Palaruvi Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction located in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. Known for its milky white cascade, it is a popular spot for nature lovers and travelers seeking a peaceful retreat. This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Palaruvi Waterfalls from nearby cities and towns.

Whether you are traveling from Kollam, Trivandrum, or other parts of Kerala, this article covers all transport options including train, bus, car, and practical travel tips. You will learn about travel times, routes, and local conditions to plan your visit confidently.

Getting from Nearby Cities to Palaruvi Waterfalls – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a convenient option for reaching the nearest stations to Palaruvi Waterfalls. It is suitable if you prefer a comfortable journey and want to avoid road traffic. The closest railway stations are Punalur and Kollam.

• Punalur Railway Station is about 30 km from Palaruvi Waterfalls and well connected to major cities like Kollam and Trivandrum. Trains run frequently, and the journey from Kollam takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Kollam Junction is a major rail hub approximately 65 km away. It offers more train options but requires additional road travel by bus or taxi to reach the falls.

• From Punalur or Kollam stations, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Palaruvi. Taxi fares range from ₹500 to ₹800 depending on negotiation and vehicle type.

• Train travel is generally comfortable, but during monsoon season, slight delays may occur due to heavy rains affecting tracks in the Western Ghats region.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Palaruvi Waterfalls, especially for local travelers. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private buses operate on routes connecting nearby towns.

• KSRTC buses run regularly from Punalur and Kollam to Aryankavu, the nearest town to Palaruvi. The bus journey from Punalur to Aryankavu takes about 1 hour covering 30 km.

• From Aryankavu bus stand, you can take an auto-rickshaw or local taxi for the last 5 km to the waterfalls. Autos are available but may charge higher fares for tourists.

• Bus fares are affordable, usually between ₹30 to ₹70 depending on the route and bus type (ordinary or limited stop).

• Buses can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, so plan to travel early in the day to avoid standing for long hours.

• During monsoon months, landslides or roadblocks on NH744 may cause delays or route changes, so check local updates before departure.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Palaruvi Waterfalls is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore the scenic routes of Kerala at your own pace. The roads are mostly well maintained but can be narrow in hilly sections.

• The falls are accessible via National Highway 744 (NH744), connecting Kollam to Tamil Nadu through Aryankavu. The distance from Kollam to Palaruvi is about 65 km and takes around 2 hours by car.

• From Punalur, the drive is shorter, approximately 30 km and 1 hour via State Highway 59. The route passes through lush greenery and small villages.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along NH744, but fewer options exist closer to the waterfalls, so plan accordingly.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and foggy, especially near the Western Ghats, so drive cautiously and avoid night travel.

• Toll plazas on NH744 may require small fees, so keep change handy. Using GPS apps like Google Maps helps navigate the winding roads effectively.

Flight

There is no airport near Palaruvi Waterfalls, but the closest major airport is Trivandrum International Airport. Flights are suitable if you are coming from distant cities and plan to continue by road.

• Trivandrum International Airport is about 90 km from Palaruvi Waterfalls, approximately a 3-hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions.

• From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach the falls. Taxi fares typically range from ₹1500 to ₹2500 for a one-way trip.

• Public transport options from Trivandrum to Punalur or Kollam are available, but involve multiple changes and longer travel times.

• Booking flights in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons and festivals in Kerala.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

If you are visiting Palaruvi Waterfalls for the first time, this step-by-step plan will help you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common challenges.

• Book your train or bus tickets early using IRCTC or KSRTC online portals to secure seats and avoid last-minute rush, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Arrive at the railway station or bus stand at least 30 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus easily and avoid confusion.

• From Punalur or Kollam, pre-book a taxi or confirm auto-rickshaw fares before starting the last leg to Palaruvi to prevent overcharging.

• Carry some snacks and water as food options near the waterfalls are limited and may close early in the evening.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry rain gear if traveling during monsoon, as the path to the falls can be slippery and wet.

• Inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time, especially if you are traveling alone, as mobile network coverage may be patchy near the falls.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber where available to avoid haggling and ensure fair pricing during your trip to Palaruvi.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues; local shops near the falls may not have safe drinking water.

• Book train and bus tickets online in advance during festival seasons like Onam or Christmas when Kerala sees heavy tourist inflow.

• Use local buses or autos for short distances but confirm fares beforehand, as tourist spots often have inflated prices.

• Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit, as medical facilities near the falls are limited.

• During monsoon (June to September), check weather and road conditions before traveling to avoid landslides or road closures common in the Western Ghats.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Palaruvi Waterfalls is from October to May when the weather is pleasant and the roads are safe. The waterfall is most spectacular just after the monsoon season.

Travel during monsoon can be risky due to heavy rains causing slippery roads and occasional landslides. Winter mornings may have fog affecting visibility on the mountain roads.

• Avoid traveling during major Kerala festivals like Onam and Vishu when roads and transport are crowded with tourists and locals.

• Monsoon months bring heavy rainfall from June to September, leading to possible delays and slippery paths near the falls.

• Early morning departures are recommended to enjoy the falls before crowds arrive and to ensure safe daylight travel on hilly roads.

• Late evening travel is not advisable due to limited lighting and fewer transport options after dark.

Arrival at Palaruvi Waterfalls & What to Expect

When you arrive at Palaruvi Waterfalls, you will find a small parking area and a ticket counter for entry. The falls are surrounded by dense forest and have a well-maintained pathway leading to the base.

Local transport options are limited; most visitors walk from the parking area to the falls. Nearby, you can find small shops selling snacks and refreshments. Accommodation options are available in Aryankavu and Punalur, with more choices in Kollam city.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are recommended for return trips to avoid waiting long at the falls. The area is peaceful but can get crowded on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

Conclusion

Traveling to Palaruvi Waterfalls is a rewarding experience with its scenic beauty and tranquil environment. The most efficient way to reach the falls depends on your starting point, but train travel to Punalur followed by a taxi is often the easiest and most comfortable option.

Plan your trip by booking tickets in advance, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport ahead of time. With proper preparation and awareness of local travel nuances, you can enjoy a safe and memorable visit to this beautiful Kerala waterfall.