While heavyweights like Athirappilly and Meenmutty dominate social media feeds, Kerala’s rugged Western Ghats are hiding far more secretive, untouched cascades. These secluded spots exchange tourist crowds, commercial tea stalls, and paved pathways for raw forest trails, ancient folklore, and crystal-clear swimming pools. If you want to dodge the mainstream itineraries and experience the raw, untamed beauty of God’s Own Country, here are five hidden waterfalls in Kerala that remain beautifully off the beaten path.
5 Hidden Waterfalls In Kerala You Can Explore
1. Marmala Waterfalls, Kottayam
Located near Erattupetta en route to the Vagamon hill station, Marmala is a spectacular cascade that falls into a deep, misty pool. Because it sits secluded within dense vegetation and private plantation lands, it has completely escaped commercial tourism.
2. Paloor Kotta Waterfalls, Malappuram
Tucked away in Kadungapuram village, Paloor Kotta is a stunning, double-decker waterfall surrounded by an amphitheatre of dense green cliff sides. According to local history, the legendary Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan famously used the natural seclusion of these falls as a strategic hideout from his enemies.
3. Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Idukki
Named after a local tribal leader, Thommankuthu is a unique series of seven distinct steps, creating a brand-new waterfall and deep natural pool at each level. Managed by the Forest Department under strict eco-tourism guidelines, it remains pristine, clean, and beautifully preserved.
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4. Anayadikuthu Waterfalls, Idukki
Located close to the more commercialised Thommankuthu, Anayadikuthu remains its quiet, vastly overlooked sibling. The name translates to the place where elephants jump, originating from local stories of wild elephant herds roaming the area.
5. Dhoni Waterfalls, Palakkad
Situated inside the Dhoni Hills reserve forest area near Palakkad town, you can't simply drive up to this waterfall. Access is highly regulated by the Forest Department, ensuring the surrounding biodiversity and native wildlife remain completely unbothered by commercial crowds.
Image credits: Freepik
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