Athirapally Waterfalls

Its been sometime since my last post. I've been busy or rather lazy.So, as part of my new year resolutions I've decided to start again. Presently I'm settled in a beautiful place and I've decided to write about things here. the places i go to, the things that amaze me, 'cause you see that's the point with India.Every state is so different from another that it seems like an entirely different country.This country is so big that i think we should have had different time zones. Anyway, I'm in Kerala now and over the last couple of years have travelled the length and breadth of the state (as and when job and time permitted) and yet have been unable to cover the myriad hues of this beautiful state. Anyway, let me start with Athirapalli. Athirapilly is a 80 ft waterfall just one and half hours away from Kochi. The first time we went there we took a longer route,but while coming back we found a diversion near one of the amusement parks, took it and found a more scenic and shorter route back to Kochi. The route to Athirapally is dotted with rubber plantations. Driving through these roads takes you back into another time.Huge plantations with a single house in the middle (mostly hidden by the trees) and sometimes a nun or two walking back to the convent. Of the many times that we've been on this road, we almost invariably get lost and have to ask for directions to the main road.

The waterfall is on the chalakudy river. during the monsoons the river is in full spate and a little dangerous. Not advisable to jump into the river at this time.Apart from that, Bathing in the river is another experience by itself. Crystal Clear water and the stones are (naturally) arranged in such a way that they form a natural jacuzzi. Perch yourself on one of these natural seats and enjoy the water rushing at you from all directions. there are small temporary huts built alongside to facilitate changing of clothes. All in all, Athirapally is a must visit for any visitor to Kerala.

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