01
Charpa Falls crashes down right beside the road near Athirappilly. Memories of a monsoon trip in July, when the waterfall is at its fullest and loudest.
02
A quiet sunset at Chavakkad Beach near Guruvayur in Thrissur, a calm and uncrowded stretch of sand that is perfect for an easy evening walk by the sea.
03
An hour at the Thumboormuzhi Butterfly Garden on the way to Athirappilly, a small and shaded park full of flowering plants and colourful butterflies.
04
Two slow days by the Chalakudy river — river-view rooms, a pool and evening walks to the rapids.
05
Budget hotels, plantation stays and resorts around Vettilappara — what each kind of stay is good for.
06
A day at Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary in Thrissur, Kerala, with the dam and its reservoir, thick green forest and plenty of birds along the way.
07
An evening at Ezhattumugham, where the Chalakudy River splits into seven streams, with rocky river views and quiet spots near Athirappilly in Thrissur.
08
Waking up to the sound of the Chalakudy river at a family-run homestay close to Thumboormuzhi.
09
A day trip to Athirappilly Waterfalls in Thrissur, with the roar of the Chalakudy River, the cool shade of the rainforest and Kerala's biggest falls.
10
How we picked a resort close to Charpa Falls — and what to check before you book.
11
A simple Kerala lunch at a small local hotel in Vettilappara on the way back from Athirappilly, with rice and homely curries served the nadan way.