Periyakanal Waterfalls - Munnar

Munnar is not short of waterfalls. Some require a trek, while others appear unexpectedly beside the road. Periyakanal Waterfalls belongs to the second category.

The waterfall is situated on the Munnar–Thekkady route, on the way towards Anayirangal Dam. Surrounded by rolling tea plantations and thick vegetation, it is one of those places where the setting is almost as attractive as the waterfall itself.

A Waterfall Amid Tea Plantations

Periyakanal Waterfalls descends over a steep, dark rock face before continuing towards the lower slopes.

The stream does not fall in one perfectly straight line. It breaks against the uneven surface of the cliff, creating several smaller cascades as it moves downward. During the wetter months, the increased flow gives the waterfall a stronger presence and makes it clearly visible against the surrounding greenery.

Tea plantations stretch across the nearby hills, their neatly arranged rows contrasting with the wild growth around the waterfall. Mist and clouds frequently move across this landscape, sometimes hiding parts of the hills and revealing them again within minutes.

It is a familiar Munnar scene, but not one that becomes ordinary.

A Brief Stop Along the Journey

Periyakanal is not a large tourist complex requiring several hours. It is better experienced as a brief halt while travelling between Munnar, Chinnakanal, Anayirangal and Thekkady.

Visitors often stop here to admire the waterfall, take photographs and enjoy the view of the tea-covered slopes. The sound of falling water and the cool mountain air provide a pleasant break from the long, winding drive through the hills.

The waterfall is particularly attractive immediately after the monsoon, when the stream carries more water and the surrounding landscape is at its greenest. During the drier months, the flow may be considerably reduced.

Viewing the Waterfall Safely

The rocks around a waterfall can be wet, slippery and unpredictable. It is better to enjoy Periyakanal from a safe viewing point rather than attempting to climb down towards the stream.

Roadside parking may also be limited. Visitors should take care while stopping, particularly when traffic is heavy or visibility is affected by mist.

Is Periyakanal Waterfalls Worth Visiting?

Periyakanal may not be a destination around which an entire Munnar itinerary needs to be planned. But that does not make it unimportant.

Its charm lies in the surprise of finding a flowing waterfall beside a mountain road, framed by tea gardens and the green slopes of the Western Ghats. It is simple, scenic and easy to include while exploring the southern side of Munnar.

Sometimes, the places remembered from a journey are not the ones marked as major attractions. They are the brief stops that make us pause, step out of the vehicle and look around.

Periyakanal Waterfalls is one such place.

Happy travelling.