Kodaikanal houses many waterfalls, so tourists flock to this town in large numbers throughout the year. One hidden gem amongst the famous tourist spots of Kodaikanal is Vattakanal Falls. Vattakanal Falls is located just 3 km away from Kodaikanal town, and a downhill trek from the village will take you to this marvel of nature amidst the lush green landscapes. Famous as “Dutch Cascade”, this waterfall offers nature lovers and adventure seekers a picturesque retreat. After reading this article, you can plan your trip to Kodaikanal accordingly, as you will have important information about Vattakanal Falls.
Vattakanal Falls: A Picturesque Retreat
Image Credit: R.K.PRAGADHEESH for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst the lush green hills, Vattakanal Falls is amongst the top tourist attractions in Kodaikanal. Situated just three km from Kodaikanal town, this waterfall attracts many tourists, all thanks to its rich biodiversity and serene environment. Spending time at Vattakanal Falls can be an unforgettable experience for you as this is the best picnic spot in Kodaikanal, where you can spend quality time with your loved ones, snacking on the local delicacies offered at the stalls nearby. There is also a picturesque bridge near the waterfall where you can take amazing pictures.
Apart from sightseeing, trekking to Vattakanal Falls is also why tourists visit this place throughout the year. Adventure enthusiasts would love an adventurous hike to the Falls, where they can pass through some stunning views of the landscapes. Once you reach the waterfall, you can unwind by dipping in the cold-water pool formed at the bottom.
Vattakanal Waterfall is an excellent escape from the city’s scorching heat, nestled in the lap of nature and a serene atmosphere. Many watchpoints surround the waterfall, promising stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Some of the popular watchpoints you can visit near Vattakanal Falls are Dolphin’s Nose and Suicide Point.
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Places To Visit Near Vattakanal Falls
Some of the most popular and best places to visit near Vattakanal Falls are mentioned below:
1. Kodaikanal Lake
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Kodaikanal Lake is among the top tourist places in Kodaikanal and is also famous as the ‘Princess of Hill Stations’. A man-made marvel built in 1863 by Vera Levinge, a former British officer of Madurai who settled in Kodaikanal post-retirement, is a star-shaped lake in Kodaikanal. If you are visiting Vattakanal Falls, do not miss out on this beautiful lake that feels surreal, all thanks to its crystal blue water and the surrounding green meadows.
You can reach Kodai Lake by taking a bus to the Kodaikanal bus stand, 3 km away. The best time to visit the lake is in summer, between April and June when the weather remains pleasant for outdoor activities. During the monsoon season, sightseeing in Kodaikanal becomes very dreamy.
Location: 4 km away from the waterfalls
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
2. Pine Forest
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Do not forget to explore this enchanting woodland of Kodaikanal after visiting Vattakanal Falls, which are close to each other. A peaceful retreat in the centre of Kodaikanal town, this place attracts many tourists and locals, all thanks to its towering pine trees and serene ambience. This well-preserved woodland, under the care of the Tamil Nadu government, is a favourite spot for many nature lovers, walkers, and photographers.
Apart from pine and eucalyptus trees, you can also spot some wild growth of magic mushrooms in the forest that are believed to be hallucinogenic, so be careful of them. If you are in Kodaikanal and looking for an ideal spot to take leisure walks or hikes amidst the lush green forest, Pine Forest is the place for you.
Location: 5.5 km away from the waterfalls
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
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3. Silver Cascade Falls
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If you want to witness the ultimate beauty of Kodaikanal, visit Silver Cascade Falls, where you can get the most spectacular views. One of the most-visited tourist destinations in Kodaikanal, this waterfall is 2318 meters. The water cascades down from 180 feet, giving a picture of paradise on Earth—the remains of Kodai Lake form Silver Cascade Falls.
Apart from sightseeing, you can dip in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall, giving you many health benefits. It is believed the waterfall is loaded with various minerals that have healing properties. You can also spot monkeys playing around the waterfall.
Location: 11 km away from the waterfalls
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Best Time To Visit Vattakanal Falls
Image Credit: Ayushi Suraj Khivesara for Wikimedia Commons
Any waterfall comes in full glory during monsoon season, and the same goes for Vattakanal Waterfalls in Kodaikanal. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the monsoon season, between June and September. During this time, you can witness the fast-gushing stream of water turning white and foamy while cascading down.
However, it would help if you took some precautions while visiting Vattakanal Falls during monsoon season, as slippery roads, pouring rain, and blocked roads become common. Another best time to visit Vattakanal Waterfalls is during the cooler months of October and November, which are post-monsoon. You won’t face any complications during this time and can enjoy a more relaxing vacation.
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How To Reach Vattakanal Falls
The central town near Vattakanal Waterfalls is Kodaikanal, only 3 km away. Henc is the base for the waterfall, from where you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the Vattakanal village. From the Vattakanal village, you need to trek for about 10-15 minutes to reach the waterfalls.
You can reach Kodaikanal by road, train, or flight, depending on your origin. If you are coming from Coimbatore, it will take around 5 hours to reach Kodaikanal via NH 83 and Palani-Kodaikanal Road. The distance between Coimbatore and Kodaikanal is about 170 km.
The nearest railway station to the Kodaikanal is Kodai Road Railway Station, which is about 80 km away from the hill station. This railway station connects major cities like Madurai, Chennai, and Bangalore.
If you are coming via air, you can fly to Madurai Airport, 120 km from Kodaikanal. You can hire a taxi from the Madurai Airport to Vattakanal Falls.
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Vattakanal Falls is a paradise on Earth that you can experience in Kodaikanal. This waterfall promises everything that any traveller would expect from a tourist destination. You get the best sightseeing experience around the waterfall, along with some stunning views of the dense green forests of Kodaikanal. A hike to Vattakanal Falls is a fantastic experience and gives an adrenaline rush. Then, dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls is all you need to unwind at the end of a tiring hike. So, what are you still thinking about? Plan a trip to Kodaikanal and explore this majestic Vattakanal Falls.
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Cover Image Credit: Mugeshkani1 for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Vattakanal Falls
What is the best time to visit Vattakanal Falls?
If you want to see the water gushing down in its full glory then monsoon is the perfect time to visit Vattakanal Falls, however, poor road conditions due to heavy rainfall might not be good. The best time to visit Vattakanal Falls would be during the winter season between October and November as the weather remains pleasant for trekking with scanty rainfall.
What is the difficulty level of the trek to Vattakanal Falls?
The difficulty level of the trek to Vattakanal Falls is moderate. There is a downhill trek to reach the waterfall, however, the path is well-defined for the convenience of visitors.
How to reach Vattakanal Falls from Kodaikanal?
Kodaikanal is just 3 km away from Vattakanal Falls. You can easily book a taxi or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the Vattakanal village, from where you need to trek for about 10-15 minutes to reach the waterfalls.
What is unique about Vattakanal?
Vattakanal is quite a popular destination among Israel tourists. You can see the hippie vibe in the atmosphere and in food served in cafes.
Which is the nearest airport to Vattakanal Falls?
The nearest airport to Vattakanal Falls is Madurai Airport which is located 120 km away. You can hire a cab or taxi from the airport to reach Vattakanal Falls.
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