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Treks & waterfalls

Banasuramala Meenmutty Waterfalls

By Arjun, host at Coffee Haven · Last checked Oct 2026
Quick answerBanasuramala Meenmutty is a three-tier waterfall in the Banasura hills near Padinjarathara, about 5 km from Banasura Sagar Dam. The first tier is an easy walk; the third needs ropes over wet rock. It is open 10 AM to 5 PM.

Our tip

Wayanad's largest waterfall: 300m across three tiers. The trek is tough (3km of steep, rocky terrain) but the sight is unlike anything else here. Go early and carry 2L+ of water each. Wet rocks, so wear shoes with grip. Worth every step.From our guest guidebook

Staying nearby? Our coffee-estate homes in Kakkavayal are about 16 km away as the crow flies. Book a stay →

What to expect

From the ticket counter a forest path leads to the first tier, about a kilometre in. The second tier means climbing steps over boulders, and the third crosses the stream on slippery rock with ropes. From the upper tier you look back over Banasura Sagar and the valleys. The Banasura hill trek starts from the same counter.

Which Meenmutty?

Wayanad has two waterfalls called Meenmutty. This one is on the Banasura side near Padinjarathara and is open. The older Meenmutty near Meppadi, on the Ooty road, has been closed for several years and can only be seen from the roadside.

Safety

  • Do not bathe in the falls in the monsoon; there have been many drownings here over the years.
  • Skip the third tier if you are not sure-footed.
  • Carry water and expect leeches after rain.

Getting there

Questions

Which Meenmutty waterfall is open?

The Banasura Meenmutty near Padinjarathara. The Meenmutty near Meppadi is closed to visitors.

How hard is the Meenmutty walk?

The first tier is an easy walk of about a kilometre. The higher tiers get progressively harder, and the third uses ropes.

Can I combine Meenmutty with Banasura Sagar Dam?

Yes. The dam is about 5 km away, and the Banasura hill trek starts from the Meenmutty counter.

Pair it with

Sources we checked

At a glance
Where
Near Padinjarathara, 5 km from Banasura Sagar Dam
Hours
10 AM–5 PM
Entry
About ₹100 adults, ₹50 students (DTPC)
Booking
At the counter
Difficulty
Easy to hard, by tier
Best season
October to March
From Coffee Haven
About 16 km as the crow flies; allow more by road

Fees, timings and rules change. Last checked Oct 2026; confirm locally before you go.