Meenmutty Waterfalls- Thiruvananthapuram - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Meenmutty Waterfalls at Thiruvananthapuram District is situated in the river Kallar at a height of 300 meters above the sea level. Unlike the other much larger Meenmutty Waterfalls in Wayanad which is around 300 meters tall, this one is not a tall waterfall. It plunges from a rocky face from a height of about 30 meters to a deep pool below. 

The interesting meaning behind the name of Kallar River

As you cross the river while hiking, and while at the waterfall, you will see the vast amount of boulders in the river bed. Kallar in local dialect means ‘River of Rocks’ and true to that, the river bed is filled with boulders.

Exploring the waterfall

In order to get to the falls, you will need to hike through dense tropical forests for about 2 kilometres. There is a ticket office right at the beginning of the hiking trail where you are able to park the vehicles as well.

The hike is through unpaved trail with climbs, there are guides available at the ticket counter if you need some help. The greenery throughout the hike is mesmerising, so does the Kallar River strewn with large boulders. There is ample bird life and butterflies at the forest and at times you will come across snakes too- depending on how lucky/unlucky you are. Before reaching the falls, you will have to cross the river through a submerged platform made out of rocks. Its very slippery but there are some ropes to hold on to to keep the balance.

The waterfalls is multi layered and it plunges to a pool below. The layers on top too has its own pools but it is not allowed to climb up there due to the obvious dangers. The pool even though looks calm and serene during non rainy months is dangerous for visitors. The entry inside the pool is not allowed, there are railings to prevent people from swimming in it. If you really want to take a dip in the waters, the pools near the ticket counter are ideal for that. Swimming in those pools are completely allowed.

Best time to visit the falls

Although the falls is open throughout the year, the Kallar river can become too wild during the monsoon months from June to September due to torrential rains. The water will be muddy and the volume will be huge making it a dangerous time to visit. Also, the forest areas will be infested with leeches during this period. The best time to visit is from October to January when there is enough water and less rains. After February, till May, the water flow will be thinner due to the warm weather.

Getting to Meenmutty Waterfalls

Meenmutty Waterfalls is located in Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala State in Southern India. Nearest town is in Kallar, 4 km away. Kallar town lies midway of Thiruvananthapuram- Ponmudi route through which buses ply in both the directions. From Kallar, you can either take a taxi or hike up to the falls. The nearest major railway station is at Thiruvananthapuram, connected well with rest of the parts of the country.