Kanthanpara Waterfalls, tucked away in the lush greenery of Wayanad district in Kerala, is one of the most serene and family-friendly waterfalls in the region. Falling from a height of around 30 meters, the stream creates a shallow pool at the base, making it safe for children and families to enjoy a splash. Unlike the more crowded Soochipara or Meenmutty Falls, Kanthanpara offers a quiet retreat where you can enjoy the music of gushing waters surrounded by tea gardens and dense forests.
It’s an ideal stop for nature lovers, photographers, and families seeking a peaceful outing.
🕒 Kanthanpara Waterfalls Entry Fees and Timings
Entry Fee: ₹40 per person (adults), ₹20 for children
Camera Fee: ₹25 (still), ₹50 (video)
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
Best Visiting Hours: Morning before 11 AM or evening around 3–5 PM for fewer crowds
👉 Hidden Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid tourist rush and get uninterrupted waterfall views.
🚗 Travel Details How to Reach Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Location: Meppadi, Wayanad district, Kerala
Distance:
22 km from Kalpetta (30–40 mins)
8 km from Meppadi town
60 km from Kozhikode city
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode (Calicut) – 72 km
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport – 95 km
Transport Options:
Local bus services from Kalpetta & Meppadi
Private taxis/auto rickshaws available
Government KSRTC buses connect Wayanad towns
👉 Hidden Tip: The final approach road is narrow and slightly steep, best to go by jeep or small car instead of large vehicles.
🎯 Things to Do at Kanthanpara Waterfalls
✔️ Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base (safe for kids and families)
✔️ Short trek down the hill through tea plantations and bamboo groves
✔️ Birdwatching – spot hornbills, peacocks, and small forest birds
✔️ Photography – misty waterfalls framed by greenery make for picture-perfect shots
✔️ Relaxing picnic on the banks with packed food
✔️ Combine with a visit to nearby attractions like Edakkal Caves and Soochipara Falls
👉 Family Tip: Carry an extra set of clothes for kids as they’ll love playing in the shallow waters.
🏞️ Facilities & Travel Essentials at Kanthanpara Waterfalls
🚗 Parking
Paid parking area available near the entrance (₹30–₹50 per vehicle).
Space is limited during weekends/holidays, so reaching early is best.
Large buses may find it tough due to narrow approach roads.
👉 Tip: Park in Meppadi town if you’re in a tempo traveler and use a local jeep (₹500–₹700 one way).
🚻 Restrooms
Basic restrooms are available near the entrance.
Not very well maintained, so carry tissue/wet wipes and hand sanitizer.
No restroom facilities once you go closer to the falls.
👉 Tip: Use restrooms in restaurants at Meppadi before heading here if you want cleaner options.
🍴 Food Stalls & Refreshments
A few local tea shops and snack stalls are available near the parking area.
You’ll find tea, banana fritters, pakoras, and bottled water.
No big restaurants or cafes on-site, the nearest eateries are at Meppadi town (8 km).
👉 Tip: Carry packed food/snacks if you plan to spend longer hours.
🛣️ Road Condition
The approach road from Meppadi to Kanthanpara is narrow and steep.
Potholes are common, especially during monsoon.
Last 1–2 km road is not suitable for large buses.
👉 Tip: Drive slow, keep your vehicle in low gear, and avoid night travel due to poor lighting and fog.
⚠️ Drawbacks of Kanthanpara Falls
No major restaurants or proper food outlets nearby.
Restrooms need better maintenance.
Roads can be tricky for bigger vehicles.
Gets crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in peak season.
🚨 Dangers to Watch Out For
Rocks near the falls can be slippery, always wear non-slip footwear.
Strong currents during monsoon, avoid venturing too close.
Leeches are common in monsoon months (June–September).
Limited mobile network (Jio & Airtel patchy; BSNL works better).
🚿 Changing Rooms After Bathing at Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Availability: Basic changing cubicles are usually available near the entry/parking zone. They’re simple tin/brick rooms with a latch; separate spaces for men & women. During off-peak/monsoon days, a few cubicles may be closed—ask at the ticket counter.
Charges: Nominal ₹10–₹20 per person (varies by season/operator). Cash only.
Facilities inside: No lockers or shelves; floor can be wet/slushy. Expect a hook or two, carry a small hangable pouch for phone/keys.
Cleanliness: Functional but basic. Cleanest early mornings and on weekdays. Carry wet wipes/tissues and hand sanitizer.
Water & showers: No hot-water or shower rooms; these are changing-only. Rinse in the natural pool, then head to a cubicle to change.
Family needs: No dedicated family room; if traveling with kids, change one at a time while the other adult waits outside the cubicle.
Safety for valuables: No storage provided. Keep valuables locked in your car or use a belt pouch; avoid leaving items unattended near the rocks.
What to pack (quick list):
Microfiber towel • Spare undergarments • Flip-flops/anti-slip sandals • Plastic/wet bag for clothes • Small mat (to stand on) • Poncho towel (great for modesty)Etiquette & eco-note: Please don’t use soap/shampoo in the stream; take your used tissues and plastics back with you, leave no trace.
If cubicles are crowded/closed: Use your car’s sunshades for privacy or carry a portable changing poncho. Clean, sit-down restrooms are available in Meppadi (≈8 km) at restaurants/ fuel stations.
👉 Hidden Tip: Bring a lightweight poncho towel, it doubles as a modesty wrap and dries fast. Change before 11 AM to beat the crowd and keep the cubicle clean for your turn.
✅ Kanthanpara Waterfalls Extra Travel Tips
Best time to visit is November to May for safe and enjoyable conditions.
Always carry an extra set of clothes and towels, especially for kids.
Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and better photography.
Don’t litter, keep the waterfall surroundings clean.
Hire local guides if you’re unsure about trekking trails.
🍽️ Local Cuisine to Try Nearby Kanthanpara Waterfalls
Malabar Parotta with Beef Fry – ₹120–₹150
Kerala Meals (Rice, Sambar, Fish Curry) – ₹100
Kuzhi Pathiri (steamed rice pancakes) – ₹60
Fresh Toddy (seasonal) – ₹50 per glass
Banana Fry & Kerala Tea – ₹30
👉 Hidden Tip: Try small local tea shops near Meppadi town for authentic snacks and fresh Kerala chai.
🌄 Nearby Tourist Spots Around Kanthanpara Waterfalls
1. Soochipara Waterfalls (Sentinel Rock Falls) – 13 km
A three-tiered waterfall famous for trekking, rock climbing, and swimming in the pool below. Surrounded by dense forests and tea plantations.
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person, ₹40 for parking
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Parking: Large parking space available near the entry gate
Food: Tea shops and snack stalls outside the entrance; no eateries inside
👉 Tip: Carry sports shoes and avoid visiting during peak monsoon (slippery rocks).
2. Edakkal Caves – 23 km
A historic site with prehistoric rock engravings dating back 6,000 years. A must-visit for history buffs and trekkers.
Entry Fee: ₹20 per adult, ₹40 extra for camera
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Parking: Paid parking at the base; trek of 1.5 km uphill to reach caves
Food: Small eateries and juice shops near the parking area
👉 Tip: The uphill trek is moderately tough, carry water and wear good footwear.
3. Karapuzha Dam – 22 km
A scenic dam with a newly developed children’s park, boating facilities, and landscaped gardens, great for families.
Entry Fee: ₹30 for adults, ₹15 for children
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Parking: Spacious parking available at the site
Food: Few stalls near the entrance; restaurants available in Sultan Bathery (10 km away)
👉 Tip: Visit in the evening for boating and colorful fountain lights.
4. Meenmutty Waterfalls – 35 km
One of the largest waterfalls in Wayanad, cascading from 300 meters in three stages. Accessible by a short trek through the forest.
Entry Fee: ₹30 per person
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Parking: Paid parking at the base; trek of 2 km required
Food: Local tea shops and snack stalls available near the parking
👉 Tip: Not ideal for very small children or elderly due to steep trekking paths.
5. Banasura Sagar Dam – 41 km
The largest earthen dam in India, famous for speed boating and panoramic views of Banasura hills. A must-visit spot in Wayanad.
Entry Fee: ₹40 for adults, ₹20 for children
Boating Fee: Speed boating ₹750 for 5 persons
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Parking: Large parking space available
Food: Cafeteria and stalls selling snacks, tea, and Kerala meals nearby
👉 Tip: Try speed boating in the afternoon, thrilling experience with mountain views.
📞 Kanthanpara Waterfalls Contact
Forest Department Contact (Meppadi Range Office): +91-4936-282001
Note: Phone lines may be busy; tickets are easily available on-site.
🌟 Kanthanpara Waterfalls Traveller Reviews
👍 Positive Reviews
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Peaceful family spot”
We visited Kanthanpara Falls with kids, and it was very safe compared to other waterfalls. The shallow pool made it enjoyable for children to play in the water.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐“Less crowded than Soochipara”
Loved the calm surroundings and greenery. Unlike Soochipara, it wasn’t crowded, so we got great photos and enjoyed a relaxed picnic.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Beautiful tea estate backdrop”
The drive through tea gardens before reaching the falls is magical. The waterfall itself is small but very scenic.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Good for a short trip”
Perfect for spending 2–3 hours. Basic facilities like parking and restrooms are available. Great for a quick stopover in Wayanad.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Budget-friendly entry”
Entry fee is very low (₹40), and you can enjoy a peaceful day here. Great value for families and solo travelers.
👎 Negative Reviews
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Road condition poor”
The last stretch of the road to Kanthanpara is narrow and filled with potholes. Not easy for big vehicles.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ “Limited food options”
Only a few tea stalls are available near the parking. No proper restaurants, so you must carry your own food.
⭐ ⭐ “Slippery rocks”
The rocks around the waterfall are very slippery, especially during monsoon. Not very safe for elderly people.
⭐ ⭐ “Poor restroom facilities”
Restrooms were not well maintained. Families may find this inconvenient.
⭐ ⭐ “Nothing extraordinary”
Compared to Soochipara or Meenmutty, the waterfall is small. Some travelers may find it underwhelming if they expect a big waterfall.
Kanthanpara Waterfalls is one of the best family-friendly tourist places in Wayanad, offering safe waters, a peaceful setting, and easy accessibility. It may not be as tall or thunderous as Meenmutty or Soochipara, but its charm lies in the calm surroundings, perfect for picnics, nature walks, and children’s fun.
👉 If you’re planning a Wayanad itinerary, make sure to include Kanthanpara Waterfalls along with Soochipara, Edakkal Caves, and Banasura Dam for a complete experience.
