From Athirappilly to Palaruvi; 8 spectacular waterfalls to visit in Kerala this summer

Indian summers can be brutally hot, sending everyone scrambling for the nearest cool getaway. Most people assume that waterfalls are only worth a visit during the monsoon, but Kerala is a bit of an exception. Thanks to its dense canopy and hilly terrain, plenty of the state's waterfalls keep flowing right through the hottest months. Far from being dried-up disappointments, these waterfalls offer beautiful hikes, and a literal breath of fresh air.

If you're heading down south and want to escape the heat, here are eight amazing waterfalls in Kerala that actually deliver in the summer.

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People call this the "Niagara of India", it is the largest waterfall in Kerala. While the monsoon turns the Chalakudy River into a terrifyingly beautiful torrent, summer is arguably the best time to actually enjoy Athirappilly.

Because the water volume drops, this 80-foot cascade reveals the intricate, rugged cliffs underneath. It's much safer to get close, making it a dream for photographers. Keep an eye on the tree line, too, it's a massive hotspot for hornbills.

Getting there: It's roughly a 60 km drive from Thrissur and 50 km from the Cochin airport. If you're taking the train, get off at Chalakudy and grab a taxi.

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If you're taking a road trip up to Munnar, you'll literally pass right by this one. Cheeyappara is a massive, seven-tiered waterfall right on the side of the Kochi-Munnar highway.

What makes it special is that it rarely dries up, thanks to the thick evergreen forests feeding its underground springs. You don't have to endure a grueling trek in the heat to see it, either. Just pull the car over, stretch your legs, and enjoy the mist.

Getting there: Located directly on NH-85, it's about 40 km before you hit Munnar and 90 km from the Cochin airport.

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Tucked away in the Kannan Devan Hills, Lakkam is a lifesaver on a hot afternoon. Because the water originates high up in the Eravikulam grasslands, it stays absolutely freezing no matter how intense the summer sun gets.

The water crashes down over boulders into crystal-clear pools that are perfect for dipping your feet into. You'll even get a free pedicure, the tiny fish in the shallows love to gently nibble on visitors' toes.

Getting there: It's a scenic 26 km drive from Munnar heading toward Marayur. Cochin is the closest airport (about 130 km away).

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Not a fan of massive crowds? Thommankuthu is your spot. Hidden deep in the jungle near Thodupuzha, this isn't just one waterfall, it's a chain of seven smaller ones.

Summer is actually the perfect time to visit because the water slows down enough to create calm, lazy pools. The thick forest canopy acts like natural air conditioning, making the surrounding hiking trails super comfortable even in May.

Getting there: Roughly 20 km from Thodupuzha town, and an 80 km drive from Cochin airport.

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Wayanad has more famous waterfalls, like Soochipara, but the forest department often restricts access to them during peak summer. Kanthanpara is your reliable, crowd-free backup plan.

It’s a beautiful 100-foot drop surrounded by tea and coffee estates. The short walk from the road takes you through these quiet bamboo groves. Because the water flow is manageable in the summer, you can really take your time and soak in the quiet, intimate vibe.

Getting there: Super accessible, just 8 km from Meppadi and 19 km from Kalpetta. If you're flying, Calicut is the nearest airport.

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Palaruvi literally translates to "Stream of Milk," and looking at this 300-foot drop, the name makes total sense. While it’s intensely powerful during the rains, summer turns Palaruvi into a graceful, tall cascade with a massive swimming pool at the bottom.

Local legend says the water has medicinal properties since it flows through miles of wild herbs upstream. Whether you buy into the folklore or not, standing under that freezing water on a humid day is absolute magic.

Getting there: Located near Aryankavu, it's about 75 km from Kollam. Trivandrum is your best bet for an airport.

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If you don’t mind hiking a bit, Thusharagiri is calling your name. Fed by the Chalippuzha River in the foothills of the Western Ghats, this place is essentially a network of hidden cascades.

Summer dries out the muddy trails, making the trek under the shady trees really pleasant. The lower pools are incredibly safe for a quick swim, but if you're feeling adventurous, you can hike further up the trail to find more secluded falls.

Getting there: Around 50 km from Kozhikode city via Kodencheri. Calicut is the nearest airport.

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Instead of plunging off a steep cliff, Perunthenaruvi spreads out over a massive, wide rocky riverbed before funneling into a deep gorge.

The name means "Honey Stream," a nod to the beehives that used to cover the surrounding woods. Because it’s so wide, the calmer summer flow lets you walk out onto the rocks and really appreciate the landscape. It's blissfully uncrowded and always has a cool breeze coming off the Pampa River.

Getting there: Just a 26 km drive from Pathanamthitta. Thiruvalla is the closest railway station if you're taking the train.

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