Nestled in the lush greenery of Idukki district, Kerala, Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a mesmerizing destination known for its seven-step cascading falls. Located 20 km from Thodupuzha, this scenic waterfall is part of the Kaliyar River and offers an amazing blend of trekking, adventure, and nature exploration.
On my recent visit to Thommankuthu, I had the chance to explore the first two waterfalls and learn about the trekking options available. Join me as I take you through this adventure!
Reaching Thommankuthu Waterfalls
Thommankuthu is well-connected by road, and the nearest town, Thodupuzha, serves as the best base point. From Thodupuzha, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a bus to the entrance of the waterfalls.
๐ Location: Thommankuthu, Idukki, Kerala
⏳ Distance from Thodupuzha: 20 km
๐ Best way to reach: Private vehicle, taxi, or bus
Entry Fee & Trekking Options
Upon reaching the entrance, you’ll need to purchase an entry ticket for ₹40 per person. From here, a short trek takes you to the first waterfall, while those interested in a deeper exploration can opt for guided trekking tours.
๐ฐ Entry Fee: ₹40 per person
๐ฅพ Trekking Options:
- Basic Trek: 400m to the first and second waterfalls
- Half-Day Trek: ₹1,000 for a group of 5 people
- Full-Day Trek: ₹1,500 for a group of 5 people (7 km trek)
Only the first two waterfalls are accessible with the standard entry ticket, while the longer trek requires a guide.
Trekking to the First & Second Waterfalls
The first waterfall is about 400m from the entrance, and the trek is relatively easy, with well-defined paths. Along the way, you’ll pass wooden bridges, diverse tree species, and signboards with caution notices as the waterfalls have strong currents in certain areas.
After enjoying the first waterfall, I decided to continue trekking to the second waterfall, which is less crowded but equally stunning. The path becomes narrower and steeper, making it a more adventurous experience.
⏳ Trek Duration: 15-20 minutes to the first waterfall, another 20 minutes to the second
๐ณ Scenery: Forest trails, flowing river, wooden bridges, lush greenery
Wildlife & Safety Measures
Since Thommankuthu is located in a forest area, it is not uncommon for elephants to visit the river to drink water. However, there are wildlife watchers stationed at specific points, ensuring visitors' safety.
⚠️ Safety Tips:
✅ Follow signboards and avoid venturing into restricted areas
✅ Avoid swimming in deep or restricted zones
✅ Stick to designated trekking paths
✅ Visit with a group if opting for the full trek
Best Time to Visit Thommankuthu Waterfalls
Thommankuthu is at its best during and after the monsoon season when the waterfalls are in full flow. My visit was in October, and the waterfalls were still strong and surrounded by lush greenery.
๐ง️ Monsoon (June – September): Best time for powerful waterfalls but be cautious of slippery trails
๐ Post-Monsoon (October – February): Ideal for trekking & scenic beauty
☀️ Summer (March – May): Water flow reduces, but trekking is still enjoyable
Nearby Attractions – Anayadikuthu Waterfalls
If you’re visiting Thommankuthu, don’t miss Anayadikuthu Waterfalls, located nearby. This lesser-known waterfall offers a peaceful experience and is perfect for those who love exploring offbeat places. I’ll be covering Anayadikuthu in my next video, so stay tuned!
Final Thoughts
Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a must-visit for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure seekers. Whether you’re here for a short nature walk or an intense full-day trek, this place will leave you mesmerized.
๐ Quick Summary:
✅ Scenic beauty & seven-step waterfalls
✅ Easy trekking to the first two waterfalls
✅ Guided treks for adventure seekers
✅ Wildlife sightings & forest experience
If you’re planning a trip to Idukki, Kerala, add Thommankuthu Waterfalls to your itinerary!
