Thommankuthu Falls
Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a breathtaking seven-step waterfall located amidst the thick forests of the Idukki district. Unlike a single vertical drop, this waterfall descends through a series of seven distinct levels or "kuthus," creating a spectacular visual of cascading white foam against dark ro cks. Each step has a natural pool at its base, some of which are safe for a refreshing dip. The name is derived from a local hunter named Thomman, who is said to have discovered the falls. The entire area is an eco-tourism destination managed by the Forest Department, ensuring that the natural habitat remains undisturbed. To see all seven steps, visitors must undertake a 12-kilometer trek through the dense forest, which is an adventure in itself. However, the first few steps are easily accessible for casual visitors. The forest is rich in biodiversity, and the trek offers chances to see rare butterflies, medicinal plants, and giant forest trees. The air here is incredibly pure, filled with the mist of the falling water and the scent of the moist earth. It is a preferred destination for those who enjoy trekking and want a more "raw" nature experience compared to the more commercialized falls in the region.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
4 to 5 HoursPlace Type:
Waterfall / TrekkingEntry Fees:
Forest Entry Charges: The entry fee is 20 for adults and 10 for children. For those wishing to do the long 12 KM trek, a guide is mandatory, and the charges are around 500 to 800 per group. Camera fees are 25 for mobiles and 100 for DSLRs. The fees collected contribute t...Forest Entry Charges: The entry fee is 20 for adults and 10 for children. For those wishing to do the long 12 KM trek, a guide is mandatory, and the charges are around 500 to 800 per group. Camera fees are 25 for mobiles and 100 for DSLRs. The fees collected contribute to the Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Forest Protection Committee) which employs local people to maintain the trails.Timing:
General Timings: The falls are open from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start your visit at 08:30 AM if you plan to do the full trek, as it takes several hours. Afternoon visits are better for a quick dip in the lower pools before...General Timings: The falls are open from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Start your visit at 08:30 AM if you plan to do the full trek, as it takes several hours. Afternoon visits are better for a quick dip in the lower pools before the park closes.Special Events:
World Environment Day: On June 5th, the Forest Department and local eco-groups organize special cleaning drives and sapling planting events at Thommankuthu. During the monsoon months of July and August, special "Monsoon Treks" are conducted for experienced trekkers to witn...World Environment Day: On June 5th, the Forest Department and local eco-groups organize special cleaning drives and sapling planting events at Thommankuthu. During the monsoon months of July and August, special "Monsoon Treks" are conducted for experienced trekkers to witness the falls in their most ferocious and beautiful state. These events are aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and forest conservation awareness among the visitors.Best Photo Spots:
The Third Step Bridge: Provides a perfect angle to see the water rushing towards you and then dropping to the next level.
Forest Canopy Backdrop: Taking photos on the trek path where the giant trees form a natural green archway.The Third Step Bridge: Provides a perfect angle to see the water rushing towards you and then dropping to the next level.
Forest Canopy Backdrop: Taking photos on the trek path where the giant trees form a natural green archway.
Long Exposure at Step One: The easiest spot to set up a tripod and capture the silky movement of the water over the dark rocks.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Forest Trekking: Undertake the full trek to see all seven levels of the waterfall; it’s a rewarding experience for the soul.
Bathing in Natural Pools: The lower levels have shallow, safe pools where you can enjoy a natural forest shower.
Bird Watching: The dense canopy is home to the Great Indian Hornbill and many other forest birds.
Nature Photography: The play of sunlight filtering through the dense trees onto the cascading water provides amazing shots.
Picnicking: There are designated spots near the entrance where families can sit and enjoy the forest atmosphere.
Learning about Flora: The trek path is lined with various species of wild orchids and giant trees like the Teak and Rosewood. ...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Unique Seven-Step Structure: It is famous for being one of the few multi-tiered waterfalls in Kerala where each tier is accessible via a forest trail. The adventure of trekking through 12 kilometers of pristine forest is a major draw for youth and trekking groups. It is a...Unique Seven-Step Structure: It is famous for being one of the few multi-tiered waterfalls in Kerala where each tier is accessible via a forest trail. The adventure of trekking through 12 kilometers of pristine forest is a major draw for youth and trekking groups. It is also famous as a picnic spot for locals from Thodupuzha and Muvattupuzha due to its cool environment. The presence of safe bathing pools in the lower steps makes it a popular weekend getaway. It represents the quintessential "Jungle Waterfall" experience that Kerala is known for globally. -
Architecture:
Natural and Rustic Elements: The "architecture" at Thommankuthu is primarily the work of nature, but the forest department has added minimal rustic structures. There is a small entrance gate and a ticket counter built using local stones and wood. A narrow forest path, app...Natural and Rustic Elements: The "architecture" at Thommankuthu is primarily the work of nature, but the forest department has added minimal rustic structures. There is a small entrance gate and a ticket counter built using local stones and wood. A narrow forest path, approximately 4 feet wide, winds through the trees for about 500 meters to reach the first level. Small wooden bridges, about 20 feet long, have been constructed over minor streams to facilitate the trek. The viewing platforms are simple clearings with wooden railings for safety. The focus is on maintaining the forest's original state, so there are no massive concrete structures near the falls. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 75 KMS away.
By Train: Aluva or Ernakulam Railway Stations are the nearest, located roughly 70 to 80 KMS from the falls.
By Road: It is 18 KMS from Thodupuzha t... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Thodupuzha Town (18 KMS), 2. Malankara Dam (22 KMS), 3. Uravappara Temple (20 KMS), 4. Ilaveezhapoonchira (35 KMS), 5. Vannappuram (10 KMS), 6. Kottoppara Viewpoint (15 KMS), 7. Meenuliyan Para (25 KMS), 8. Idukki Dam (50 KMS), 9. Moolamattom (30 KMS), 10. Keezharkuthu Falls (35 KMS).
Tourism Tips
-
Health and Safety: Be careful of slippery rocks; do not venture into deep parts of the pools if you don't know swimming.
Packing: Wear trekking shoes with good grip; carry salt or lime to protect against leeches during the rainy season. <...
Reviews
Thommankuthu Falls Tourism:-
Information about New and Updated Locations(891+) of Kerala Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Anayirangal Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Anchuruli Tunnel
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Attukad Waterfall
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Calvary Mount
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Cheeyappara Waterfall
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Cheruthoni Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Idukki Arch Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Idukki Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities