Athirappilly Water Falls

Located 60 km from the Thrissur district of Kerala, Athirapally Falls is a marvellous cascade of frothy waters that makes its way from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats. This 80 ft high and 330 ft wide marvel is situated at the entrance of the Sholayar ranges and is often referred to as the "Niagara Falls of India". From here, the Athirapally falls flows through the verdant greenery of Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea, creating a spectacular vista of scintillating water, emerald jungles and azure sky. 

When you land in Athirapally, you are greeted with the sight of charming green Sholayar Peaks peering over the rushing gush of the falls. Standing against the backdrop of a rustling jungle foliage, the scenery is as picturesque as it can get. Bird lovers cannot miss this place, for it is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. There is a pool above the falls where you can relax and unwind. To get a view of the waterfall, one needs to get down from the mountain for about 100 meters.

Another interesting fact to note is that the fall joins forces with the Chalakkudy river before reaching its final destination into the sea. Owing to its scenic beauty, it is one of the most popular picnic spots in Kerala. There are a couple of water theme parks on the way to Athirappilly called Silver Storm and Dream World and many resorts as well.

The precarious yet thrilling pathways up to the falls is a treat for mountaineers who are looking for a quick adventure. The trek routes are very well maintained and you get to savour a spectacular view of the falls thoughout. Colourful birds and lots of monkeys will keep you company throughout the way, and if you're lucky some Samba deer might pay you a visit as well! Washrooms are available throughout the way for the convenience of the travellers. There is a path which takes you right to the base of the falls where the view is simply amazing. However, security personnel is deployed there, so be careful when you access this part of the trek. 

Though monsoon season provides the best views, trekking to the falls becomes difficult. The favourable time to visit the Athirapally falls, when you can enjoy both the beauty and the thrill, are from the month of September- January.

Meesapulimala

Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in the Western Ghats of Idukki district (Kerala) on the Indian subcontinent after Anamudi. Its peak is 2,640 metres (8,661 ft) above sea level.The name derives from the fact that it is formed of eight peaks which spread like a "Moustache" and it is located in between the Anaimalai Hills and Palani Hills near Suryanelli around 20km away from Munnar. Kolukkumalai tea estate, Top Station and Tipadamala (2135m) is also nearby.

The beauty of Meesapulimala has to be enjoyed through trekking. The 8 kilometre long trek from the Rhodovalley, 15 kilometres from Munnar town, offers the trekkers breathtaking views of the grasslands, rainforests and wildlife present at the high altitude. Rhodovalley is named thus due to the red rhododendron trees, which bloom here.

Though the trek is long, it is average. The treks start from the campsite at the base of the first hill. From here it continues on to the mesmerizing forests of the Shola grassland. The trail begins to get a little steep, just about 10 minutes from start. In no time you would be at the peak of the first of the eight hills. From the cloud-kissed mountain tops, you would get a picturesque view of Munnar and Surianelli towns.

A point to be noted is that the beautiful purple Kurinji flower (Neelakurinji), blooms once in every 12 years (the next would be happening in the year 2020). And so plan your trip coinciding with this phenomenon and get a magical view of this from the peaks of Meesapulimala.