RAW MIGHTY AND POWERFUL, THE TRUE MONSOON GIANT.
Kalu Waterfalls BASE point
I fold my hands to this nature and bow. Thank you, Kalu, for giving me the opportunity to witness your power and reminding me what my place is in this life. ΰ€§ΰ€¨ΰ₯ΰ€―ΰ€΅ΰ€Ύΰ€¦.
I visited Kalu Waterfalls in mid-August, during the peak monsoon season when the falls are at their best. Before planning your trip, always check with the locals, as access can be blocked on heavy rainy days. The trail is not concrete and you need to cross multiple water streams on the way.
The first stream is small, usually knee-deep and easy to cross. The second stream is the toughest part of the trek. Depending on rainfall, the water can rise from waist level to above your head. The current can be strong and the rocks underneath are slippery with algae. Never cross this alone. Always form a human chain of three or four people for safety and wear shoes with good grip. If conditions are too rough, officials will close access. There is also an alternative here, a zip line available for 100 rupees per person. Locals will help you cross safely, though in extreme weather even the zip line is closed. The third stream is the largest and most dangerous. In bad conditions, water here can rise over six feet, making it impassable. Always check with locals before attempting.
Once the streams are behind you, the trek becomes tougher but more rewarding. The last stretch involves climbing big and small rocks, balancing carefully on slippery stones, and using your strength to ascend. Always hold hands with a partner or fellow trekkers to avoid slipping. Go in the early morning if possible because later in the day the narrow rocky paths get crowded with people moving in opposite directions, making it harder and riskier.
Guides are available for groups who book treks, but even without one you can follow their routes or take help from fellow visitors. People here often support each other.
From the first parking area to the waterfall base and back, the whole trip takes around four to five hours at a decent pace, including time for photos and family fun. Along the way, you will pass small shops selling tea, Maggi, biscuits, and roasted maize (butta). Carry hard cash because there is no reliable network here. Airtel does not work and Jio works only sometimes. Also carry a small waterproof backpack to protect valuables from rain and water splashes.
As you ascend closer, the magic begins. The gorge opens up and you can already hear the roar of Kalu echoing through the valley. Sunlight breaks through the mist, painting everything gold on your skin, the rocks, and the spray of water. Against its black backdrop, the waterfall looks like milk white water flowing from the heavens.
The waterfall falls in four parts. The first part is only visible from a distance during the trek, while the others open up as you get close. At the top viewpoint, Kalu feels like it opens its arms to embrace you. The thunder of water, the mist bouncing back on your face, the chill in the air, and the sweeping view all around create an atmosphere you cannot capture in photos or words. Close your eyes, ignore the noise of the crowd, and listen to the pure sound of water, birds, and wind. This is why you came, to feel what no video or story can replicate.
A word of caution. Do not attempt to go into the very tip of the waterfall or stand beneath the main fall. Hidden rocks and rolling boulders make it extremely dangerous. Instead, enjoy the mist and spray safely, and if you want, step into the smaller side shower on the left.
In short, Kalu Waterfalls is raw, mighty, and unforgettable. Go with preparation, respect the conditions, and you will have an experience etched in your memory...
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