Athirappally & Vazhachal Waterfall Tour with Lunch

Exploring Kerala’s natural beauty often means chasing waterfalls, and this Athirappally & Vazhachal Waterfall Tour promises just that—plus a few extras. While we haven’t personally crept behind the falls (yet), plenty of travelers have shared their experiences, revealing what makes this trip so special—and what to watch out for.

What we love about this tour is its combination of breathtaking scenery, the chance to spot wild elephants and exotic birds, and the convenience of an organized day trip that includes transport, lunch, and expert guidance. It’s a great option for those who want to see two of Kerala’s most iconic waterfalls without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

One small consideration is that, depending on the weather, the hiking trails and outdoor viewing points could be slippery or crowded, especially during peak seasons. Still, for anyone craving authentic nature encounters in a comfortable setting, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience mainly suits nature lovers, avid photographers, and families seeking a day immersed in scenic landscapes. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet adventure-packed outing to connect with Kerala’s lush environment, this tour makes a solid choice.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Visitors rave about the impressive heights and views of Athirappally and Vazhachal.
• Wildlife Encounters: The area is known for Indian elephants and exotic bird populations, making it ideal for animal enthusiasts.
• Hiking Opportunities: Optional treks from the top to the base of the falls offer close-up views and excellent photo ops.
• All-Inclusive Price: The $85 fee covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water, giving good value.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride through Kerala’s scenic roads.
• Expert Support: The tour is private, meaning it caters to your group, and booking support is highly praised.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start with Comfort: Pickup & Journey

The tour begins with a hotel pickup around 9 a.m., a convenient way to avoid the hassle of finding your own transportation. The drive from Kochi (Cochin) into the Western Ghats is scenic, with the vehicle comfortably air-conditioned, making the journey pleasant even in warm weather.

First Stop: Athirappally Waterfalls

The highlight for most visitors is Athirappally Falls, which drops around 80 feet (25 meters). It’s often called the “Niagara of India” for its impressive height and power. Several reviewers mention being speechless at the sheer beauty—”The most remarkable falls I have ever seen,” one noted.

This waterfall originates from the upper reaches of the Western Ghats, a mountain range renowned for its biodiversity. This means the area is a natural habitat for Indian elephants—a rare sight, but many travelers have reported spotting these gentle giants in the vicinity. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making them a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the views.

Visiting Vazhachal Falls & Reserve Forest

Next, you’ll head to Vazhachal Falls, a slightly different experience. This waterfall is tucked within a protected reserve forest, adding an extra layer of serenity and wildlife potential. One reviewer described it as “an awesome experience” and appreciated the chance to see exotic birds in their natural habitat.

The reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with some travelers noting the variety of avian species they observed. Plus, the dense forest backdrop lends a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely walk or a short trek.

Optional Trek & Scenic Views

For the more adventurous, the tour offers the possibility of hiking from the top of the waterfalls down the mountain slopes to the base. Reviewers highlight that along this trail, you get amazing landscape views and close-up photos of the waterfalls, making it a favorite feature for photography lovers. Keep in mind, though, that the trail might be steep or muddy depending on recent weather.

Lunch & Return

After absorbing the waterfalls and the wildlife, you’ll enjoy a local Kerala-style lunch at a nearby restaurant—an opportunity to sample authentic regional cuisine, often praised for its freshness and flavor. The tour concludes with the drive back to Cochin, arriving around 5 p.m., giving you ample time to relax or explore more of the city.

Transport & Practical Details

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the approximately 7-8 hour trip. The tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more flexible and personalized experience. The price of $85 per person includes all fees and taxes, lunch, bottled water, and entry to the waterfalls, making it a good value considering the full-day effort and scenery.

Booking on average seems to require about 36 days in advance, indicating strong interest and a well-organized operation. It’s also accessible for most travelers, with reviews indicating that nearly everyone can participate.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the tour for its stunning views and smooth coordination. One described it as a “speechless experience,” emphasizing the waterfalls’ remarkable beauty and the chance to see elephants and birds. Others appreciated the support from the team before and after booking, noting that the process was seamless.

Several reviews mention the quality of the support, with travelers feeling confident in the arrangements, and one even referring to the tour as a “premium service at an affordable price.”

The flexibility of hiking, the opportunity for wildlife sightings, and the scenic drive make this trip stand out as a well-rounded, authentic experience of Kerala’s natural charm.

The Sum Up

This Athirappally & Vazhachal Waterfalls tour offers a beautiful combo of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and culture. It’s ideal for travelers who crave an authentic nature escape, enjoy photography, or simply want a stress-free day exploring Kerala’s lush landscapes.

At $85, the tour provides excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of transport, meals, and entrance fees. The private format means your group can enjoy a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to take in the vistas and wildlife at your own pace.

If you’re after stunning waterfalls in a peaceful setting, with the chance to see elephants and exotic birds, this trip is a strong contender. Just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, a local lunch, and bottled water. Entrance fees for the waterfalls are also covered.

Can I trek from the top of the waterfalls?
Yes, there’s an option to hike from the top to the base of the waterfalls along mountain slopes, which offers close views and photo opportunities. Keep in mind it’s a trail suitable for most fitness levels but could be muddy or steep.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 to 8 hours, from pickup around 9 a.m. to return by approximately 5 p.m.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s flexible nature and wildlife encounters make it suitable for families with children. Just consider the hiking component for younger kids.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, a camera, sun protection, and possibly a rain jacket during monsoon seasons.

What are the main highlights?
The waterfalls, wildlife sightings (elephants, exotic birds), scenic landscapes, optional hikes, and authentic local lunch.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through Kerala’s scenic surroundings.

How do I book the tour?
Booking can be done through the provider’s platform, with most travelers booking about a month in advance. Contact details provided include a phone number and email for support.

Final Thoughts

This Athirappally & Vazhachal Waterfall Tour strikes a wonderful balance between adventure and relaxation, with breathtaking scenery as its crown jewel. It’s perfect for those who want a full day of exploring Kerala’s iconic waterfalls and wildlife without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Ideal for nature enthusiasts, families, and photography lovers, this tour delivers memorable views, authentic experiences, and good value—all wrapped into one scenic package. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just want a peaceful day surrounded by greenery, this trip offers an authentic slice of Kerala’s natural bounty.