Kerala Tourism

This high altitude location is obscure to many people. A good many people do not know what it is or where it is. Lately feature films like ‘Charlie’ and ‘Maheshinte Prathikaram’ has lavishly used the panoramic and beautiful landscape of Meeshapulimala as their locations. It is 27 km. from the Munnar town.

It is the second highest peak in South India. Due to its rich bio diversity, UNESCO has identified it as a World Heritage Site. It’s rare and diverse vegetation, and the mesmerisingly verdant grasslands make this a truly nature blessed environment.

Because of the sensitivity and importance of ‘Meeshapulimala ‘,visit to this area is strictly regulated through government packages. It is illegal to access this area through private means. KFDC has tour packages that include accommodation inside the forest. You can make bookings through online site links.

Vagamon displays different moods at different times. At times it will be mist clad and moody. At other times it will be sunny, cold or with mistylight drizzles.Out of all its weather moods, the constantly moving low hanging fog clouds is perhaps the most characteristic and enjoyable.

Vagamon is a special nature’s gift to Idukki district. Sharing boundaries with the districts of Kottayam and Idukki, this popular tourist destination is 1200 feet above sea level. Vagamon enjoys a pleasant weather throughout the year. In summer the temperature stays between 10 and 23 degree centigrade. Vagamon hillocks have a unique attraction. It is characterised by bald green hills with small lakes in between. It has beautiful pine forests and deep cliffs. There is a cattle farm here, in collaboration with the Indo- Swiss project. There are also pilgrimsattractions like the ‘Kurishumala’, ‘Muruganmala’ and ‘Thangalumala’; all located at breathtakingly alluring places.

The National Geographic Traveller has bestowed on Vagamon the most covetable title; ‘The 10 must see places on earth’. Vagamon can be reached via Theekoi from Erattupuzha. The hillocks start from Theekoi itself.

Travelling towards Vagamon is pleasant with the sight of exciting scenery. There are deep cliffs on one side and mist clad mountain ranges on the other side. The road is tediously carved out of giant rocks. A perfect spot to sooth your eye and soul.

• 43 km. from Thodupuzha.
• 37 km. From Pala.
• 45 km. fromKumily.
• 65 km.from Kottayam.
• From the main city of Kochi, it is 102 km.
• 16 km. from Kanjar.
• Nedumbasserry International Airport is the closest airport.
• Kottayam has the closest Railway station.

This is a small village located on Vagamon-Pullickanam road about 5 km. from Chottupara junction. This is a series of hills with green carpeted grass . One can get a distant view of the Kulamavu dam from here. This is an excellent spot for long walks and for off roading with lots of privacy. Many movies were photographed in these locations.

There are unpolluted green barren hills, huts of small farmers and an unpolluted atmosphere. If you love peace and quiet, you will certainly enjoy this visit. It is a village with character.

• From Vagamon, take Pullickanam route.
• 5 km. down this route, you will reach Chottupara Jn. The road gets divided into 2; One branching towards Thodupuzha- Mulamattom, and the other towards Uluppuni (directing towards right)
• Travel another 5 km. , to reach Uluppuni.

If you ever visit the Idukki dam, it is highly recommended that you visit the Vyshali cave. It got its name Vyshali, because parts of the movie ‘Vyshali’ was photographed at this cave. This cave is home to hundreds and thousands of a variety of fruit bats. Though a bit challenging, if you can get to this place, the view is fantastic. Make sure you take your camera.

Ramackalmed is one of the most beautiful places in the Idukki district. The legend is that Lord Ram rested here during his pursuit to find Goddess Sita after she was kidnapped by Ravan. This is the land blessed to be touched by Ram. That is how the name Ramackalmed came about. The rocky zenith of Ramackalmed is so picturesque with a cool wind blowing constantly. It is believed that this land took shape when the sea receded. Marks are visible on the steep rocky formations where water once made ring like formations perhaps millions of years back.

This area is 15 km. from the town of Nedumkandam. There is regular bus service to Thoockupalam from here. From Thoockupalam, you can take Jeep service to Ramackalmed. You can reach the top,trekking through small footpaths canopied by bamboos. If you are traveling from the Kottayam side, you can come through Erattupetta, Vagamon, Elappara, Kattappana, Nedumkandam, Thoockupalam to Ramackalmed. From Kottayam, it is about 124 km. These hills are covered with shrubs and a variety of rare flowering plants. The flowers have such brilliant colours compared to the flowers in the plains. Perhaps it is due to the constant wind, that trees don't grow very tall here. The area here looks like a bonsai jungle. The best time to visit are the months of August and September when there is a cool misty drizzle.

On top there are 2 huge statues of ‘Kuravan’ and his wife ‘Kurathi’. The Idukki arch dam not too far from here is built across the River Periyar in a narrow gorge between the two famous granite hills Kuravan and Kurathi. Even though the statues are here, they are not in any way connected to the history of Ramackalmed or the High Range. Initially, years ago the high range was inhabited by different sects of tribals like Mannan, Mudhuvan, Malayarayar, Ulladar, Ourali, paliyans, Malapulayans.

There is also horse back riding available here. The main attraction here is the unusual rock formations. Huge rocks naturally formed on top of each other, as if they were deliberately placed like that. The light trekking to the summit through brooks, vines, bamboo clusters and rock formations is truly enjoyable. The adventurous take up the challenge of braving the swift wind to climb the tall steep rocks. The view from such elevation is astounding. You can get a birds-eyeview of the villages, roads and the agricultural land afar in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. This is perhaps one place in India that gets the most wind. On average the wind speed there is 45 km.per hour. In the months of June and July, the wind speed exceeds 100. Because of this, the National Thermal Power Corporation had a project on the anvil to produce 20 Megawatts of wind energy. For reasons unknown, that project is on hold. A private company named Vestas has invested on 19 wind turbines here capable of producing 75 megawatts each. Ramackalmed is truly worth the visit.

This is a very interesting place in Kerala, on the Idukki – Kattappana road. It is about 17 km. from Kattappana. The view from the top of this green hill is mesmerizing. Many small islands can be seen in the lake below. It is cool and picturesque here. If you are traveling from Thodopuzha, Calvery Mount is about 20 km. after you pass Idukki. If you are traveling from kottayam- mundakkayam, pass Kuttikkanam, Kattappana. 17 km. on Idukki road will take you to Kalyanathand, the home of Calvery Mount.

This dam site is a popular place for visitors from inland and overseas. This is the second largest arch dam in the world. This is also the biggest in Asia. This is a double curvature arch dam. Technically speaking, this is a double curvature parabolic, thin arc dam. It is constructed across the great Periyar River in a narrow gorge naturally formed between 2 granite hills Known as Kuravan and Kurathi in The southern state of Kerala, India. It is constructed and owned by the Kerala State Electricity Board, aided by the Government of Canada. It now supports a 780 MW hydroelectric power station in Moolamattom.

Devikulam is without doubt, one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala. It is in the district of Idukki, not too far from Munnar. This area has spectacular views with hills, valleys, water falls etc. One can click amazing photographs here.

This is a wide area of beautifully formed hills and mountains protected as the wild life sanctuary in the district of Idukki. Kurinjimala means kurinji hills. It is spread through the villages of Vattavada and Kottakamboor inside Devikulam. This is a rare and special area rich in abundant flora and fauna. This is the land of Neelakurinji. It is a rare beautiful shrub that flowers only once in every 12 years. And when they flower, they do that profusely. The entire hills and its slopes get embellished with carpets of pink and light purple coloured shades. These plants are getting endangered due to clearing of forests. At the moment an area of 32 square kilometres of Neelakurinji habitat is well protected.

Vagamon, located between the boundaries of Kottayam and Idukki has became a very popular location for honeymooners. Deep green grassland, bluish grey mountain ranges afar, picturesque brooks through rock formations, waterfalls, still lakes etc. add such character to this naturally blessed area.

Cheruthoni is a prominent dam located in the district of Idukki. The dam is built across Cheruthoni river, which is a tributary of the main Periyar river. This dam is the lifeline for main towns and villages that is depended on the dam for their electricity. Such places are Karimban, Manjapara, Vazhathopp, Thadiambad, and Maniyarankudi.

This is a famous high range in the district of Idukki, located about 3000 feet above the sea level. Excellent topography for trekking. The valley of these hills has a water body of 33 square kilometres spread between large rock formations. The waterbody is one of 3 water catchment areas for the main Idukki dam.

This is a hillock located in the Udumbanchola district of the high ranges of Idukki. This small town is located 3200 feet above sea level. It is ideally situated between Munnar and the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary. This area is the breeding ground for some of the best quality coffee, cardamom and black pepper in the world.

Palkulamed is a series of mountain ranges situated 3125 meters above sea level. It is 12 kilometres from Idukki. Tropical rain forests and green covered slopes and valleys make this area a popular destination of visitors.

This is perhaps the most popular hill station in south India. You will fall in love with this beautiful place instantly. This is the home of the Western Ghats. Munnar means 3 rivers. Got this name, because the 3 rivers Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kandali converge here at Munnar. There are plenty to see and experience here. The tea gardens stretching for miles, cardamom and coffee plantations just outside of Munnar and the numerous sights of spectacular western ghats. At Rajamala, you can see the endangered mountain goats. The area is a protected wildlife sanctuary. The tea museum owned and managed by the Tata group is a must see place. It has many historically important photographs and information relevant to the history of Munnar and its tea plantation heritage.

It is located about 8 km. From Munnar town at Devikulam. You can see the famous waterfalls here. Even though this is not a huge falls, it is so beautiful and picturesque. This is close to Seetha Devi lake, which is another attraction here.

This is 97 square kilometres of mountains and its valleys in the Western Ghats. This is one of the most bio diverse areas in India. This is a vital wildlife sanctuary protected by the department of forestry. This is home to the highly endangered Nilgiri Tahr.

This is a must visit place if you are close to Munnar. A small pretty village in the western ghats, just 6 km. from Munnar. From a view point here, you get a birds eye view of the entire town of Munnar.

It is 22 km from Munnar. The evergreen tea estates, dam and the beautiful lake is the attraction here. Many visit this place to see the lake and the dam. On most of the days you can also see heard of wild elephants come to drink water at the lake. This area is characterized by long stretches of forest and tea gardens.This is also where the Tata Tea Plantation is located.

Rajamala, is 15 km from Munnar town. This is the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Statistics show that half of the entire population of Nilgiri Tahr in the world live in the Eravikulam/ Rajamala area. This is a well protected area. It is also a well organized place with proper infrastructure for visitors.

This is 13 km from Munnar. Lots of youngsters enjoy this place. It is exciting to hear one’s own echo reflect back from the opposite side. This has become quite entertaining for many.

This is located on a mountain top 25 km from Munnar. It is 3000 feet above sea level as well. Perched on top of this mountain, you can get an astounding view of the mountain ranges, forest land, valleys and water falls . This will be an unforgettable experience. Good spot for people interested in bird watching.

Meenuli is a famous place close to Munnar. If you enjoy trekking, Meenuli and its vicinity hold exciting possibilities. The area is surrounded by tropical green forest and gigantic rock formations. There is this one unusual rock here covering an area of 500 acres. From the top of this rock, you can see lower Periyar and Bhoothathankett.

Mattupetty is a beautiful lake located 1700 feet above sea level. The banks of this lake is embellished with thick forestland and grass hills. Standing by this lake is peaceful and soul quenching. If you love raw nature, this is a place you wouldn't want to miss.

Thoovanam is awaterfall located 10 km from Marayoor, inside the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary. On bright days the falls seem like sheets of silver with so much of greenery on both sides. A highly recommended spot if you enjoy photography.

This has been one of most popular hill towns in Kerala for decades, even before Munnar started appearing in the tourism map of Kerala. It is known for its abundant natural beauty and comfortable weather conditions. It is believed that the name Peerumede evolved out of Soofivaryan Peer Mohammed who was a close friend of the Travancore royalty, and an influential person of the area. It is 75 km from Kottayam. This is also on route Idukki to Thekkady.

Kuttickanam is aunique area of Peermede. It is known for its pleasant weather throughout the year. It is located 3500 feet above sea level. This used to be the most preferred summer vacation site of the Travancore royalty. It is also blessed with immense natural beauty. The combination of natural beauty and pleasant weather makes this place a popular choice of honeymooners.

About 6 km of traveling from Peerumede takes you to this heavenly spot. This is a hillock that offers amazing views. You can beat the rush and bustle of the towns and cities; take a trip up here and enjoy a peaceful picnic. There is always cool air and the views are spectacular.

Hill view park is just one and a half km from Idukki. It is a beautifully maintained garden situated within a vast expanse of 8 acres. To add to its splendour, Hill view park has a natural lake inside as well. As the name suggests, visitors will get a taste of raw nature here.

The main attraction is a 2 km long tunnel carved out of a huge rocky mountain to bring water from Erattayar to Anjuruli. The place is surrounded by Idukki water. Many visitors find this place truly endearing. In summer, the adventurous travel through this tunnel. It is challenging and slightly dangerous. There are spectacular views here.

Thekkady is a tourist spot in the reserve forest, which is also Idukki’s Periyar Tiger Reserve. This Tiger Reserve is a world renowned sanctuary for flora and fauna, especially the endangered tiger population. Thekkady hill valleys are covered with water collected from the Mullaperiyar dam. Boating is the main attraction here. You are likely to see Elephants, Tiger, Deer, Wild boar, a variety of monkeys, wild Bison, Leopard, spotted deer, Bears etc. The months from September to May are the best months to enjoy this sanctuary. Boating trips are conducted between 6 am and 5.30 in the evening.

Thommankuth is a popular tourist centre with great natural beauty. It is an ideal spot for trekking, just 20 km from Thodupuzha. There are a few waterfalls here with spectacular beauty.

Ayappankovil is also a serene place with natural beauty. Tourists come here to enjoy the sunset at the banks of Periyar and the technically interesting hanging bridge. Hundreds come here daily to enjoy the natural beauty here. Sunset is truly splendid here. Movie producers are also choosing this location for shoots. The hanging bridge is built across the Idukki water way. The Ayappan Temple is also situated here on the banks of Periyar.

This is very close to the Idukki Engineering College. This is a must see place when you are in Idukki. Locally the place is called Micro. It is on the Thodupuzha/ Kattappana road. Not a crowded place. It is a fairly good climb to the place. Wild elephants visit this area at random.

This is a popular ambience for movie shooting. Through the movie ‘Idukki gold’, the beauty of Anjuruli has been revealed to the outside world. Anjuruli is 3 km from the the village of Kanjiyar close to Kattappana in Idukki. From here, you get a distant view of Idukki arch dam and the water gush from the Anjuruli tunnel.

This waterfalls is between Neryamangalam and Adimali on Kochi Dhanushkodi national highway. This is a usual stop for visitors traveling towards Munnar. Get your camera ready.

It is 9 km from Munnar, between Munnar and Pallivasal. If you are traveling towards Pallivasal, you will come across Attukal on the way. The falls is in-between very steep hills. This area is excellent for trekking. There are many trekking trails beside the falls. The best time to see this is during the rainy season. Both Cheeyaparaand Valara are close to Attukal falls.

Panjalimed needs to be experienced, rather than read about. This is one of the most beautiful places in the Western Ghats, characterized by misty air and desolate countryroads with character. Take a deviation of 8 km from Peruvanthanam on Kottayam – Kumily road. It is 2500 feet above sea level. There is a cave, a temple and a pond believed to had been used by Pandavars during their forest life. Christians climb these mountains during the Good Friday week. The air here is cool and fresh. At times the fog can be very heavy here with almost zero visibility. On clear days you get birds eye views of distant towns like Mundakayam. There are green carpeted hills, brooks and constant cool wind. Panjapandavar, according to legends once lived here with Panchali. This is why it is known as Panchalimed. There is also a variety of rare flora, tea gardens and cardamom plantations. Watching the sunrise is a pleasant experience here.

Kandhalloor is uniquely different among the hill stations in Kerala. It is known as the Kashmir of Kerala. Mostly because of the predominantly cold weather, and conditions that exist here that are ideal for fruits and vegetables like Apples, Pears, Strawberries and carrots that grow here abundantly. Many people are not aware that apples are cultivated in Kerala. Tourists can visit these farms and buy fruits and vegetables. July and August are the best months to enjoy these gardens.

Kandhalloor is on the Munnar to Marayoor route, 50 km from Munnar. Besides the fruits mentioned above, plums, black berry, orange, mossambi, lichee, avacado, raspberries and a variety of rare vegetables grow here. Kandhalloor is a cluster of very small villages with farmland and hardworking farmers. This is also the land of the famous Marayoor Jaggery. You can also see it being prepared by boiling sugarcane juice. Marayoor is just outside of Kandhalloor. Another attraction here is the ‘Muniyara’, believed to be the dwelling places of the very early or first settlers in this area. There is such nostalgia and lots of history when you view them. It is easy to get here. Take Munnar- Marayoor road for 40 km. Then 17 km. to Kandhalloor. You can also stop and see the highly protected Sandalwood forest on the way, at Marayoor area.

Aanamudi is located within the Eravikulam National Park. It is about 2700 meters above sea level, and is the tallest mountain peak in South India. This is an ideal and challenging trek, if you are actively involved in trekking. You require special prior permission from the forest department to do so.

This is a small village located in the district of Idukki. It is just 9 km from Munnar. Pallivasal is significant, in the fact that this is the first hydro electric project in Kerala.

This is included in the ‘Neelakurinji’ land, where these shrubs blossom once in every 12 years. It is 1700 meters above sea level, and 3 km from Munnar on the Munnar- Kodaikanal road. The place has an awesome lookout point. You can get a birds eye view of Munnar and a peek into the agricultural land of the distant neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu from here.

When you are in Munnar it is easy to visit this beautiful place, as it is very close. It is 2000meters above sea level.There is a huge and spectacular waterfalls coming down from the rock formations on top. Since the water from this falls end up in a catchment area for hydroelectric power production, the falls is known as ‘Powerhouse waterfalls’.