Challenges: Things to be Prepared For on This Trail
1. Steep Descent to the Forest Section
The descent from Boulder Point is steep and can be slippery. Mind your step and don’t get distracted by the stunning scenery that accompanies you! Wear good trekking shoes to support your feet and ankles.
2. Leeches on the Trail
Given the ecology of the region, you will find leeches in the forest section during monsoon and post monsoon months. Carry some salt and wear full pants for protection.
3. Final Ascent back to Boulder Point
The same route back requires you to climb up to Boulder Point. The climb is steep and can be slightly challenging. Remember, slow and steady always works best!
Difficulty Level and the Bikat Rating Scale
Kookal Waterfall is a level 1 trek on the Bikat Rating Scale.
About the BRS: The Bikat Rating Scale rates the difficulty level of all treks and expeditions in our portfolio after taking into account their geographical and climatic conditions.
According to this scale, if you are a beginner who is unsure of your fitness level and don’t know what to expect on a trek, a trek rated one will be a good place to start.
If you liked your very first trekking experience and are looking to test your limits next, the treks rated 2 or 3 will do the job for you.
A beginner who is sure of their fitness level on the other hand is welcome to skip the first two levels and directly start with one of the treks rated 3.
From 4 onwards, the rules change a little. It is mandatory to have trekking experience of the previous level to participate in the next level.
Best Time to do the Kookal Waterfall Trek
The best time to do this trek is between September to March. These post monsoon and pre summer months see good flow of water in the waterfall and the trail is also enjoyable. Heavy rains during peak monsoon would make the trail very slippery and difficult to traverse so it is not advisable to trek during that time.
How to Reach the Base
You can reach Kookal by a private vehicle or by public transport. It is located at a distance of 35 kms from Kodaikanal.
If you are reaching by public transport, there are buses and local taxis that ply between Kodaikanal and Kookal. The frequency for buses is very low. There is one bus in the morning between 8 AM and 9:30 AM from Kodaikanal to Palamputhoor. You can ask to be dropped at Kookal. There is another bus in the evening between 4 PM and 5:30 PM. It should take you around an hour to reach Kookal.
Alternatively, you can hire a local taxi from the bus stand in Kodaikanal. These taxis are expensive and will work out better if you are travelling in a group.
Frequently Asked Question about Kookal Waterfalls Trek
1. Is there network connectivity on the trek?
The network is patchy on the trail. You will not have any network once you are at the waterfall.
2. Are there food stalls on the trail?
You can buy some snacks from the small shops near Kookal Lake. There are no stalls beyond this point. If you are staying in Kookal, you can ask your homestay to pack some food for you.
3. Are there any stay options near the trail?
There are a few homestays and lodges where you can stay in Kookal. Alternatively, you can stay in Kodaikanal which has ample stay options to choose from.
4. Do I need a permit for this trek?
You do not need any permits for this trek. Camping at the waterfall is prohibited and you have to return back to Kookal the same day.
5. How long does the trek take?
The trek will take you approximately 4-5 hours to reach the waterfall and return back to the starting point.
6. Is this trek for beginners?
The trek to Kookal Waterfall is an easy one and can be attempted by beginners. Having an active lifestyle and a good fitness regimen will make it more enjoyable.
That’s all about the Kookal Waterfall trek! Should you wish to know more or need help planning your weekend adventure to this paradise near Kodaikanal, please feel free to reach out to our team.
