Archive · 9 Dec 2025
Forest Dept Warns Pilgrims Against Urakkuzhi Waterfalls
The Kerala Forest Department has asked pilgrims going to the Sabarimala temple to stay away from the Urakkuzhi waterfalls.
This is because there are more accidents happening there, and wild elephants often pass through the area.
The waterfalls are also slippery and dangerous.
The department wants everyone to follow their safety advice to keep the pilgrims safe.
Kerala Forest Department advises pilgrims to avoid Urakkuzhi waterfalls near Sabarimala due to safety concerns.
The area has seen frequent accidents and poses a risk of wildlife encounters, particularly with wild elephant herds.
The waterfalls are located less than 400 metres from Pandithavalam and have a steep, slippery pathway.
Access to the region is restricted under the Wildlife Protection Act.
Pilgrims are urged to adhere to safety instructions for their own protection.
- Who
- Kerala Forest Department, Pilgrims
- What
- Advisory to avoid Urakkuzhi waterfalls
- When
- During the annual pilgrimage to Sabarimala
- Where
- Urakkuzhi waterfalls near Sabarimala, Kerala
- Why
- Due to rising risk of wildlife encounters and frequent accidents
- Location
- Urakkuzhi waterfalls near Sabarimala, Kerala
- Distance from Pandithavalam
- Less than 400 metres
- Issued by
- Sannidhanam Special Duty Range Officer Aravind Balakrishnan
- Reason for advisory
- Rising risk of wildlife encounters and frequent accidents
- Wildlife concern
- Regular movement of wild elephant herds
- Access restriction
- Under the Wildlife Protection Act