Valattupara waterfalls is a well-kept secret of local 'tourists' around Moolamattom. Hidden well amidst destinations like Ilaveezhapoonchira, Carmel Mount, Maarikkuth waterfalls, Elappally falls, and Kulamavu Dam on the map, Valattupara fails to feature on the itinerary of travelers from outside Idukki district.
The minnow status makes Valattupara a less abused travel destination. Crashing down from a height of 500 ft, the water foams into a lathery milky-white spray and courses over rocks and boulders to the thrill of folks coming to the place for a weekend chill-out.
The falls originate from the Koovappally mountain ranges, rolls along Moonumkavayal and flows into the Malankara dam.
Water rolling down tiered rocks before thundering down for the plunge is a sight to behold.
Tourists can access the place by heading to the Kanjar-Moonumkavayal junction in Arakkulam, Moolamattom - the falls are 300 meters away from the junction.
Though the fading rains have dimmed the beauty and force of the falls, there’s no drop in tourist footfalls at the base. The Valattupara waterfalls will be alive and roaring until January. Authorities have set up tents and bamboo huts at the base to give tourists some privacy to change.
Lack of facilities is also another reason for the place failing to make a splash on the tourism map.
Note: At the time of publishing this article, motorable roads, lack of signs at vantage point, and facilities at the base were a concern.
Read the news in Malayalam @ Chuttuvattom
• Other must see places nearby
•5 things to buy
Flavored Tea - On return trip, remember to check the company outlets of tea plantations - they offer varieties of flavored tea powder, which are not available in the open market.
Tea leaves – They also offer tea leaves
*Essential oils, spices, herbs in bottle, and honey
*Homemade chocolates
Wooden spatulas and ladles, memorabilia and toys
(*Buy from government's direct or reputed shops to avoid picking up spurious items)
• Food to try and avoid
Various vegetables brined - You can buy them from the smallest wayside shops
Vegetable stews and curries – The vegetables used will be garden fresh
Meat items – Kerala parotta and beef/chicken/duck is a must try combination for non-vegetarians.
If someone offers to get you meat of wild animals, say 'No thanks' as it is illegal.
Avoid seafood - they might not be fresh. However, some resorts offer option to fish from the freshwater lakes or from their temporary farms.
Tea and coffee – the best option is to taste the tea from outlets of tea plantations before ordering for the flavor.
