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Kottayam is a district in the state of Kerala, known for its beautiful backwaters, rolling hills, and picturesque waterfalls. However, the numerous Kottayam Waterfalls are its most fascinating feature. Kottayam, also referred to as the “land of letters,” is the birthplace of Kerala’s publishing sector. Nestled amidst the Western Ghats and the backwaters, the region is rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Kottayam’s waterfalls are a visual treat and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Let’s look at some of the most famous waterfalls in Kottayam.
9 Best Kottayam Waterfalls
Whether looking to venture into the unknown or just have a peaceful vacation in the lap of nature, here is a curated list of Kottayam waterfalls that will make your trip worth cherishing.
1. Marmala Waterfalls
Photo: athulvis / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Teekoy village along the path to Vagamon Hill Station, Marmala Waterfalls is one of the biggest waterfalls in Kottayam. It is located inside a private rubber estate amidst a gorgeous hilly landscape. The waterfall plunges from a height of 60 metres into a 12-metre-deep pool and then joins the river Teekoy. Reaching the falls requires a bit of trekking along a steep, slippery and rocky path, but the pristine beauty and crystal-clear waters of the falls make it worthwhile.
Location: Marmala Road, Vellani, Erattupetta, Kottayam
How To Reach: Take a taxi or bus from Kottayam to Teekoy village. A short trek from there will take you to the waterfall
Suggested Read: Munnar Adventure Parks
2. Peruvanchana Kayam Waterfalls
Photo: Kkraj08 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located near Illikkal Kallu, this stunning, unexplored spot is a haven for trekkers and adventure seekers. Visitors can park their vehicles close to the waterfall and take a walk down to enjoy its beauty. The steps leading to the falls might be a little steep, but the experience is worth it. The waterfall cascades over the rocks, creating a picturesque scene. It’s perfect for taking a refreshing bath, and the area is considered safe. The sparkling white waters amidst lush green surroundings—it’s nature’s gift at its best.
Things To Do: Trekking, bird-watching, photography
Location: 53 km from Kottayam, Illikkal Kallu
How To Reach: From Kottayam town, head towards Illikkal Kallu till you reach the Peruvanchana parking point. A short walk from there will take you to the waterfalls
3. Kattikkayam Waterfalls
Photo: Sutanu Ghosh YT / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located about 3 km from the renowned Illikkal Kallu, the Kattikkayam Waterfalls is a tourist hotspot in Kerala. Cascading down the rocks in three tiers from a height of 50 feet, it is a pleasant sight for spectators. The gushing waterfall has created several small pools at the bottom, which are safe to swim in. The surrounding area is filled with majestic forests and natural trekking trails for the adventurous souls.
Location: Melukavu, 17 km from Erattupetta, 55 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: When coming from Kottayam along the Moonnilavu-Mankombu Rd, take a right turn to get onto the Pazhukkakanam Rd
Suggested Read: Beaches Near Ernakulam
4. Aruvikuzhy Waterfalls
Photo: Diego Madrigal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located near Kumarakom, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a popular spot for picnics and treks and is on the list of waterfalls in Kottayam. The water here cascades down a height of about 100 feet from a check dam in a strong but smooth, milky stream over huge rocks. In addition to this mesmerising sight, the quaint charm of the surrounding rubber plantations makes it an idyllic spot for family outings or a romantic rendezvous. One feels completely enveloped by nature here, with not a single ray of the sun falling on you directly and nothing other than the happy roar of water falling on your ears.
Things To Do: Trekking, photography, swimming, nature walks
Location: Pampady,19 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: Accessible by the Oravackal-Koorali Road. The waterfall lies right next to the road itself, a little before the Aruvikkuzhi Bridge
5. Kadavupuzha Aruvi Waterfalls
Photo: Nandhu Kumar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Kadavupuzha Waterfalls is a gorgeous weekend getaway in Kottayam. Several small pools are at the bottom of this waterfall where visitors can enjoy bathing safely. Some of the pools are safe for kids, too. A bridge connecting the two banks of the waterfall stream is a favourite haunt for visitors to click photographs and enjoy the view of the gushing water flow. The waterfall looks especially splendid during the monsoon season.
Things To Do: Watersports
Location: 3.5 km from Moonnilavu, 50 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: You can take a cab or taxi from Moonnilavu, or drive along the Ambara-Mankombu road to reach the waterfall
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6. Pampanal Waterfalls
Photo: Alv910 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled in the arms of pristine greenery, Pampanal Waterfalls greets you with a pleasing sight of water cascading majestically through the huge rocks, and falling in a series of steps, big and small. Situated amidst picturesque pineapple and rubber plantations, this virgin spot beckons you with its dazzling beauty. The numerous whirlpools created among the boulders are a fascinating sight to watch as the visitors dip in the ice-cold pools of water. The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoon season, when one can see its grandeur.
Things To Do: Rock climbing, Mountaineering
Location: 43 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: Drive along the Pala-Thodupuzha road till the Manathoor Jn, and take the Mannathoor-Karimkunnam Bypass road from there. Once you reach the parking point, a small hike along the Lalam Thodu River will take you to the waterfall
7. Anjumala Waterfalls
Photo: DEEPAK SUDARSAN / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Although the Anjumala Waterfalls is not widely known, it is a great spot to enjoy a refreshing day while revelling in nature’s beauty. The misty aura and soothing sounds of the water cascading down a height of roughly 100 feet are like music to the soul. The lush green forests and rubber plantations in the vicinity further enhance the charm of this place. The pools formed at the waterfall’s base are quite safe and suited to enjoy swimming, even for kids. All this makes it an ideal spot for picnics and clicking great photographs.
Location: 50 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: Take the Ambara-Mankombu road from the Kalathukadavu Bridge Jn, which leads straight to a parking spot near the falls. A small hike from there will get you to your destination
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8. Melaruvi Waterfalls
Photo: Priya Sivakumar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This hidden gem is located near the Kanjirapally and Chirakkadavu border and has a lot to offer to nature and adventure lovers. The waterfall cascading down the rocks as the serene stream transforms into a powerful waterfall creates a picturesque scene. Visitors can take a refreshing bath at this waterfall site, but it is important to take proper precautions as the water’s force is quite heavy here. The dense forests’ untamed beauty and diverse flora and fauna make it a great spot for picnics and photography.
Location: 36 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: Drive along the Kollam-Theni Highway, and then 500 metres drive on the Melaruvi Rd from Kanjirappally
9. Aruvikkachal Waterfalls
Photo: Diana Dorčáková / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located near Pathampuzha, this waterfall is a prime tourist destination and an absolute delight for travellers in Kottayam. It is one of the highest waterfalls in Kottayam, having a single drop of roughly 235 feet or 70 metres. However, like most of the waterfalls in Kerala, Aruvikkachal Waterfalls also come alive during the monsoon season. The waterfall is popular as a picnic spot owing to its marvellous scenic beauty. Visitors can take a leisurely bath or swim to their heart’s content in the crystal-clear cool waters since it has the reputation of being one of the safest waterfalls in Kottayam.
Location: 4 km from Malayinchippara, 53 km from Kottayam
How To Reach: It can be accessed conveniently through private buses that ply to Erattupetta. You can also drive along the Poonjar-Koottickal-Parathanam road to reach the waterfalls
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Kerala tourism is incomplete without exploring the waterfalls. Situated amidst the lush greenery of Kerala, Kottayam Waterfalls provide a perfect natural retreat characterised by their gorgeous cascades, abundant biodiversity, and serene environment. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or seeking some tranquillity, the Kottayam waterfalls have something for everyone. So pack your bags and plan your next venture with TripXL to enjoy these waterfalls’ tranquillity and beauty.
Cover Photo: Mckurup / Wikimedia Commons
