The Chalakudy River in Kerala
amidst pristine Sholyar ranges of Western Ghats roars in the form of
Athirapilly, Vazhachal and Charpa falls mesmerizing and awakening the love
towards nature in every individual who visits this place. Adding to the
awesomeness of waterfalls here; the thick forest in Sholyar ranges, the
peaceful environment, the chirping of birds, the wildlife and the tribal
communities have blended best with the forces of nature to make the nature enthralling
all the time of the year.
It was mid Feb, 2013. We decided
to visit Athirapilly, when Kerala summer was at its peak. We started from Aluva,
reached Chalakudy and then got into a bus that goes towards Valparai hill
station. As soon as bus entered Sholayar ranges, weather drastically changed
from high humid to lovingly cool. After an awesome journey of 1 hr in Sholayar
ranges we reached Athirapilly falls. The very view of falls, we all fell in
love with that place.
Athirapilly; rightly called as Indian Niagara. The falls can
be enjoyed at two sites; one is the top stream that flows as waterfalls and the
other one is astonishing view of Chalakudy River plummeting from 80ft as
Athirapilly falls. It is astounding to stare at the waterfalls from the bottom
and enjoying the sprinkle of water on our faces. The cool spray that covers the
large area near the falls makes Athirapilly a scenic location. Combined with
the natural greenery, it infuses freshness into our tired souls. Enjoyed the picturesque
beauty of Athirapilly in summer and played happily in top stream.
Second visit to Athirapilly was during rainy season, sometime
in the mid June. The monsoon view was breathtakingly beautiful. The charms then
cannot be described in words, roaring from the high ranges, and crashing through
gorges overhung with trees, Chalakudy River turns out to be the best place in
India to re capture a real sense of classical idea of the picturesque - not
just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural. It’s really a treat for
the eyes during the monsoon to see Athirapilly roaring. It seems to be an
amazing phenomenon, majestic river gurgling, abundance of water, the thundering
of waterfalls, the plunge down from a staggering height of over 80ft and rejuvenating
flora and fauna of Sholayar ranges.
At a distance of 3 Kms from Athirapilly is magnificent
Charpa waterfall formed by rushing rain water from top hill during monsoon. The
flow is very close to the road and creates mist to fall on the people. We chose
to walk from Athirapilly to Charpa. Truly an enchanting walk amidst thick
forests of Sholayar ranges. The feel of being so close to nature is bliss and
ecstasy.
Roar of Sholayar doesn’t just end here. Vazhachal, amidst
Ayurvedic plant garden maintained by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation is
one wonderful sight where Chalakudy River rigorously flows down the rocky
slopes. The Ayurvedic garden beside Vazhachal waterfalls is well maintained. We
enjoyed the walk around medicine garden and the length of Vazhachal waterfalls
to the best. Cherishing the wonderful day spent in Sholyar ranges, we made our
way back to our stay.
DreamsComeTrue Tips :
- Ticket taken at Athirapilly remains valid for Vazhachal falls.
- There is no direct bus from Ernakulam or Trissur, one has to go to Chalakudy town, and then take the bus that goes towards Valparai hill stations, and there are enough buses. If it’s a one day trip don’t miss to catch the last bus at 5.30PM from Vazhachal.
- Night driving is not advised in Sholayar ranges due to animal traffic.
- Lot of homestays to stay near Athirapilly but not economical.
- Vegetarians are advised to carry food.
- “High turbulance, Enjoy the beauty by just seeing it and not playing with it.”
Map :
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