About:


Chalakudy River is one of the most picturesque rivers in Kerala, India, originating from the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats and flowing through Thrissur and Ernakulam districts before merging into the Arabian Sea. It’s renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.or Chalakudy Puzha runs through Chalakudy town which is in the Thrissur District of Kerala state, south India.The river though has its origin in the Anamalai region of Tamilnadu, is actually a collection of some major tributaries originated from Parambikulam, Kuriyarkutti, Sholayar, Karapara and Anakayam. It is the 4th longest river in Kerala and its basin is between 10° 05’ to 10° 35’ North latitude and 76° 15’to 76° 55’ East longitude. This area is located in Thrissur, Ernakulam and Palakkad districts of Kerala. The length of the river is 145.5 km. Chalakudy River is the one of very few rivers of Kerala, which is having relics of riparian vegetation in substantial level. The annual report of the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources Lucknow, mentioned that the Chalakudy River is the richest river in fish diversity perhaps in India. The river though has its origin in the Anamalai region of Tamilnadu, is actually a collection of some major tributaries originated from Parambikulam, Kuriyarkutti, Sholayar, Karapara and Anakayam. Chalakkudy Dam is Bulit across this river.

The famous waterfalls, Athirappilly Falls and Vazhachal Falls, are situated on this river. The famous Hydro Electric Projects on Chalakkudy River are 'Sholayar Hydro Electric Project' and 'Peringalkuttu Hydro Electric Project'.

Location info:

Address: Chalakudy, Thrissur District, Kerala, India.
District: Thrissur District
Nearest City: Chalakudy, Kochi, Sholayar, Kaladi, Irinjalakuda, Kunnamkulam, and Kodungallur.

Climate/Weather:

Summer: March to May, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The weather is hot and humid.
Monsoon: June to October, characterized by heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. Temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C.
Winter: November to February, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. The weather is pleasant and ideal for visiting.
Best time to visit: November to February, during the winter months when the weather is mild and comfortable.
The weather Temaparture on Summer: (January - May) 15º C to 36º C. and Monsoon: (June - October) 26º C to 36º C.

History:

The Chalakudy River has played an essential role in the history and culture of Kerala. It has been a lifeline for agricultural activities, providing water for irrigation and supporting local communities. The river is also significant in the traditional fishing practices of the region. The Chalakudy River Basin has seen several human settlements since ancient times, with remnants of temples and cultural structures located along its banks. Historically, the river has been part of the local economy through trade routes and water-based activities. It is also home to some of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in India, including the Athirappilly and Vazhachal Falls, which have become iconic tourist attractions.

Interesting things to do:

  • River Cruises: Enjoy a serene boat ride along the Chalakudy River, soaking in the beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Trekking: Take a trek through the lush green forests surrounding the river, leading to waterfalls like Athirappilly and Vazhachal.
  • Waterfall Viewing: Visit the famous Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
  • Birdwatching: The river’s surroundings are rich with wildlife, especially birds, making it a great spot for birdwatchers.
  • Fishing: Engage in traditional fishing activities, a popular pastime along the riverbanks.
  • Photography: Capture stunning photos of the river, waterfalls, and the abundant flora and fauna in the area.

Interesting things to Visit:

The Vazhachal waterfalls:

The Vazhachal waterfalls are located very close to the Athirapally falls and are a part of the Chalakudy river stream. Vazhachal is popular for its flora and herbal plantations (maintained by the forest department) apart from the scintillating waterfalls set in the backdrop of a lush green forest. This is an ideal picnic spot too.

Sholayar Dam:

Sholayar Dam is situated 20 km from Valparai, a hill station on the Anamalai range in Coimbatore District. It is the second deepest dam in Asia. With its scenic surroundings, the dam is a busy tourist spot in the hidden forest area. A part of the hydroelectric project of Tamil Nadu, special permission is required to visit the dam.

Vachumaram:

Vachumaram is a calm and beautiful lake surrounded by hills. If you are lucky, you can spot deer and wild elephants here.

Thumpurmuzhi gardens:

Thumpurmuzhi gardens are located amidst the two water theme parks. The water from the river is redirected to deep tanks at Thumpurmuzhi, creating a waterfall like impact. The gardens are well maintained and have scenic surroundings.

Malakapara Tea Gardens:

For the adventurous a family safari through the deep forest and high ranges 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.

Charpa Falls:

To the east of athirappilly is the enchanting but lesser known Charpa falls which plunges on to the road during monsoon. It is a sight to watch and enjoy.

Mobile range info:

Most areas around the Chalakudy River have good mobile network coverage, especially in towns like Chalakudy and near tourist spots such as Athirappilly and Vazhachal Falls. Major network providers like Airtel, Jio, and BSNL offer decent connectivity. However, as you move into more remote forest areas or along trekking routes, the mobile signal may weaken or be intermittent. It’s advisable to carry a fully charged mobile device and, if possible, a power bank for extended trips.

How to reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located around 40 km from Chalakudy. From the airport, taxis and buses are available to reach the river and nearby attractions.
By Train: Chalakudy Railway Station is the nearest railway station, situated about 8 km from the river. It is well connected to major cities like Kochi, Thrissur, and Palakkad.
By Road: Chalakudy is well connected by road. Regular buses and taxis operate from major cities like Kochi, Thrissur, and Ernakulam. Private cars or taxis can also be hired for a more comfortable journey to the river and waterfalls.
By Bus: State-run and private buses connect Chalakudy with various towns and cities in Kerala. The nearest bus stand is Chalakudy Bus Station, which offers frequent services.

Nearest Visiting places:

Peechi Dam:
Peechi Dam, 23 km from Thrissur, is an irrigation project site offering boating facilities at the reservoir. It’s part of the Peechi Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, where you might spot wild elephants on the forested banks.

Chowalloor Shiva Temple:
Renowned as one of the 108 Shivalayas (Abodes of Shiva), Chowalloor Shiva Temple is near Guruvayur. It features a calm and scenic location, with Lord Shiva as the primary deity.

Heritage Garden:
Located just south of Shakthan Thampuran Palace in Thrissur, this garden preserves and showcases indigenous trees and flora of Kerala, making it a popular spot for nature lovers.

Archaeological Museum:
This museum in Thrissur houses an extensive collection of wood carvings, metal sculptures, and ancient jewelry, along with artifacts like temple models and megaliths. It’s located 2 km from Thrissur town.

The Zoo:
Located 2 km from Thrissur town, the zoo offers a chance to see various animals like the lion-tailed macaque, sloth bear, and exotic reptiles in the snake park.

Shakthan Thampuran Palace:
A historical landmark in Thrissur, this palace is significant for those interested in the rich history of Perumpadappu Swaroopam.

Vilangakunnu:
7 km from Thrissur, Vilangakunnu is a peaceful hill and an ideal picnic spot with breathtaking natural views.

Punnathur Kotta (Elephant Shelter):
Located 2 km from Guruvayur, this elephant camp is home to more than 40 temple elephants. It’s a unique opportunity to see these majestic animals up close.

Christian Divine Retreat Centres:
Situated near Chalakudy, on the Kochi-Thrissur route, these centers are popular for spiritual retreats and healing programs.

Thriprayar Temple:
Located south of Thrissur, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, featuring exquisite wood carvings, sculptures, and mural paintings.

Mummiyur Temple:
This small temple near the famous Krishna Temple in Guruvayur is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered a must-visit for Krishna devotees.

Chavakkad Beach:
Situated 5 km from Guruvayur, this beach is famous for its serene setting and proximity to the Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary.

Parthasarathy Temple:
A famous temple with an idol of Parthasarathy (Lord Krishna guiding Arjuna), located near Thrissur.

Anakkaya:
Located 20 km from Chalakudy on the Sholayar-Peringalkuthu route, Anakkaya is famous for its placid lake, surrounded by scenic beauty and legends of elephants.

Elephant Camp:
Located at Punnathur Kotta, this camp houses over 60 elephants, all offered to the Guruvayur Temple. It’s one of the largest elephant sanctuaries in India, showcasing the bond between elephants and the temple.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

HP Petrol Pump
SH 22, Vasanth Nagar
Thrissur
Kerala.

Thaliyath Petrol Pump
Irinjalakuda, Thrissur
Kerala

Petrol pump
Panampilly Nagar Avenue,
Panampilly Nagar
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Prabhus Petrol Pump
Kodungallur, Thrissur
Kerala.

Petrol pump
Perumbavoor Aluva Road, Aluva
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Reliance Petrol Pump
NH47, Karayamparambu
Angamaly, Ernakulam
Kerala.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Motel Aaram
Athirapally, Vettillappara Chalakudy
Thrissur, Pin - 680 721.

Hotel Riverrok Villas
Athirappilly,kerala.

Rain Forest Resort
PIV/93A, Kammamkuzhy P.O
Athirappilly, Kerala
Tel: 0480 2769062.

A N Z Hotel
22, 95/2 Puthenveettil House
Perumpadanna N Parur
Ernakulam, India - 683513.

Hotel Hill Park
Near Ksrtc Bus Stand, Angamaly
Ernakulam, Kerala 680572
Tel: 0484 2452256.

Hotel Prestige
Opposite Ksrtc Bus Stand, Angamaly
Ernakulam, Kerala 680572
Tel: 0484 2452737.

Things to carry:

  • Comfortable clothing: Light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Carry extra layers if visiting during the monsoon season.
  • Rain gear: An umbrella or raincoat, especially if visiting between June and October, during the monsoon season.
  • Comfortable footwear: Sturdy shoes or sandals suitable for walking on uneven terrain, especially near waterfalls and trekking routes.
  • Insect repellent: To protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially during the evening and in forested areas.
  • Water bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring the outdoors. It's advisable to carry your own drinking water.
  • Camera/Smartphone: For capturing the scenic beauty of the river, waterfalls, and surrounding wildlife.
  • Power bank: Ensure your devices stay charged, especially if heading to areas with weaker mobile coverage.
  • First aid kit: Basic first aid supplies in case of minor injuries during outdoor activities.
  • Snacks: Light snacks if you're planning a long trek or spending extended time outdoors.

Tips & Suggestions:

  • Best time to visit: Plan your trip between November and February for the most pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to October) if you’re not comfortable with heavy rains.
  • Stay cautious around waterfalls: Waterfalls like Athirappilly and Vazhachal can have slippery rocks and strong currents, so always be cautious near the water.
  • Respect wildlife: The river flows through areas rich in wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them.
  • Carry sufficient cash: While ATMs are available in Chalakudy town, some remote areas and small shops may not accept cards or mobile payments.
  • Eco-friendly travel: Help keep the area clean by carrying your trash with you. Avoid using plastic bottles and bags as much as possible.
  • Local guides: Hiring a local guide for trekking or exploring lesser-known areas can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights.
  • Start early: Begin your day early to avoid crowds at popular spots like Athirappilly Falls, and to make the most of daylight for exploring.
  • Monsoon caution: If visiting during the monsoon, be prepared for roadblocks due to landslides or flooding, and always check weather conditions before venturing out.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:

Koratty Police Station
NH47, Thrissur, Kerala.

Chalakudy Police Station
Chalakudy, Thrissur
Kerala

Kalady Police Station
Kalady Malayattoor Road
Ernakulam, Kerala

Police Station Edappally
Ernakulam, Ernakulam
Kerala.

Nearest Hospital:

Government Hospital Chalakudy
Chalakudy, Thrissur, Kerala
Tel: +91 480 270 2095

St. James Hospital
Chalakudy, Thrissur, Kerala
Tel: +91 480 271 0020

Little Flower Hospital
Angamaly, Ernakulam, Kerala
Tel: +91 484 245 2236

Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences
Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala
Tel: +91 484 285 1234

Society/Community Phone Number:

Chalakudy Municipality Office: +91 480 270 1670

Forest Department (Athirappilly): +91 480 202 3875

Link:

http://tourdekeralam.blogspot.com/2008/10/beautyful-places-to-vist-in-kearala.html
http://feastforthought.blogspot.com/2008/01/chalakudy-river-in-pictures.html

Photo Gallery

Video Gallery

Dream World
The enchanting beauty of Athirappilly Water Falls, the scenic attraction of Vazhachal, Thumboormuzhy and Sholayar had fascinated the Tourist from time immemorial. Dream World, the most modern man made sophisticated Water Theme Park is situated on the lap of enchanting Athirapilly waterfalls just 8 km from Chalakkudy. All facilities for enjoyment to the tourists are arranged here. Water Filteration Dream World has given utmost importance to maintain the quality of pool water to international standards and specification. Working hours: On Public Holidays : 10.00 am to 7.30 pm. On other days : 10.00 am to 6.30 pm. Dream World does not have any holidays.....more
Silverstorm
Silver Storm is noted for an unmatching amusement park. Although there are amusement parks several in numbers in Kerala and elsewhere, this particular one stands out for its serenity, enchanting milieu and the rare blend of scenic ingredients. Children get enthused, elevated and educated here, while they communicate with nature through heart springs.“The entertainment facilities at Silver Storm Park are truly world class and they cater to all age groups. The park can be reached after a 19 Km drive through the Western Ghats listening to the whispers of waterfalls, the roars of wildlife and the invigorating fragrance of a thousand wild species of plants and trees.” Silver Storm’s thrills are a blend of natural wonders and man made marvels.....more
Kerala Kalamandalam
Kerala Kalamandalam is located at Cheruthuruthy,32 km north of Thrissur district, Kerala.Its Founded in 1930 by renowned poet Padmabhooshan Vallathol Narayana Menon along the banks of the river Nila in the Cheruthuruthy. This temple of arts has preserved and propagated Kathakali - the classical dance-drama of Kerala - for the past 78 years. Many of the internationally renowned artistes of Kerala and India have been trained here.Kalamandalam is undoubtedly the best institution in India imparting training and conducting performance of Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Panchavadyam and Thullal. Beside the regular courses, Kalamandalam also offers crash courses in different art disciplines.....more
Natana Kairali Research Centre
Natana Kairali Research Centre is located at Irinjalakuda, Thrissur District, Kerala.Natanakaisiki is a Research Centre for dance and theatre traditions of the women of Kerala as part of Natanakairali. Mohiniyattam, Nangiar Koothu and Thiruvathira Kali are the major art forms at present included in the study of Natanakaisiki which was founded by Nirmala Paniker in 1979.Natana Kairali Center, Kerala initiates a variety of creative and learning activities, both in the traditional and contemporary field.Various workshops, performances as well as festivals are also organized by in Natana Kairali Center, Kerala.Mohiniyattam is one of the classical dance forms of India which originated and developed in Kerala.....more
St Mary's Forane Church
Koratty Muthy’s (St Mary’s) Forane church is located at Koratty, Thrissur District, kerala.The most revered and renowned Marian Pilgrim Centre after Velankanni, is the Holy Shrine of Koratty Muthy otherwise known as Koratty Thampuratty. St. Mary's Forane Church in the Archdiocese of Ernakulam-Angamaly situates in the Southern boundary of Trichur District. NH 47, Railway and Cochin International Airport help the devotees to reach here easily.The annual feast falls on the Saturday and Sunday following the 10th of October, during which the statue of Koratty Muthy is taken out in a procession from the church. An important offering here is the poovankula (bunch of plantain).Koratty Muthy Matha Church was built in the year 1381.....more
Thrissur City
The Cultural capital of Kerala, Trichur, gained prominence under the reign of Raja Rama Varma in 1790.Thrissur is a culturally rich city. Bestowed with breathtaking scenic beauty and warm, generous inhabitants, Thrissur acts as a time warp to the average tourist. It seems one has walked into a settlement that refuses to out grow its quaint, sylvan beauty. The ancient palaces and mansions, the cobbled streets belie the cultural progress made by the people of this beautiful place.Trichur or Thrissur as it is called locally, is well known for Vadakkunathan Temple, the Thrissur Pooram an annual festival held in the city, the Kerala Kala Mandalam, the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy.....more
Chalakkudy Dam
The Chalakudy dam lies 65 km east of Chalakudy town and it is constructed across the Chalakudy River in the Thrissur district, within the state of Kerala. This is also known as the Sholayar Dam. Chalakudy is both a city and a municipality in India. Athirappilly lies thirty kilometres from Chalakudy, which falls on the way to waterfalls. This route is a well-known tourist spot, where two water theme parks are the prime attraction. The name "Chalakudy" is taken from the word "Shalakudy" depicting a place where sacrifices were made. The tourists often visit this spot to enjoy the beauty of Athirappilly Water fall and Sholayar Dam, while on the way to Sholayar city.....more
Peechi Dam
Peechi is well known for Peechi Dam and located 23km from Thrissur. This dam project started as an irrigation project, offers boating facilities at the reservoir. Peechi is a fascinating picnic spot.Boating is permitted in the reservoir and on lucky days one can see wild tuskers on the forested banks, part of which forms a wildlife sanctuary .The Peechi-Vazhani Sanctuary has dense, moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forests is located in the catchment area of the Peechi and Vazhani dams.It is indeed a lifetime experience to go for a boating spree in the river and exploring the surrounding locales.....more
Peringalkuthu reservoir
Peringalkuthu Dam is located across the Chalakkudy River in Thrissur District. The dam is situated deep in the forest on the way to Valparai.Peringalkuthu dam and the uncontrolled inflow from 26 sq.km. of free catchment down stream of Peringalkuthu LB dam.Peringalkuthu & Sholayar Dams, Deep in the forest on the way to Valpara are the two dams that generate hydroelectric power to the state.The 23 m high gravity dam has a length of 290.25 m. The dam discharges the tailrace water into Kannamkuzhithodu, a tributary of the Chalakudy River.....more
Vazhani Dam
This Dam located in Wadakanchery, Thrissur District, Kerala, India, This is one biggest dam made purely of clay. The water of this dam is mainly used for irrigation and drinking. The Vazhani dam is an integral source of water for the people of the Thrissur district. Many renovations are being made to the Vazhani dam, in order to make it a tourist center. This is an earthen dam with a length of 792.48 metres standing across the Wadakkanchery River. The Vazhani dam stands 10 km away from Wadakkanchery town.....more
Shakthan Thampuran Palace
The Shakthan Thampuran Palace is located near Thrissur town of the Thrissur district. The Palace is a landmark in the chronicles of the Perumpadappu Swaroopam, the erstwhile ruling dynasty of Kochi. The palace located in the heart of Thrissur town is a major attraction, especially for those with a special interest in the history of rulers and dynasties. The Shakthan Thampuran Palace highlights several interesting and outstanding aspects of the former rulers of Kochi.This palace is a blend of traditional Kerala and Dutch architectural style. Formerly this palace was known as Vadakkechira Kovilakam The palace spread over six acres, This palace is named after King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran, who is the founder of Thrissur town.....more
Cheraman Jama Masjid
Cheraman Juma Masjid is situated in the Methala village of Kodungalloor Taluk,Thrissur, Kerala around 20 kilometres from the Irinjalakuda railway station. It was Founded in the seventh century, this is the first Juma masjid in India. This was Built in AD 629 , this is the first mosque in India and the second in the world where Juma prayers were started. Other places of interest nearby include Cheramanparambu, the ancient Thiruvanchikulam Temple, the Bhagavathi Temple and the Portuguese fort.This mosque bears a resemblance to Hindu temples as it was constructed using traditional architectural styles of the Hindus.....more
Karuvanoor River
Karuvannur river is situated 48km from the city,Thrissur disrict, Kerala,It has a has a basin area of 1,050 km2 and a current population of 1.119 million. 42 km of Trichur Corporation falls within Karuvannur river basin and the balance 63 km 2 falls outside it. The water resources appraisal that has been made now is a significant improvement over earlier studies on the river basin. Surface water and groundwater have been considered in an integrated manner unlike in earlier studies where the two are considered separately.....more
Kurumali River
Kurumali River is situated 48km from the city,Thrissur disrict, Kerala, The Kurumali River's the main tributary of the Karuvannur river. It originates as the Chimmony Aar from Poomalai which is 1116 m from Sea Level in the Western Ghats and flows through the Thrissur district.The Kurumali River is the main tributary of the Karuvannur river.The rivers of manali and Kurumali are the key sources of this river. It originates about 365 mtr height from the Sea Level.The Mupli River Joins the Chimmony river, forming the Kurumali River in Elikode near Karikulam. The River joins with Manali River at Palakkadavu and forms Karuvannur Puzha which flows through famous Kole lands of Thrissur.Nandhipulam is a daughter of Kurumali river.....more
Guruvayoor Temple
Guruvayoor Temple is located in Guruvayoor which is 33kms away from Thrissur district. Guruvayur also known as the Dwaraka of the South is the one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage spots in Kerala, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all parts of the country. The structure of this historic temple is typically Kerala style with gopurams (gateways), repeated mandapas, sreekovil, subsidiary shrines around a courtyard circumbulatory.The idol of the Sri Krishna Temple is said to have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself at Dwaraka and gifted to Vishnu in his Krishnavataram.....more
Koodalmanikyam Temple
Koodalmanikyam Temple is the only temple in India dedicated to Bharat, the brother of Lord Ram. It is located Irinjalakuda from Thrissur district, Kerala. The sanctum is believed to have the presence of all godly powers and hence the name Koodalmanikyam - Koodal means 'joining together'. The temple is surrounded by four vast ponds called 'Kulipini Teertham'. A story about this temple is that the idols of Ram and his three brothers where brought from the sea coast by one Vakkayil kaimal.....more
Siva Temple at Avittathur
Avittathur Shiva Temple, a 1000-year-old shrine, is located 4 km from Irinjalakuda, in Thrissur District, Kerala. It is devoted to Lord Shiva. Its outer walls are graced with beautiful paintings depicting scenes from the epics.A ten-day-festival is held here annually. The major attractionis Thidampu Ezhunnallathu, which is conducted on the ninth day of the festival. The festival concludes with the Aarattu. The outer wall of the temple shrine has beautiful paintings depicting scenesfrom the epics.....more
Vadakkumnathan Temple
The famous Vadakkumnathan temple is located in Thrissur, Kerala, South India. A very big temple in 10 acres is said to have been built by Parasurama, Vadukkumnnatha is a prominent Shiva temple, in downtown Thrissur. This is one of Kerala's most ancient shrines, which also houses a museum of ancient wall paintings, wood carvings and art pieces of immense historical value.In a land crowded with several better-than-the-last temples, The Vadakkumnathan temple stands out as one of the oldest temples in the state of Kerala.....more
Athirappilly Waterfall
Athirappally Waterfalls is located 78 kms from Kochi (Cochin), located at the entrance to Sholayar ranges, this waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Affording to the onlookers, one of the most bewitching sights, Athirappally Falls is about 80 feet high and located in the forest area. Combined with the greenery, it infuses freshness into any tired soul. The Athirapally Falls join the Chalakkudy River after plummeting a drop of 80 feet.A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life.....more
Vazhachal Waterfall
Vazhachal Falls is a rushing waterbody joining Chalakkudy River in the Thrissur district of Kerala,just are just 3 kms from Athirappilly. Vazchachal Falls are the most beautiful falls in India. With Huge trees and forest on one side of the falls, the beauty of the Vazachal Falls increases ten fold. Near the Falls, there is the Forest called the Vazhachal Forest. Vazhachal as a place is a natures landscape. The nearness of the Falls to this beauty, makes them look more beautifuland attractive.....more