents in the water. Wear good, firm shoes to ensure a safe experience.
- Nature Friendly: Do not litter the place; carry all your waste. Avoid plastics as much as possible.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, especially if you plan to trek.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy footwear for trekking and walking on uneven grounds.
- Local Guides: Local guides are available for every trekking route and other activities.
- Weather Conditions: Check for the weather forecast before visiting because continuous rain makes the roads very slippery and insecure.
- Rise Early: The visit should be done early when the temperature is cool, avoiding the midday heat, and the falls can be seen in peace.
- Travel Insurance: Consider travel insurance to protect against unexpected events or emergencies.
- Local Customs: Show respect for local customs and traditions. Interact with the locals to know more about them.
Attukad Waterfalls provides various activities that engage every kind of traveller. The place has much to offer, be it adventure, relaxation, or a glance at nature. Every moment that one gets to spend here, from trekking and photography to picnicking and bird watching, is engulfed in the beauty and serenity of nature. So plan a visit to Attukad Waterfalls and get enchanted with TripXL, a one-stop platform serving the holiday package just the right way.
Cover Photo: Amal94nath / Wikimedia Commons