Overview
Meenmutty waterfalls, located 29 kilometers from Kalpetta in Wayanad district, are considered to be one of the largest waterfalls in the Kalpetta region and the second largest in Kerala. It is also one of the most exciting and picturesque natural attractions in Wayanad. Nestled in the midst of a jungle trek, Meenmutty’s cascading waterfall provides a breathtaking view. This mighty waterfall has three tiers of bubbly water and is located near the Neyyar Reservoir. The experience of climbing through the rocks to reach this enchanting location is unique, making it a popular tourist destination.
In Malayalam, Meenmutty refers to a place where fish are trapped. Meenmutty, which cascades down three different tiers with an altitude of 300 ft each, provides a spectacular view and is accessible via an exciting 2 km jungle trek. This breathtaking waterfall is nestled in the lush Mepadi forest range and is a must-see for adventurers.
Meenmutty is an ideal place to lie back and relax away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while also enjoying a beautiful sunset. It offers a spectacular view of over 1000 feet of cascading water and a picturesque backdrop for trekking activities. Furthermore, one can camp near the falls, but only with permission from forest officials. The combination of lush green mountains, blue water from the surging waterfall, and a backdrop of bright blue sky creates a stunning contrast for photography.
Trekking
The waterfall is accessible via a 2 km picturesque jungle trek along the Wayanad-Ooty road. Each of the three tiers necessitates a separate journey through a dense deciduous forest. The first of the three tiers can be reached by walking approximately 500 meters from the main entrance. This layer is smaller, has a shallow depth, and is ideal for swimming. The second tier is accessible via approximately 500 m of steps built over boulders.
The trail runs parallel to the downstream river, providing stunning views of the stream and dense vegetation. The hike to the third tier is the most difficult because it involves walking through the flow on slippery rocks. There are ropes available to help you walk. The walk up this tier is steep in some places, taking about 10-15 minutes. However, all of your efforts will be rewarded when you reach the top of the waterfall and take in the breathtaking view of the nearby Banasura Sagar dam and valley.
Best Time To Visit Meenmutty Waterfalls
The best time to visit is between October and May, as the summers in the region can be quite hot and humid, spoiling your fun, and the monsoon can be dangerous due to the high inflow of water and slippery rocks. Thus, it is best to visit Meenmutty Falls in the winter and spring.
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Tips For Visiting Meenmutty Waterfalls
- Avoid going during the rainy season, as the waterfall is extremely dangerous due to the high inflow and has claimed many lives.
- Do not confuse it with Meenmutty waterfalls near Meppadi, which closed a few years ago.
- Given the rugged and undulating terrain, it is recommended to hire a guide for the trek.
How To Reach Meenmutty Waterfalls
Buses run on a regular schedule between Kalpetta and the lake’s main entrance. The best way to get to the Meenmutty waterfalls is to hike 2 kilometers along the Kozhikode-Ooty interstate highway. The hike can be exhausting and difficult, but the serene waterfall is worth it.
