18 Waterfalls Near Ernakulam That Will Leave You Enthralled With Their Splendour

23 Mar 2023

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Tinted with the garish colours of history and magnificence of Kerala, Ernakulam is the most lively and stunning destination of God’s Own Country – Kerala. With hoards of shopping markets, multiplexes, amusement parks, industrial buildings, marine drive, and residential complexes, this ancient kingdom is known as the Commercial Capital of Kerala. The Western Ghats and Forests surrounding this beautiful district boast of some stunning and spectacular waterfalls where you can get soaked in the beauty of nature. The glistering water making its way through the lush green surrounding and tumbling down the hills is an enchanting sight.
Our list of the most charismatic waterfalls near Ernakulam is sure to lure you and make you crave for an enticing and adventurous holiday.

18 Best Waterfalls Near Ernakulam For A Refreshing Vacation

There are many beautiful waterfalls near Ernakulam that one should visit and explore. These amazing waterfalls will not only fill you with a new found energy, but also recharge you for when you get back to your daily routine. Let’s take a look at some of these waterfalls.

Athirappilly Waterfalls
Vazhachal Waterfalls
Thommankuthu Waterfalls
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
Orakkamparra Waterfall
Valanjaganam Waterfalls
Cheeyappara Waterfalls
Iruppu Waterfalls
Siruvani Waterfall
Meenmutty Waterfalls
Palaruvi Waterfall
Thusharagiri Waterfall
Meenvallam Waterfall
Nyayamakad Waterfall
Arippara Waterfall
Valara Waterfall
Chinnakanal Waterfall

1. Athirappilly Waterfalls

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Located at just 62 kilometers from Ernakulam, this fascinating beauty is the most visited waterfall in Kerala. This marvellous beauty falls from a height of 80 feet and stretches until 330 feet making it exquisite. The gurgling and frothy waters of Athirappilly waterfall make its way through the lush green Vazhachal Forest down to the vast Arabian Sea. The beautiful sight creates a perfect backdrop to relax and rejuvenate.

Distance From Ernakulam: 62.8 Km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs.15 per adult
Best time to Visit: September to January
Things to do:

Trekking through the forest
Great place for photographers
Excellent for Bird watching

Must Read: 10 Charming Homestays In Ernakulam To Feel At Home Even While Being Away!

2. Vazhachal Waterfalls

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At a distance of just 69 kilometres from Ernakulam, the Vazhachal waterfall is one of the most breathtaking sights. Surrounded by the dense and emerald green foliage of the Sholayar range, the waterfall is a famous picnic spot where you can spend a relaxing day with friends and family. Enclosing the waterfall are three sitting areas where you can unwind and get lost in the mesmerizing beauty and soothing sounds of the falling water.

Distance From Ernakulam: 67.9 Km
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: September to February
Things to do:

Great place for mountain climbing and trekking
A paradise for nature photographers

3. Thommankuthu Waterfalls

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Just 72 kilometres off Ernakulam lays a charismatic waterfall named Thommankuthu. This beautiful sevenstep waterfall gushes down the hill making a robust pool of crystal clear water at each level. It is a perfect place to spend your day watching the mesmerizing beauty of nature and taking dips in the cool freshwater pool. The postcard beauty of Thommankuthu Waterfalls is sure to leave you spellbound.

Distance From Ernakulam: 71.7 Km
Timings: Open 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Things to do:

Suited for trekking and rock climbing
Experience fishing
Enjoy the day boating

4. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall

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Located at just 74 kilometres from Ernakulam, this 30 feet high impressive waterfall is a perfect place to get lost in the beauty of nature. The stream of water gushing between two giant rocks and cutting through the dense greenery and rubber plantation makes a postcard perfect background making it an ideal place for day trips. Aruvikkuzhi waterfall is a famous location for many movie shootings.

Distance From Ernakulam: 76.6 Km
Timings: 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Things to do:

Ideal place for trekking and hiking
Bird watching
Best for nature walks

5. Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls

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Situated at just 115 kilometres from Ernakulam, this splendid waterfall is located at the bank of River Pamba. The garrulous water crisscrosses through rocky terrain and pours down the hill forming numerous streams of water. The waterfall is 60 feet to 100 feet high and stretches over a rock bed forming a natural swimming pool. It is a great place for a picnic and spending a few hours swimming in the freshwater.

Distance From Ernakulam: 113.1 Km
Timings: Open 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Things to do:

Requires some trekking to reach the waterfall
Best for nature gazing and swimming

Suggested Read: 57 beautiful places in kerala

6. Orakkamparra Waterfall

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Orakaparra is a beautiful and charming waterfall located at a distance of 113 kilometres from Ernakulam. This untouched and quiet place is unexplored by the masses making it a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The rich flora and fauna of this mesmerizing waterfall are sure to leave you enthralled. The foamy water makes its way through the thick forest into a giant puddle of water where you can sit and loosen up all the hassle of the city.

Distance From Ernakulam: 113.1 Km
Timings: Open 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Things to do:

Enjoy trekking while you reach the waterfall
Ideal place for nature photographers

7. Valanjaganam Waterfalls

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Valanjanganam Waterfall is located 115 kilometres from Ernakulam. This scenic and mesmerizing fall lay adjacent to the highway making it a perfect place to stop by and throw away all the tiredness in the flowing water. The waterfall is approximately 8 feet high and is covered with rich greenery, which is a sight to see and get awestruck.

Distance From Ernakulam: 115.8 Km
Timings: Open 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Monsoons
Things to do:

Wonderful place to stop by and click some beautiful photographers

8. Cheeyappara Waterfalls

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Located at a distance of 80 kilometres the Cheeyappara Waterfall is a famous tourist attraction. This on the way waterfall lays on NH49 between Munnar and Kochi and is known to be one of the largest waterfalls in the state of Kerala. Galloping down seven stony steps the water flushes with full force making it an enthralling experience. The splendid view of the waterfall and the green valley is captivating.

Distance From Ernakulam: 81.2 Km
Timings: Open 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to Visit: Summers
Things to do:

An active trekking and adventure spot
Bird watching is a great activity
A paradise for nature lovers containing exotic species of plants

9. Iruppu Waterfalls

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One of the waterfalls near Ernakulam is the picturesque Iruppu waterfall that cascades along the Brahmagiri Mountain Range. The range lies in the Coorg district of South Karnataka. The falls is also known as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls; a name that derives from a tributary of Cauvery River that shares the same name. Tourists come here to enjoy the blissful vicinity of nature, the grandeur of the falls and also for its religious significance.

Distance from Ernakulam: 222 Kms
Timings: 6.00 AM – 6.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50
Best time to visit: June to September
Things to do:

Nature walk
Take a dip in waterfall
Camping

10. Siruvani Waterfall

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Siruvani Waterfalls, also known as Kovai Kutralam Falls, is an exhilarating waterfall located in the scenic region of Siruvani. The waterfall is predominantly manifested for its exaltedness. The waterfall is located in the deepest parts of the woodland and due to this reason people are advised not to visit the falls after 5 pm. With stunning panoramic views, the dam is a place that will leave you not just enchanted but also fill you with inner joy.

Distance from Ernakulam: 202.8 Kms
Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50
Best time to visit: October to May
Things to do:

Trekking
Camping

11. Meenmutty Waterfalls

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Meenmutty waterfalls is considered as one of the largest waterfalls in the Kalpetta region and the second largest in Kerala. The waterfall is one of the most thrilling and beautiful natural attractions that is nestled away in the lap of a jungle and cascading waterfall of Meenmutty makes up for a dazzling view. The bubbly water of this mighty waterfall flows in three tiers and is located near the Neyyar Reservoir area. The experience of climbing through the rocks to reach this enchanting destination is one of a kind and makes this place a prevalent tourist location.

Distance from Ernakulam: 216.9 Kms
Timings: 9.00 AM – 5.30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 30 (Adults); INR 15 (Children); INR 60 (Foreigners)
Best time to visit: October to May
Things to do:

Photography
Trekking
Taking a walk

12. Palaruvi Waterfall

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Palaruvi Falls, cascading downstream from the height of 300 ft, is one of the prime attractions in Kutralam, Tamil Nadu. Owing to its height; it is the 32nd highest waterfall in India. The name Palaruvi means ‘Stream of Milk’ in the regional language and ironically it seems to be a stream of milk as it flows down. Hence, the beauty of this fall stands unimaginable till witnessed with one’s own eyes.

Distance from Ernakulam: 188 Kms
Timings: 8.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
Best time to visit: June to January
Things to do:

Swimming,
Photography
Trekking

13. Thusharagiri Waterfall

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Lying in the Western Ghats of Kozhikode district in Kerala, Thusharagiri Falls cascades down as three waterfalls. The name of the falls means ‘snow covered mountains’ and is located in a small tribal village. Trekkers and rock climbers will find trekking trails towards Lakkidi Ghat passing through thick foliage & lush, green surroundings offering its visitors a sheer delight.

Distance from Ernakulam: 208.3 Kms
Timings: 8.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 30
Best time to visit: September to December
Things to do:

Trekking
Photography

14. Meenvallam Waterfall

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Meenvallam is a magnificent 5 step waterfall in Kerala and is quite an amazing natural attraction that should not be missed. The gushing water that falls from over 100-125 feet is a sight that attracts a large number of tourists. Also known as Meenvallom, this waterfall is a great attraction especially during the winter and is definitely a sight not to be missed.

Distance from Ernakulam: 158.6
Timings: 9.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 20
Best time to visit: June to October
Things to do:

Trekking
Photography
Swimming

15. Nyayamakad Waterfall

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Nyayamakad Waterfalls between Munnar and Rajamala in Kerala and falls down from a height of 1600 m. The waterfall is a popular picnic and trekking spot, and is one of the waterfalls near Ernakulam that is known for its scenic beauty and picturesque location. The perfect time to visit the waterfalls is during monsoons.

Distance from Ernakulam: 129.6 Kms
Timings: 12.00 AM – 12.00 PM
Entry Fee: NA
Best time to visit: November to May
Things to do:

Enjoy scenic views
Trekking
Photography
Fishing

16. Arippara Waterfall

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One of the most beautiful waterfalls and a river picnic spot – Arippara waterfall is on one of the tributaries of Iruvanji River commonly known as Iruvanjipuzha. This place is surrounded by great natural beauty, with water flowing through huge flat rocks and dropping at different places. Thick green forest on both shores of the river enhances the beauty of the place. It is the best location to swim, watch and admire the beauty of the waterfall, and have a picnic with your loved ones.

Distance from Ernakulam: 201.9 Kms
Timings: 8.00 AM – 5.00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
Best time to visit: November to May
Things to do:

Swimming
Picnic

17. Valara Waterfall

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Fed by the Deviyar river, Valara Falls is located at 40 km from Munnar. Enveloped by Neriamangalam town in the east and Adimali in the west, the place offers some absolutely stunning sights. It is one of the best waterfalls near Ernakulam that shouldn’t be missed.

Distance from Ernakulam: 82.9 Kms
Timings: 24 Hours
Entry Fee: NA
Best time to visit: June to September
Things to do:

Rock climbing
Mountaineering
Camping
Trekking

18. Chinnakanal Waterfall

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Chinnakanal Waterfalls also known as powerhouse waterfall is a sight of sheer beauty and flows from a height of 800 m. These falls lay just 16 km away from Munnar. The waterfalls originate from Devikulam Hills and end at a natural pool below it where people can spend some time.

Distance from Ernakulam: 138.4 Kms
Timings: 6.00 AM – 8.00 PM
Entry Fee: NA
Best time to visit: December to May
Things to do:

Swimming
Trekking

Further Read: Here’s Why Off Season In Kerala Is The Best Time To Travel, Explore, And Chill!

The abundance of waterfalls in this picturesque city transforms Ernakulam into an exhilarating and astounding ambiance. Dating back to the Stone Age the array of ancient and historic architecture enclosed within the city makes you spool back in history. Antique yet contemporary, this modern city also dishes up as an ideal destination for funseekers. Whether you are on a budget trip or a luxurious vacation, Ernakulam is sure to entertain you with tantalizing alternatives. Especially our list of waterfalls near Ernakulam is sure to keep you energized and thrilled making your holidays to Ernakulam memorable.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Near Ernakulam

What is Ernakulam famous for?

Ernakulam is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and modern charm. Known for its liveliness the city is famous for its ancient architecture, which includes churches, temples, and mosques. It is also famously known as the IT hub of Kerala.

How to reach Ernakulam?

Ernakulam is a major city that is well connected through Air, Rail, and Road. The nearest airport to Ernakulam is Cochin International Airport which is just 27 kilometres from Ernakulam.

What is the best time to visit Ernakulam?

Winters is the best time to visit Ernakulam with a pleasant climate and a little drop in the temperatures. The months from November to February are the most visited months with numerous activities taking place to make your trip fun filled. However, if you want to experience the magical spell of the waterfalls then you must visit towards the end of monsoons.

What are the best places that one must visit when in Ernakulam?

The must visit places in Ernakulam are Kochi Fort, Marine Drive, Cherai Beach, Bolgatty Palace, Hill Palace Museum, Dutch Cemetery, Chinese Fishing Nets, and a few more.

Name a few prominent waterfalls near Ernakulam?

The natural beauty of Ernakulam cannot be explained in words. However, you can experience it by visiting these waterfalls named Athirapally Waterfall, Orakamparra Waterfall, Valanjanganam waterfall, Vazhachal Waterfall, and many more.

Are Ernakulam and Cochin the same?

Kochi is the main city and inside Kochi is the downtown area, which is known as Ernakulam.

What to buy when in Ernakulam?

Ernakulam is famous among shoppers. From local markets to huge shopping malls, Ernakulam has an abundance of both. Some items that you must pick up when in Ernakulam are spices, nuts, and handicrafts made from brass, copper, and bamboo.