Munnar does not lack tourist attractions, as there is so much to explore. Among the plethora of places you can visit is Ripple Waterfalls, a magnificent beauty of Mother Nature. People deboarding at the Munnar Bus Station can witness its glory from 30 km away.
Overlooking the Muthirappuzhayar River, Ripple Waterfalls, Munnar, is a peaceful destination to spend quality time with your family. KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation) maintains it and has built fences and trails around it for added safety. While you can travel to the destination, remember that no one has permission to enter for safety purposes. There’s a pavilion from where you can witness the beauty of the waterfall.
Since it is not directly accessible, many wonder if visiting the Ripple Waterfalls in Munnar is worth it. Those who have experienced it say that the natural beauty and peace are worth it.
What is the History of Ripple Waterfalls?
Formed by the river Muthirapuzha, the Ripple Waterfalls reside in the Idukki district. Here is the historic timeline that followed its establishment as a tourist destination:
- The British colonial authorities discovered it for the first time in the 19th century and were drawn to the possibility of tea cultivation.
- They began planting tea crops around the area while the officers went to the waterfall to enjoy some quality time with their families.
- The Britishers named it “Ripple” due to the rippling effect of the water as it cascaded through the huge rocks.
- Later, the name was officially changed to Sree Narayanapuram Ripple Waterfalls to honour Lord Sree Narayana, the
Idukki’s local deity. - After independence, the waterfalls became a popular tourist attraction and stand as a testament to South Indian beauty.
- Since the waterfall is only safe to explore from a distance, the Kerala government declared it a protected zone in the 1980s.
Although the waterfall itself isn’t accessible, tourists can have plenty of fun in the surrounding areas. You not only get to experience nature but also participate in activities.
General Information on Ripple Waterfalls
If you are planning a trip to Idukki and are excited to witness the magical waterfall, here are some useful details to remember:
Operational Hours: 7 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon
How to Visit: You can travel via:
Airport: The nearest airport is Cochin International, i.e., 80 km. You can book a taxi from there.
Train: The nearest station is Aluva, i.e., 60 km. You can book a taxi or bus from there.
Bus: There is a direct bus to the Ripple Waterfalls in Munnar.
What Are the Best Activities Around Ripple Waterfalls Munnar?
Ripple Waterfalls in Munnar open the gateway to a day of fun and adventure. Here are some of the things you can enjoy during your visit:
1. Walk and Picnic
Take long walks around the nearby villages while keeping your view of the waterfalls intact. While you walk, you may find the perfect spot to spread the sheet and gather your friends for a picnic.
There’s nothing like sharing a few laughs over a good meal and the sight of the Ripple Waterfalls.
2. Ziplining
Gear yourself for an aerial adventure with a thrilling zipline. As you travel across the sky, you get a breathtaking sight of the mountains and the waterfalls that accompany them. The average cost of a zipline tour is ₹500 for 15 minutes.
You will cover a distance of 460 m. Travellers often say that the zipline activity is safe and exciting, so don’t miss it!
ALSO SEE – Munnar Zipline Booking-Cost ,Length, Tickets, Timings & Booking Tips
ALSO SEE-Munnar Travel Guide-Everything You Should Know About Munnar
3. Yoga and Meditation
The spot is peaceful, and there’s always a scenic view ahead. Isn’t that the ideal location to sit and enjoy a session of mindfulness? Those who regularly practice yoga or meditation are on the lookout for such locations. So, if you are among them and visiting, it is the perfect place for you.
4. Photography
Nature always gives you the perfect opportunity to click photographs. The water cascading down the rocks, the pleasing sky, and the greenery all around also work as an ideal backdrop for your vacation photographs.
ALSO SEE – Photo Point Munnar Guide: Getting There, Activities, Tips & More
Which Places to Visit Around Ripple Waterfalls?
There are not just activities to do around Ripple Waterfalls, but also places to explore within a short distance.
Nature always gives you the perfect opportunity to click photographs. The water cascading down the rocks, the pleasing sky, and the greenery all around also work as an ideal backdrop for your vacation photographs.
Which Places to Visit Around Ripple Waterfalls?
There are not just activities to do around Ripple Waterfalls, but also places to explore within a short distance.
1. Parunthumpura Hill View Point
The point is popularly known as The Eagle Rock due to its 360-degree panoramic view. On a good day, you can witness the Sabarimala forests and the Periyar Tiger Reserve. You can also explore the tea gardens and even take back fresh leaves for home.
2. Mattupetty Dam
The dam is not only a reservoir but an attraction for many. It has led to the creation of a perennial lake, popularly known as Mattupetty Lake, which doesn’t dry up throughout the year. You can enjoy activities like speedboat riding and boating here.
ALSO SEE- Mattupetty Dam – Best Time to Visit, Timings and Fare
3. Cheeyappara Waterfalls
Cheeyappara is a 7-step waterfall, cascading through the Adimali town. Whether you are a trekking enthusiast or have a passion for brisk walking, this surrounding region of the Ripple Waterfalls offers you the perfect chance.
ALSO SEE – Top 8 Munnar Waterfalls
4. Thekkady Boat Landing
Boating is the definition of relaxation for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists. As you paddle through the Thekkady Lake, you cannot help but get mesmerised by the green beauty of the Periyar forest. As you cover the journey, you spot gaurs, wild boars, elephants, and sambar deer.
ALSO SEE – Thekkady boating-Is It Worth It, Booking, Cost, and When Should You Go?
5. Ponmudi Dam
The concrete dam is formed over misty peaks and breathtaking hills. This major tourist destination has a never-ending streak of water and is quite close to the Ponmudi Hill Station. So, in case you are vacationing there, this Ponmudi Dam becomes easier to explore.
6. Chokramudi Peak
The peak is located at 7,200 ft and is the highest in Munnar. Close to the waterfalls, it gives you an escape from the generic sights of Idukki. As you come closer to the location, you get awestruck by the tea plantations and greenery all around. In fact, this peak is home to several rare species like Asian elephants and Nilgiri Tahr, making it perfect for animal lovers.
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