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Let us dive into the enchanting world of Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls, one of Wayanad’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem is present in the lush green landscapes of Padinjarathara, a small town in the Wayanad district of Kerala. Flowing down in three tiers from a total height of 984 feet, the Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfall is the second-highest waterfall in Kerala and the largest waterfall in Wayanad in terms of volume and height.
Quick details About Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls
Height Of The Falls: 1000 feet or 300 metres (in three tiers)
Where To Stay: Kalpetta or Sulthan Bathery
Best Time To Visit Banasura Waterfalls: October to February
Banasura Waterfalls Timings: 10 am to 5 pm
Location
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only
The Banasura Meenmutty Waterfalls are located just 4 kilometres away from the Banasura Sagar Dam amidst the Banasura hills, which are part of the Western Ghats. Within 500 metres from the main entrance, you can reach the first tier of the falls after only a half-hour walk. A more challenging trek to the third tier rewards you with a breathtaking view of the Banasura Dam and surrounding valleys.
Suggested Read: Jungle Safari Wayanad
How To Reach
Photo: Shubhammaurya94 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tourists can reach Banasura Waterfalls by road, railway as well as by air:
By Road: You can hire a cab and follow the scenic route from Kalpetta (25 kilometres) or Sulthan Bathery (48 kilometres). There are several parking areas on the way to the falls. Buses ply from Kalpetta to the main entrance of the waterfall at regular intervals. The nearest bus stand is 6 km away in Padinjarathara town.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the Banasura Waterfalls is the Vadakara railway station, which is 67 km away. However, many long-distance trains may not halt here. So the next closest major railway station is the Kozhikode railway station, 89 km away.
By Air: The closest airport to the Banasura Waterfalls is the Calicut International Airport, located approximately 94 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or pre-booked cab from the airport to reach Padinjarathara, which is the starting point for the hike to the waterfalls.
Things To Do
You can enjoy the serene beauty around the Banasuramala Falls by taking on the challenging trek to all three tiers of the waterfall or a relaxing swim in the waters at the base. Have a look at things you can indulge in on your trip:
1. Trekking
Photo: Kir360 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For the adventurous souls, a trekking trail starts from Padinjarathara to the three tiers of the waterfall. The first two tiers are relatively easy to reach, but the third one is the toughest because of slippery rocks and steep ascent, and requires the help of ropes and guides.
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2. Swimming
Photo: MarvinBikolano / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The first tier of the Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls is smaller and has a low-depth pool, which makes it ideal for swimming and bathing in clean water. The misty spray from the falls refreshes your senses.
3. Photography
Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Banasura Falls are a favourite spot for photographers who wish to capture the ethereal beauty of the towering falls against the majestic backdrop of the Banasura hills. If you are lucky, you might be able to click some rare birds and animals.
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4. Picnicking
Photo: Daniel Enchev / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely meal amidst the serenity of nature at the Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls. Explore the surrounding forest, listen to bird calls, and breathe in the pure air that will rejuvenate your spirits.
Places To Visit Around Banasura Waterfalls
1. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
It is India’s largest earthen dam and Asia’s second largest dam. This engineering marvel is located on the foothills of the Banasura hills. The dam has a height of 38.5 metres with a length of 685 metres and is famous for its unique design and structure. Its reservoir has a set of islands that were formed when the dam submerged the surrounding areas. The vast expanse of the dam, dotted with small green islands covered in thick vegetation, is a photographer’s delight.
Things To Do: Boating, trekking, camping, photography, and zip-lining
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2. Neelimala Viewpoint
Photo: Kjrajesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A jeep takes you through the forests to the trek starting point, where a guide accompanies you up the hill. It is a short but moderately difficult trek. As you hike through the lush green forests and plantations, the chirping of small birds and the refreshing aroma from the coffee and tea plantations give you company the entire way. As soon as you reach the Neelimala viewpoint, the whole setting changes, and the mighty Western Ghats appear. You can also see the milky white water of Meenmutty Falls gushing through them.
Things To Do: Trekking, jeep rides, photography, bird-watching
3. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Arav / Wikimedia Commons
The Edakkal caves remain a wonder and a mystery for archaeologists and historians. It is the only known place for stone-age carvings in South India. Situated about 16 km from Sulthan Bathery, you must trek up the Ambukuthi Hill to reach the caves. Various etchings, carvings, and prehistoric line drawings can be seen on the cave walls, with some depictions estimated to be as old as 7000 years. Ancient inscriptions, including a Tamil Brahmi script, have also been identified.
Things To Do: Trekking, photography, exploring ancient art and history
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4. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
The 344.44 sq km area was declared a sanctuary in 1973 and is a part of Project Elephant. Prior permission is needed to visit the place, and only the outer zone of the sanctuary is accessible to tourists. In addition to the herds of elephants and deer, the region’s diverse and bustling animal life includes tigers, panthers, langurs, bonnet macaques, bison, sambar, and bears. A wide variety of reptiles, including snakes, chameleons, flying lizards and turtles, are also found here, along with some 216 species of birds and 30 species of amphibians.
Things To Do: Trekking, wildlife encounters, bird watching and nature photography
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Nandhu Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
Entry fees to the waterfalls are minimal, making it an affordable outing. Charges of adults, children, and foreigners are ₹30, ₹15, and ₹60 respectively.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area.
- Do not dump waste and plastic bottles near the waterfall.
- Don’t confuse the Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls with the Meenmutty Falls near Meppadi, which was closed a few years ago.
- The trek to the third tier is challenging.
- Sometimes, the waterfall remains closed to visitors, so it’s better to coordinate with the authorities regarding the time before visiting.
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Formed by streams flowing down the towering Banasura hills, Banasura falls are a must-visit place for everyone visiting the Banasura Sagar Dam. This place is an ideal spot to have an adrenaline rush by enjoying trekking and rock climbing. So pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey with TripXL. We will help you plan your next trip to the Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls, and we promise you will make amazing memories!
Cover Photo: Jan Joseph George / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
