Saturday, October 12, 2013

Athirappilly Falls

Athirapally is the land of rivers and forests and great waterfalls! The destination houses the largest waterfall in Kerala, the Athirapally waterfall, a major tourist attraction. Athirappilly Falls is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Athirappilly Falls is a part of Chalakudy River and it is approximately 80 feet in height. 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 see the river flowing past huge rocks and trees. The falls are so huge that for a minute you can't believe that they can be so huge. No wonder, the sight has been a favorite with film directors for their locations. Mani Ratnam's Raavan, Dil Se, Guru and Iruvar have been shot here. 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. 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 local villagers swimming in unknown waters. 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.

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