A west - flowing river, Chalakudi River originates from the Anamalai Hills in
Tamil Nadu. This 144 km long river passes through
Thrissur and
Palakkad districts before merging with the
Periyar River at Puthanvelikkara village in
Ernakulam District. The main tributaries of the river are Parambikulam, Kuriyarkutti, Sholayar, Karapara and Anakayam.
The scintillating Athirappilly Waterfalls and Vazhachal Waterfalls are part of the Chalakudi river stream.
Sholayar Dam, 65 km east of the Chalakudi town, and Peringalkuttu Hydro-Electric project are built across this river. Besides, the Chalakudi River has a healthy population of fish including Deccan Mahaseer.