Kambhavurutty Falls: Scenic Waterfall Holiday Destination of Kerala

It is located in a lush tropical setting on the gorgeous Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni forest route. This offbeat waterfall in the middle of a dense jungle is a top scenic waterfall holiday destination of Kerala. The route you take to hike to the waterfall from the main forest highway is also frequented by elephants, gaurs and other wild animals and birds. And the hike takes you across multiple streams and gradients. Thus giving its visitors lots of adventure and joy even in the short 10 to 15 minute forest trek. I am talking about Kambhavurutty Falls located in the Konni reserve forest whose herbal waters make for a rejuvenating waterfall bath amidst the dense jungle of the Western Ghats. And thus making it perfect for a nature holiday in Kerala with family and friends.



Kambhavurutty falls offers a heady mix of a scenic drive, a short jungle trek, a picturesque location and a waterfall that is perfect for that relaxing bath in the middle of the forest. The adventure begins as soon as you park your car by the entrance and you start climbing the well marked out forest trail. Pretty soon, you step into the jungle stream that cross crosses the trekking trail and then you climb a hillock up and down to be greeted with the stunning sight of the Kambhavurutty Falls that falls from a wide rock while being surrounded by lush forests. A metal walkway takes you to the bottom of the waterfall where you can choose to bath under the waterfall shower that is being permitted or the one that has water force to your liking. After your relaxing bath under the thundering waterfall, you can relax on a rock with a book in hand, conduct a photo session with your family and friends, find a nice well shaded place and catch a short siesta. In all, a fabulous location for a weekend getaway in South Kerala, especially during the monsoon season or right after.



If you carry a picnic basket with you along with some towels, swim wear and a pair of sunglasses, you will treat yourself to a divine and rejuvenating waterfall holiday. As this place is managed by the Kerala forest department, you will have to buy entrance tickets for all the members in your group and parking ticket for your vehicle. You can park your vehicle on the side of the road that also doubles up as the forest highway. There is hardly any infrastructure here, but you may find a simple toilet and a street vendor or two selling local fruits and hot tea. A 10 minute walk through the forest on a lush trail crossing few streams will take you to Kambhavurutty Falls from the ticket counter. The hike and the final flight of stairs can get slippery when it rains, so do exercise caution.



Both Kambhavurutty falls and Manalar falls, further along the forest highway towards Mekkarai are proper jungle waterfalls and hence care should be taken to protect the waterfall and jungle surroundings from any pollution. So, do ensure to carry your trash with you (including dirty diapers) and do refrain from smoking and drinking inside the forest. And most importantly, do keep an eye out for elephants and other wild animals, especially if it happens to be raining or there is a thick mist cover. If you take care of the above, you will possibly enjoy a surreal jungle environment and have a ball of a waterfall holiday.

Best season to visit:



Kambhavurutty falls looks its best during the monsoon season from June to October. This is when the waterfall carries copious amounts of water and the vegetation is dense and lush. This time is perfect for trekking to the waterfall and enjoying its beauty, but might not be best to get under the waterfall for a bath. There is also the threat of leeches during this time of the year. Between November and February, the vegetation will continue to remain lush, the water force would be lower and the water much clearer. This would mean that you can enjoy the waterfall fully. Threat of leeches will also be lower at this time of the year. During March to May, the water levels would be lower and the heat and humidity would be higher. Reaching the waterfall will make you sweat, but a bath under the cool waters of the waterfall would make it worth the effort.

How to reach there:



If you are traveling from Konni, take the forest route via Achankovil to reach Kambhavurutty Falls. This route also happens to be the most scenic.

If you are traveling from Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur or Kollam, take the road via Punalur –> Vettithitta –> Cherukadavu Dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil –> Kambhavurutty Falls.

If you are traveling from Thenmala, take the road via Ottakal –> Edamon –> Valcode –> Cherukadavu Dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil –> Kambhavurutty Falls.

If you are traveling from Shencottai, Tenkasi or Tirunelveli direction, take the road via Shencottai to Elathur –> Panboli –> Mekkarai –> Kerala Forest Check Post –> Manalar Falls –> Kambhavurutty Falls.

Where to stay:



There are a few budget hotels in and around Achankovil (about 8 kms away) for those looking to stay inside the reserve forest. There are a few resorts and homestays in and around Mekkarai (about 8 kms away) that offer simple accommodation with the best views. For a diverse range of decent hotels, head to Tenkasi (about 25 kms away).

If you prefer to stay amidst nature, try the resorts in and around Courtallam, the accommodation inside Thenmala Eco Zone (Kerala) or the forest accommodation inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

For luxurious options, head to Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu or Kollam/Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.

Where to eat:



The nearest place to eat would be either Achankovil in Kerala (about 10 kms away to the west) or Shencottai in Tamil Nadu (about 15 kms to the east). There are restaurants that serve basic tiffin and meals here. For more diverse options, Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu would be your nearest hub.

Other nearby tourist attractions:



1) Manjolai: The unknown hill station gem of India

2) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycle route through pristine forest

3) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

4) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

5) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

6) Puliyarai View Point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

7) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

8) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

9) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar Temple at Tenkasi

10) Manalar Falls: The herbal jungle waterfall of Kerala



11) Rosemala View Point: Gorgeous motorcycling route inside Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala

12) Thenmala Forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway

13) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

14) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

15) Lesser known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

16) Achankovil Saastha Temple: That happy Lord Ayyappa in the middle of pristine jungle

17) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

18) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

19) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

20) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East Monsoon



21) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

22) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

23) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

24) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

25) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

26) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

27) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep South

28) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

29) Hidden pristine waterfall inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

30) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana



31) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India

32) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

33) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

34) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

35) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

36) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

37) Thamirabharani river delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness

38) 10th Century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

39) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea Shore magic

40) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route



41) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

42) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

43) The Festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

44) The exotic tropical fruits of Puliyarai

45) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

46) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

47) Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple: World’s richest Hindu temple

48) Shangumugham Beach: The tranquil and divine beach of Thiruvananthapuram

49) Thiruparappu Falls: Gorgeous monsoon spectacle near Kanyakumari

50) Mathoor Aqueduct and Hanging Bridge: An offbeat wonder nestled in the mountains near Kanyakumari

51) Kappil Beach: Sandy beauty hemmed in between the sea and the backwaters

52) Varkala Beach: The stunning cliff beach of Kerala where you can wash away all your sins

53) Meenmutty Falls inside Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful tropical jungle trail

54) Ponmudi: The offbeat hill station of Kerala with a 360 degree mountain panorama

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Manalar Falls: The Herbal Jungle Waterfall of Kerala

It is a heavenly pit stop on the gorgeous Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni forest route. It’s location is fairly offbeat and hence it does not attract a lot of crowd. It’s lush environment is perfect for a nature holiday with family and friends. It’s herbal waters make for a rejuvenating bath amidst the dense jungle of the Western Ghats. I am talking about Manalar Falls, the stunning herbal jungle waterfall of Kerala.



Situated in the Konni reserve forest of Kerala, the Manalar falls is located deep inside the jungle and the location is so pristine that footprints of elephants and other wild animals are seen at this location quite often. Manalar falls offers a beautiful mix of a scenic drive, a short jungle trek, twin waterfalls and a lovely swimming pool at the base of the waterfall perfect for that relaxing dip inside the forest. One of the twin waterfalls is smaller in size, which makes it perfect for young children and elderly folks and the other one, which is a bit further up is perfect for adults, rowdy teenagers and those who love some thrill and adventure. The bigger Manalar waterfall is perfect for those people who love to feel the forceful waters of the waterfall on their head and back and then take a breather while wallowing in the swimming pool at the bottom of the waterfall.



If you carry a picnic basket with you along with some towels, swim wear and a pair of sunglasses, you will treat yourself to a divine and rejuvenating waterfall holiday. As this place is managed by the Kerala forest department, you will have to take buy entrance tickets for all the members in your group and parking ticket for your vehicle. You can park your vehicle on the side of the road that also doubles as the forest highway. There is hardly any infrastructure here, but you may find a simple toilet and a street vendor or two selling some local fruits and hot tea. A 10 minute walk through the forest will take you to the two waterfalls from the ticket counter. The hike can get slippery when it rains, so do exercise caution.



Both Manalar Falls and Kambhavurutty falls, further along the forest highway towards Achankovil are proper jungle waterfalls and hence care should be taken to protect the waterfall and jungle surroundings from any pollution. So, do ensure to carry your trash with you (including dirty diapers) and do refrain from smoking and drinking inside the forest. And most importantly, do keep an eye out for elephants and other wild animals, especially if it happens to be raining or there is a thick mist cover. If you take care of the above, you will possibly enjoy a surreal jungle environment and have a ball of a waterfall holiday.



Best season to visit:

Manalar falls looks its best during the monsoon season from June and October. This is when the waterfall carries copious amounts of water and the vegetation is dense and lush. This time is perfect for trekking to the waterfall and enjoying its beauty, but might not be best to get under the waterfall for a bath. There is also the threat of leeches during this time of the year. Between November and February, the vegetation will continue to remain lush, the water force would be lower and the water much clearer. This would mean that you can enjoy the waterfall fully. Threat of leeches will also be lower at this time of the year. During March to May, the water levels would be lower and the heat and humidity would be higher. Reaching the waterfall will make you sweat, but a bath under the cool waters of the waterfall would make it worth the effort.



How to reach there:

If you are traveling from Konni, take the forest route via Achankovil to reach Manalar Falls. This route also happens to be the most scenic.

If you are traveling from Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam or Punalur, take the road via Punalur –> Vettithitta –> Cherukadavu Dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil –> Manalar Falls.

If you are traveling from Thenmala, take the road via Ottakal –> Edamon –> Valcode –> Cherukadavu Dam –> Chempanaruvi Falls –> Achankovil –> Manalar Falls.

If you are traveling from Shencottai, Tenkasi or Tirunelveli direction, take the road via Shencottai to Elathur –> Panboli –> Mekkarai –> Kerala forest check post –> Manalar Falls.



Where to stay:

There are a few budget hotels in and around Achankovil (about 8 kms away) for those looking to stay inside the reserve forest. There are a few resorts and homestays in and around Mekkarai (about 8 kms away) that offer simple accommodation with the best views. For a diverse range of decent hotels, head to Tenkasi (about 25 kms away).

If you prefer staying amidst nature, try the resorts in and around Courtallam, the accommodation inside Thenmala Eco Zone (Kerala) or the forest accommodation inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve.

For luxurious options, head to Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu or Kollam/Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.



Where to eat:

The nearest place to eat would be either Achankovil in Kerala (About 10 kms away to the west) or Shencottai in Tamil Nadu (about 17 kms to the east). There are restaurants that serve basic tiffin and meals here. For more diverse options, Tenkasi in Tamil Nadu would be your nearest hub.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycling route through pristine forest

2) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

3) Kutralam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

4) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely Brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

5) Puliyarai view point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

6) Sivasailam temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

7) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

8) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar temple at Tenkasi

9) Kambhavurutty Falls: Pristine jungle waterfall in the middle of dense forest

10) Thenmala Forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway



11) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

12) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

13) Lesser known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

14) Achankovil Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

15) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

16) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

17) Aryankavu Saastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

18) Rosemala: Spectacular view point of the Thenmala reservoir

19) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

20) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve



21) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

22) Manjolai: The offbeat hill station of Tamil Nadu

23) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon

24) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

25) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

26) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south

27) Cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

28) Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple: Magnificent 10th century temple with an ashtanga vimana

29) 10th Century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple: Lesser known architectural marvel of South India

30) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

31) Kallidaikurichi: The village of the saaral season

32) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

33) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

34) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

35) Thamirabharani river delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness

36) 10th Century Valiswara Temple at Thiruvaliswaram: Hidden Chola gem in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu

37) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea shore magic

38) Kallidaikurichi to Manimuthar Dam: A top scenic and rustic cycling route

39) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

40) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

41) The festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

42) The exotic tropical fruit shops of Puliyarai

43) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

44) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

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Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s Herbal Waterfall that drops like milk from the sky

This water body flows through medicinal herbs and plants in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and Kerala before plunging down from a height of 300 feet deep in the forests of Kerala. It offers a beautiful mix of adventure, rich forest experience, a herbal bath under a waterfall, a short uphill trek and lots of nature. I am talking about the gorgeous Palaruvi falls that is located inside the Thenmala forest of Kerala.

     
    
Located near the village of Aryankavu in the Kollam district of Kerala, Palaruvi Falls is formed deep inside the Thenmala forest where the Kallada river plunges from a height of 300 feet in a frothy stream of milk. The entrance to Palaruvi falls is right on the highway connecting Aryankavu with Kollam. When you travel from Aryankavu to Kollam, the entrance falls to your left, just a few kilometers from Aryankavu. A short distance ahead is the parking lot where you can buy the entrance tickets. Private vehicles are not allowed to the waterfall and all visitors have to compulsorily opt for the forest bus service that plys regularly between the parking lot and the waterfall entrance.    
   
     
    
This forest bus journey lasting about 20 minutes takes you deep into the forest and where the road meanders along the Kallada river. As you enjoy the lush terrain and the beautiful trees while getting slightly irritated by the bumpy bus ride, you are dropped at the end of 20 minutes at the waterfall main entrance from where you need to hike uphill for about 20 to 30 minutes depending on your stamina. There is a small cafe at this main entrance where you can find some food and beverages. Beyond this cafe, you will find anything to eat or drink and the route to the waterfall is completely plastic free, which means that you cannot discard any plastic items and sometimes the forest department might not allow you to carry any plastic items.

For the uphill trek, I would recommend that you make it right to the top with as few a stops as possible. This will be a great workout and you can enjoy the waterfall view from the top most view point while you allow your heart rate to come back to normal. After catching your breath on the top and after clicking umpteen pictures of the waterfalls and its surroundings, you can start making your descent and head to the bathing area. Here, you can rejuvenate yourself in the herbal waters of the waterfall and the pool below it. It is best to watch your step while bathing as the water current can be a bit strong at times and the rocks are usually slippery.
   
     
    
The cold waters of the waterfall and the mountain stream feel so good after the sweaty hike to the top most view point from the waterfall entrance and it is this moment that makes it totally worth it. The herbal bath along with the thundering roar of the waterfall and the lush forest views make it a stunning experience. Some hot banana fritters with a cup of hot coffee at the local cafe is a perfect way to end your trip to Palaruvi Falls.
   
     
    
Palaruvi Falls is a perfect location for a waterfall holiday day trip near Trivandrum and Kollam in South Kerala. The herbal waterfall that drops like milk from the sky amidst dense greenery is a sight to behold and to bathe under it is a different experience altogether. I would recommend this gem of a waterfall to all those who like nature getaways.    
   
     
    
Visiting Hours:

8 AM to 6 PM

Entrance Fees

Per Adult – INR 25
Per Adult for Bus Ride – INR 30

Per Car for parking – INR 70
   
     
    
Things to keep in mind while visiting Palaruvi Falls:

1) The entire Palaruvi Falls is strictly a ‘NO PLASTIC’ zone. Hence, do carry your food items and beverages in stainless steel or non plastic containers/bottles

2) The monkeys of Palaruvi are known to be rowdy when it comes to food items. Do not open your food or eat your food in front of them. Also, do not try to feed them as they are wild animals

3) Leeches can be found on the hike to Palaruvi Falls, especially during the wet season. Do exercise caution

4) After the cafe at the waterfall entrance, there is no food or water available anywhere. Do carry your snacks and water with you as you will need it

5) The waterfall area and the pool below it has a strong current. The rocks are also slippery. Do watch your step. There are forest guards to help you out in case you need any help

6) Do not use shampoo, soap or oil while bathing as this water source serves up as the drinking water for the people living down stream

7) The forest bus doesn’t leave till the bus is filled up. Do plan your itinerary accordingly   
   
     
    
Best season to visit:

Palaruvi falls usually has water from June through February. February to May is the dry season and there is hardly any water or just a faint trickle. It is best to avoid these three months. During days of heavy rainfall, the waterfall can contain copious amounts of water and at this time, bathing might be restricted. However, hikes to the waterfall and to the view points are usually allowed. It is best to check in with the Kerala Forest Department – Thenmala Ecotourism team about current ground conditions before you embark on your trip.
   
     
    
How to reach there:

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram international airport, about 90 kms away.

The nearest railway station is Aryankavu, about 6 kms away. The nearest large railway stations are Kollam (84 kms), Shencottai (22 kms) and Trivandrum  (88 kms) away. For a convenient journey from the station to your destination, you can opt for a car rental in Trivandrum, ensuring a smooth and flexible travel experience.

Buses plying on the Kollam – Shencottai route will drop you at the entrance to the Thenmala ecotourism office. From here, you will have to walk till the parking lot.  
   
     
    
Where to stay:

There are a few basic accommodation options inside Thenmala forest. You can stay there if proximity is your main criteria.

If you wish to stay close to the Arabian Sea, look up hotels in Kollam, Varkala and/or Thiruvanathapuram. Luxury properties are also available at these locations.

If you wish to stay in rustic Tamil Nadu, I would recommend staying at the guest houses and resorts in and around Courtallam.

If you wish to stay in traditional Brahmin agraharams, I would recommend trying the homestays or guest houses at the villages of Shencottai, Alwarkurichi or Kallidaikurichi.
   
     
    
Where to eat:

There is a cafe at the waterfall entrance where they dish out basic snacks and beverages. If you wish to have meals, I think you should head to Aryankavu or any of the hotels on the highway.

For slightly more elaborate meals, you should try the restaurants at either Tenkasi, Punalur, Kollam or Thiruvanathapuram.

You can also stock up on fruits at the exotic tropical fruit shops of Puliyarai.    
   
     
    
Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop

2) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

3) Lesser Known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for Nature Lovers

4) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

5) 13th century Kasi Visvanathar Temple at Tenkasi

6) Kappil Beach: Sandy beauty hemmed in between the sea and the backwaters

7) Kollam: A coastal town known for its beaches, light houses, backwaters and riverine islands

8) Varkala Beach: That stunning  cliff beach of Kerala where you can wash all your sins away

9) Ponmudi: That offbeat hill station of Kerala with a 360 degree mountain panorama

10) Poovar Island: A romantic gem in Kerala

11) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple at Papanasam: Where you can wash all your sins away

12) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

13) The hidden gem called Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

14) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

15) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

16) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

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