Marottichal: a trekking haven

Marottichal is a hill village and wonderful spot for trekking from Thrissur. This beautiful forest hosts two main waterfall attractions — Olakkayam and Ilanjippara. The place is not well -known and a little difficult to reach from the main road. The base point of the trek starts at Marottichal Kuthu, at which point two-wheelers and other vehicles have to be parked on the roadside. After a 10-minute walk, one will reach the first waterfall, Olakkayam (lower end) and after one hour of trekking, the main waterfall — Ilanjippara (upper end).

A narrow path leads to Olakkayam, a waterfall where people are allowed to swim. By crossing this waterfall, you can reach the Ilanjippara waterfall. This waterfall, with water cascading from the top, is an area that seems to be less-explored and unpolluted. The water here also seems to be fresh. Swimming at Ilanjippara may be dangerous because of the slippery rocks but a careful stroll through the forest path to the top side of the waterfall is worth experiencing. It is better to head back before night fall since there are no proper facilities to light up the area. 

Private buses are available from Thrissur town to Marottichal. There is no entry fee. No food or medical aid is available nearby. So it is better to carry a medical kit, food & water.