The Other Meenmutty Waterfalls in Wayanad

For some strange reason, ‘Meenmutty’ seems to be a common name for many waterfalls in Kerala’s western ghats. We have heard of at least three—two in Wayanad and one in Thiruvananthapuram. “Meen Mutty’ roughly translates to ‘fish blocked.’

However, we did not know that there are two Meenmutty falls in Wayanad till we reached the picturesque Banasura Sagar dam. We were earlier told that the famous Meenmutty falls near Kalpetta, a three-tired waterfall and the second largest in Kerala, has been closed for safety reasons. And we had reconciled to it.

As we drove into the parking area of Banasura Sagar dam, a small board saying ‘Meenmutty falls – 2.5 kms’ caught our attention. Yes, there is a second ‘Meenmutty falls’ in Wayanad. A quick realignment in the itinerary, and soon after our dam visit, we were on our way to the falls.

After a 2-km drive and less than a kilometre hike, we were on the banks of the river. What followed is a fascinating climb and hike right up to the waterfalls through massive rocks—some dangerously slippery—and a gushing stream. There were safety ropes across the path, tied to tree trunks or rocks on both sides of the stream. It is a 20-odd minute careful climb. We then returned down through the forest trail. Only to get into the water again for a nice refreshing dip.

Meenmutty falls is 2.5 kms from Banasura Sagar dam. Banasura Sagar is 21 kms from Kalpetta, 47 kms from Sulthan Bathery and 34 kms from Mananthavady (in Wayanad district, Kerala). Nearest railway station and airport are in Kozhikode.