Soochipara Waterfalls / Sentinel Rock Waterfalls

Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a magnificent waterfall located in the Vellarimala area of Wayanad, India. Surrounded by Deciduous, Evergreen, and Montane forests, this three-tiered waterfall offers a breathtaking natural spectacle. Locally referred to as Soochipara the 15-20 minute drive from Meppadi to Sentinel Rock Waterfalls offers scenic views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad. The name Soochipara given from the words soochi means rock and para and needle. One can see needle-shaped rock here so it is also called as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls. One of the most attractive falls in the district, the water hits the sharp spikes of granite at the base and hence the name, Sentinel Rock waterfalls.

Soochipara Falls (Sentinel Rock Waterfalls) is perhaps the most picturesque spot located in the periphery of Wayanad. It is a treat for eyes to see the milky white stream of water making its way to the rivers by passing through the rocky cliffs and clinging trees. The Sentinel Rock Waterfalls is 200 metres (656 feet) and offers a cliff face that is ideal for rock climbing. The water from Soochipara Falls later joins Chulika River or popularly known as Chaliyar River after Velarimala Hills near Cherambadi.

This waterfall, surrounded by dense green forest, is one of the best waterfalls in Wayanad. A 20-minute drive from Meppadi will take you to this splendid waterfall. Visitors have to trek down for about 2 kilometers to reach the falls from the road point through well-laid path. The trekking is of an easy level, which takes about 30 minutes one way. There are high chances that visitors may get a glimpse of wildlife like Deer.

While walking towards the main pool of the waterfall, visitors can see tea plantation, rocky edge and dense forest where the chances of spotting a tiger are quite bright. Soochipara Falls is the latest fad for the adventures because it serves as an ideal base for trekking and rock climbing.

The Sentinel Rock, a huge rock which is about 200 meters in height, is an ideal place for rock climbing. The route between Meppadi and Soochipara is lined up with beautiful tea estates with a breathtaking backdrop of Chembra Peak. The drive to Soochipara itself is a wonderful experience. There are few tree-top accommodation facilities provided by the forest department. One can have a spectacular view of the valleys of the Western Ghats from the tree-top hut. Water rafting, swimming and viewing from tree-top huts are common activities amongst visitors at Soochipara waterfalls.

Best time to visit Soochipara waterfall is during monsoon season as you can see the waterfall to its fullest. The pool beneath the waterfall has facilities for rafting, bathing, and other recreational water activities. Tourist can see this falls after the security check at the entrance where they make sure you don’t carry any plastic.