Chethalayam Waterfalls : An Ultimate Guide To Help You Explore For Your Vacations

These waterfalls provide an alluring aura, with serene natural landscapes and tranquillity.

Nestled amidst lush greenery and dense forests, Chethalayam Waterfalls in Kidanganad is a serene and tranquil escape. Cascading from a height of approximately 100 feet, this lesser-known waterfall is seasonal and relatively smaller compared to most others in Wayanad. The water is crystal clear and tends to dry up during summer. It is a lovely place to visit, especially for hiking enthusiasts.

Quick Details About Chethalayam Waterfalls, Kidanganad

Height of the Falls: 100 ft (in three tiers)
Where to stay: Sulthan Bathery, 13 km from the falls
Where to eat: Eateries at Sultan Bathery
Best time to visit Chethalayam Waterfalls: September to February
Chethalayam Waterfalls Timings: 6 am to 5 pm

Chethalayam waterfalls Location

With a tribal village , this waterfall has astonishing views and a spectacular location for tourists.

Photo: Rasel / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

This small but mesmerising waterfall is located in Kidanganad, on the road to Pulpally from Sulthan Bathery. Away from the bustling towns and cities, it is a very peaceful spot to relax amidst nature. The entry point is around four kilometres away from the waterfall. You can park your vehicle there and then hike through the small road for about two kilometres. On the way comes a small tribal village and then the deep forest starts, after which you’ll have to walk for 30 minutes more before you reach the Chethalayam Waterfalls.

Suggested Read: Explore Palaruvi Waterfalls

How To Reach Chethalayam Waterfalls

Even the travel by train leading to this waterfall renders amazing scenic views.

Photo: Kondephy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

You can reach the Chethalayam Waterfalls by road, railway, and air.

By Road: If you’re driving, follow the scenic route from Sulthan Bathery to Pulpally. There is a parking area at the entry point of the hike. The nearest bus stand is 4 km away in Kidanganad, and you can hike up or hire a taxi to reach the entry point.

By Rail: The nearest major railway station to the Chethalayam Waterfalls is in Kozhikode which is 106 km away. From there, you can get many direct buses to Sulthan Bathery.

By Air: The closest airport to the Chethalayam Waterfalls is the Calicut International Airport, located approximately 111 kilometres away. You can hire a taxi or pre-booked cab from the airport to reach Kidanganad, which is the starting point for the hike to the waterfalls.

Things To Do

You can enjoy the picturesque beauty around the Chethalayam Waterfalls by taking the long hike to the waterfall, which provides great opportunities for bird watching and photography.

1. Trekking

These falls can render scenic trekking experiences for adventure enthusiasts.

Photo: Eric Sanman / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

For adventurous explorers, the long hike to the waterfall will be the best part of exploring the area. Accessible by walking for about four kilometres in the lush wilderness, Chethalayam Waterfalls is an ideal spot for nature lovers. The woods are thick with plenty of birds and butterflies, and you may also spot some wildlife such as sloth bear, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, and elephants.

Suggested Read: Agasthyamalai Trekking

2. Photography

The picturesque landscapes around the waterfalls are perfect for photographers and capturing memories.

Photo: Sanket Mishra / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The falls are a paradise for nature photographers seeking to capture breathtaking Chethalayam Waterfalls photos. Hidden amidst lush greenery, this serene cascade offers stunning backdrops, making it a perfect destination for those looking to frame nature’s untouched beauty.

3. Picnicking

Picnics can be an amazing way to relax while enjoying the charming surroundings during the visit of these waterfalls.

Photo: Deepak Sudarsan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Pack a picnic basket and enjoy the gentle breeze while immersing yourself in nature’s charm near the falls. Wander through the serene forest, breathe the refreshing air, and let the tranquility uplift your mood. While planning your visit, check the Chethalayam Waterfalls ticket price for a smooth, hassle-free experience, ensuring you enjoy every moment.

Suggested Read: Kerala Picnic Places

4. Bird Watching

Bird watching can be an amazing experience amidst these falls with serene landscapes.

Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Chethalayam’s peaceful ambience provides an ideal setting for bird watching and has many vIntage points for spotting the birds. So, keep your eyes peeled for colourful avian visitors!

5. Camping

Camping under a starlit sky in Tamhini Ghat, with glowing tents pitched on a grassy clearing.

Photo: Nikhil More / Wikimedia Commons

Camping near Chethalayam Waterfalls offers an unforgettable escape into nature’s serenity. Surrounded by dense forests and the soothing sounds of cascading waters, campers can unwind under starlit skies, enjoy bonfire nights, and wake up to misty mornings. This peaceful retreat is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering a rejuvenating break from busy city life.

Suggested Read: Camping In Munnar

Places To Visit Around Chethalayam Waterfalls

Here is the list of places that you can discover around the Chethalayam waterfall on your next adventure trip.

1. Ancient Jain Temple

With religious significance for Jains, this temple is a marvellous and ancient structure.

Photo: Joseph Lazer / Wikimedia Commons

Soak in the ancient vibes and appreciate the unique architecture of the Ancient Jain Temple in Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad. The temple is a fascinating historical site whose structure is made entirely of granite and features intricately carved square pillars. It is believed to have been built around the 13th century, and the architecture of the temple has a strong resemblance to that of the structures built by the then-reigning Vijayanagar Dynasty. The temple is now owned by the Archaeological Survey of India and is open for Jains only during Mahavir Jayanti

Things to do: Photography, explore the architecture, history, and belief system

2. Edakkal Caves

These caves have various etchings, carvings, and prehistoric line drawings on their walls.

Photo: Aswini6 / Wikimedia Commons

Edakkal Caves are two natural caves located at Ambukuthi Mala (Ambukuthi Mountain) at Edakkal. They lie in the Western Ghats Mountain in a vintage trade path connecting Mysore to Malabar ports. The caves remain a wonder and a mystery for archaeologists and historians alike. It is the only known place for stone-age carvings in South India, with some depictions estimated to be as old as 7000 years. Ancient inscriptions including a Tamil Brahmi script have also been found here.

Things to do: Trekking, photography, exploring ancient art and history

Suggested Read: All You Need To Know About Muniyara Caves

3. Neelimala Viewpoint

This viewpoint is a spectacular spot from where the Western Ghats and Chethalayam Waterfalls are completely visible.

Photo: Kkraj08 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A jeep takes you through the forests to the trek starting point, from where a guide accompanies you up the hill. It is a short but moderately difficult trek, and the view from the top is unbeatable. 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 viewpoint, the whole setting changes, and the mighty Western Ghats appear.

Things to do: Trekking, jeep rides, photography, bird-watching

4. Soochippara Falls

The falls are one of the most photogenic spots in Wayanad, especially during the rainy season.

Photo: Yjenith / Wikimedia Commons

Soochipara Waterfalls (also known as Sentinel Rock Falls) is a three-tiered waterfall located in the Vellarimala hills. It is a captivating sight to watch as the water cascades down the rocks from a total height of 200 metres. The falls are one of the most photogenic spots in Wayanad, especially during the rainy season. The steep hills surrounding it provide the perfect terrain for trekking and rock climbing. A natural pool is formed at the base of the falls, which is a perfect spot to take a dip and enjoy amidst the lush green, deciduous forests.

Things to do: Trekking, swimming, rock climbing, photography, picnicking

Suggested Read: Kanthanpara Waterfalls

5. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is a popular tourist site , with rich fauna species, near Chethalayam Waterfalls.

Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons

Declared a sanctuary in 1973, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a part of Project Elephant. The tourists are restricted to the outer zone of the sanctuary; only the ones given permission beforehand can enter the inner area. Only researchers and wardens are allowed to go to the inner zone. In addition to the herds of elephants and deer, the diverse and bustling animal life of the region includes tigers, panthers, langurs, bonnet macaques, gaur, sambar, and sloth 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, nature photography

6. Banasura Sagar Dam

Expansive reservoir of Banasura Sagar Dam framed by lush hills and islands.

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

A visit to Chethalayam Waterfalls is incomplete without exploring the nearby Banasura Sagar Dam, India’s largest earthen dam. Surrounded by majestic hills and scenic backwaters, it offers breathtaking views and exciting activities like boating and trekking. The dam’s tranquil surroundings make it a perfect spot for photography, picnics, and relaxation, complementing the natural charm of Chethalayam Waterfalls. Together, these attractions create a refreshing getaway for travelers seeking both adventure and peace amidst Wayanad’s pristine landscapes.

Things To Do: Trekking, picnics, adventure sports, and capturing stunning landscapes

Suggested Read: Kottiyoor Wildlife Sanctuary

Other Factors To Consider

One of the best destinations to visit, this trip can be memorable with proper budgeting and planning.

Photo: Habib / Pexls

Average Cost of the Trip

Chethalayam is budget-friendly, making it affordable to all. There is no entry fee to the waterfalls, but there might be some charges while visiting other places.

Tips for Travellers

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
  • Be mindful that the waterfall is seasonal and is in its complete glory during monsoon.
  • Carry water and snacks.
  • Respect the natural environment, and do not litter.

Chethalayam Waterfalls are one of the hidden gems of Wayanad, which adds to the charm of the place. With no crowd or traffic, you can unwind and connect with nature in peace. The crystal clear waters of Chethalayam Waterfalls invite you to create some beautiful and unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey with TripXL. We assure you this will be a trip to remember!

Cover Photo: Yogendra Singh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

There are no shops in the vicinity so it will be hard to get water or snacks if you run out of them. So do make sure to bring some food items so that you can have something on the way back after a tiring day of hiking.
If you want to see the Chethalayam Waterfalls at its best, you can plan a visit during the rainy season from June to September. This period witnesses a fuller waterfall.
Yes, there is the Pepper Grove Hotel which is run by KTDC and is located 16 km away. Other convenient options for accommodation are the Mount Xanadu Resort (approximately 25 km away) and the Saptha Resort & Spa (a mere 12 km away).
Being a seasonal waterfall, the Chethalayam Waterfalls change drastically throughout the year. During the rainy months from June to August, the waterfall appears mostly red and muddy. However, after the monsoon season gets over, the water is a totally different shade that resembles a lathery white. After remaining perfect and clear for a small interval during winters, it gradually starts reducing down to a trickle before drying up completely in the summer months.
Only once you finish the hike, you’ll see the waterfall all of a sudden. The cascade is hidden inside the thick cover of bushes and appears only at a close range of a few metres.
Swimming isn’t advised due to slippery rocks and strong currents, but shallow areas nearby allow visitors to enjoy the cool, refreshing waters safely.
No special permits are required for regular photography, but commercial shoots may need prior approval from the local forest or tourism authorities.
Yes, local guides organize treks around Banasura Hill, offering scenic routes, safety support, and cultural insights about Wayanad’s landscapes and traditions.

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