Tucked away in the misty forests near Teekoy, about 8 km from Erattupetta in Kottayam district, Marmala Waterfalls is one of Kerala’s most enchanting yet relatively unexplored natural wonders. Cascading from a height of around 60 meters into a deep rock pool, this pristine waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, rubber plantations, and hills, creating a tranquil escape into nature’s lap.
Reaching Marmala involves a short trek through plantations and narrow trails, adding a sense of adventure and exclusivity to the visit. The sound of the waterfall grows louder with each step, and when it finally comes into view, the sight is nothing short of breathtaking.
Still untouched by mass tourism, Marmala is perfect for those who prefer offbeat destinations, serene landscapes, and the thrill of discovering something hidden.
Highlights:
60-meter waterfall plunging into a crystal-clear pool
Trek through plantations and forest paths
Ideal for nature photography and picnics
Serene, crowd-free atmosphere
Best Time to Visit:
Monsoon and Post-monsoon (June to January) – when the waterfall is at its fullest, and the surroundings are lush.
Travel Tip:
Wear trekking shoes and carry water; there are no major shops or facilities nearby.
Swimming is not recommended due to slippery rocks and depth.
How to Reach:
Nearest town: Erattupetta (~8 km)
By Road
From Kottayam: Approximately 45 km to Teekoy village.
From Erattupetta: About 13 km to Teekoy.
From Vagamon: Roughly 20 km via the Vagamon–Erattupetta route.
Teekoy serves as the nearest point accessible by paved roads. From Teekoy, the journey continues with:
Off-Road Drive: Around 5 km through rugged terrain, best navigated with a 4WD vehicle or by hiring a local jeep.
Trek: A 2 km trek through dense forests and plantations to reach the waterfall .
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (~45 km from Teekoy).
Next Steps: From the station, hire a taxi or take a bus to Teekoy, then proceed as described above.
By Air
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~90 km from Teekoy).
Next Steps: From the airport, hire a taxi to Teekoy, then follow the off-road and trekking route to the waterfall.
Trekking to Marmala Waterfalls
The final leg of the journey involves a moderately challenging 2 km trek:
Trail Conditions: The path is narrow, rocky, and can be slippery, especially during the monsoon season.
Preparation: Wear sturdy trekking shoes and carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
Important Tips
Best Time to Visit: September to March, when the waterfall is at its most vibrant and the weather is pleasant.
Safety: Swimming is not recommended due to the depth (approximately 12 meters) and strong currents .
Facilities: There are no shops or restrooms near the waterfall; plan accordingly.
Leeches: Common during the monsoon season; carrying salt or leech repellents is advisable.
Where to Stay
Where to Eat
