We are back after exploring Kerala’s next beautiful waterfall – the Ezharakund Waterfalls.
This gem is located in Kerala’s heritage-rich district, Kannur. Even though Kannur is known primarily for Theyyam, it also treasures nature’s beautiful gems.
Of course, this place was suggested by the Best Tour Travel Agency in Kerala, Visit to Kerala. The moment we saw this seven-tier beauty during our trek, we were mesmerised!
Every inch of this beauty has the power to draw in every mountain fan. Keep scrolling to find out why.
The Story Behind the Name “Ezharakund”
There is no once-upon-a-time story behind the name. In Malayalam, ‘Ezhu’ means seven, ‘Ara’ means half, and ‘Kund’ means pit. So, together, it means Ezharakund, which means seven-and-a-half pits. It accurately describes natural rock-pool formation.
What makes Ezharakund unique from other waterfalls?
Everything about this waterfall makes it unique. How the name fits, the nature-made swimming pits, and the rocks stacked in layers.
The waterfall gracefully created a series of round natural pools at different levels. They look like Mother Nature’s steps etched to give it a striking rustic look. We found this waterfall unique because the others we saw were water falling from the top to the bottom uninterrupted, no stops, nothing. At Ezharakund, the water comes to the bottom through each rock. This is actually how those small falls and water pits are formed.
When we were about to step on the rocks in the waterfall, we expected pointed and hard rocks. But to our surprise, the rocks were smooth and naturally bowl-shaped. This surface and comfort were not man-made; they were naturally made through constant water erosion.
To reach the waterfall, you have to trek for a short while, which is slightly similar to other waterfalls. The path you must trek here is the Paithalmala valley trek.
Location & Accessibility
This hidden waterfall in Kerala is tucked away in Paithalmala Valley. Its location in the midst of the dense forest and rocky landscapes makes it less crowded. This keeps the authentic beauty and peaceful atmosphere intact.
Since it is far from Kannur city, the nearest towns will be far. Iritty, a town with basic facilities, is 36.5 km (1 hr 3 min) from the Ezharakund Waterfalls. Another town near Thalassery, which is 62.1 km (1 hr 50 min) away. The next town nearby is Kannur town, which is 53.8 km (1 hr 40 m) away. If you are taking a flight, then book to Kannur International Airport, which is 41.6 km (1 hr 16 mins) away. Be it train or flight, it is best to take public transport or hire a taxi to reach Paithalmala Valley.
We took a train from Kottayam to Kannur Railway Station. From there, we took a bus to Kudianmala and finally reached Paithalmala Valley. From the valley, it took us a 2 km jeep ride to reach the waterfall.
The roads are suitable for careful driving, but they can be slippery during the monsoon season. The roads are best accessed during October and March, as the weather and road conditions are safe.
Ezharakund’s giant and layered formations are set naturally. The erosion and the rocks form deep natural pits and wide rocky plates. In these pits, rainwater is collected during the monsoon and post-monsoon, making the pits natural pools. These geological formations are what makes it stand out as a unique waterfall.
The Trek to Ezharakund
The exact starting point is the Chathamala area. You have two options here – trekking or a jeep ride. Since we were mostly trekking fans, we chose to trek the forest path.
It is from this main point that you should start trekking through the rocky paths. We walked for 2 km, which we felt was a short and easy trek for beginners.
It wasn’t just some silent trekking. We had nature’s company. There are small streams with freshwater flowing beside us, and landscapes that give a soothing view of the hills and valleys around the waterfall. We had sweet conversations and sing-alongs with the birds, which made the trek entertaining.
What made it safe were the DTPC Kannur’s safety rails and designated walking paths, which ensured we didn’t slip and injure ourselves. This was really helpful for our gang, which had first-time trekkers who needed help.
Highlights of Ezharakund Waterfalls
1. The Seven-Tier Cascade
The name Ezharakund was labelled because of its unique formation. Out of the seven waterfalls named after their features, this one was named for the seven-and-a-half levels of rocky natural pools stacked from top to bottom.
When you visit after a rain in the monsoon, you can find the water gushing down powerfully. During the summer season, the waterfall calms down, creating a soothing atmosphere.
2. Natural Pools & Scenic Spots
For those who aren’t comfortable swimming, you can relax by dipping your feet in one of the shallows, smooth pools. Look out for deeper pools because they are slippery, and the water flowing there has strong currents.
3. Surrounding Landscape
The surrounding Paithalmala Valley makes the waterfall look picturesque. Photography enthusiasts, especially wildlife photography, the birds and the small wildlife there will give you chances to click amazing photos. Water and forest have been blended here so perfectly that you can embrace the silence and enjoy the peaceful vibe there.
6. What to Expect During Your Visit
Being a tourist spot, Ezharakund Waterfalls will be moderately crowded by groups of families and friends. If this is a part of your 3-4-day vacation, then choose a weekday so that you can enjoy the solitude.
DTPC has set safety rails at some viewpoints, but not throughout the place. Other than safety, rails, lifeguards, life jackets, and designated paths are arranged for the visitor’s safety.
The amount of 100 rupees is charged as an entry fee. The jeep ride, enjoyed best by off-road fans, costs 250 rupees. The DTPC charges a certain amount of maintenance fees.
There are basic amenities to make your time comfortable. Changing rooms, restrooms (washrooms), and tea/snack stalls are set up at the top of the waterfall.
Our overall experience was fine with the amenities provided by DTPC.
7. Best Time to Visit
Just like any other waterfall, Ezharakund Waterfalls is also best visited right after October to March, when the monsoon ends. This is when the water flows at its best. Fresh after the season of rainfall, the freshwater gushes down at full force, making the place perfect for sightseeing, swimming, and photography.
If you are not a fan of sweating and the humidity while trekking, then choosing a time from December to February will be wise. The cool and comfy climate will help you visit the surrounding viewpoints, heat and humidity-free.
The time you should look out for is the heavy monsoon and the dry summer seasons. The monsoon season begins in June and ends in December, while the dry summer is from January to May.
8. Essential Tips for Travelers
First, pack the basics. They are footwear with good grip, breathable clothes, drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a mini first-aid kit.
Second, follow the safety instructions and advice. They are made for you to enjoy yourself safely.
Third, carry an extra cover to dispose of your waste. Do not disrespect nature by littering the surroundings.
9. Nearby Attractions to Combine With Your Trip
Visiting Ezharakund Waterfalls won’t cover a full day. Since we travelled from Kottayam to see this, it covered more than half, but the waterfall alone might cover a 2 to 5 hours max. Anyway, you have come to Ezharakund, might as well visit the other attractions that place has to offer.
Let’s start with the nearest.
1. Paithalmala Hill Station
It is 16 minutes away (5.2 km) from the waterfall and 65 km away from Kannur. It is 1372m above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in Kannur. It is located in the Western Ghats on the Kerala-Karnataka border, near the Kodagu forests.
The hill station is best enjoyed by a 6 km trek. There are two trekking options – the difficult and the easy option. The Alakode-Kappimala route is the difficult one, and the Pottenplave is the easy one. The hill is home to a hundred varieties of butterflies, rare trees, plants, and endemic species.
A historical highlight this place has is the ruins of the Palace of the Vaithalkon King. The Vaithalkon King was once a legendary tribal king whose kingdom was at the top of the hill.
2. Palakkayam Thattu
It is 32 minutes away (12.8 km) from the waterfall and 1 hour and 38 minutes (53.3 km) away from Kannur. It is 3500 ft above sea level. The height and the picturesque view out there is nothing short of bliss and dreamy.
3. Alakapuri Waterfalls
It is 52 minutes (21 km) away from the waterfall and 1 hour and 45 minutes (58.3 km) away from Kannur. Originating from the Karnataka forest, this waterfall is 4000 ft above sea level. The best time to visit is during the monsoon season, which is from June to September.
4. Kanjirakolli
It is 67 km away from the waterfall and 1 hour and 50 minutes (59.7 km) away from Kannur. An attractive hill in North Kerala, this place soothes a pair of eyes with those lush green plains.
10. Sample Itinerary
We organized a one-day trip. So, we covered Ezharakund waterfall and Palakkayam Thattu. These timings have a chance to vary based on the weather and other circumstances.
Saturday, 12:05 AM – We boarded our train from Kottayam
Saturday, 7:55 AM – We arrived at Kannur Railway Station
8:15 AM – 9:45 AM – Travelled from Kannur Railway Station to Sreekandapuram
9:45 AM – 10:30 AM – Travel from Sreekandapuram to Kudianmala
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM – Travel from Kudianmala to Paithalmala Valley (Jeep Base Point)
11:00 AM – 11:30 AM – 2 km Jeep Ride to the Waterfall
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM – Spent 2 Hours at the Waterfall (Ezharakund / Paithalmala Area)
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM – Travel from Ezharakund Waterfalls to Palakkayam Thattu
2:30 PM – 5:00 PM – Spent 2.5 Hours at Palakkayam Thattu
5:15 PM – 8:00 PM – Return to Kannur Railway Station
Saturday 9:30 PM – Boarded Train from Kannur Railway Station
Sunday 5:20 AM – Arrived at Kottayam Railway Station
Kannur isn’t just home to cultural festivities, but to tourist attractions made beautifully by nature. They, too, are perfect for a soothing break from your daily chaos. Here, everyone is welcome. Nature lovers, fam trips, photography enthusiasts, and hardcore trekkers. Just as Visit to Kerala, the Best Tour Travel Agency in Kerala, recommended this ethereal spot to us, we too recommend this paradise to you.
