Munroe Island – The Hidden Gem of Kerala's Backwaters



Munroe Island is a hidden gem offering serene backwater beauty, slow life, cultural richness, and eco-friendly exploration. If you’re in/near Kollam, this is a must‑visit for a truly immersive Kerala experience—far from the crowds of Alleppey.
📍 Location & How to Reach
Geography: A cluster of eight islets (total ~13.4 km²) at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake, around 25–27 km from Kollam city .
By Rail:
Train to Munroturuttu station (on the island) or Sathankotta (6 km + canoe).
Kollam Junction → ~20 min train (auto-taxi onwards), ₹800) .
By Road:
Taxi or self-drive from Kollam (~26 km), Trivandrum (~80 km).
Follow road via Kundara → Munroe–Chittumala road .
By Water:
Boat/ferry via Kerala State Water Transport (KSWTD) from Kollam jetty.
Backwater cruises from DTPC/Kollam Boat Club also available .
🕒 Best Time to Visit
October to March (Winter): Pleasant, dry, ideal for cruises & exploration .
June to September (Monsoon): Lush surroundings but heavy rains may limit activities .
March to May (Summer): Hot and humid, but good for festival-goers .
🚤 Things to Do & See
Canoe / Kayak Tours:
Paddle through narrow canals and mangrove arches on 2–3 hour guided trips.
Ideal for sunrise and sunset tours—most popular activity .
Backwater Cruises:
Traditional houseboat or motorboat excursions showcasing villages, lagoons, prawn farms, coir-making and daily life .
Visit Coir & Cashew Factories:
Witness traditional processes: retting, weaving, rope making .
Dutch Church (1878):
Iconic red-brick structure blending Dutch-Kerala architecture, set by Ashtamudi waters .
Kallada Boat Race:
Annual vallam kali held ~28 days after Onam; spectacular boat race visible from the island .
Walking & Cycling:
Village trails passing paddy fields, shoreline farms, and local homestays.
Bird & Wildlife Watching:
Spot kingfishers, herons, egrets, parrots around mangroves .


🏡 Stay & Local Experiences
Homestays:
Simple, immersive stays (~₹2 000–3 000/night), many with canoe/kayak included .
Resorts & Private Farms:
Options like Vini’s Farm (private island), resorts offering modern amenities and local cuisine .
Local Hospitality:
Guests serve farm-fresh meals on banana leaves, evening relaxation over beers, rooftop chillouts.
✅ Travel Tips
Be eco-friendly – use reusable bottles, avoid plastic, respect silence and nature .
Avoid booking during peak monsoon (June–Sept) unless you enjoy heavy rains.
Coordinate boat/auto pick-up through your homestay.
Ideal for peace seekers – not heavy nightlife; best for nature, culture, relaxation.



Wayanad Tourism - Way Beyond | Plan a getaway to Wayanad

Wayanad – Nature’s Enchanted Hideaway

Wayanad, nestled in the lush Western Ghats, is a dreamland of scenic wonders. Rolling blue hills stretch across the horizon, while sparkling waterfalls, emerald paddy fields, and dense forests paint a picture of untouched beauty. This highland district of Kerala is perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Wayanad offers much more than its serene landscape. Ancient rock formations, mysterious caves, and verdant valleys invite explorers, while adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking through forest trails, river rafting, and camping under the stars.

Whether you seek quiet retreats or adrenaline-filled adventures, Wayanad promises a refreshing escape into the heart of nature.


























Signature Video Kerala Tourism

In the midst of all that greenery is the rich embroidery of culture. Each thread perfumed with the scents of spices and an elegant legacy of traditions. Stop. Listen. The very air sings! Kerala, God’s Own Country, is more than just a land, a world. It is an experience.


Periyar- The Longest river in Kerala

Periyar River – The Lifeline of Kerala

The Periyar River, meaning "big river," is Kerala’s longest and most vital river. Spanning approximately 244 kilometers, it is not only the state’s longest river but also boasts the highest discharge potential. As one of the few perennial rivers in Kerala, it plays a central role in sustaining the state’s economy, ecology, and daily life.

This mighty river originates in the Western Ghats, with its source located in the remote forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, possibly near Chokkampatti Mala. Though there have been debates regarding its point of origin, the Supreme Court of India confirmed in 2014 that Periyar flows entirely within Kerala, and Tamil Nadu is not a riparian state.





A River of Many Roles

Periyar is often called the “Lifeline of Kerala” for the wide range of services it provides. It supplies drinking water to many major towns, including Kochi, which draws its water from Aluva, located upstream and free from seawater intrusion. The river is a vital source for irrigation, fisheries, and domestic use, supporting thousands of people along its course.

Crucially, the river also fuels the state’s energy needs. It powers the Idukki Hydroelectric Project, one of the biggest power sources in Kerala, with dams at Idukki, Cheruthoni, and Kulamavu. The Periyar also flows through areas of intense industrial activity, especially around Eloor and Edayar near Kochi, which hosts nearly 25% of Kerala’s industries.



The Journey of the Periyar

From its forested origin, the river flows through rugged valleys and ridges, receiving tributaries like the Mullayar River near Mullakudy. At this point, the Mullaperiyar Dam forms the Periyar Lake and supports the Periyar National Park, a rich wildlife habitat.

A portion of the river's water is diverted eastward to Tamil Nadu for agricultural and power generation purposes under the Parambikulam-Aliyar Project (PAP) agreement. This inter-basin transfer supports the Vaigai River basin in Tamil Nadu.

Downstream, the river flows through Vandiperiyar, Elappara, and Ayyappancoil before entering the Idukki Reservoir. From here, it journeys northward and is joined by tributaries like Perinjankutty and Muthirapuzha, flowing through Neriamangalam and into the Ernakulam district.

At Aluva, the river splits into two major distributaries – the Mangalapuzha and Marthandavarma branches. The Mangalapuzha joins the Chalakudy River and flows into the Lakshadweep Sea, while the Marthandavarma branch meanders through industrial zones like Udhyogamandal before merging into the Vembanad Backwaters at Varapuzha.



Tributaries of the Periyar

Major tributaries:

  • Mullayar

  • Muthirapuzha

  • Cheruthoni

  • Perinjankutty

  • Edamala

Minor tributaries include:

  • Chinnar

  • Kattappanayar

  • Muthayar

  • Perunthuraiar

Although the Chalakudy River is geologically a tributary of the Periyar, it is usually treated as an independent river in administrative records.


A Symbol of Life and Progress

The Periyar is more than just a river—it is the heartbeat of Kerala’s development and environmental balance. From powering cities and industries to nourishing farms and forests, it continues to flow through the cultural and ecological fabric of the state. Protecting this vital waterway is crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for Kerala.


Thattekad- area attracted with the highest number of birds in India.

Thattekad – Kerala’s Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Nestled in the lush green heart of Kerala, Thattekad is a serene destination located in the Kothamangalam taluk of Ernakulam district, about 60 kilometers from Kochi. Resting between two branches of Kerala’s longest river, the Periyar, this area is elevated between 35 to 523 meters above sea level and spans around 25 square kilometers. It is best known for its famous bird sanctuary, which draws nature lovers and ornithologists from across the globe.


The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Thattekad's major attraction is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, established in 1983 by the Government of Kerala. The sanctuary is named after Dr. Salim Ali, India’s legendary ornithologist, who surveyed the area in the 1930s and described it as one of the richest bird habitats in peninsular India. His recommendation led to the preservation of this unique forested ecosystem.

The sanctuary is perched on the Njiyapilli Hill and features a vibrant mix of evergreen and deciduous forest, marshes, and grasslands. It supports an astonishing 280+ species of birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Birds and Wildlife

Among the many birds found here are the crimson-throated barbet, black-winged kite, night heron, grey heron, sunbirds, bee-eaters, cuckoos, woodpeckers, and the jungle nightjar. The rare Sri Lanka frogmouth and Malabar grey hornbill also call Thattekad home. Alongside birds, the surrounding forests shelter elephants, sloth bears, leopards, and various other mammals.

Visiting the Sanctuary

Visitors must be accompanied by licensed guides, who are knowledgeable about the terrain and bird species. Guides typically charge around INR 1000 per day and assist in securing entry permits. The sanctuary also offers unique accommodation options:

  • Watchtower stay: A basic two-bed facility with a kitchen and restroom, perfect for immersive experiences.

  • Dormitory and Forest Department guesthouse: Ideal for larger groups and families.

How to Reach Thattekad

Thattekad is accessible by multiple modes of transport:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (Nedumbassery).

  • By Train: The closest railway station is Aluva, from where taxis or buses can be hired.

  • By Road: Regular buses connect Ernakulam to Kothamangalam, and from there, local buses or taxis reach Thattekad.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to explore Thattekad is between September and March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. The area experiences:

  • Winter (Sep–Jan): Cool and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.

  • Summer (Feb–May): Warmer, between 24°C and 32°C, but still suitable for early morning birding.

  • Monsoon (Jun–Aug): Heavy rainfall transforms the region into a lush green paradise, though trekking may be limited.

Nearby Attractions

Thattekad’s strategic location makes it a great base for exploring other scenic destinations such as:

  • Alleppey Backwaters

  • Cardamom Hills

  • Periyar Tiger Reserve


A Sanctuary for the Soul

Thattekad is more than just a birdwatching site—it is a quiet retreat where nature reigns supreme. Whether you're an ornithologist, a trekker, or a curious traveler, Thattekad promises an unforgettable experience in the wild heart of Kerala.





Sulthan-Battery,Wayanad Tourism

Sulthan Bathery – The Historic Gateway to Wayanad

Nestled in the scenic highlands of Wayanad district in Kerala, Sulthan Bathery is the largest town in the region and a key hub for tourism, trade, and travel. Located at an altitude of about 930 metres above sea level, the town is surrounded by lush hills and is well-connected to major cities like Kozhikode (98 km), Mysore (115 km), and Ooty (100 km), lying along the Kozhikode-Kollegal National Highway.


Jain Temple,Sulthan-Batter

A Glimpse into the Past

Originally known as Ganapativattom, the town was once home to the Kidangan tribe, which is why it was also called Kidanganadu. The present name Sulthan Bathery dates back to the 18th century when Tipu Sultan of Mysore invaded the region. He used a centuries-old Jain temple here to store ammunition, leading to the town being referred to as the “Battery of the Sultan.” While no remnants of the fort built by Tipu Sultan exist today, the name remains a lasting tribute to its storied past.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Sulthan Bathery is rich in cultural heritage and is home to several historic temples and monuments. The 13th-century Jain Temple, a classic example of Jain architecture, is a major tourist attraction. Apart from being a place of worship, it also holds historical significance due to its use by Tipu Sultan during his military campaigns.

Another landmark is the ancient Ganapathi Temple, believed to be over a thousand years old. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is deeply revered by locals. The Mariyamman Temple, mainly visited by tribal communities, reflects the indigenous spiritual traditions of the area.


Tourist Attractions in and Around Sulthan Bathery

Sulthan Bathery serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural and historical wonders of Wayanad:

  • Edakkal Caves: Situated on the nearby Ambukuthi Hills, these prehistoric caves feature petroglyphs and carvings dating back thousands of years.

  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread across lush forests, this sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and several bird species.

  • Ambalavayal Heritage Museum: Displays artifacts of the region's tribal and historical legacy.

Nearby, travelers can also explore:

  • Chembra Peak – the highest peak in Wayanad, ideal for trekking.

  • Pookot Lake – a serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests.

  • Chethalayam Waterfalls – a hidden gem known for its natural charm.

  • Phantom Rock – a naturally formed rock resembling a human skull.

  • Kuruva Island – a riverine island rich in biodiversity.

  • Thirunelli Temple – an ancient temple nestled in the Brahmagiri Hills.

  • Pakshipathalam – a birdwatcher's paradise tucked inside dense forests.

Life and Economy

The population of Sulthan Bathery includes a mix of tribal and non-tribal communities, with agriculture being the mainstay of the economy. The town is a bustling center for trade in spices, coffee, pepper, and other local produce. Over the years, Sulthan Bathery has grown into a popular destination for tourists, trekkers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.

Jews of Kerala


The Jewish Legacy in Kerala: A Chronicle of Migration and Harmony

Kerala holds a unique place in world history as one of the oldest homes of the Jewish diaspora. While there is no unanimous agreement on the precise date of the arrival of Jews in Kerala, several traditions and historical references offer compelling glimpses into their long-standing presence in this coastal land.

One widely believed tradition among the Cochin Jews states that a large group of Jews migrated to the Malabar Coast after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 A.D., with nearly 10,000 Jews believed to have arrived in Kerala. Another tradition traces Jewish roots in the region back to the 6th century B.C., suggesting they were among those exiled by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, later freed by Cyrus of Persia, and subsequently ventured to India in search of peace and opportunity. A third theory proposes their arrival from Majorca in 370 A.D., having been displaced by the Roman Emperor Vespasian.

Christian oral traditions of Kerala assert that when St. Thomas the Apostle arrived at Muziris (modern-day Kodungallur) in 52 A.D., he stayed in the Jewish quarter, indicating that an organized Jewish settlement already existed there. While all of these accounts remain part of a rich oral and cultural memory, the first verifiable written evidence of Jewish presence in Kerala is the Jewish Copper Plate Grant of 1000 A.D., issued by Bhaskara Ravi Varman, the Chera ruler. This royal charter bestowed significant rights and privileges upon Joseph Rabban, the Jewish leader of the trading guild of Anjuvannam, indicating not only their political acceptance but also their socio-economic importance in medieval Kerala.

The Jews of Kerala, like many other communities, likely migrated from India’s eastern coastline, settling in Kerala for reasons ranging from trade and commerce to political asylum. Unlike other Jewish communities elsewhere, the Cochin Jews were small in number and integrated peacefully into Kerala’s multicultural society. There is also speculation that many early Jews may have embraced Christianity, which could explain the presence of Jewish customs and Aramaic language among Kerala's early Syrian Christians. Aramaic, notably, was the liturgical language of Jews from Iraq and remains in use in some traditional Christian prayers in Kerala to this day.

From the 16th century onwards, White Jews—mostly Sephardic Jews from Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands—settled in Kerala, especially in Cochin. However, the Jewish community faced severe threats during Portuguese rule, which was marked by religious intolerance. The Portuguese destroyed the Jewish quarter in Cranganore, vandalized synagogues, and even partially demolished the Cochin Synagogue in 1661. The arrival of the Dutch soon afterward changed their fortunes. The Dutch East India Company, which took control of parts of Kerala, was more religiously tolerant, allowing Jews to rebuild their communities and places of worship.

One of the most significant historical records of that era comes from Moses Pereira de Paiva, a Dutch Jew who visited Cochin in 1686. According to his testimony, there were ten synagogues and about 500 Jewish families in and around Cochin at the time, clearly indicating a vibrant and organized community.

Under British colonial rule, the Jews of Kerala continued to enjoy a period of peace, trade opportunities, and protection. However, the political creation of the State of Israel in 1948 marked a turning point in the community’s history. Between 1948 and 1955, almost 85% of the Jewish population in Kerala, mostly Malabari (Black) Jews and Brown Jews, emigrated to Israel. They are today referred to as "Cochini Jews" in Israeli society. Only a small group of White Jews chose to remain in Kerala.

By 1961, there were just 359 Jews left in Kerala, and of the several historic synagogues once thriving with activity, only two remained in use — the Paradesi Synagogue in Mattancherry, built in 1567, and another in Parur (North Paravur).

The Present Condition

Today, the Jewish population in Kerala has dwindled to fewer than 50 individuals, many of them elderly. The community faces a number of challenges, including the difficulty of finding marriage partners locally, leading many young Jews to move to Israel, particularly to the Kiryat Shmona settlement, where the Cochin Jewish diaspora has a significant presence. Another issue they once faced was the lack of a qualified "shohet" (ritual butcher) for preparing kosher meat, though a solution was later found.

Despite the reduced numbers, the legacy of Kerala’s Jews lives on in the architecture, language, culinary traditions, and historic records. The Paradesi Synagogue, a major heritage attraction in Mattancherry, is still maintained and visited by thousands every year. Its ornate interiors, hand-painted Chinese tiles, gold pulpit, and ancient scrolls serve as living relics of a once-thriving Jewish tradition in Kerala.

Cultural Contributions

The Jews contributed richly to Kerala’s trade, particularly in spices, and also maintained harmonious relations with Hindus, Christians, and Muslims throughout history. Their music, rituals, and religious customs blended elements of both Jewish tradition and Indian culture, making the Cochin Jews one of the most culturally unique Jewish communities in the world.

The Hill Palace, Kerala's first heritage museum

Hill Palace, Tripunithura – A Royal Legacy Preserved in Time

Hill Palace, located in Tripunithura near Kochi, is a treasure trove of Kerala's regal past and cultural heritage. Originally built in 1865 by the Maharaja of Kochi, this grand structure served as the official residence and administrative office of the royal family. Today, it stands as Kerala’s first heritage museum and the largest archaeological museum in the state, attracting history lovers, scholars, and tourists alike.



Spread across 52 acres of serene, elevated terrain, the palace complex comprises 49 traditional buildings constructed in Kerala’s architectural style. These buildings are surrounded by beautifully terraced gardens, a well-maintained deer park, and even provisions for horse riding—making the site a blend of historical grandeur and natural beauty.

Hill Palace is home to an impressive Ethno-Archaeological Museum, which exhibits a wide array of rare and valuable artifacts. On display are oil paintings, stone and wooden sculptures, mural works, ancient inscriptions, coins, palm leaf manuscripts, and royal furniture, including the ornate royal throne or Simhasana used by the Maharaja of Kochi. Visitors can also see personal belongings of the royal family that reflect their opulent lifestyle and taste in art and culture.

Among the most fascinating displays are over 200 antique pieces of pottery and porcelain imported from Japan and China. The archaeological section showcases Kudakkallu (umbrella stones), Thoppikkallu (hood stones), menhirs, burial monuments, and weapons from the Stone Age. Models of wooden temples and plaster cast replicas from Indus Valley Civilisation sites like Mohenjodaro and Harappa also form part of the rare collection. The contemporary art gallery within the museum provides space for modern artistic expressions, ensuring that tradition and innovation coexist.



The palace complex also supports biodiversity, with a wide variety of flora including rare medicinal plants. The Children’s Park within the premises offers recreation for families and children visiting the site.

Visitor Information:

  • Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
    (Closed on Mondays)

  • Children’s Park Timings: Open until 6:00 PM

  • Entrance Fee: Adults – ₹30 | Children (5–12 years) – ₹10

  • Contact: +91 484 2781113

Getting There:

  • Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam – approx. 10 km

  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport – approx. 33 km

Cherai Beach – Where the Sea Meets Serenity

Cherai Beach – Where the Sea Meets Serenity

Cherai Beach, nestled on the northern tip of Vypeen Island in Ernakulam district, is one of Kerala’s most serene and scenic coastal stretches. Just about 25 km from the bustling city of Kochi, this charming beach is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural flavor, and calm backwaters, making it a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike.

Known for its golden sands and gentle waves, Cherai Beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. The beach is relatively safe and clean, attracting families and solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat. The shallow waters extend quite a distance, making it a swimmer’s paradise, even for beginners.


What makes Cherai Beach truly unique is the stunning convergence of sea and backwaters. On one side you have the vast Arabian Sea, and on the other, tranquil backwaters lined with green paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, and small fishing hamlets. This rare meeting of landscapes gives Cherai its distinct charm.

The coastline is often dotted with vibrant seashells of all shapes and colors, drawing the attention of nature lovers and photographers. Occasionally, if lucky, visitors might even spot playful dolphins gliding through the waters—a delightful and memorable experience.

Adding to the coastal charm are the traditional Chinese fishing nets gently swaying on the waterfront and thick coconut groves that offer a picturesque backdrop to the beach. The sunset views from Cherai Beach are mesmerizing, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple.

Nearby, local vendors offer fresh seafood delicacies and refreshing coconut water, enhancing the coastal experience. The beach also has facilities for water sports, resorts and homestays, making it an attractive destination for a relaxed weekend getaway.

How to Reach Cherai Beach:

  • Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction – around 25 km

  • Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport – approx. 30 km

  • By Road: Accessible via Vypeen Island through Goshree bridges or by ferry services from mainland Kochi

Whether it’s for a quiet evening by the waves, a swim in the sea, or soaking in the tropical beauty, Cherai Beach offers a refreshing slice of coastal Kerala, where the sea gently embraces the soul.



The Great Hornbill, The state bird of Kerala

The Great Hornbill – Majestic Guardian of Kerala's Forests

The Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis), also known as the Greater Indian Hornbill, holds the prestigious title of state bird of Kerala. Known for its striking appearance and majestic presence, it is the largest member of the hornbill family and a true symbol of Kerala’s rich natural heritage.



Habitat and Range

This magnificent bird is a resident of Kerala’s evergreen forests, particularly in the Western Ghats. Its distribution extends far beyond the state, ranging from Western India through Indochina, down to Malaysia and Sumatra. The Great Hornbill is typically found in dense forests from sea level up to 5000 feet (1524 meters) in elevation.

Physical Features

The Great Hornbill can grow up to 1.4 meters (4.5 feet) in length, making it an unmistakable presence in the treetops. Its black plumage, contrasted with white-tipped wings and a white tail banded in black, adds to its visual grandeur. A standout feature is the enormous yellow bill topped with a casque – a hollow, helmet-like structure that is often used during flight displays and courtship. The casque, although solid-looking, is mostly hollow and is believed to be a product of sexual selection.

The neck is encircled with a yellow ruff, and males have red eyes, while females display blue eyes. Their legs are short, but they possess broad feet suited for gripping large tree branches.


Diet and Behavior

Though primarily frugivores, Indian Hornbills are also omnivorous. They feast on a wide variety of fruits and berries, swallowing them whole and later regurgitating indigestible parts like seeds and bones. In addition to fruits, their diet includes insects, small reptiles like lizards and snakes, and even bird nestlings.

Great Hornbills are known for their strong pair bonds and elaborate nesting rituals. The female nests inside the hollow of a large tree, and the entrance is sealed using mud, feces, and bark, leaving only a small slit through which the male feeds her. She remains sealed in for weeks, during which she undergoes a complete moult, only emerging when the chicks are partially grown. A typical clutch contains one or two eggs, incubated over 38 to 40 days.

Conservation Status

Despite their powerful presence, Great Hornbills are under threat. They are currently listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. In Kerala, their primary danger is habitat destruction due to deforestation and shrinking forest cover. In other parts of India and Southeast Asia, they are also hunted for their meat, medicinal use, and decorative casque.

Symbol of Conservation

Efforts are being made by forest departments and wildlife organizations in Kerala and across India to protect the Great Hornbill and its habitat. They are not just birds but important indicators of healthy forest ecosystems. Their survival is tied closely to the survival of the Western Ghats and its rich biodiversity.

The Great Hornbill, with its grandeur and ecological significance, is more than just a state bird — it is a living emblem of Kerala’s wild legacy. Protecting it means protecting the forests, the culture, and the natural spirit of the land.


Athirappilly Waterfalls

Athirappilly Waterfalls – Kerala’s Majestic Cascade

Athirappilly, nestled on the eastern side of Chalakudy in Thrissur district, is one of Kerala’s most stunning natural attractions. Known for its dramatic 42-meter high waterfalls, Athirappilly lies at the edge of the Sholayar forest range in the Western Ghats, amidst lush greenery and tropical rainforests.

This breathtaking location sits about 300 meters above sea level and spans across nearly 15,000 hectares of rich forest. These include evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous riparian forests, forming one of the most ecologically significant regions in South India. Athirappilly is part of the Vazhachal Forest Division, which also includes Charpa, Vazhachal, Kollathirumedu, and Sholayar forest ranges.

Athirappilly is internationally recognized as a biodiversity hotspot. It shelters numerous endangered and endemic species of plants and animals. Unique in its low-altitude forest landscape, the area is especially significant for biologists and nature lovers. The region is home to rare wildlife including the lion-tailed macaque, Asiatic elephants, tigers, leopards, sambar deer, bison, and four species of hornbills—including the Great Hornbill, Kerala’s state bird.



The mighty Chalakudy River, originating in the Anamudi hills of the Western Ghats, flows through the forest and tumbles over rugged rocks to form the spectacular Athirappilly waterfalls. These segmented falls are around 220 meters wide and consist of three streams, creating a roaring sight especially during the monsoon.

The area is also the traditional home of the Kadar tribe, one of Kerala’s indigenous forest-dwelling communities. The Kadars are skilled in sustainable collection of forest produce like honey, wax, and medicinal plants.

With over 300 species of flowering plants—24 of which are endemic to the Western Ghats—and several rare fish and bird species, Athirappilly is a paradise for ecologists. The Chalakudy River alone supports 85 freshwater fish species, with many of them being found nowhere else.

Visitors can explore nearby attractions like Vazhachal Waterfalls, Charpa Falls, Anakkayam, Thumpurmuzhi Gardens, Sholayar and Peringalkuthu Dams, and even go on eco-trails into wildlife sanctuaries like Parambikulam and Malayattoor. Adventure activities like trekking and river rafting also attract thrill-seekers.

Athirappilly is accessible by road and lies about 63 km from Thrissur, 30 km from Chalakudy, and 55 km from Cochin International Airport. The nearest railway station is Chalakudy, 31 km away, while Ernakulam and Thrissur are major rail hubs within easy reach.

The best time to visit is between September and February, when the weather is cool and the waterfall is at its most majestic.




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KERALA-Outline

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Kerala is the most popular state in South India. Kerala was founded by merging the numerous Malayam speaking regions in south India on1 November 1956. Spreading across an area of 38,863 km sq Kerala shares its borders with Karnataka in the north, Tamil Nadu in the south and the Lakshadweep in the west. Thiruvananthapuram serves as the capital of the state. Also known as Gods Own Country Kerala is the favorite tourist spot of many Indian and foreign travelers. There are 14 districts in Kerala. Based on certain cultural, historical and geographical similarities the districts of Kerala are grouped into; Malabar Region North Kerala), Kochi Region (South Kerala) and Travancore (Central).

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