Palaruvi Falls, Kollam (Quilon), Kerala India

Palaruvi Falls is one of those waterfalls that apparently have ayurvedic healing properties as we were told the stream meanders through some natural herbal groves further upstream. To make it easier for visitors to get the benefit of these ayurvedic properties by bathing in the waterfall's waters, we noticed there were changing rooms as well as designated gender-separated bathing areas in the stream.

As for photographing the falls, I found out that it wasn't easy as the most direct view of the falls was only available in the ladies only section so only the ladies could get it. The difficulty was exacerbated because the male-only side appeared to be off limits due to a rockfall and a washed out bridge. So I had to rely on Julie to go to the female section to take the more frontal photographs of the waterfall.

The upper overlookBeyond the bathing area, the walking path ascended a set of stairs leading up to a sheltered overlook. From that vantage point, it was difficult to capture the whole falls since it was too close to the falls and the waterfall itself was too tall. It was said that this falls was around 300ft tall, but we thought that might be a bit generous (though there was no denying that it was quite tall plus there were cascades and rapids further downstream). 

Palaruvi waterfall is situated in Thenmala in Kollam district and is near to Tamil Nadu border. It lies in the Thenmala ranges between dense forests and is across the Kallada river. The word meaning of Palaruvi is ‘stream of milk’ and this waterfall is given this name because it looks like a stream of milk. The water falls from a height of 300 ft and forms a small pool at the bottom.

It is an important tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy taking a dip in this pool. There are separate places for ladies and children. The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoon season when the water gushes through the hills. The fall gets dried up during summer season. Guards are posted in this area and use of alcohol is prohibited here. This place is protected under the Palaruvi Vana Samrakshana Samiti.

The water from this falls is believed to have medicinal properties that are able to prevent several diseases because it comes from the forest. Ayurvedic physicians advise their patients to take a dip in this water. The Thenmala ranges offer an adventurous spot for the tourists. People can do trekking from here. It is a great experience and is equally refreshing.