The Best Waterfall Treks In Kerala India

There are several kinds of treks, and one of the most beautiful is when it involves a waterfall either on the way or at the final destination. Waterfall treks can be challenging due to the slippery terrain, steep climbs or scrambling, but the journey is absolutely worth it all. Here are seven excellent trails in Kerala that include resplendent waterfalls.

Pappani – Kalthotti River Trek

After an off-road drive from the main road, the trail starts from the Urumbikkara Bungalow and follows the Pappani River to Kalthotti. Jeeps are available for hire from Yendayar to the bungalow so that you can transport your belongings to the campsite at Irumulachi Kallu (rock) while you trek to the point. This trek is an overnight journey. You’ll reach Irumulachi Kallu by the first evening, camp there and then continue to Kalthotti, which is three hours from the campsite.

Trail Distance: 12–15 kilometres (7.5–9.3 miles)

Trail Time: Two days & one night – Circuit

Difficulty: Guided, Very Hard

Pappani River feeds the lively Manimala River in the Vembly forest range

Pappanithodu Falls Trek

In the unexplored region of the Wembilli forest range lies a 183-metre (600-foot), almost vertical waterfall. Situated off the Yendayar-Urumbikkara Road, the base of this waterfall is only a 500-metre (0.31-mile) walk, after a one-kilometre (0.62-mile) off-road drive/ride into the shola forest. There are three stages in the fall: the upper two stages require difficult scrambling, cutting out your own trail, and conquering moss-laden slippery rocks.

Trail Distance: Between four and six kilometres (2.5–3.7 miles) off-road + 1.5 kilometres (0.93 miles) scrambling

Trail Time: Four to six hours – Circuit

Difficulty: Guided, Hard

Dhoni Falls Trek

The Dhoni hills are one of the lesser-known spots near Malampuzha Dam. Trek to the top of the hills, and you will arrive at the waterfalls. This is often a major deterrent for regular tourists. Though the falls are small, the beautiful surroundings make up for it. The water from the falls feeds the reservoir. Another trekking trail is present from the Dhoni Falls to Malampuzha Dam, which requires prior permission from the forest department.

Trail Distance: Eight kilometres (five miles)

Trail Time: Five hours – Circuit

Difficulty: DIY Very Easy