Palaruvi Falls, Waterfall in Aryankavu, India

Palaruvi Falls drops steeply through dense forest on the slopes of the Western Ghats, with water foaming down in white sheets over dark rocks. The path to reach it passes through gorges with natural pools at different levels along the way.

Palaruvi Falls takes its name from the milk-white look of the water falling about 91 m from the Rajakoopu hills of the Sahyadri range. During the royal period the kings of the region came here for hunting and rest, and stone rest pavilions and the remains of horse stables still stand at the site. A flood in Kollavarsham 1099 is said to have destroyed the bathing ghat, after which the kings turned their attention to Thenkasi-Kuttalam.

The name Palaruvi means "stream of milk", after the foaming white water. Local residents believe bathing in the falls cures ailments, and some experts link this to medicinal plants in the surrounding forests. The falls form where the Manjuthaeri, Karinallathiyer and Rajakoopu streams meet, the source of the Kallada River.

Visit during the rainy season from June to September when water flow is strongest and the forest is most green and lush. Wear sturdy shoes as the paths become slippery, and allow extra time if you want to explore the pools and different levels safely.

The water temperature changes noticeably as you move through the different pools, with lower ones being colder since the water spends more time there. This natural variation creates an unexpected sensory experience that many visitors find surprising during their climb.