Are you looking for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature in its purest form? If yes, then you should visit Marmala Waterfalls, a hidden gem in Kerala that will take your breath away.
Marmala Waterfalls is a stunning waterfall located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, India. It is situated at a height of 60 meters and cascades down into a deep pool surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall is fed by the Meenachil River, which originates from the Western Ghats and flows through the Vagamon hills. The waterfall is accessible by a 2 km trek through a scenic forest path that offers a glimpse of the rich flora and fauna of the region.
The best time to visit Marmala Waterfalls is from September to March, when the monsoon rains fill the river and the waterfall is at its full glory. The weather is also pleasant and ideal for trekking and camping. You can enjoy the soothing sound of the water, the cool breeze, and the mesmerizing views of the waterfall and the valley. You can also indulge in some adventurous activities such as rappelling, rock climbing, and zip-lining, or simply relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Marmala Waterfalls, such as how to reach, where to stay, what to do, and more. We will also share some tips and tricks to make your trip memorable and hassle-free. So, read on and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala.
How to Reach Marmala Waterfalls
Marmala Waterfalls is located about 13 km from Erattupetta, a town in the Kottayam district of Kerala. You can reach Erattupetta by road, rail, or air, depending on your preference and budget.
By Road:
Erattupetta is well-connected by road to major cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. You can take a bus, taxi, or self-drive to Erattupetta from your location. From Erattupetta, you can hire a jeep or an auto-rickshaw to reach the base of the waterfall, which is about 7 km away. From there, you have to trek for another 2 km to reach the waterfall.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to Erattupetta is Kottayam, which is about 38 km away. Kottayam is a major railway junction that connects to various destinations in India. You can take a train to Kottayam from your location and then take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to Erattupetta. From Erattupetta, you can follow the same route as mentioned above to reach the waterfall.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Erattupetta is Cochin International Airport, which is about 76 km away. Cochin International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India that serves both domestic and international flights. You can take a flight to Cochin from your location and then take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to Erattupetta. From Erattupetta, you can follow the same route as mentioned above to reach the waterfall.
Tips and Precautions
Here are some tips and precautions to keep in mind while visiting Marmala Waterfalls:
1. The road to the waterfall is narrow and bumpy, so drive slowly and carefully.
The waterfall is located in a private property, so you have to pay a nominal entry fee of Rs. 20 per person.
2. The waterfall is open from 8 am to 5 pm, so plan your trip accordingly.
The waterfall is not safe for swimming, as the pool is deep and the current is strong. Do not venture into the water or near the edge of the cliff.
3. The waterfall is surrounded by leeches, especially during the monsoon season. Carry salt, turmeric, or tobacco to ward them off.
4. The waterfall is also home to various insects and animals, such as bees, snakes, and monkeys. Do not disturb them or feed them.
5. The waterfall is a natural and sacred site, so respect the environment and the local culture. Do not litter, smoke, drink, or play loud music.
6. The waterfall is a secluded and remote place, so carry enough water, food, and first-aid kit. There are no shops or restaurants nearby.
The waterfall is a popular spot for adventure seekers, so you may find some groups or guides offering activities such as rappelling, rock climbing, and zip-lining. If you are interested, make sure to check their credentials and safety measures before signing up.
Best Time to Visit Marmala Waterfalls
Marmala Waterfalls is a year-round destination, as the waterfall never dries up. However, the best time to visit Marmala Waterfalls is from September to March, when the monsoon rains fill the river and the waterfall is at its full glory. The weather is also pleasant and ideal for trekking and camping.
Alternative Activities or Attractions
If you are visiting Marmala Waterfalls during the off-season or in case of unfavorable weather or circumstances, you can still enjoy some alternative activities or attractions in the vicinity, such as:
Visit the nearby Teekoy Rubber Estate, a sprawling plantation that produces natural rubber. You can learn about the history and process of rubber cultivation and extraction, and witness the workers tapping the latex from the trees. You can also buy some fresh and organic rubber products from the estate.
Explore the nearby Vagamon Hills, a hill station that offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the rolling hills, green meadows, pine forests, and misty valleys. You can also indulge in some activities such as paragliding, trekking, camping, and boating.
Visit the nearby Poonjar Palace, a royal residence that showcases the history and culture of the Poonjar dynasty. You can admire the architecture and the artifacts of the palace, such as the wooden carvings, the mural paintings, the crystal lamps, and the weapons. You can also see the replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple and the Thazhikakkudam Temple within the palace complex.
Things to Do at Marmala Waterfalls
Marmala Waterfalls is not just a place to admire the beauty of nature, but also a place to enjoy some fun and exciting activities. Whether you are an adventure lover, a nature lover, or a culture lover, you will find something to suit your taste and interest at Marmala Waterfalls. Here are some of the things you can do at Marmala Waterfalls:
Trekking:
The trek to the waterfall is one of the main attractions of Marmala Waterfalls. The trek is about 2 km long and takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trail is steep and rocky, but also scenic and rewarding. You will pass through a dense forest that is home to various plants and animals. You will also get a glimpse of the local life and culture of the people living in the area. The trek is suitable for beginners as well as experienced trekkers, as long as you are fit and careful.
Camping:
If you want to spend more time at Marmala Waterfalls and experience the beauty of the night, you can opt for camping at the base of the waterfall. You can pitch your own tent or rent one from the local guides or operators. You can enjoy the starry sky, the bonfire, and the stories of the locals. You can also wake up to the soothing sound of the waterfall and the chirping of the birds. Camping at Marmala Waterfalls is a great way to connect with nature and yourself.
Rappelling:
If you are looking for some adrenaline rush, you can try rappelling at Marmala Waterfalls. Rappelling is a sport that involves descending from a height using a rope and a harness. You can rappel down the waterfall and feel the thrill of the water splashing on your face. You can also rappel down the rocks and cliffs near the waterfall and enjoy the view of the valley. Rappelling at Marmala Waterfalls is a challenging and exhilarating activity that will test your skills and courage.
Rock Climbing:
If you are not satisfied with rappelling, you can also try rock climbing at Marmala Waterfalls. Rock climbing is a sport that involves ascending a rock face using your hands and feet. You can climb up the waterfall and feel the power of the water pushing you back. You can also climb up the rocks and cliffs near the waterfall and enjoy the view of the forest. Rock climbing at Marmala Waterfalls is a demanding and rewarding activity that will improve your strength and stamina.
Zip-lining:
If you want to experience the thrill of flying, you can try zip-lining at Marmala Waterfalls. Zip-lining is a sport that involves sliding from one point to another using a cable and a pulley. You can zip-line across the waterfall and feel the breeze and the spray of the water. You can also zip-line across the valley and enjoy the view of the hills and the river. Zip-lining at Marmala Waterfalls is a fun and adventurous activity that will make you feel like a bird.
Equipment and Essentials
Here is a list of the equipment and essentials required for each activity at Marmala Waterfalls:
Trekking: You will need a pair of comfortable shoes, a backpack, a water bottle, a hat, a sunscreen, a camera, and some snacks.
Camping: You will need a tent, a sleeping bag, a flashlight, a matchbox, a knife, a cooking utensil, a food item, and some water.
Rappelling: You will need a rope, a harness, a helmet, a carabiner, a descender, and a pair of gloves.
Rock Climbing: You will need a rope, a harness, a helmet, a carabiner, a belay device, a pair of shoes, and a chalk bag.
Zip-lining: You will need a cable, a pulley, a harness, a helmet, and a pair of gloves.
Dos and Don’ts
Here are some dos and don’ts for each activity at Marmala Waterfalls:
Trekking: Do follow the trail and the guide. Do respect the nature and the locals. Do carry your trash back. Don’t wander off or get lost. Don’t harm or feed the animals. Don’t pluck or damage the plants.
Camping: Do choose a safe and flat spot for your tent. Do keep your food and belongings secure. Do light a fire only in a designated area. Don’t camp near the edge of the cliff or the water. Don’t leave your fire unattended. Don’t make noise or disturb others.
Rappelling: Do check your equipment and safety measures. Do listen to the instructions and signals. Do rappel slowly and steadily. Don’t panic or lose control. Don’t rappel without a partner or a guide. Don’t rappel in bad weather or low visibility.
Rock Climbing: Do check your equipment and safety measures. Do listen to the instructions and signals. Do climb with proper technique and balance. Don’t overestimate your abilities or take risks. Don’t climb without a partner or a guide. Don’t climb in bad weather or low visibility.
Zip-lining: Do check your equipment and safety measures. Do listen to the instructions and signals. Do zip-line with confidence and fun. Don’t be afraid or nervous. Don’t zip-line without a partner or a guide. Don’t zip-line in bad weather or low visibility.
Marmala Waterfalls is a hidden gem in Kerala that will enchant you with its beauty and charm. Whether you want to relax and rejuvenate, or have some fun and adventure, you will find something to suit your taste and interest at Marmala Waterfalls. You can trek to the waterfall, camp at the base, rappel down the cascade, climb up the rocks, or zip-line across the valley.
You can also visit some of the nearby attractions such as the Teekoy Rubber Estate, the Vagamon Hills, and the Poonjar Palace. Marmala Waterfalls is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Marmala Waterfalls and discover one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala. And don’t forget to share your experience and feedback with us. We would love to hear from you.