Aruvikkal waterfalls is the best weekend getaway from Kottayam

There isn't a more beautiful sight than waterfalls gushing out in pristine glory in the middle of nature. You can find a 60 ft long waterfall at Kottayam’s Aruvikkal waterfalls. Not many are aware of this beautiful place in Kerala. If you travel 10 kilometres from Eerattupetta you will reach Chennadu. When you reach Malika via Chennadu, between the rubber estate you can spot this tiny but picturesque waterfalls.

The tourists will be mesmerised to watch water falling down like white pearls from a 15 ft rock construction. It tumbles down in three layers and it’s a fascinating sight. Since the rivulet at the foot of the waterfall isn't fairly deep, one can safely take a dip or fish. And the water is ice cold.

If you stand on the top of the rivulet, the scenery is spectacular. Having said that, you have to take safety precautions as there are dangers lurking around it. When you reach the waterfalls, you will see a thick forest. The kochachadi para, forests and adjoining places are also beautiful to explore.

It’s during the rainy season that this waterfall turns more beautiful. During the June-October time when rains cause water retention, the tourists also surge. The beauty of this place still remains largely unexplored. There is still no provision to park cars near the location and that’s a drawback.

Athirapally which falls from a height of 80kms is the State’s most popular and largest waterfalls of the state. Let’s take a look at other similar enchanting waterfalls of India:

Palaruvi Waterfalls: Palaruvi Waterfalls is in Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary at Kollam. “Pal” means milk and the name translates to stream of milk. As the name indicates the waterfalls remind us of a cascade of milk falling from 300 feet. And the water is crystal clear. The stream on which the waterfall is ideal for swimming and is a much-favoured picnic spot. The waterfalls are located inside a dense forest, and one has to reach it through trekking. In fact, the trekking can be a fantastic experience.

Thoovanam Waterfalls: Located inside the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thoovanam Waterfalls in Munnar is a thing of beauty. This waterfall is about a 3 km trek from Alampatty eco-friendly zone and is located 50 km from Munnar and 10 km from Marayoor. It’s also a major trekking trail and walking through the forest is pleasant and peaceful with deer, butterflies, and insects. The inside of the forest is serene. The best time to visit the Thoovanam Falls is during the post-monsoon months and is ideal for one-day trips.

Vazhachal: This gorgeous waterfall is also close to Athirapally. You are likely to come across a lot of endangered species of flora and fauna here, including four Hornbill species that you won't find anywhere else in the country. It's only 7 km away from Athirapally and about 75 km away from Kochi.

Powerhouse: Power House waterfalls can be located on your way to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady and is about 18 km away from Munnar. You will have to trek down the Devikulam Hills to get to the falls, and you can even try a quick swim. Avoid visiting the Powerhouse waterfalls in Monsoon. You can also plan a nice picnic by the falls. But it is best to pack light as the trek can be treacherous.

Soochipara Waterfalls: Also known as the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, this is one of the most attractive waterfalls in Wayanad. It is about 300 meters in height and is located 46km from Sulthan Bathery, 24 km from Kalpetta and 13 km from Meppadi. It is also a major adventure spot and is famous for trekking. You can also go for rock climbing here. The best time to visit the Soochipara Waterfalls is between June to October and it is ideal for one-day trips. Chembra Peak, Kanthapara falls, and Vaduvanchaal are the best locations to visit Soochipara Waterfalls.

Valara Waterfalls: You can spot it on the way to Munnar and is situated next to the Cheeyappara Waterfalls and is adorned by dense forests. The waterfalls are 1000 feet high and provide a great view for visitors. The region is also well known for trekking. The Valara Waterfalls is ideal for one day trip and the best time to visit the waterfalls is post-monsoon. The Valara Waterfalls is located in between Adimali and Neryamangalam. During the rainy season, the flow will be thick and during the summer season, the water flow will be too less.

Thusharagiri falls: Lying in the Western Ghats of Kozhikode, Thusharagiri Fall cascades down as three waterfalls. Located in a small tribal village, the name of the falls means “snow-covered mountains'. Trekkers and rock climbers will find trekking trails towards Lakkidi Ghat passing through thick foliage and lush, green surroundings offering its visitors great photo opportunities.

Mulamkuzhi waterfalls: Originating from Mulamkuzhi River, this waterfall, although smaller than most of the other falls in the state, is one of the most prominent ones in Kerala. Set amidst mystic mountains, lush green forest and beautiful lakes, Mulamkuzhi Waterfalls is known for its crystal-clear waters, which is why swimming and bathing are popular here. It is also believed that the water that falls atop the hilly ranges is medicated and that bathing in the stream of the falls can cure a variety of skin diseases. It is also said that the water gets its medicinal properties from the powerful herbs that the falls’ water passes through in the hilly terrain.

Cheeyappara waterfalls: Cascading down in seven steps, Cheeyapara Waterfalls is one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls that you will see in the state. An amazing place for trekkers, this part of the state is known for 2 acres of evergreen forests that are situated upon a gigantic rock that is over 500 acres in area. This is also an ideal place for mountaineering. Valara Waterfalls, on the other hand, features a chain of falls that provide a magnificent view of the surrounding areas. This area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a superb place for nature lovers.

Attukad Waterfalls: This is a most sought-after destination for trekkers because of the terrific trails. As you trek, you will find the majestic Attukad Waterfalls on one side and the rolling hills on the other. The visuals are spectacular. Attukad Waterfalls is situated between Pallivasal and Munnar in Idukki district. It is a preferred picnic spot for tourists. You can visit Attukad Waterfalls both in Monsoon and Winter.