Thusharagiri Waterfall

Thusharagiri Waterfall (celebrated poetically across South India as the 'Snow Capped Mountain' due to the perpetual white misty spray thrown up by its roaring cascades and hailed as the trekking capital of Northern Kerala), cascading down the rugged Western Ghats ranges in Kodenchery panchayat just 50 km east of Kozhikode city in Kerala, is one of the state's most grand, ecologically pristine, and exhilarating eco adventure destinations.

Formed by the pristine mountain tributaries of the Chalippuzha River plunging over jagged granite precipices from an altitude of over 2,400 feet, Thusharagiri comprises a spectacular succession of three prominent waterfall cascades, namely Erattumukku (the roaring twin fall lower cascade), Mazhavil Chaattam (the 'Rainbow Waterfall' where sunlight creates vivid arcs through the mist), and Thumbithullum Para (the highest, most thunderous upper cascade leaping into deep rock cauldrons)—hidden amidst virgin semi evergreen rainforests and organic spice plantations.

It's the home of the world famous Malabar River Festival (Asia's biggest white water international kayaking championship hosted annually on the turbulent rapids of Chalippuzha and Iruvanjippuzha rivers), scenic 5 kilometer rainforest trekking trails leading to the upper falls and onward across the high mountain ridges to Vythiri in Wayanad, the legendary hollow 'Thanni Muthassi' tree (a 500 year-old hollow Beddome's tree whose interior can shelter up to 8 people), organic rubber, areca nut, and clove estates, natural rock bathing pools, and refreshing mountain breezes.

It represents a rich highland and adventure sanctuary where three tiered mountain cascades, thrilling white water river kayaking, rigorous rainforest trekking, and cool Western Ghats biodiversity unite in Thamarassery high ranges.

Located in Kodenchery panchayat along the Thamarassery Kodenchery route, it sits 45 km from Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT), 12 km from Thamarassery ghats, and 52 km from Calicut International Airport (CCJ / Karipur), easily accessible by regular KSRTC and private buses, tourist cabs, and private vehicles.

The Three Tiered Cascades of Chalippuzha River

The lower fall (Erattumukku) is easily accessible via paved forest pathways and hanging bridges, making it ideal for families and casual visitors.

Adventure enthusiasts can trek upstream through dense teak and bamboo thickets to explore Mazhavil Chaattam and the remote Thumbithullum Para cascades.

Truth is, feeling the cool misty spray against your face while standing beneath the roar of Erattumukku instantly revives tired travelers.

Malabar River Festival & White Water Kayaking

Asia's Premier Kayaking Event: Every monsoon in July/August, international extreme kayakers from over 20 countries compete on Thusharagiri's Class IV and V river rapids.

Thrilling River Tourism: White water rafting, river crossing, and guided canyoning attract adventure lovers across India during the high flow season.

The 500 Year Hollow Tree & Wayanad Trekking Route

Thanni Muthassi Tree: A major botanical wonder along the trail is a colossal hollow Terminalia bellerica tree with a spacious hollow trunk that visitors can step inside.

Cross District Trek: The scenic 14 kilometer trail from Thusharagiri through dense evergreen forests connects directly to Vythiri and Lakkidi in Wayanad district.

After trekking at Thusharagiri Waterfall, explore the reservoir and crocodile farm at Peruvannamuzhi Dam, visit the high altitude Kakkayam Dam, or tour the historic Mananchira Square in Kozhikode.