Areekal Waterfall:
Areekal Waterfalls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Pampakuda panchayat of Ernakulam district in Kerala, India. It is a popular tourist destination, especially during the monsoon season.
What are Areekal Waterfalls?
Areekal Waterfalls is a cascade waterfall that drops over a height of about 100 feet. The water flows down a series of rocky shelves, creating a series of beautiful pools. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, which makes for a stunning setting.
Location and accessibility:
Areekal Waterfalls is located about 35 kilometers from Kochi city. It is accessible by road from both Kochi and Ernakulam. There are buses and taxis that ply from these cities to Areekal.
History:
The Areekal Waterfalls are said to have been formed millions of years ago, when the Western Ghats were uplifted. The falls have been a popular tourist destination for many years.
Geology:
The Areekal Waterfalls are located in the Western Ghats, which is a mountain range that runs along the western coast of India. The rocks that make up the falls are mainly granite and gneiss.
How to Get to Areekal Waterfalls:
Areekal Waterfalls are easily accessible by road. From Kochi city, take NH 47 to Piravom. From Piravom, take SH 66 to Pampakuda. The waterfalls are located about 5 kilometres from Pampakuda.
There are also a number of buses that ply between Kochi and Pampakuda. The nearest railway station is located in Aluva, which is about 25 kilometres from the waterfalls. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 45 kilometres from the waterfalls.
Where to Stay Near Areekal Waterfalls:
There are a number of hotels, homestays, and resorts located near Areekal Waterfalls. Some of the popular options include:
- Hotel Areekal: This hotel is located just 1 kilometre from the waterfalls and offers a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
- Areekal Homestay: This homestay is located in a quiet village setting and offers a homely atmosphere.
- Pampakuda Resort: This resort is located in a lush green setting and offers a variety of activities, including trekking, rafting, and kayaking.
Things to do at Areekal Waterfalls:
There are many things to do at Areekal Waterfalls. Here are a few of the most popular activities:
- Visiting the falls: The best way to experience the beauty of the falls is to simply take a walk to the viewing platform. From here, you can get a bird's-eye view of the falls and the surrounding area.
- Swimming in the pools: The pools at the base of the falls are a great place to cool off on a hot day. However, it is important to be careful, as the water can be slippery.
- Hiking in the surrounding area: There are several hiking trails in the area, which offer stunning views of the falls and the surrounding hills.
- Birdwatching: The Areekal Waterfalls are a great place to birdwatch. There are many different species of birds that can be seen in the area, including kingfishers, eagles, and owls.
- Camping: There is a campsite near the falls, which is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy the beauty of the falls in the evening.
Tips for visiting Areekal Waterfalls:
Here are a few tips for visiting Areekal Waterfalls:
- The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoon season (June-September). However, the falls are also beautiful during the other seasons.
- The falls can be crowded during weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the weekdays.
- It is important to be careful when swimming in the pools. The water can be slippery and there are rocks in the bottom.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. The trails can be slippery and uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.
- Be respectful of the environment. Do not litter or damage the plants and animals in the area.
Conclusion:
Areekal Waterfalls is a beautiful and refreshing place to visit. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. If you are looking for a fun and exciting day out, be sure to add Areekal Waterfalls to your list of places to visit.
FAQs:
- What is the best time to visit Areekal Waterfalls?
The best time to visit Areekal Waterfalls is during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the water level is high and the falls are at their most spectacular. However, the falls are also beautiful during the dry season, from October to May.
- How long does it take to reach Areekal Waterfalls from Kochi?
It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Areekal Waterfalls from Kochi by car. The distance is about 35 kilometres.
- Is it safe to swim in Areekal Waterfalls?
It is not safe to swim in Areekal Waterfalls during the monsoon season, when the water level is high and the currents are strong. However, it is safe to swim in the falls during the dry season.
- Are there any fees to enter Areekal Waterfalls?
There is no entry fee to visit Areekal Waterfalls. However, there is a parking fee of INR 50 for cars and INR 20 for motorcycles.
- What are the facilities available at Areekal Waterfalls?
There are a few basic facilities available at Areekal Waterfalls, including a parking lot, a restroom, and a few food stalls. There are no hotels or resorts located near the falls.
- What are the other places to visit near Areekal Waterfalls?
There are a number of other places to visit near Areekal Waterfalls, including:
- Piravom Town: This town is located about 10 kilometres from the falls and is known for its temples and churches.
- Alappuzha: This town is located about 45 kilometres from the falls and is known for its backwaters.
- Munnar: This hill station is located about 150 kilometres from the falls and is known for its scenic beauty.
- Thekkady: This wildlife sanctuary is located about 180 kilometres from the falls and is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.
- How can I book a tour to Areekal Waterfalls?
There are a number of tour operators that offer tours to Areekal Waterfalls. You can book a tour online or through a travel agent.
- What is the dress code for visiting Areekal Waterfalls?
It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that is appropriate for the weather. It is also a good idea to bring a hat and sunscreen.
- What are the dos and don'ts for visiting Areekal Waterfalls?
Here are some dos and don'ts for visiting Areekal Waterfalls:
- Do wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.
- Be respectful of the environment.
- Don't swim in the falls if the water level is high.
- Don't climb on the rocks near the falls.
- Don't litter.
- What are the opening and closing hours of Areekal Waterfalls?
Areekal Waterfalls are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. all year.
