Athirapally Waterfalls Kerala – Best Time to Visit, Entry Fee & Travel Guide 2025

Located in the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirapally Waterfalls cascades down from 80 feet, creating one of India’s most breathtaking natural sights. Surrounded by lush forests and cinematic landscapes, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.
By vishal - Nov 12, 2025, 15:45 IST

Introduction: Why Athirapally Waterfalls Should be Visited?

The Gods Own Country is the Kerala Happy Valley, where the country provides a spectacular display of nature. The grandest attraction is the great Athirapally Waterfalls. It is the biggest waterfall in Kerala and it is referred to as the "Niagara of India."

This grand cascade falls to the tune of 80 feet. It appears magnificent particularly during the full flow of the Chalakudy River. The falls are surrounded by lush, green trees and hence it is a natural paradise.

The Location of Athirapally Falls Includes

The waterfall is located in the district of Thrissur. It is the entrance to the Sholayar ranges of the Western Ghats. Such environment makes the region abundant in biodiversity and beautiful.

It is located in Athirappilly, Chalakudy Taluk. Chalakudy is a large town that is the central base to visitors.

The Athirapally Waterfalls: The Best Time to Visit

It is important to observe the falls at the best time. The climate in the area is tropical.

Monsoon Season (June-September): The Complete Glory

And this is the best time to visit Athirapally Waterfalls. The falls have their full volume, and are rushing across the rock face. The forest around is made green, bright and cool.

Hiking hint: Trails may be slippery. The base may be closed when the flow is high.

After Monsoon and Winter (October -February): Pleasant Weather

There is no severe water flow and the rains have reduced. The atmosphere is fine and cool making it good to take treks. This season is family and elderly friendly.

Summer Season (March -May): Low Flow

The weather becomes hot and humid as the heat increases. The amount of water decreases, and the drama of the falls is lowered. Outdoors activities are made more difficult.

Accessibility of the Athirapally Waterfalls

Access to falls is not a problem because of the closeness to transport centres. The access point is the town of Chalakudy.

By Air

Closest airport: Cochin International Airport (COK). The airport is 55–60 km away. Get an expensive taxi or cab to the falls.

By Rail

Closest station: Chalakudy Railway Station (CKI), within a distance of 30km. The larger stations such as Thrissur ( 60 km) and Ernakulam Junction ( 70 km) are also alternatives. At the station, one can get local buses, taxis and auto-rickshaws.

By Road

The falls are well networked by road mostly via Chalakudy. Regular buses operated by the state serve the route. The road is scenic and is traversed by greenery and rubber plantations.

Critical Athirapally Falls Timings, Charges and Hints

Planning is time and trouble saving. Key details are below.

Detail

Timing/ Cost/Requirement

Notes

Opening Hours

8:00 AM -5:00 PM (daily)

Gates open early in the morning to have a peaceful visit.

Entry Fee (Adult)

50 per head

50 paid to the Forest Department.

Entry Fee (Child)

10 per head

Child concessional fee.

Camera/Photography

May charge a nominal fee

Check counter on current rates.

Combinations Ticket

Available to Vazhachal Falls

1 Ticket is applicable to Athirappilly and Vazhachal.

Must-Know Travel Tips

Wear comfortable shoes. The walk to the base is rocky and steep and therefore non-slip footwear is very crucial.

Carry water. Keep yourself hydrated, in case you are going to walk down to the base.

Safety first. Observe the directions of forest guard. Keep away from the water, restricted and slippery places.

Wildlife. There is wildlife such as hornbills. Hush and keep silence and keep respect of the forest.

Top View vs. Base View Two Sides of the Falls

There are two different perspectives of Athirapally. You know you ought to see it all.

Trek to the Top Viewpoint

There is a short paved walkway off the ticket counter to the top. It is a walk that is not challenging and can be taken by the majority of visitors. You will have an impression of a panoramic side view of the cascade which is wide. In this case, the Chalakudy River is flowing smoothly before its splendid fall.

Trek to the Base of the Falls

It is a moderate to difficult walk that takes approximately one kilometre in a downward direction. The path is steeped with steps and rocks. The reward is the entire frontal shot of the power of the waterfall. Touch the damp air and feel the thunderstorm.

Touring the Local Sights: Vazhachal and Charpa Falls

You would not have visited Athirapally without a look at close-by cascades. The area is a hot zone of eco-tourism.

Vazhachal Waterfalls

It is another type of waterfall, horizontal, and wide, only 5 km below Athirapally. The place is maintained in good conditions and is picnicable. Grant, seek the Great Indian Hornbill.

Charpa Falls

Some 7 km distant, between Athirapally and Vazhachal. It is seasonal, its best time in monsoon. When it pours, water may flow down the road directly and this is a very exciting event.

Butterfly Garden and Thumboormuzhi Dam

On the road leading to falls near Chalakudy. It includes a little dam, a beautiful garden and a suspension bridge. The Butterfly Garden is a colorful one, which is so popular among children.

Cinema: Athirapally and the Connection with Baahubali

The beauty of the falls has not been left out by the filmmakers. It is also popular because of the song Barso Re that featured Aishwarya Rai. Raavan scenes of Mani Ratnam (Hindi) and Raavanan (Tamil) were filmed here. Athletic “Mahishmati Falls” of Baahubali was inspired and shot at Athirappilly.

Summary: Take a Souvenir Kerala Magic

A visit to Athirappilly Waterfalls is not just a sightseeing field. It is a safari in the wild heart of Kerala. It enables a perfect escape with the thunderous water to serene greenery. This Indian gem is as the name suggests, the "Niagara of India." Fill your luggage and be fascinated by the magic of Chalakudy.

 

Athirapally Waterfalls FAQs

They are Kerala's largest waterfall, situated in the Thrissur district on the Chalakudy River.

The surrounding riparian forest is the only place in the Western Ghats home to all four South Indian Hornbill species.

The peak monsoon (June to September) offers the most powerful flow, but post-monsoon (Sep-Feb) is ideal for visits.