By Hameed and the WayanadTrips team
Welcome to Wayanad! I’m Hameed, and I’ve just had the pleasure of taking some guests to the beautiful Kanthanpara Waterfalls. It’s a truly charming spot, tucked away in the heart of Wayanad, offering a refreshing escape into nature. If you’re looking for a peaceful waterfall experience, this is a place you won’t want to miss.
About Kanthanpara Waterfalls and Why Visit
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is one of Wayanad’s hidden gems, often described as a “drive-in waterfall” because of its easy accessibility. Unlike some other falls that require a long trek, you can get quite close to Kanthanpara by car, making it a comfortable visit for everyone.
What makes Kanthanpara truly special is its setting. As I’ve observed many times with my guests, the falls are beautifully nestled amidst lush tea and coffee estates. The journey to the falls itself is a delight, winding through these plantations, offering stunning green vistas. Once you arrive, you’re enveloped in a wonderful jungle ambience, with the soothing sound of water and the fresh, earthy scent of the forest all around you.
It’s a smaller, more serene waterfall compared to some of the grander ones in Wayanad, which is precisely its charm. It’s perfect for those who want to relax, enjoy nature’s quiet beauty, and perhaps dip their feet in the cool water without a huge crowd.
Best Time to Visit and How Long to Stay
The best time to visit Kanthanpara Waterfalls, like much of Wayanad, is after the monsoon season, from October to May. During these months, the waterfall is usually flowing beautifully, and the surrounding greenery is at its most vibrant. The weather is also generally pleasant, making it ideal for exploring.
The monsoon months (June to September) bring a dramatic increase in water flow, which can be a spectacular sight. However, heavy rains can sometimes make roads slippery or even lead to temporary closures for safety, so it’s always wise to check the current status before planning your visit. I always advise my guests to confirm locally, or just give me a call, and I can check for you.
For Kanthanpara itself, I recommend allowing about 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you ample time to enjoy the views, take some photographs, relax by the water, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere without feeling rushed. It’s not a place for strenuous activity, but rather for gentle appreciation.
Getting There
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is conveniently located near Meppadi, one of the key towns in southern Wayanad. The approach roads, like many in our beautiful hill station, are well-maintained but can be winding and narrow in places, especially as you get closer to the falls. This is where having a local driver, someone who knows these roads like the back of their hand, really makes a difference. We can navigate the turns comfortably and get you there safely.
Parking is usually available near the entrance to the falls, making access straightforward. The “drive-in” nature means you won’t have a long walk from your car to reach the main viewpoint, which is great for families or those who prefer an easier experience. Coming by private car with a local driver ensures a smooth, stress-free journey, allowing you to simply enjoy the scenic drive through the tea and coffee estates.
What to See and Do
At Kanthanpara Waterfalls, the main attraction is, of course, the waterfall itself. It cascades down in two steps, creating a lovely, gentle flow that is incredibly soothing to watch. Here’s what I recommend for your visit:
- Enjoy the Views: Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forest and the manicured tea and coffee plantations, creating a picturesque setting.
- Relax by the Water: The base of the falls often has shallow, calm pools where you can sit by the water’s edge and feel the cool spray. It’s a perfect spot for some quiet contemplation or just to unwind.
- Photography: The lush green backdrop and the gentle cascade offer wonderful opportunities for photography. Capture the beauty of the falls and the surrounding jungle ambience.
- Short Walks: There are usually small, easy paths around the falls that allow you to explore the immediate vicinity. These are gentle strolls, suitable for most fitness levels.
For your visit, comfortable footwear is always a good idea, especially if you plan to walk near the water. Light, breathable clothing is suitable for our tropical climate. While it’s an easy visit, it’s always good to carry a bottle of water, especially on warmer days. Remember, the focus here is on quiet enjoyment of nature, so leave your worries behind!
Nearby Places to Combine
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is located in a lovely part of Wayanad, making it easy to combine with several other popular attractions:
- Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls): Another stunning waterfall, a bit more adventurous with a downhill trek to reach its base. It’s a great contrast to Kanthanpara’s gentle ease.
- Chembra Peak: Wayanad’s highest peak, famous for its heart-shaped lake. You can either trek to the lake (permits often required, check local conditions) or simply enjoy the panoramic views from its base.
- Meppadi Town: A bustling small town that serves as a hub for the southern Wayanad region. It’s a good place to experience local life.
- Pookode Lake: A serene freshwater lake surrounded by forests, offering boating facilities and a pleasant walking path. It’s a beautiful spot for families.
- Lakkidi View Point: Known as the ‘Gateway of Wayanad,’ offering breathtaking views of the winding ghat road and the valley below, especially popular during sunset.
- Karlad Lake: Another beautiful lake offering adventure activities like zip-lining and boating, a good option for those seeking a bit more excitement.
2-Day Wayanad Itinerary Including Kanthanpara
Here’s a practical itinerary for a short but sweet Wayanad trip, making the most of a local driver’s knowledge:
Day 1: Arrival and Southern Charms
Arrive in Wayanad, typically via the scenic Thamarassery ghat road from Kozhikode. Your driver will meet you and help you settle in.
- Lakkidi View Point: Start your Wayanad experience with panoramic views of the hairpin bends and lush valleys.
- Pookode Lake: Enjoy a peaceful afternoon boating on the serene lake, surrounded by dense forests. You can also visit the freshwater aquarium here.
- Chain Tree: Hear the local legend behind this unique tree on the ghat road.
- Karlad Lake: If you’re up for some adventure, try zip-lining or other activities here before heading to your accommodation in the Vythiri or Kalpetta area.
Day 2: Waterfalls and Plantations
Explore the natural beauty of Wayanad’s southern region.
- Kanthanpara Waterfalls: Begin your day with the tranquil beauty of Kanthanpara, enjoying its serene ‘drive-in’ experience amidst tea and coffee estates.
- Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls): Head to this majestic three-tiered waterfall for a more adventurous experience, with a trek down to its base (check current access conditions).
- Tea Estates Viewpoint: Take a scenic drive through the expansive tea gardens around Meppadi, stopping for photos.
- Chembra Peak (Viewpoint): Visit the base of Chembra Peak for stunning views of the surrounding hills and plantations. (Full trek to the heart-shaped lake requires permits and can take a full day, so we’ll just admire it from afar on this itinerary).
3-Day Wayanad Itinerary Including Kanthanpara
With an extra day, we can delve deeper into Wayanad’s diverse landscapes and history.
Day 1: Arrival and Southern Charms
Same as Day 1 of the 2-day itinerary.
- Lakkidi View Point: Panoramic views of the ghat road.
- Pookode Lake: Boating and enjoying the lakeside serenity.
- Chain Tree: A quick stop for the legendary tree.
- Karlad Lake: Adventure activities or simply enjoying the views before heading to your accommodation.
Day 2: Waterfalls and Plantations
Focus on the southern part of Wayanad, including Kanthanpara.
- Kanthanpara Waterfalls: A peaceful start to the day, appreciating this accessible waterfall and its jungle ambience.
- Soochipara Waterfalls: Experience the grandeur of Soochipara, with its multi-tiered cascade (remember to check access).
- Tea Plantations: Drive through the picturesque tea country around Meppadi, stopping for refreshing photo opportunities.
- Chembra Peak (Viewpoint/Short Trek Base): Enjoy the views of Wayanad’s highest peak and the surrounding valleys.
Day 3: History, Caves, and Wildlife
Explore the eastern and central parts of Wayanad.
- Edakkal Caves: Trek up to these fascinating ancient caves, known for their Neolithic petroglyphs (check current trekking conditions and entry rules).
- Wayanad Heritage Museum (Ambalavayal): Discover local history and tribal artifacts.
- Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary (Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary): Embark on a jeep safari to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat (safari timings and availability vary, best to book in advance).
- Banasura Sagar Dam: India’s largest earth dam, offering stunning views and boating options amidst the Banasura hills.
Summary – and a warm invitation to visit Wayanad and call us to plan the trip
Kanthanpara Waterfalls truly offers a refreshing and accessible slice of Wayanad’s natural beauty. Its tranquil setting amidst tea and coffee estates, coupled with its easy “drive-in” access, makes it a perfect spot for families and anyone seeking a peaceful escape. As a local driver, I’ve seen countless smiles on guests’ faces as they discover this charming waterfall.
Exploring Wayanad’s winding roads and hidden treasures is always easier and more enjoyable with someone who knows the area intimately. I’m here to ensure your trip is smooth, comfortable, and filled with wonderful memories. From navigating the scenic routes to suggesting the best times to visit each spot, I’m ready to help you plan your perfect Wayanad adventure.
Plan your Wayanad trip with Hameed at wayanadtrips.com – private cars, local drivers and sightseeing packages. Call 9746967281.
