KERALA TOURS - SOUTH KERALA WATERFALLS MANKAYAM

MANKAYAM WATERFALL

Close to the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram is Mankayam, situated near Palode in Nedumangad Taluk. This water spectacle can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Mankayam was recently launched as a zone for ecotourism, managed by the State Forest Department.

At the Mankayam ecotourism zone, visitors can seek the assistance of guides with the entire activities coordinated by the Vanasamrakshna Samithi (Forest Protection Group), working under the forest department of the State.

Rising from the hill ranges of Chemunchi, the River Chittar, flowing down through the forests of Brymore creates a tributary in the form of Mankayam River. The Mankayam River in its course further down, produces two spectacular waterfalls. One is at Kalakayam, which is one of the biggest waterfalls in the area and the other at Kurissadi. The spectacular falls at Kalakayam and Kurisadi can be seen and enjoyed from view points provided by authorities. The Kurisadi Ghat offers an excellent spot for bathing.
With rich forest setting, the area in and around the waterfalls are overwhelmingly green. Shrubs to gigantic and lofty trees of evergreen and semi-evergreen grasslands are found here.

From Mankayam, visitors can go to nearby picturesque spots and can also go for trekking. An interior area trek here, covering Iruthala Moola - Ayampara is a half day trek, which also would enable one to witness the Ayampara waterfalls and some of the wildlife in the area. Adventure inclined visitors may opt for the one day Mankayam - Varayadin Mottai trek. This trek would take one through rolling valleys, grasslands and shola forests. You would also come across the endangered Nilgiri Tahr; a species of wild goat, at the peak of Varayadin Mottai. Camping options are available here along with trained guides
Getting there
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 55 kms.
Nearest railway station: Thiruvanathapuram Central, about 45 kms.