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Every now and then, Bollywood introduces us to a travel destination that lingers in memory long after the credits roll. Athirappilly Falls in Kerala is
one such location – an 80-feet cascade that has played backdrop to some of Indian cinema’s most unforgettable moments. The opening sequence of the epic drama film Bahubali which looked straight out of a fantasy? Shot here. Aishwarya Rai dancing in the rain in the song Barso Re from Guru? Same spot. Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta’s evergreen Jiya Jale from Dil Se? Yes, Athirappilly again. Even Mani Ratnam couldn’t resist, and he came back here for Raavan. The falls have had more screen time than some side characters.
More Than A Movie Location
But the real magic hits when you step beyond the screen. Nestled in Kerala’s Thrissur district, Athirappilly is nicknamed the Niagara of India, and it earns the title. When you stand here, you can feel the mist hitting your face, hear the sound of the Chalakudy River crashing down, and soak yourself in the magic of the aesthetic forest backdrop. Walk down to the base, and the falls tower above you with a power that is both intimidating and soothing.
Around the falls, the Sholayar ranges stretch endlessly. On a monsoon day, it feels like all raw power, and in summer, the falls soften into calm, ideal for a quiet escape. The journey to the falls is even more beautiful than the destination itself. The short trek down is shaded by towering trees, surrounded by fresh air, and you can feel the suspenseful roar of water getting closer. It is also a go-to picnic spot, perfect for lazy walks, chilling by the river, or just vibing with your loved ones against the backdrop of nature’s breathtaking gem.
Vazhachal, The Quieter Sibling
Just 5 kilometers from Athirappilly, Vazhachal is the quieter sibling, but no less stunning. Instead of a vertical plunge, the water races here over wide rocky beds, making it feel more raw and untamed. It is a paradise for bird lovers and an Instaworthy wildlife spot. You might spot the endangered Great Hornbill here, too. During the winters, the falls wrap in mist and make the whole place feel cinematic. Whether you are here to trek, birdwatch, or just sit back – Vazhachal makes the trip feel like a double feature.
More To Discover Around The Falls
Athirappilly is not just a one-stop show. Around the corner, there lies Charpa Falls, bringing in its own beauty, the famous Thumboormuzhi Hanging Bridge for those selfies, and the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre if you want to see those gentle giants up close. Drive a little further and you will hit the dreamy Malakkappara Tea Gardens and the Sholayar Dam. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the Chimmini Sanctuary has got you covered, and the Munakkal Beach by the Arabian Sea is the go-to place for all the photography lovers chasing the perfect shot.
So yes, Bollywood made Athirappilly famous. But the reason it should be on your travel list is because no camera can capture what it feels like to stand there in real life, hearing the roar, and breathing in the mist. As you walk through the rainforests around, chase waterfalls, spot the wildlife, and sip tea in the hills, you might find yourself humming Jiya Jale because how can you not?
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