Kerala
There’s something magical about setting out on a trek—walking through untouched forests, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and feeling the rhythm of nature in every step. My recent adventure to Kombai and Meenmutty Waterfalls near Neyyar Dam, Kerala, was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment my friends and I embarked on this journey, we knew we were in for an experience that would stay with us forever. The Journey Begins: Neyyar Dam and the Boat Ride
Our day started early at Thampanoor Railway Station in Thiruvananthapuram. The city was just beginning to wake up as we gathered with our backpacks, excitement buzzing in the air. By 6:15 AM, we were on our way to Neyyar Dam, the gateway to our adventure.
Boat ride
As we reached Neyyar, the vast reservoir stretched out before us like a shimmering mirror reflecting the soft morning hues. We hopped onto a boat that would take us across the Neyyar Reservoir to Kombai, the starting point of our trek. The ride was surreal—gentle ripples in the water, mist rolling over the surrounding hills, and the distant call of birds waking up the jungle. For an hour, we were lost in this dreamscape, soaking in the views, snapping pictures, and letting the fresh air rejuvenate us.
Into the Wilderness: Trekking Through Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Once we set foot on land, the real adventure began. The trek to Meenmutty Waterfalls was about 5 km, winding through dense forests of the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The trail was a mix of rocky pathways, soft earth, and occasional streams, making it a thrilling experience.
The deeper we went, the more we were surrounded by nature’s raw beauty—towering trees, tangled vines, and the constant chatter of birds and insects. We even caught glimpses of Malabar giant squirrels leaping between branches and spotted fresh elephant tracks imprinted on the mud, reminding us that this was their home.
Halfway through, we reached the Kombai Kani tribal settlement, where we paused to interact with the locals. The Kani tribe has lived in harmony with the forest for generations, relying on nature for food, medicine, and shelter. They are very warm and humble people. Some of them shared with us the secrets of the forest that made us admire the place even more.
The Grand Reveal: Meenmutty Waterfalls
By 1:00 PM, after navigating slippery slopes and rocky outcrops, we finally heard the unmistakable roar of water crashing down—a sound that sent a surge of excitement through all of us. As we took the final few steps, Meenmutty Waterfalls came into view, and the sight was absolutely awe-inspiring.
The water cascaded down in multiple tiers, creating a white foamy rush as it tumbled into the clear blue pool below. The mist rising from the falls painted rainbows in the sunlight, adding an ethereal touch to the already magnificient scenery. It was wild, untamed, and hypnotic—exactly what we had trekked for.
Without wasting a second, we kicked off our shoes and stepped into the cool, refreshing waters. The rocks were slippery, but the exhilaration of standing under the gushing waterfall made it all worthwhile. The sheer force of the water was powerful yet calming, as if nature itself was washing away all our exhaustion.
We sat on nearby rocks, munching on our packed lunch while taking in the view. Some of us meditated to the sound of the water, while others indulged in photography., trying to frame a moment that could never truly be bottled.
The Journey Back: Sunset Over Neyyar Dam
By 2:00 PM, we reluctantly bid farewell to Meenmutty and started our return trek. The descent was easier, but we still took our time, enjoying the changing afternoon light filtering through the trees. As we walked, the forest took on a golden glow, casting long, dreamy shadows on the path.
Once back at Kombai, we boarded the boat for the final ride across Neyyar Reservoir. The sun was beginning to set, and the sky turned into a masterpiece of orange, pink, and purple. The water mirrored these colors, making the return journey feel even more magical.
By 7:30 PM, we were back in Thiruvananthapuram—physically tired but mentally refreshed. Kombai and Meenmutty had given us an adventure that was not just about trekking, but about connecting with nature, history, and ourselves.
Why You Should Do This Trek
If you love adventure and crave for an encounter with raw nature, the Kombai trek is a must-do. It’s not just about the destination, but the entire journey—the forests, the wildlife, the tribal communities, and, of course, the stunning Meenmutty Waterfalls. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a nature lover looking for a peaceful escape, this trek promises to be an unforgettable experience.
