Everyone who visits Wayanad hears about Soochipara Falls, and it deserves the attention. But within an hour of Y3 Suites, there are several other waterfalls that see a fraction of the visitors, mostly because they don't have a paved car park or a ticket counter at the entrance. Here are five worth the extra effort.
1. Meenmutty Falls
The tallest waterfall in Wayanad, dropping in three stages through dense forest. The trek in takes about 45 minutes each way through a well-marked forest trail, and it's genuinely one of the more dramatic sights in the district. But it's also the most physically demanding entry on this list, so it's worth starting early and wearing proper trekking shoes, not sandals.
2. Kanthanpara Falls
A gentler alternative if you're traveling with kids or don't want a long trek. The falls are a short, flat walk from the parking area, and the pool at the base is shallow enough for a safe dip during the dry months. A good "first waterfall" if it's your first Wayanad trip.
3. Chethalayam Falls
Less visited than most on this list, tucked inside a coffee estate near Meppadi. Access sometimes depends on the estate's permission, so it's worth checking ahead. Our concierge can confirm current access before you head out.
4. Soochipara Falls (the classic, done right)
Still worth including, because most visitors miss the best time to go: early morning, on a weekday, before the tour groups arrive around midday. The three-tiered drop and the swimming pool at the base are best enjoyed with fewer people around.
5. Thusharagiri Falls
A little further out (closer to Kozhikode district), but worth the detour if you have a full day free. There are multiple smaller cascades along one trail, with a couple of viewpoints that don't require getting into the water at all, for anyone who'd rather just look.
Planning Your Waterfall Day
A few practical notes: most of these are best visited November through May, since monsoon season (June–September) brings stronger currents that make swimming unsafe at several of them, even though the falls themselves look spectacular. Bring a change of clothes, water shoes if you plan to get in, and cash for small entry fees at the maintained sites.
If you'd rather not plan the logistics yourself, our concierge can arrange transport and timing for any combination of these. Just mention it during your stay or add it to your enquiry.
Plan My Waterfall Day →