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Situated in Wayanad, a district in Kerala, Soochipara Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful places in this region. The three-tiered waterfall flows down a steep rock and rushes into a large pool surrounded by vibrant green and dense woods. The name Soochipara exhibited on this wonder is derived from the words ‘Soochi’ meaning needle, and ‘Para’ meaning rock, aptly describing the needle-shaped rock formations that most nearly characterise the falls. It is simply a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and all kinds of people who enjoy the tranquillity of the landscape of Kerala.
Quick Details about Soochipara Waterfalls
Elevation: Approximately 200 metres
Where to Eat: Small eateries and restaurants nearby offering local Kerala cuisine.
Where to Stay: Various accommodations available in Wayanad, including budget lodges, mid-range hotels, and luxurious resorts
Timing: Open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day
Best Time to Visit: June to September (monsoon season) and October to February (post-monsoon period)
Location
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Soochipara Waterfalls, more widely known as Soojipara Waterfalls, are situated in the Wayanad District in the Indian state of Kerala. Nestled in the dense forest amidst lush green surroundings, it lies approximately 23 kilometres from Kalpetta, the headquarters of Wayanad District. It is one of the most frequently visited places by nature lovers, adventurers, and people who seek seclusion amidst tranquil natural surroundings.
Suggested Read: Chinnakanal Waterfalls
How to Reach Soochipara Waterfalls
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Soochipara Waterfalls is relatively easy, and you have many options for transportation to the falls.
By Road: Soochipara Waterfalls is well-linked with most roads. You can drive from large cities like Kozhikode (Calicut), which is about 90 kilometres away. Taxis and private vehicles are available for hire.
By Bus: There are regular bus services from Kalpetta, nearby towns, and Soochipara. The nearest bus stand is at Meppadi, about 10 km away, from where one could hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the falls.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kozhikode, about 97 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or board a bus to Soochipara.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport, around 115 km away. You can hire a taxi or board public transport from the airport to Soochipara.
Things to Do at Soochipara Waterfalls
You can enjoy various activities in Soochipara waterfalls, some of which are described below:
1. Trekking and Hiking
Photo: Matteo Leoni / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Reference
Getting to Soochipara Waterfalls is also fun; you need to trek a little through thick forests and rocky mountains. The trek is easy and recommended for everyone, making it perfect for families, individual travellers, and friend groups. Due to the abundant trees and luxurious growth around the caves, you can also hear birdsongs, adding to the charm of the trek.
Suggested Read: Kannan Devan Tea museum Munnar
2. Swimming and Bathing
Photo: M. Arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
The waterfall forms a pool at the bottom, ideal for a refreshing swim. Swimming in this pool is one of the most preferred activities that most people engage in. When it comes to swimming, one cannot compare it to swimming in a place as beautiful as this, surrounded by a natural environment. The views are great during the monsoon season, but it must be kept in mind that the water flow is pretty fast during this time.
3. Photography
Photo: Alexey V. Kurochkin / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation
Soochipara Waterfalls is a paradise for those interested in photography. The scenic beauty of this waterfall is impressive, with water tumbling down the rocky hills surrounded by greenery, and it offers plenty of views and scenes that can be captured to make great photographs. Professional and amateur photographers would be fine searching out great spots to capture those perfect clicks.
Suggested Read: Muniyara Caves
4. Plan a Picnic
Photo: Boston Public Library / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation
Picnicking near Soochipara Waterfalls is enjoyable in the neighbouring areas where nature is preserved, providing spacious spots for comfortable seating and dining. Organising a picnic for family or loved ones here is highly pleasant, thanks to its serene environment, making it perfect for a daytime snack or lunch.
Places to Visit Around Soochipara Waterfalls
1. Chembra Park
Photo: M.arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
At an elevation of 2,100 metres above sea level, it is the highest peak in Wayanad. To a great extent, this peak is the most famous destination for trekking. From this peak, one can view surrounding hills and valleys. The Chembra Peak trek would be a refreshing experience involving lush tea plantations, dense forests, and scenic landscapes. One of the main attractions en route is a heart-shaped lake, which never dries up and forms the trekkers’ favourite resting place.
Things to Do: Trek to the top of Chembra Peak, Pay a visit to the heart-shaped lake, Enjoy the panoramic views from the top, and Capture the beauty of landscapes in pictures.
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Munnar
2. Edakkal Caves
Photo: Asif K Karim / Wikimedia Commons
Edakkal Caves are two natural caves located on Ambukuthi Mala, near Sultan Bathery in Wayanad. These caves are renowned for their ancient petroglyphs, some of which are believed to date back to the Neolithic period. They offer a glimpse into the civilisation that thrived in this region during ancient times. A trek to reach the caves adds an adventurous element to exploring their historical significance.
Things to Do: Explore the ancient petroglyphs inside the caves, trek to the caves, enjoy the scenic views, and learn about the history and archaeology of the region.
3. Banasura Sagar Dam
Photo: Prasanna prajan / Wikimedia Commons
The Banasura Sagar Dam happens to be the largest earthen dam in India and the second-biggest in all of Asia. It lies across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River, in the Banasura Hills of Wayanad. Its reservoir has many small islands dotted all over it, and the surroundings witness the hills in full glory. It is one of the famous locations for picnics, boating, and nature walks.
Things to Do: Boating in the reservoir, nature walk around the dam, Picnic by the lakeside, Scenic photography of the dam and surroundings
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4. Pookode Lake
Photo: Irshadpp / Wikimedia Commons
One of the finest locations in the region, Pookode Lake is a natural freshwater lake situated amidst lush greenery in Wayanad. It has serene waters reflecting the surrounding hills and trees. The lake is home to different species of fish and birds, hence an ideal location for nature lovers. There are boating facilities available, and you can also take a leisurely walk around the lake. This lake has fresh water and is the largest in the state.
Things to Do: Avail of boating in the Pookode Lake. Take a leisurely walk around the lake and Explore the nearby freshwater aquarium.
Other Factors to Consider When Visiting Soochipara Waterfalls
Photo: Brokensphere / Wikimedia Commons / Image Only For Representation
Average Cost of the Trip
The cost of visiting Soochipara Waterfalls depends on various elements, like accommodation, transport, food, and activities. A pocket estimate for a budget trip is between INR 1,000 and INR 2,000 per day per person. Mid-range trips can cost anywhere between INR 2,500 and INR 5,000 per day per person, while luxury trips could cost more than INR 5,000 per day per person. These costs include accommodations, based on the category one chooses to stay in, food, transportation, and entry fees into attractions.
Tips for Travellers
- Wear Comfortable Clothes: Light, breathing, Quick dry apparel, in case one treks or swims. Comfy walking shoes are a must.
- Take Essentials with You: Always wear sunblock, mosquito repellent, a hat, and sunglasses. Remember to carry a water bottle along to keep yourself hydrated.
- Safety First: Swim and trek carefully since the flow can get pretty fast during monsoons. Observe all safety instructions and follow local authorities’ views.
- Respect Nature: Do not litter and help maintain a pristine environment. Follow the principle of ‘Leave No Trace.’
- Check Weather Conditions: Check the forecast before you plan to go. Avoid heavy rains, as the conditions for trekking may be terrible, and the water flow might be dangerous.
- Local Cuisine: Experience the local food and sample the traditional food of Kerala, but ensure that the food and water are clean.
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Situated right in the heart of Wayanad, Soochipara Waterfalls is a great opportunity to get close to nature and experience the serenity and beauty of Kerala’s landscape. Trekking through the lush green forests, a refreshing bath in its pool, or simply sitting relaxed in its serene environment—Soochipara assures you of a memorable and rejuvenating experience. Book your trip to Soochipara Waterfalls through TripXL today.
Cover Photo: Cover Photo: M. Arunprasad / Wikimedia Commons
