What do you do when in Kerala? Typically backwaters. But i don't usually do what normal people do. Thing was to find out one location which i could visit and which is different than other places in Kerala. Mind you Kerala may look decent but it is a big state with lot of things to do. So instead of lazying around i inquired to my guest house cook (Gopi was his name a nice 4.9" guy always in lungi and with a great humble smile) suggested this falls. He mentioned not many tourists flock the place as it is through winding roads from Aluva. (Traffic in Kerala is different than what you will encounter anywhere else. Downhill vehicles just drive as if they own the road). Listened to Gopi and he packed me a good meal and also gave me coconut water (tender coconuts) to carry. Since i was in a government guest house, i was privileged to get a cab for my travel (typically the one way cost from Aluva to falls is 750/- if you can bargain well)
From Aluva the falls is at a distance of approx 50km and the route to Athirappilly Falls passes through a landscape of winding roads, small villages and lush green trees. The place is managed by forest department and cleanliness is given utmost priority here. The place attracts lot of tourists as it is nick names "Niagara" of India owing to close similarity in the way the falls descend. Full force of the falls is best seen in month of rainy seasons. From what i heard during rains the path way to go to the bottom of the falls is regulated and may be closed to tourists.
There are two points to view the falls - One is from the top where one can enjoy the calm river that flows and sources the falls. The river is shallow nearer to the falls. One can sit on the rocks and enjoy the calmness of river and sound of water falling behind. Another point is at the bottom of the falls. This is open to public throughout except rainy seasons. There is a easy hike down to the base of the falls and takes 15-30 minutes to traverse. Nice views of the falls and chance to get soaked in the falling water can be experienced from this point.
Experience the falls in the pic and admire the beauty of this place. It really is one place you should go if in Kerala. This truly is an offbeat location
