Nature & Relaxation
Thusharagiri Falls
The Chalipuzha and Iruvanjipuzha rivers create three distinct falls at Thusharagiri. Trails through the surrounding forest include rope-assisted stream crossings and rock-hopping routes. Making it one of Kozhikode district’s more active nature destinations. Thusharagiri Falls is typically explored in about half day. The best time to visit is October to March. Nearby points of interest include Thumbithulli Falls, Kurichiyarmala Tribal Village Viewpoint, and Thusharagiri Waterfall. Other notable highlights include trek past the first fall to reach the second. Cascade, cross the shallow river on slippery rocks near the base.
Overview
The Chalipuzha and Iruvanjipuzha rivers create three distinct falls at Thusharagiri, and trails through the surrounding forest include rope-assisted stream crossings and rock-hopping routes, making it one of Kozhikode district’s more active nature destinations. Thusharagiri Falls is typically explored in about half day. The best time to visit is October to March. Nearby points of interest include Thumbithulli Falls, Kurichiyarmala Tribal Village Viewpoint, and Thusharagiri Waterfall. Other notable highlights include trek past the first fall to reach the second cascade, cross the shallow river on slippery rocks near the base, and spot cardamom and areca nut plantations along the trail. It falls within Kerala, India.
Highlights
- Trek past the first fall to reach the second cascade
- Cross the shallow river on slippery rocks near the base
- Spot cardamom and areca nut plantations along the trail
- Cool mist from the highest fall, called Thenpara
- Watch local guides navigate the steep, root-laden path
- Hear the roar of the falls from the small viewing bridge
Getting There
Things To Do
Village Spice and Rubber Plantation Walk
Take a guided stroll through the small hamlet of Thusharagiri, where locals grow pepper, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg alongside rows of rubber trees. You can stop at a family-run drying shed to see how rubber sheets are made, and buy fresh spices directly from the farmers.
1 hour
Traditional Kerala Lunch at a Local Homestay
Arrange a meal at one of the small homestays near the falls, where a local family serves a banana-leaf spread of rice, sambar, thoran, fish curry (if available), and fresh buttermilk. This is a chance to taste authentic Malabar cuisine and hear stories about the old timber floating days on the Chalippuzha River.
1 hour
Trek to the Second Waterfall (Thenpara)
Follow the well-trodden path from the base of Thusharagiri’s first cascade, winding through rubber and areca nut plantations, to reach the second tier of the falls. The trail includes a few gentle rock steps and a narrow wooden bridge, with the misty spray of the falls growing stronger as you approach.
1.5 hours (round trip from base)
Riverside Picnic at the First Waterfall (Chakkipara)
Spread a mat on the large, flat rocks near the base of the first waterfall, where the cool water pools into a natural bathing spot. This is the most accessible and safest place to relax, with the sound of falling water and the surrounding cardamom-scented forest creating a serene atmosphere.
1 to 2 hours
Birdwatching Along the Forest Edge Trail
Walk the quieter path that skirts the edge of the reserve forest, away from the main falls, where you can spot Malabar barbets, white-bellied treepies, and sometimes a crested serpent eagle. Carry binoculars and walk slowly, especially in the early morning, when the mist lifts and the canopy comes alive with calls.
1.5 hours
Trek to the Third Waterfall (Vellarimala Base)
The most challenging trail leads up the steep, rocky slope beyond the second fall, crossing the stream at two shallow points via slippery stones and exposed roots. The reward is the tallest of the three cascades, tumbling from a high cliff into a deep, green pool, often shrouded in drifting mist.
3 hours (round trip)
Travel Tips
Visit after monsoon, not during it
The best time is from October to February, when the water flow is strong but paths are drier. Avoid June–September, as heavy rain makes rocks dangerously slick and the road to the falls often gets muddy or blocked.
Arrange a local guide and vehicle in advance
The last stretch of road is narrow and winding, so book a private car or SUV with a driver familiar with the route. Also hire a local guide at the entrance—they know the safest paths and can help seniors across streams, and they can call for help if needed.
Pace the trek with rest stops
The trail to Thusharagiri’s lower falls is steep and slippery, so plan for frequent breaks at shaded spots. Seniors should carry a small foldable stool or use walking sticks, and the group should agree on a slow, steady pace rather than rushing.
Carry your own food, water, and basic first aid
There are no reliable shops or medical facilities near the falls, so pack a picnic with easy-to-eat snacks, at least 1.5 litres of water per person, and a small kit with band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medicines. Keep a fully charged power bank and a list of emergency numbers.
Wear grippy, water-resistant footwear
Ordinary sandals or smooth-soled shoes are a hazard on wet stones. Choose closed-toe trekking sandals with deep treads or rubber-soled shoes, and carry a spare pair of dry socks and a light towel in a waterproof bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main waterfall is a short, easy walk from the parking area, but the upper falls require a moderately steep trek of about 2-3 kilometres through rocky and slippery terrain. For senior travellers or those with joint issues, we strongly recommend staying at the lower viewpoints and hiring a local guide for support if you attempt the upper trail. Avoid the trek during or just after heavy rain, as the rocks become very hazardous.
Swimming is allowed only in the shallow, calm pool at the base of the lower falls, and it is strictly prohibited near the upper falls due to strong currents and hidden rocks. For seniors, we advise against entering the water at all, as the rocks are extremely slippery and the water is cold, which can cause cramps or shock. If you do wade, wear non-slip water shoes and stay within arm’s reach of a companion, and always check for warning boards before entering.
There is a nominal entry fee of about 20 rupees per person, and parking for cars and vans costs around 30-50 rupees, though these rates can change. No prior permit is needed for day visits, but you must register your name and phone number at the checkpost near the entrance. If you plan to do the longer trek to the upper falls, a small eco-tourism fee is collected at the start.
There are basic public restrooms near the entrance and a few small tea shops and snack stalls selling local Kerala snacks and fresh coconut water, but no full restaurants. Benches and shaded rest areas are available near the lower falls, but they are limited, so bring your own foldable stool or mat if your group needs frequent seating. Do not expect any medical or first-aid facilities, so carry your own medications and a small first-aid kit.
The ideal period is from November to February, when the monsoon has receded, the water flow is still strong, and the weather is pleasant for walking. Avoid the peak monsoon months (June to September) due to dangerous slippery paths and potential landslides, and also avoid the hot summer months (April-May) when the falls reduce to a trickle. Early mornings on weekdays are best for a peaceful experience.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Thusharagiri Falls
Day 1
Arrive at Thusharagiri in the morning and settle into the calm, misty surroundings. Spend the day exploring the first and most accessible waterfall, enjoying the cool spray and the lush green forest ambiance. The afternoon is perfect for a gentle walk along the riverbank and a relaxed picnic before returning to your stay for an early night.
- Walk down the paved path to the first tier of Thusharagiri Falls (the main waterfall) and spend time on the viewing platform
- Take a short, easy nature walk along the river trail leading to the second cascade (about 20 minutes) with frequent stops for photos
- Enjoy a picnic lunch at the designated seating area near the base of the falls, listening to the sound of rushing water
Day 2
Start early with a guided trek (optional but recommended) towards the upper two waterfalls, which require crossing small streams and navigating rocky patches. This is the highlight for nature lovers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cardamom and coffee plantations. Return by mid-afternoon to freshen up, then spend the evening watching the sunset over the mist-covered hills before departing or resting.
- Begin a 3-4 hour trek from the base towards the second and third falls (Thattekkanam and Charpa), with a local guide for safety on the river crossings
- Cross the shallow streams using stepping stones and ropes (provided by local guides) to reach the hidden pools at the base of the upper cascades
- Rest at a viewpoint above the third fall, overlooking the valley and the distant Arabian Sea on a clear day
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