Do you intend to go for a trek through dense forest and experience the thrill of seeing a scintillating waterfall up close? Then, proceed to Meenmutty Waterfalls. This serene view of water cascading from the golden peak of Ponmudi on the Western Ghats could be seen only after you take a long walk through the tropical woods.
The trek to reach the falls begins downstream at the Kallar village on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Walking through the trail, flanked by gigantic trees with their looping branches and roots forming a green canopy by themselves, is a refreshing experience. With every step you take forward, you move closer to Nature, away from honking cars and prying eyes. You don’t need any Google Maps or GPS support here, just walk up the trail and definitely human heads bob up ahead, marking the way for you.
Though it is an easy trail for any able-bodied human, don’t be too complacent. Watch your step as you climb up and down the path, while stepping over the boulders that dot the area and even in the aptly named Kallar river, and treading the thick roots and branches resting over the ground. For the most part of the trail, the stream keeps you company and there are multiple entry points to the waterbody, where you can take a break. Rest yourself on the black boulders, dip your foot in the crystal-clear water and bond with Nature like never before. Or if you are in a playful mood with a bunch of merrymakers for company, you can also bathe at these spots. But we would suggest that you reserve it for the return journey.
These pit stops also give you umpteen options to explore your photography skills. Once the photo ops are over, resume your walk, for which the Nature has laid down a path complete with stairs made of sturdy roots. And where Nature missed out on laying down steps, the Kerala forest department has fixed railings and stairs for you, even while taking care not to overtly wreck the greenery around. Just when you feel that you have taxed your legs enough, the boulders and lush green trees make way to clear sky and you will get to see the dazzling Meenmutty Waterfalls.
The roughly 2-km walk seems no more than a warm-up that prepares to open up your entire being to take in the beauty of Nature at its pristine best.
Meenmutty does not offer you a majestic waterfall like the one at Athirappilly in Thrissur district, but it nevertheless bowls you over. Visitors are barred from getting too close to the falls, but you can take in the beauty of the cascading water from a safe distance.
Best time to visit
Visit the Kallar waterfalls once the rains have subsided. The best time would be from mid-November to March when the sky is clear and the trail not too slushy.
How to get there
Kallar is about 45 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, the Kerala capital which is well connected by road, rail and air. Once in Thiruvananthapuram, drive down to Kallar or board the KSRTC buses that conduct regular services.
Nearby places
Kallar is on the way to Ponmudi, a hill station. People often visit Kallar before proceeding to Ponmudi. You can combine these trips to enjoy a wholesome vacation.
Read more about Kerala travel destinations
