Lying on the Western Ghats 50 km east of Kozhikode district of Kerala, Thusharagiri falls is located in a tribal village near Kodencherry, which is abundant with rubber, arecanut, pepper, ginger and spices plantations. Literally, the name translates into ‘dew-capped mountains’.
The gurgling Chalippuzha river emerging from several rivulets from the mountain diverges into three waterfalls and comes gushing down in snowy sprays, thus giving this falls its poetic name.
As the name suggests, Thusharagiri exhibits a unique and exceptional kinship between land and water.
The best time to visit this boisterous waterfall in the backdrop of the majestic Western Ghats is from September to December.
The waterfall, with its gentle smooth spray, is sure to soothe the hearts of the wanderers. A 5 km trek upstream through the dense evergreen forest will take one to the stream's origin.
Out of the three waterfalls, the tallest one is the Thenpara waterfall, which has an elevation of about 75 metres. As it is easy to reach this scenic spot, the place registers huge tourist traffic during peak seasons.
The place is an excellent hub for trekkers. An early morning trek from the base through the immaculately dense evergreen forests will take one to Vythiri, one of the most tranquil places in Wayanad.
A moderate trek silently through this pristine and serene part of the world, breathing in fresh air, drinking crystal-clear cold water emerging from the rivulets on the way and watching exotic birds and other wildlife will help you overcome the fatigue of modern urban living.
Indeed, the trek offers some challenges in rock-climbing through the river paths and through numerous small waterfalls. The slippery rocks can be dangerous and one should be careful while trekking.
As the river falling from the height soothes the hearts, the lush green forests and the old Thaanni tree nearby console the minds. Indeed one will become part of that rare kinship of land, water and forests — the essential elements of nature.
The writer is a travel enthusiast
