Waterfalls In Kannur: A Detailed Guide On The Hidden Gems Of Kerala

A majestic view of a waterfall surrounded by lush green trees flowing through a rock.

Kannur is located in one of the districts of Kerala, well known for its silent beaches, historical forts, and rich cultural heritage. Waterfalls in Kannur are interesting sites of attraction. These natural cascades spell charm and tranquil repose, which can easily take one out of the din of daily routine. Each waterfall, with its unique character and charm, invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s splendour. The 14 most famous waterfalls in Kannur, each having its magic and mystique, are must-visit destinations.

14 Waterfalls In Kannur

Let’s explore the best waterfalls in Kannur, each with its unique charm and allure:

1. Meenmutty Waterfalls

 Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Kannur to explore.

Photo: Shubhammaurya94 / Wikimedia Commons

Meenmutty Waterfalls is one of the biggest waterfalls in Kannur, located in the middle of the Western Ghats. It is the second biggest fall in Kerala, famously known for its height of about 300 metres. Equally exciting is the climb to Meenmutty, which traverses through dense forests and offers a close encounter with nature. You can hear the gushing sound of the water long before you are anywhere near it, which continues to reverberate as you trek on. The mighty fall is nothing less than breathtaking, and very much worth the hectic hike.

Best Time To Visit: June To September
Location: Kallar Meenmutty Falls Road, Kallar, Kerala 695551

Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Kannur

2. Palchuram Waterfalls

A stunning view of free-flowing water in Kerala, which is a must-visit for travellers.

Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The beautiful multi-level fall is located in the vicinity of the town of Kottiyoor in the district and gives peace to its visitors with a serene atmosphere. The water cascades down on so many levels that a picture taken by any enthusiast looks like it’s ready to be on a postcard. The journey itself to Palchuram can be as engrossing as the destination, with each tier offering a different view. This waterfall is fascinating because of the lovely green meadows and the soft chirping of birds.

Best Time To Visit: June To November
Location: Palchuram, Kottiyoor, Kerala 670651

3. Alakapuri Waterfalls

Alakapuri Waterfalls is one of the most astonishing waterfalls in Kannur for all visitors.

Photo: June Admiraal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The quiet and picturesque Alakapuri Waterfalls, near Cheemeni, bring nature to life. At different levels, this cascading fall, surrounded by verdant greenery, offers a mesmerising view that is at its best during the monsoon season. The area around the falls is great for a relaxing picnic or retreat into nature. The natural pools formed at different tiers of the fall invite one for a refreshing swim. The mist rising from the falls adds to the mystique, making the experience all the more enriching.

Best Time To Visit: June To September, When The Waterfall Is Most Impressive
Location: Kanjirakolli, Kerala 670633

Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Kannur

4. Kanjirakolly Waterfalls

A mesmerising view of Kanjirakolly Waterfalls in Kerala, which is a must-visit attraction.

Photo: Mesoumyadashodisha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The other offbeat destination, also known as Alakapuri, is Kanjirakolly Waterfalls. Located in the beautiful village of Kanjirakolly, this waterfall is surrounded by thick forests and tea plantations, thus forming a natural backdrop for an easygoing day outside. The water calmly falls over the rocks with a soft sound that adds to the calmness of this serene place. The trek to the waterfall is of moderate difficulty, with excellent panoramic views of environments in the landscape.

Best Time To Visit: June To December For The Fullest Flow
Location: Kannur, Kerala 670633

5. Ezharakund Waterfalls

Ezharakund Waterfalls is one of the most alluring waterfalls in Kannur for all travellers.

Photo: Mohanraja C / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Ezharakund Waterfalls is a seven-stepped water flow located in Paithalmala. Each of the steps provides a unique view and is an adventure hot spot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The pathway for the trek to Ezharakund is sprinkled with the most captivating flora and fauna, adding to the overall attraction of the visit. The waterfall cascades, level after level, with a series of naturally formed pools best suited for a rejuvenating swim. The thick forest surrounds the falls and is home to different kinds of wildlife.

Best Time To Visit: June To October During The Rainy Season
Location: Pottenplave, Vellad, Kerala 670582

Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kerala

6. Kanthanpara Waterfalls

Kanthanpara Waterfalls is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Kerala to explore.

Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons

A serene and stunning sight, Kanthanpara Waterfalls lies close to Nilambur town. It is a beautiful place for retreat for people who get sick and tired from the urban routines. The waterfall is relatively easy to access and suitable for a family outing or a romantic escapade. The surroundings are rich in biodiversity, hence an added experience for the visitors. This is a place where the clear water flows gently on rocks, giving that soothing atmosphere to the place, while the lush green surroundings provide a perfect picnic spot.

Best Time To Visit: June To September For Maximum Water Low
Location: Meppadi, Kerala 673577

7. Aralam Waterfalls

 A stunning landscape of Aralam Waterfalls, one of the best waterfalls in Kannur.

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

The Aralam Waterfalls is another beautiful cascade located in the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary. This fall is embedded within the dense forest. The sanctuary itself is a treasure trove of biodiversity, making a visit to Aralam Waterfalls worthwhile. The trek to the waterfall will take you deep inside the sanctuary, offering glimpses of exotic birds and animals. Nature cannot get better than a pristine environment with a sound backdrop of cascading water. In essence, many of these sanctuaries that hold such waterfalls boast additional richness with many rare plant species.

Best Time To Visit: June To November During The Monsoon
Location: Kannur, Kerala 670704

Suggested Read: Places To visit In Kannur

8. Madayipara Waterfalls

 A majestic view of Madayipara Waterfalls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala.

Photo: Nativeplants garden / Wikimedia Commons

Madayipara Waterfalls is the seasonal falls located in the picturesque area of Madayipara. Known for its rolling hills and rich flora, the area is pretty much vibrant during the monsoon months, when the waterfall is in full flow. This place is also ideal for bird watching and observing the ecosystem variety of the place. The landscape and wildflowers in bloom make the whole place even more beautiful. Against the landscape of high green hills, the falls give an amazing view.

Best Time To Visit: June To September, When The Waterfall Is Active
Location: Kannur, Kerala 670358

9. Anjarakandy Waterfalls

Anjarakandy Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Kannur, must-visit for travellers.

Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Anjarakandy Waterfall is a calm, isolated, and relatively unknown waterfall, surrounded by green plantations. It provides a peaceful spot for visitors. This place is also a land of ancient history since there are a lot of ancient places to visit nearby; thus, it is an excellent place to explore. This place is one of the best to spend time as it has got a gentle flow of water and calm surroundings. The scenic beauty of the location is enhanced by the nearby plantations.

Best Time To Visit: June To December For Best Viewing
Location: Kannur, Kerala 670612

Suggested Read: Top Hill stations In Kannur

10. Marmala Waterfalls

A breathtaking view of Marmala Waterfalls, one of the picturesque waterfalls in Kerala.

Photo: athulvis / Wikimedia Commons

Deep into the forests of Kannur lies the picturesque Marmala Waterfalls. As the waters drop some 60 metres, the falling water creates a misty veil that engulfs the aura of the falls. The trek to Marmala is an experience by itself, through thick forests with rugged paths testing the very innards of the traveller. The atmosphere of seclusion and the drop of the falls make it a perfect place for adventure seekers. There is a natural pool at the foot of these falls, ideal for a refreshing swim.

Best Time To Visit: June To October During The Rainy Season
Location: Marmala Rd, Vellani, Erattupetta, Kerala 686580

11. Ariyil Waterfalls

A picture of a scenic waterfall cascading down a rocky terrain in Kannur, surrounded by lush greenery

Photo: June Admiraal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Ariyil Waterfalls, also called Haritheerthakkara Vellachattam, tumbles down three gentle tiers in Kankol, Alappadamba Panchayat, roughly 17 kilometres from Payyanur in Kannur district. This little-known cascade swells to a dramatic rush during the monsoon months of June to August, then calms into crystal-clear pools perfect for a quick, refreshing dip. A brief 200-metre muddy trail leads to the falls, so sturdy footwear and a supply of water and snacks are essential in the absence of nearby facilities. With free entry and limited roadside parking, Ariyil remains delightfully uncrowded, offering a peaceful retreat for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Kankol, Alappadamba Panchayat, Kannur district

Suggested Read: Kannur Water Parks & Beach Activities For A Coastal Retreat

12. Kappimala Waterfalls

A majestic waterfall slowly cascading down into a scenic pool with turquoise waters and lush surroundings

Photo: Rei Kim / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Kappimala Waterfalls, a five-tiered cascade set amid the green hills of Alakkode in Kannur district, lies roughly 32 km from Taliparamba, making it an ideal stop for a day trip. From the road, you park for free and follow a one-kilometre trek along a narrow dirt track, passing scattered farms and listening to the water’s distant roar before you glimpse each rocky tier. After the monsoon, the falls thunder with life; in drier months calmer pools gather at the base, perfect for a quick, refreshing dip. Limited roadside parking ensures it remains a peaceful, uncrowded retreat.

Best Time To Visit: September to December
Location: Kappimala Village, Kannur District

13. Soochimukhi Waterfalls

One of the best waterfalls in Kannur, the soochimukhi waterfalls is a scenic retreat

Photo: sgcdesignco / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Soochimukhi Waterfalls, in the Iritty region near Kannur’s border with Karnataka, remains one of the district’s best-kept secrets. A series of seven cascades tumbles through dense greenery, forming natural pools ideal for a refreshing dip between June and October when the monsoon swell brings them to life. Reachable by a short drive to Ayyankunnu followed by a guided trek along narrow forest trails, the falls demand sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure. With no entry fee or facilities on-site, visitors should carry water, snacks and ensure they leave no litter to preserve this tranquil haven.

Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Ayyankunnu, Iritty, Kannur District

Suggested Read: Top Beaches In Kannur For Your Next Summer Vacation In Kerala

14. Janakippara Waterfalls

A serene cascade of a waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and a quaint pond down under

Photo: Jeffrey Workman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Janakippara Waterfalls, nestled amid the rolling hills and evergreen forests of Kannur district, lies roughly 49 kilometres from Kannur city near the Palakkayam Thattu region. This romantic cascade drops in multiple tiers into cool, crystal-clear pools that swell into a thundering rush during the June–September monsoon. A gentle 1 kilometre trek along an uneven dirt trail leads you to the falls, with no safety fences, so sturdy footwear and a cautious approach are essential. There is no entry fee, limited roadside parking and no facilities, so pack water, snacks and embrace the quiet, uncrowded beauty.

Best Time To Visit: June to September
Location: Palakkayam Thattu region

The waterfalls of Kannur are more than just natural wonders; they are sanctuaries of peace and beauty that offer a respite from the frenetic pace of modern life. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set off to discover some of the most famous waterfalls in Kannur. Discover comprehensive tour packages for a hassle-free experience with TripXL.

Cover Photo: Nativeplants garden / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit some of the most famous waterfalls in Kannur is during the monsoon season, from June to September. During this period, the waterfalls are in full flow, offering a spectacular sight. However, it is advisable to check local weather conditions and be cautious of slippery paths.
While some waterfalls like Kanthanpara and Alakapuri have relatively easy access suitable for beginners, others like Meenmutty and Marmala require more challenging treks through dense forests and rugged terrain, making them better suited for experienced trekkers.
Yes, particularly at waterfalls like Aralam, which is located within a wildlife sanctuary, you may encounter various species of birds, animals, and exotic plants. It is recommended to be respectful of wildlife and maintain a safe distance.
Facilities near these waterfalls can be quite basic. Some popular spots like Meenmutty and Kanthanpara may have small eateries or rest areas nearby, but many waterfalls are in remote locations with minimal facilities. It is advisable to carry sufficient water, snacks, and other essentials.
While the waterfalls are generally accessible throughout the year, their flow and accessibility can vary with the seasons. Some waterfalls may have reduced water flow or become inaccessible during the dry season. It’s best to check local conditions before planning a visit.
The Palchuram Waterfall, near Kottiyoor, is considered the biggest waterfall in Kannur, cascading from over 300 feet through lush forest terrain.
The ticket for Ezharakund Waterfalls is typically around ₹30 per person, with additional parking charges depending on the vehicle type.
Ezharakund Waterfalls is known for its seven-step cascade and natural pools formed at different levels, making it ideal for a scenic trek and nature photography.

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