Kerala is known for its natural wonders, including the hidden gem of Vilangad Waterfalls in the Kozhikode district. Known as Thirikakkayam Waterfalls or Karakulam Waterfalls, the waterfall, which falls from a height of 32 feet, is a mesmerising spectacle. It plunges into a crystal-clear pool, inviting visitors to take a refreshing dip. The waterfall’s serene murmur blends with the chirping of birds, creating a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Kerala.
Quick Details About Vilangad Waterfalls
Elevation: 32 Feet
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Where To Stay: Jungle Edge Resort, Ama Stays & Trails Heliconia Villa, and Metro Tourist Home.
Where To Eat: Al Bake Mandi Restaurant, Hotel Food Park, Live Thattukada and many more eateries around the Waterfalls.
Location
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Tucked within the folds of Kozhikode district in Kerala is Vilangad Waterfalls, also known as Thirikakkayam or Karukulam Waterfalls. This hidden gem is located close to Vilangad village and offers a serene getaway, approximately 70 kilometres from the city of Kozhikode.
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How To Reach
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Tourists can reach Vilangad by road, starting from Kozhikode City.
By Road: Located 70 km from Kozhikode, 77 km from Kalpetta, and 93 km from Sulthan Bathery. Which is easily accessible from a Car or a Taxi.
Things To Do
The lure of the waterfall is much beyond the refreshing dip one takes into the pool. Here are some activities to draw you there:
1. Picnic
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Get away from daily hassles and find serenity amidst the surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat under the trees, inhale fresh air, and listen to nature’s symphony. They can prepare delicious spreads like snacky bits, sandwiches, or fruits, and enjoy your meal with a stunning view, while ensuring they collect waste.
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2. Hiking
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The journey to Vilangad waterfall itself is quite an adventure. A 1 km moderately long, scenic hike across a lush green forest takes one to this heaven. Most beginners would find the path relatively easy, though a caution exercise is performed against slippery rocks and occasional leeches. Keep a lookout for the vibrant flora and fauna as you make your way through the forest. This trek allows one not only to see the rich biodiversity but also to enjoy the quiet of the wilderness.
3. Photography
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Vilangad Waterfalls is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, offering a magical show of light and water. Visitors can click pictures from different angles or experiment with perspectives to see the beauty of the waterfall. The lush green surrounding the pool and the forest colours are so lively that visitors can experiment with what their creative mind says.
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Places To Visit Near Vilangad
Beyond the cascading beauty of waterfalls, the surrounding areas offer a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored.
1. Kozhikode Beach
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Kozhikode Beach on the Malabar Coast, also known as Calicut Beach, is a historic place in Kerala, offering beautiful backwaters, green hill stations, and a blend of history and leisure. Visitors can engage in various activities, relax on the golden sands, enjoy water sports, savour local foods, and experience the vibrant culture. The beach also offers soothing sounds, aromatic enticements, and a stunning sunset over the Arabian Sea. The best time to visit is during the winter, from November to February or during the monsoon from June to September. Overall, Kozhikode Beach is a captivating getaway for travellers seeking relaxation, history, or adventure on the waves.
Things To Do: Sun Bath, Play with Sand, Picnic and Jogging
2. Thamarassery Churam
Photo: Sreeraj PS aka Ezhuttukari / Wikimedia Commons
Thamarassery Churam, otherwise Wayanad Churam, is a 14-kilometre winding road in Kerala that connects the Kozhikode district with the Wayanad highlands. Visible from those nine bends is a symphony of nature’s beauty and human engineering that unrolls breathtaking vistas one by one. Here, one could gorge senses with lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages. It’s a driver’s joyride, a nature lover’s paradise with picturesque vistas of landscape beauty and localised life. The best times to visit are during winters from November to February, when the climate is pleasant, and during monsoon magic from June to September.
Things To Do: Bird Watching, Trekking
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3. Sarovaram Bio Park
Photo: Junior Cat MW / Wikimedia Commons
Sarovaram Bio Park in Kozhikode, Kerala, is an eco-friendly sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and fauna. Built around wetlands and mangrove forests, it houses seven mangrove species and 29 plant species, promoting coastal protection and biodiversity. Birdwatchers can observe the park’s avian population, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets. The park features a variety of trees and plants with medicinal properties and walking trails. It’s an eco-friendly destination, ideal for visitors between October to February and June to September.
Things To Do: Strolling, Boating
4. Mananchira Square
Photo: Zuhairali / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in Kozhikode city, Mananchira Square is a lush green spot that offers refreshment from the concrete jungle. Mananchira Maidanam, as it was originally called, was famous for having football matches and the traditional “Mananchira Ayyappan Vilakku.” Other varieties of attractions include a serene getaway, a treat to the eyes, an open-air theatre, a family fun time, and a peek into aquatic life. It also offers multisensory surroundings by the purveyance of calming sounds, aromatic wonders, and magic lights at night.
Things To Do: Kids Playing Area, Boating, Read
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Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
There is no entry fee to the waterfall, but the cost of a trip to Vilangad Waterfalls depends on transportation, accommodation, food, and entry fees.
Tips For Travellers
- Pack comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and a change of clothes.
- Practise responsible tourism by carrying trash and avoiding littering.
- Be cautious of slippery rocks and leeches, especially during monsoon.
- Follow local customs while visiting nearby villages.
Vilangad Waterfalls in Kozhikode is a hidden gem offering a serene escape for nature lovers. It offers a variety of activities, including hiking, refreshing dips, and serene escapes. Responsible tourism is crucial, and eco-friendly habits are essential. TripXL, a one-stop travel planning partner, can help create an unforgettable Vilangad adventure. Pack your bags, hike, and immerse yourself in the rainforest, ensuring the natural wonder thrives for generations to come.
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