Athirapally Falls (Photo: Tanvi Trivedi)The Athirapally Falls situated near Kochi, are rightly called the Niagra of India...
Situated around 55km northeast of theKochiAirport, as you embark on thejourneyto Athirapally Falls, you realize that even the road down to the sight isbreathtaking! Snake roads filled with anamazingrange of flora and fauna - rubber trees, palm trees, coconut trees and small streams running amidst them, you realize that almost all roads inKeralaare scenic and make the drive even more interesting.
Approximately 80 feet high, being a part of theChalakudy River, the entrance to the falls is steep and is a 2 km trek to the Athirapally Falls. As you walk higher and higher, the forest area is quiet and you can hear different types of birds singing and recognize each bird from its voice. During monsoon, the trek turns slippery and is filled with little frogs jumping here and there. Walk around 15 minutes and you can hear the gigantic voice of the falls and lo! As you climb up, you can seethe riverflowing past huge rocks and trees. The falls are so huge that for a minute you can't believe that they can be so huge. You also thank yourself, that the trek is worth it as you again go down towards the falls. You find little children bathing in the river and a few steps ahead and the water goes down!
A Waterfall Scene from Film Ravan
No wonder, the sight has been a favorite with film directors for their locations. Mani Ratnam'sRaavan, Dil Se, Guru and Iruvar have been shot here. It has been said thatAbhishek Bachchanmade that much-talked about jump into the river here. However, it is still not confirmed whether Abhishek used a body double or not for this!
If one is on a holiday to Kerala, then a visit to the Athirapally Falls becomes a must-watch experience as it is a favorite destination for all those who love the magnificence of nature and beauty. Hire a taxi that takes you to the falls and there are some good resorts also nearby, where you can halt for lunch or dinner. Ideal time to visit the Falls is during the monsoon when the rain water is falling on the river, and fishermen are busy catching fish sitting by the river. Swimming here is not recommended during this time, however you can still find localvillagersswimming in unknown waters.
Athirappilly Falls on Monsoon Time
There are many treks around the hilly area to explore the falls and the guide rightly calls it the Niagra of India! You don't want to leave the place and want to enjoy the falls and the sound even after the sun sets. But as you embark on the next journey, the falls and its beauty lingers on in the mind forever.
