<< More about Athirapally

Charpa Falls

To the east of Athirappally, Thrissur is the enchanting but lesser known Charpa falls which plunges on to the road during monsoon. This fall lies between the famous Athirapally Waterfalls and the Vazhachal Falls. The fall is a part of the Chalakudy River and being located close to the road this place is a popular stopover for the tourists.

It is a sight to watch and enjoy during the monsoon months starting from the month of June till August, when the water from the fall splash into the road. The water stops flowing in all the other times especially during the dry season.

 

Anakkayam

It is located about 20 km from Chalakudy on the Sholayar Peringalkuthu route is the place called Anakkayam meaning the "Elephant pit". It is noted for a lake with cool and placid waters. Surrounding this lake is many coconut trees and also many types of natural vegetation. According to the legends, once a herd of elephants came here to drink water and one from the herd fell into this lake, hence giving the place its name.

The place is a forest untouched by human encroachments and is a haven for those who wish to escape from concrete jungles. It attracts visitors with its bubbling streams, natural rock formations and flora.

Water Theme Parks
For those who want a little extra recreation there are two water theme parks namely Dream World and Silver Strom, nearby with plenty of adventure games and water sports. These water theme parks have rides which are suitable for the young and old alike. The parks have both dry and water rides that are sure to bring out the adventure in you. Some of the rides offered by them are Wave Pool, Kids Pool, Striking/Bumping Cars, Pirate Ship and many more.

Malakapara Tea Gardens

For the adventurous, a family safari through the deep forest and high ranges (Western Ghats) complemented with lots of hairpin curves takes you to the fascinating sculptured beauty of Malakapara Tea Gardens.

Along the route if you are lucky you may end up seeing some good wildlife. This place is home to various endangered species of both flora and fauna. This beautiful place is left off unexplored and hence it maintains its natural serenity.

 

Thumpurmuzhi Gardens

Thumpurmuzhi is an ideal stopover with its garden, scenic splendour and a classic waterfall. This popular tourist attraction is located near the Vazhachal Waterfalls. Nearby this garden, on the either sides are the water theme parks of Dream World and Silver Strom.

This garden remains open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It remains closed during the monsoon season, which is in the months of June and July. The entry to the park is charged as follows: Rs. 10/- for Adults and Rs. 5/- for Children along with an extra charge for photography, videography and vehicle parking.

Peringalkuthu & Sholayar Dams

Deep in the forest on the way to Valpara are the two dams that generate hydroelectric power to the state which are the Peringalkuthu and Sholayar Dams. The entry to the dam site is with special permission only.

The Peringalkuthu Dam is the first concrete dam that is built across the Chalakudi River of Thrissur. This place can be reached either from Athirapally or from Anakkayam. This dam lies at a height of 23 metres and covers a total area of 290.23 metres. Earlier an old bird sanctuary was located in this place. In spite of a regulated entry, this dam can be seen from the Waterfalls.

Vazhachal Forest Gardens 

With the abundant flora and even herbal plantation maintained by the forest department, Vazhachal is a Botanists treasure trove. This place also has a waterfall. Vazhachal has been tagged as a treasure trove of Botanists.

This garden remains open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Best time to visit here is from July to December. The entry to the garden is charged as follows: Rs. 15/- for Adults and Rs. 2/- for Children and Rs. 30/- for foreigners, along with an extra charge for photography, videography and vehicle parking.