Marmala waterfalls - a hidden natural gem in Kottayam

marmala-waterfalls

Travellers hitting the roads in Kottayam district during monsoon may chance upon numerous bounties of nature. The Marmala waterfalls, a few kilometres away from Erattupetta, is one such and lucky explorers may find it concealed in a thick maze of trees and groves, but only committed explorers can enjoy this natural beauty.

Also read: 5 offbeat places to visit in Kottayam

While the road to Vagamon, a popular hill-station near Kottayam, is too trodden by tourists, this grand 60 meter waterfall gets limited number of visitors. It is not easy to reach there as it involves inevitable trekking of 2 km.

Moreover, public facilities are nonexistent in the remote area. No food or even snacks are available in the vicinity of 7 km. So it is advisable to pack light snacks with you for the trip.

view-to-marmala

Despite all the trouble, once you reach there, you will be taken over by the grandeur. The falls come to life during monsoons and how! The sound of the falling waters drowns out the visitors' noise and the splashes cover you in minute droplets and make the atmosphere misty.

However, the path being slushy and narrow, and the soil moist, one better be very cautious during the trek and even after reaching the spot. The huge rock formations surrounding the waterfalls are dangerously slippery and the water-body at least 12 meter deep.

Don't be disappointed if you couldn't bathe in the cool waters as there are two to four (depending on the rains and season) minor waterfalls on the way to Marmala. Make a stop on your way back at one of these and bathe to your heart's satisfaction in the pristine water.

minor-waterfall

How to reach: The nearest railway station is Kottayam (45 km). The nearest place with paved road is Teekoy, which is a rubber estate. From there it is a 5 km off-road ride and another 2 km trek.

road-to marmala

Nearby places to see: Vagamon, Vagamon Meadows and Pine Forest, Illikkal Kallu and Ilaveezhapoonchira.

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