Urakkuzhi Waterfalls

If you’re looking for a refreshing and picturesque getaway in Kerala, make sure to visit Urakkuzhi Waterfalls in Kakkayam in the Kozhikode district of Kerala. This stunning waterfall drops from a height of around 60 meters into a rocky pool, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning views of the mountains. Located at an elevation of approximately 2500 feet above sea level, the Urakkuzhi Waterfalls is a must-visit destination in the Malabar region, known for its abundant wildlife, pleasant weather, and unique trekking trails.

At a Glance

Trek to Urakkuzhi Waterfalls

To reach Urakkuzhi Waterfalls, visitors must walk approximately 1.5 kilometers from Kakkayam Dam‘s ticket counter through the dense forest of Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary and along paved pathways. Despite the trek, it is a worthwhile experience due to the opportunity to witness diverse flora and fauna and enjoy exhilarating moments. Unlike other falls in the area, Urakkuzhi Waterfalls can only be viewed from the top.

As you approach the fall, its captivating beauty may tempt you to take a dip, but this is highly discouraged and prohibited. Visitors to this location should exercise extra caution as it is a unique area where numerous accidents have been reported. The waterfall is considered one of the most dangerous tourist spots in Kerala, and visitors must follow the authority’s instructions and guidance for a safe visit.

Plan Your Visit

Urakkuzhi Waterfalls can be visited any day throughout the year, from 9 AM to 5 PM, but one should refrain the self from visiting this place during monsoon. The ideal time to visit the falls is from November to March when the weather is pleasant and the surroundings are covered in lush greenery. Visitors can book a trekking package from Kerala Tourism or contact the Divisional Forest Office or Range Officer. Remember to visit Kariyathumpara and Thonikadavu, often referred to as Ooty of Malabar, which is also nearby.

The entry fee is INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for Children, and INR 60 for foreigners. This covers entry to both Urakkuzhi Waterfalls and Kakkayam Dam. Additionally, there is a fee of INR 50 for still cameras and INR 200 for movie cameras. Parking rates are INR 10 for two-wheelers, INR 20 for three-wheelers, INR 30 for four-wheelers, INR 50 for Travellers, and INR 75 for minibusses. Please be aware that there are no shops near the falls, so it is advisable to bring your own food and water. Trespassing into the reservoir without a valid ticket is illegal, and all visitors must ensure they return to the starting point by 6 PM.

The nearest towns to Kakkayam are Koorachundu and Balussery, one can reach Kakkayam Dam by road easily and start your trek to the falls after obtaining the tickets and necessary permissions. The nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport which is 87 kilometers away and the nearest railway station is Calicut (Kozhikode) railway station which is 66 kilometers away.