The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across 777 km² (300 sq. miles), of which 360 km² (139 sq. miles) is thick evergreen forest. The Wild Life Sanctuary, declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978 and the splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaiperiyar Dam across the Periyar River adds to the charm of the park. The greatest attraction of Periyar are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.

Thekkady, India’s largest wildlife sanctuary is a dream destination for any tourist visiting India. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms.

Elephants in Tiger Reserve

The Country’s sole Tiger reserve, Thekkady, with its bountiful treasures of tropical flora and fauna is the ultimate reservoir of many an endangered species and a rich tribal culture. Thekkady is a pleasant heaven on earth for those who love nature in its wild manifestations.

Periyar National Park

Periyar is a protected area, and a nature reserve in the South Indian State of Kerala, set high in the mountains of the Western Ghats at the border to Tamil Nadu. It lies in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta. The protected area covers an area of 925 km², out of which a 350 km² part of the core zone was made into the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, sometimes dubbed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is often called by the name thekkady also. Thekkady is located four km from Kumily, approximately 100 km east of Kottayam, 110 km west of Madurai and 120 km southeast from Kochi.

Periyar National Park

The Periyar National Park is spread over an area of about 777 km² and comprises a thick evergreen forest with exotic wild life. The sanctuary was declared a tiger reserve sometime in 1978. It has an artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam, built in 1895 across the Periyar river.

Approximately 75% of the entire protected area are covered of unaffected evergreen or semi-evergreen rain forest. They reach heights of 40 to 50 Metres. Scarcely 13% consists of damp leaves forest, 7% of Eucalyptus plantation and 1.5% of grassland. The remainder (around 3.5%) of the protected area is covered by the Periyar artificial lake as well as the Periyar River and Pamba rivers.

Periyar National Park

The invertebrate fauna of Periyar is not well documented, though the predominant invertebrate orders are Protozoa, Annelida, Arthropoda and Mollusca. 160 butterfly species have been listed.

Among the 62 species of mammals, many are rare, endemic and endangered. Periyar is prime elephant country and large herds are often sighted at the lake fringes. There is an estimated population of 900-1000 animals which is likely to overlap with the population in the adjoining forest areas.

A much disproportionate sex ratio of the elephant is found in Periyar and adult tuskers are far too few. Gaur, among the largest of bovines, occurs in all types of habitats. Gaur have staged a remarkable comeback after their near demise due to a rinderpest outbreak in the 70s.

Sambar, the largest deer in India, are extensively distributed and constitute the principal prey base of tiger and wild dog. Wild pig has wide distribution throughout the park. Sometimes, these animals invade agricultural lands often leading to man-wildlife conflicts. Small relict populations of the highly endangered Nilgiri Tahr are found in the high altitude grasslands of Mangaladevi. Four of the five primate species found in the Western Ghats are well represented in Periyar.

While the Nilgiri Langur enjoys a wide distribution in the moist forests, the highly endangered Lion Tailed Macaque are confined to the dense evergreen canopies. Malabar Giant Squirrel is common in the area. Though the presence of the endangered species, Small Travancore Flying Squirrel, is recorded from Periyar, the Large Flying Squirrel is more frequently seen.

Thekkady Wild Life Reserve

Mammals : Altogether 62 different kinds of mammal have been recorded in Periyar, including many threatened ones. There are an estimated 53 tigers(2010) in the reserve. Tourists also come here to view the Indian elephants in the act of ablution and playfulness by the Periyar lake. Other mammals found here include gaur, sambar (horse deer), barking deer, mouse deer, Dholes (Indian wild dogs), mongoose, foxes and leopards. Also inhabiting the park, though rarely seen, are the elusive Nilgiri tahr.

Four species of primates are found at Periyar – the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, the common langur, and the Bonnet Macaque.

Birds : So far 320 different kinds have been counted in Periyar. The bird life includes darters, cormorants, kingfishers, the great Malabar hornbill and racket-tailed Drongos.

Reptiles : There are 45 different kinds of reptile in the protected area out of which there are 30 snake, two turtle, and 13 lizard species. Among those are Monitor lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun on the rocks along the lake shore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.

The Cardamom Hills

Cardamom Hills are part of the southern Western Ghats located in southeast Kerala and Southwest Tamil Nadu in South India. Their name comes from the cardamom spice grown in much of the hill’s cool elevation, which also grow pepper and coffee. The Western Ghats, Periyar Sub-Cluster including the Cardamom Hills, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.

The Cardamom Hills – Thekkady

Murikkady

This place consists of spice and coffee plantations. It is about 5 km from Thekkady. Located at a distance of 5 km from Thekkady, Murikkady is growing in importance as a place for picnic in Kerala due to the clean and pure spice scented air that one can breathe in Murikkady.

Chellar Kovil

Just 15 km from Kumily, the small village of Chellarkovil is famous for its beautiful views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green plains that slope down into the Cumbum coconut groves. The natural picturesque scenic views amidst unspoiled nature are a treat to city dwellers.

Anakkara

Located at about 13km from Kumily on the Kumily-Munnar road, Anakkara is an upcoming spice tourism destination in the state. There is also a new airport proposed at Anakkara and is under review by the Airports Authority of India.

There are two factors that make Anakkara a tourist destination. One is its spice plantations and the other the many picnic spots in and around Anakkara, suitable for tourists visiting the many prominent tourist destinations in the district such as Thekkady and Munnar.

Periyar Lake at Thekkady

Mangala Devi Temple

It is situated about 15 km from Thekkady and sits at an altitude of 1337 m above sea level. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is closed throughout the year except during the Chitra Pournami festival. At other times tourists can still view it by getting a special letter from the forest ranger. The view from the temple premises is spectacular and one can see part of eastern ghats and some villages from adjacent state of Tamil Nadu.

Aruvikuzhi Falls(Pandikuzhi)

A stream falls from Chellarkovil into the planes of Tamil Nadu from a height of about 1200 ft, giving the place a picture perfect view. However, this is a highly dangerous place with no safety warnings or fences. Utmost care should be taken while visiting this place, especially when you are trying to take that perfect picture of the water fall.

Ottakathalamedu

Literally meaning “Camel’s Head shaped Hillock”, this is a peak about 1400m above sea-level. From here, tourists can get a panoramic view of the landscape of Anakkara and surrounding villages and also sunset.

What you can Do

Nature Walk : The guided day trek. Different nature trails traversing diverse habitats form the trekking routes, generally 4 to 5 km in length. This is an interpretive programme offering excellent opportunity to watch birds, butterflies and other wildlife. The trails often pass through evergreen and moist deciduous forests interspersed with marshy grasslands. The programme is offered between 7AM and 10:30AM and between 2PM and 3PM and lasts for about 3 hours. A maximum of 5 persons can go for trekking at a time along each nature trail, accompanied by a trained tribal guide. The Nature walk is the right programme to feel nature, hear her whispers and smell her flowers.

The Periyar Tiger Trail : The programme is unique in being conducted by a team of poachers who turned protectors of the forests. The team members are hardy and dependable with an intimate knowledge of the forest terrain. The programmes are 1 night/2 days and 2 nights/3 days. The first day’s trek starts at 12 noon and ends by noon in the second or third day. Here, one may chance to encounter much indigenous wildlife like Nilgiri langur, giant squirrel, elephant and who knows, even the tiger! The trek route passes through hills and valleys with a variety of tropical plants and wide-open spaces.

Enroute vegetarian meals will be prepared and served and country tents will be pitched for holing up in the night. Trekking groups are accompanied by armed forest guards with good communication equipments, and geared to face any emergency situation. Remember to listen to unusual and strange adventure stories of the former poachers, now your guides and protectors of the forests. Preconditions for joining the tiger trail: Visitors who are medically fit and aged between 15 – 65 are advised to take the tiger trail. Visitors should be serious nature lovers willing to sacrifice some of the luxuries and comforts of a hotel.

Bamboo Rafting : This is a dawn to dusk range hiking and rafting programme through some of the richest forest tracts of Periyar Tiger Reserve. Starting at 8AM from the boat landing, a mosaic of habitats will be traversed before the party gets into rafts made of bamboos. The forests are rich in bird life and arboreal animals like giant squirrel and Nilgiri langur. The rafting is for about three hours and one gets a panoramic view of forest-clad hills reflected on the lake. Animals like elephant, gaur and sambar are sighted keeping close to the edges of the lake.

Bamboo Rafting At Thekkady

Boating : Boat cruises on the Periyar Lake. Typical boat ride will be for 2 hour & cost INR 50 per person.

The best way to explore Periyar is by taking a boat ride around the lake. You can go on elephant rides and cruises on the lake or go on long treks. The best time to go for a walk through the jungle is early morning or dusk. Hike down to the ruined Mangaladevi temple – a beautiful old stone temple situated in the heart of the Thekkady forest. A visit to Thekkady is a delightful experience.

It is one of the comparatively virginal tourist destinations in Kerala and it is located at distance of 55 km from Kottayam and 20 km from Thodupuzha. Many visitors have found it an ideal tourist spot, especially the trekkers.

A View From Ilaveezhapoonchira

At the spot you can view four hillocks and between them a verdant valley. Atop of one of these hills, Kudayathoor Vindhyan, one can view large parts of Idukki, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Thrissur districts; it also offers excellent views of sunrise and sunset.

Ilaveezhpoonchira, means the ‘valley where leaves don’t fall’ and is so named because the place has no trees. This is also one of the best places in Kerala to witness the sunrise and sunset. It is easily accessible from Palai in Kottayam district.

An ideal place for enjoyment, the fun starts from the arduous yet joyful trek upwards which passes through scenic natural settings. Once at the top, visitors are treated with some panoramic views of nature with nothing but scenic views all around.

Ilaveezhapoonchira is an ideal picnic spot apart from being a popular trekking destination with four hill cocks located in all four directions. This place is regarded as one of the best places in Kerala to watch sunrise and sunset. The Monsoon season results valley being filled up and formation of a charming lake, exhibiting yet another facets of nature and adding to its charm.

The beautiful valleys of Ilaveezhapoonchira are spread across thousands of acres of the district of Kottayam. The place is surrounded by three enchanting hillocks: Mankunnu, Kodayathoormal and Thonippara, making the place ideal for trekking.

A View From Ilaveezhapoonchira

At the spot you can view four hillocks and between them a verdant valley. Atop of one of these hills, Kudayathoor Vindhyan, one can view large parts of Idukki, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Thrissur districts; it also offers excellent views of sunrise and sunset.

A reviving experience, a rendezvous with nature and opportunity for adventurous excursion, it’s all here at Ilaveezhapoonchira, indeed a fairytale location.It is surrounded by four scenic hill cocks including Kodayathoormal which provides breathtaking views of whole of surrounding regions like Thrissur, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki.

According to a legend, the Pandavas had a sojourn here during their life incognito. Their wife, Draupadi, came to take a bath at a lake, which was here at that time. Some devas (gods) , bewitched by her beauty, tried to satisfy their voyeuristic itch. King of devas, Lord Indra, came to know about what was going on, and built screens or hills heaping flowers and prevented them from indulging in such a practice. The Pond thus became a dam isolated by floral hills. Since there were no trees around the pond it was always free of leaves and so it was called Ilaveezhapoonchira or the floral pond where the leaves never fall.

A View From Ilaveezhapoonchira

Some say that the name comes from the fact that it is always windy at the place and hence the leaves are carried away. But today, there is no pond at the spot, although during the monsoons the valley laps up water and forms a scenic lake and unveiling another facet of the place.

The verdant landscape punctuated by four gigantic hills, each rising to about 3200 feet above sea level is an ideal place to unwind. During the monsoons when the valley fills up to form a scenic lake, this place unveils yet another beautiful slice of nature.

Cardamom County

Address : Thekkady Road | Kumily, Thekkady 685 536, India

The first ISO Certified four-star resort in Kerala, Muthoot Cardamom County is conveniently perched on the gradient of a gently sloping hill facing the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The architecture and landscaping of the entire Resort has been thoughtfully created in deference to the ethereal beauty of its natural surroundings. The interiors of the resort have been aesthetically designed and furnished in an appealing blend of contemporary styling and a natural charm.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Thekkady is a rich repository of exotic plants, spices and wildlife. Embodying the best of this beautiful wild country is the Muthoot Cardamom County, located a stone throw away from the Periyar Tiger Reserve. It’s the perfect place to be if you are looking to experience wild Kerala up close.

Duke’s Forest Lodge

Address : Duke’s Forest Lodge, Anapara, Trivandrum,Kerala, South India (Tel.: +91-472-2859273)

Perched on the edge of a 130 acre Rubber Plantation(Riverside Estate) fringing the Pepara wildlife sanctuary- which is a habitat to a wide variety of endangered flora and fauna in Southern Kerala, Duke’s Forest Lodge is a perfect hideaway to delight in Mother Nature’s bounty to “God’s Own Country”.

The lodging consists of ethnically designed well spaced out independent Pool-Villas with large sit-outs offering spectacular views of the virgin rainforests. The Villas built on pillars, are accessed by wel-lit landscaped and cobbed walkways dotted with banana plants in-between. The bedrooms are spacious with elelgantly furnished interiors and en-suit roomy bathrooms that are tastefully ordained with all mod cons.

Kannan Devan Tea Bungalows

Kannan Devan Tea Bungalow, Munnar, District – Idukki, Kerala 685 612

Set amidst the verdant tea hills of Munnar, the CGH group’s Kannan Devan Tea bungalows are erstwhile plantation bungalows (some of them more than a century old) which were originally built for British Tea estate managers during the times of the Raj. At 4000 feet above sea level, the bungalows provide you with spectacular views of the surrounding hills and offer you the opportunity to capture the essence of planter’s lifestyles who lived here more than a century ago.

The bungalows’ spacious interiors, polished wooden floors and colonial furnishings evoke the grandeur of the glorious days of tea planting. Each of the bungalows opens into magnificent English gardens- a testimony to the lifestyle of the planters. Apart from the many delights that one can enjoy at the bungalows (including afternoon tea whilst sitting in the gardens overlooking the mist clad hills) one also has the options of taking a stroll along pathways that wind through the tea plantations, cycling in the hills or visiting a tea factory nearby.

Lake Palace Periyar

Address : Lake Palace (KTDC), Thekkady, Idukki – 685536, Kerala, India
Phone: +91-4869-223887, 223888

Lake Palace, a former summer palace of the King of Travancore, is situated on an island in the middle of the Periyar Lake – 20 minutes by boat from the mainland. Located inside the Periyar Tiger Reserve, this is where the British Viceroys and Governor-Generals used to take time off from the world to listen to the call of the wild.

This lakeside jungle resort with 6 rooms and antique interiors within the Periyar Tiger Reserve is ideal for guests to watch elephant herds playing by the lakeside or take a trek across the jungle in the trail of the majestic tiger. Life couldn’t get any more royal than this.

Neelambari Resorts

Address : Maruthom Thattu, Chully, Kasargod, Kerala – 671121
Phone : 0467 – 2229790, 2229791

Nestling in the spice hills and quiet estates of Kasargod, Neelambari is set in 110 acres of natural forests, mountains and valleys. It is the ideal mountain getaway with proximity to beaches and backwaters.
The essence of Neelambari is wellness of body, mind and soul, providing over-worked guests the opportunity to completely de-stress by feeling at one with nature, indulging in yoga, Ayurvedic massages or spa treatments.

The Resort accommodates its guests in traditional Kerala-style cottages. Large spacious rooms open onto a private veranda and garden overlooking the mountains and the forests.

Rain Country Resort

Address : Rain Country Resorts, Lakkidi P.O, Wayanad, Kerala State, India, Pin Code: 673 576
Phone : 0495-2511997 / 98 / 99

Rain Country Resorts is Located in the verdant misty hills of Rain Forest at Lakkidi in Wayanad .The Resort is 1300 m above the sea level and It is one of the highest rain fed area in India, Thus it is one of the coolest place in God’s Own Country. Rain Country Resorts is spread over 22 acres of land situated in a valley between three hills and surrounded by thick tropical vegetation.

The number of cottages is 18 and is restricted in order to preserve the sanctity and serenity of the natural beauty. Rain country Resorts invites you to submerge in the ambiance and serenity of its dark woods coupled with music of the natural stream and varied birds. The natural green surroundings and tranquil setting is an idyllic location for the perfect retreat.

Rainforest Boutique Resort

Address : P IV/93 A, Kannamkuzhy PO | Athirapally, Chalakudy, Trichur 680721, India

The Rainforest boutique resort, tucked right into the lap of nature. Shrug off the city along with your coat and just soak in the misty sprays of the cascading Athirapally waterfalls at Chalakudy, Kerala. Or simply rest your eyes on the lush green of the pristine.

As a boutique hotel set in 7 acres of virtually virgin rainforest, we take the best care to ensure that we pamper our guests as well as the environment. For an intimate yet grandiose experience with the wild, step into the Rainforest.

At Foliage, the alfresco restaurant at Rainforest, dining is an experience to be savored. The menu is tailored to your needs and you can even try some unusual, native delicacies. The Restaurant’s other speciality is scrumptious continental fare. The restaurant opens out to the lawns, which have a 180-degree view of the waterfalls.

Silver Crest

Address : Thekkady Road,Kumily, 685 509
Tel: 0486 9222481, 9222483

A sojourn away from the maddening crowd, Silver Crest is the gateway to the world famous Thekkady (Altitude of 2800m above sea level). Enchanting spots. Cool respites. The Silver Crest and Thekkady. The resort and its location. Both are exceptional.

Silver Crest overlooks one of the most fascinating wild life reserves in India. The Periyar Wild life Sanctuary, alongside the Periyar lake, is the only sanctuary in India where you can enjoy the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters. From the safety of a boat on the lake!

Just 3 Kms away from the Periyar wild life sanctuary, the Silver Crest is situated within 100 yards from the Madurai – Theni – Kumily – Kottayam express way.

Spice Village

Address : Kumily Road, Thekkady 685 536, India

Wait for a clear, clear day. Then, wherever you might be in God’s own country, just look high to the east, above and beyond the paddy fields and the palm tops. Pitched and standing like pavilions against the horizon will be rows of faint blue smudges, fading into the sky.

These are the highlands of Kerala, and they are another world.A few hours inland from the coast are places of cool mists and sun-dappled, silent valleys, home to vast plantations of teak, cardamom, tea, rubber and coffee. Home also, to an astonishing biodiversity, preserved today in some fine wildlife sanctuaries.

For centuries, tribal cultures built their own unique habitats in these mountains. Empires ebbed and flowed across the plains, but they left the Mannans and the Ooralies untouched. Here continued an ancient wisdom, a way of living that sustained itself from nature, yet respected it and left it uncorrupted.

Green Magic Resort

Address : M/s Jungle Park & Green Magic Resort, Vythiri, Lakkidi (po), Wayanad, Kerala, India

Green Magic Nature resort, Kerala is located 65 kms. away from Calicut, en route Bangalore-Ooty-Mysore at an altitude between 3750 feet & 4500 feet. Green Magic Nature Resorts offers total Tree Houses. Eco-lodges and ethnic houses built on trees with all basic facilities. One can access the Tree Houses, 86 feet in height, by an indigenous cane lift. A hanging rope bridge connects the tree houses. Local craftsmen have designed and built the tree houses utilizing local materials and indigenous techniques used by the early inhabitants.

This Nature Resort offers double beds with an attached bathroom and flushing toilette, telephone shower, wash basin with running water, carpeted veranda and sit-out. The Tree House is made of Eco-friendly materials.

Wild Side Villa

Address : Amalambika Road, Near Taj Retreat, Thekkady 685 536, Kerala, India
Phone: 0091-4869-223163

The Wild Side Villa is a private home stay located just outside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located at the Amalambika Road in Thekkady at Kerala. Kottayam is 100 km away from the home stay whereas Munnar and Madurai are 110 and 140 km away respectively.

Recreation is definitely compulsory when you are Thekkady. The options before you are numerous and you’ll have a hard time choosing the activities you’ll spend your time on. Start with boating in the Periyar lake which will give you unbelievable views of the wildlife here that too from the safety of the boat. The other activities that you’ll enjoy here are trekking, elephant ride, night trekking, jungle safari, cultural performances and at the end of it all, a rejuvenating ayurvedic oil massage.

The dam is at the foot of the Nelliampathi hills. From here, the road winds up for the next 17 km, with many hairpin turns on the way. Immediately after Pothundy dam, comes the government forest, where one can see massive teak trees. The road is very narrow and requires a skilled driver behind the wheel. On the way, one can see wild animals like monkey, deer and porcupine. The view of the Pothundy dam from the height is a breathtaking sight. There will be many waterfalls by the roadside during the rainy season.

Fauna of Nelliampathi Hills

Located at the southern tip of the Palakkad gap, the Nelliampathi hills are known for their exquisite fauna. About 215 species of birds and 90 species of butterflies have been recorded in these hills. Some of the rare species of birds include Grey-breasted Laughing Thrush, Great Pied Hornbill, Jerdon’s Baza, Great Black Woodpecker, Oriental Broad-billed Roller, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Broad-tailed Grassbird and Nilgiri Pipit. Primates including Lion-tailed Macaque, Bonnet Macaque and Nilgiri Langur are seen here. A small population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr is also seen in the grassy peaks.

Places near Kaikatty

There are many places worth seeing near Kaikatty. One such place is Kesavanpara, which offers a panoramic view of the land below. The tea producer A.V.Thomas & Company has a large tea garden under its Manalaroo Estate nearby. Manalaroo Estate is the highest yielding Tea estate in India. One can buy fresh tea from their garden outlet in their factory. The Orange and Vegetable Farm, run by the Government of Kerala has its office and farm near Kaikatty. The Farm sells squashes and jams of fruits like pineapple, orange, passion fruit and guava. Vegetables like brinjal, bean, chilly and spinach are also sold. Further ahead, there is another tea garden and factory owned by Veekay Tea Company under its Chandramala Estate. All the tea and coffee plantations were originally started by the British. These were later on sold to the natives. The British were very conscious and responsible about the ecology of the area, utilizing the natural resources and only what was absolutely necessary.

The houses built by the British for themselves and their managers were constructed taking into consideration, the cold climate of the region. The walls and floors are wood lined to provide insulation, with fireplace to provide heating. They also maintained good gardens in front of these houses.

Another famous tourist attraction is the Seetharkundu. It is believed that Rama, Lakshmana and Sita of the epic Ramayana had lived in the place and Sita used to offer worship with the water from a small stream. This is the Seetarkundu, which can be viewed from the top of the mountains. At a distance, the Chulliyar dam, the Meenkara dam and the town of Kollengode can be seen.

Even though the place is far away from the town, there is excellent communication facility provided by the Telephone exchange of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). The telephone exchange is of the latest digital technology, connected to the outside world by optical fiber cable. A mobile network tower has been installed with phone network coverage throughout the ghat sections. The ghat road which was very narrow and scary is being widened. The workers in the plantations are mostly of Tamil origin. They are provided with labor quarters comprising of four to five units in one line, ‘padi’ in local language. Manalaroo Estate runs a school and a hospital for the workers and their children.

Boarding and Lodging

At Kaikatty, there is a government run guest house with boarding and lodging facility. Reservation for lodging can be made in advance. Both vegetarian and non vegetarian foods are available.

The only public transport to the outside world is the bus service run by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). These buses ply between Palakkad and Nelliampathi. There is also a KSRTC bus service from Nemmara. Within the hill areas, one has to depend on the taxi jeeps for transport. Essential items like grocery and vegetables are transported from Nemmara by jeeps.

How to reach there

Nearest Airports: Cochin International Airport and Coimbatore Airport

From Cochin Airport: Come to Thrissur – 30 km; take a taxi or bus from Thrissur bus stand to Nemmara – 48 km.
From Coimbatore Airport: Come to Palakkad – 50 km; take a taxi or bus to Nemmara – 30 km.
From Nemmara you can take a taxi or a four wheeler vehicle (jeep) to Neliiampathi.

There are many views on how Palakkad (or “Palghat” the anglicized version) got its name. One view is that the word ‘Pala’ (barren land) together with ‘Kadu’ (jungle) gave the land its name. Yet others believe that it is connected with the ancient Jain temple in the town: ‘Pali’ being the sacred language of the Jains, giving the land its name as ‘Palighat’, which over the years changed to Palakkad. However, most believe that Palakkad is derived from ‘Pala’, an indigenous tree which once densely occupied the land, and hence Palakkad or “the forest of Pala trees.”

In earlier times Palakkad was also known as Palakkattussery. Some etymologists trace the word “Palakkad” from the word Palai nilam, which means “dry lands”. The commonly held belief, however, is that the name is a fusion of two Malayalam words, Pala, a tree (Alstonia scholaris) that is found abundantly in Palakkad, and Kadu, which means forest.

Not much is known about Palakkad’s ancient history. It dates back to the Paleolithic period, and several megalithic relics have been found in the region. At the turn of the first millennium AD, for several hundred years the Perumals ruled the land. Later their governors called Utayavars took possession of this land and divided it among themselves. William Logan, the Scottish author of the celebrated Malabar Manual, suggests that one of the hubs of the Pallavas of Kanchi who invaded Malabar in the second and third centuries was Palakkad.

Palakkad district has its own special characteristics. The fort of Hyder Ali tells us the story of Mysore invasions and the advent of the British to this part of the country. The Victoria College, started in 1886, marks the beginning of higher education in Malabar. The Jain temple near Chunnamputhara speaks of the magnanimity of the king of Palakkad who provided shelter to the people who escaped the religious persecutions.

One of the earliest records about Palakkad has a chronicle of a war victory in A.D 988 when the king of Palakkad, Nedumpurayur Nadudayavar, stopped an invasion by the forces of the King of Kongunadu at Chittur. Even today, a festival is celebrated in memory of this victory at Chittur. The Nedumpurayur royal family was later known as Tarur Swaroopam and finally as Palakkad Raja Swaroopam.

In 1757, to check the invasion of the Zamorin of Calicut, the Raja of Palakkad sought the help of Hyder Ali of Mysore, who freed all parts of Palakkad invaded by the Zamorin. Eventually, Haider helped himself to Palakkad and later his son Tipu Sultan was the unquestioned ruler of this region. But after his defeat to the British, Tipu ceded all his Malabar territories to the British following the treaty with the English East India Company in 1872. Palakkad formed part of the Malabar District of the Madras Presidency thereafter.

Palakkad, branded as the rice-bowl of Kerala, has fertile plains where substantial quantities of rice are produced by scientific cultivation methods. Groundnut, black gram, coconut, cotton, ragi, pepper, banana, cashew, sugarcane and pea add in to the roll of other major crops. Sugar Cane is grown extensively in the Chittur taluk. Around 284 lakh hectares of the district (64 % of geographical area) is used for farming and some key agricultural institutions of Kerala including Regional Agricultural Research Station, Soil Testing Laboratory, Fertilizer Quality Control Laboratory, Mushroom Laboratory and Agricultural Engineering Workshop are located at Palakkad.

Places to Visit

Palakkad Fort : One of the best preserved Forts in Kerala, was built by Mysore’s Haider Ali in 1766 AD. In 1790, the Fort was taken over and renovated by the British.This old granite Fort is situated in the very heart of Palakkad town.

Palakkad Fort

Also known as Tipu’s Fort, Palakkad Fort was supposedly built to hasten communication between Coimbatore and the West Coast. In 1784 AD, after a siege lasting eleven days, the British Colonel, Fullerton stormed the Fort. It later fell into the hands of the Zamorin’s troops but was recaptured by the British in 1790 AD. Martyr’s Column, Open Air Auditorium called “Rappadi” are located in the spacious grounds of the Fort, now preserved by the Archaeological Survey Of India. There is also a Children’s park on one of the sides of the Fort.

Chittur Gurumadam : Located on the banks of the River Sokanasini (the destroyer of sorrows), this is a memorial to Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the author of Adhyatma Ramayana, who spent his last days here. Chittur Gurumadam is situated in Thekkegramam near Arikkode.
A Srichakra, some of the idols worshiped by him, a stylus, wooden slippers and a few old manuscripts are exhibited here.

Attapaddy : Situated 40 kilometers from Palakkad, on the northeastern side of the district of Palakkad and spread over an area of 827 sq. kms and has the largest tribal settlement. The place consists of mostly hilly highland terrain, fed by the tributaries of the River Cauvery.

Attappady View

An extensive mountain valley above the crest of the Ghat ranges with numerous rivulets of the Bhavani River, Attapady is inhabited mainly by tribes and some settlers from Tamil Nadu. A beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forests, Attapaddy is of great interest to anthropologists, as this is the habitat of many tribes like the ‘irolas’ and ‘mudugars’.The Malleshwaram peak is worshipped as a gigantic ‘Shivalinga’, by the tribals who also celebrate the festival of Shivratri with great gusto. The tribals celebrate the festival by lighting the top of this peak.Silent Valley National Park, Siruvani Drinking Water Reservoir are the tourist centres of the valley. The highest peak in the district is situated here. A PWD rest house and a few private hotels offer accommodation at Agali.

Dhoni Falls

Dhoni : A fairly long climb of a 3 hour trek from the base of the Dhoni Hills. This reserve forest area with its small, beautiful waterfall has many tourist all thrrough the year. It is a splendid and captivating waterfall.. Dhoni provides trekkers the opportunity to explore its hilly terrains.Its lush green surroundings are a pleasure to watch. Dhoni is also famous for its farmhouse, harbouring hundreds of cattle of Swiss variety.

Kalapathy Temple : The Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, the oldest Shiva temple is situated 3 kms from Palakkad. The annual chariot temple is a gala event. The annual ‘Ratholsavam’ or Chariot Festival at Sree Viswanantha Swamy temple lasts for seven days.

On the last three days, beautifully decorated temple chariots are ceremoniously drawn through the streets by thousands of devotees whose soul stirring chants rent the air. The festival is dominated by three magnificent chariots, bedecked with flowers and flags, each sanctified by the presence of the Lord.Teeming crowds of people and millions of hands try to reach out to be one of the privileged to have the honour of pulling the chariots, as they proceed in stately grandeur.

Mangalam Dam : The Mangalam Dam is constructed on the river Cherukunnapuzha, a tributary of the river Mangalam. A popular picnic site, The Mangalam Dam is located south of Palakkad town. The construction of the scenic dam was completed in the year 1956. Located on the Alathur – Vadakkanchery Highway, the reservoir fringes on the forest area teeming with wildlife like deer, elephants and a variety of birds. The entire area is quite fascinating with beautiful parks, lawns and statues.

Nelliampathy : The ranges here consist of a chain of ridges cut offf from one another by valleys. The highest peak is Nellikota. The forest contains teak of extraordinary height and girth. Estates of tea, coffee, orange and cardamom dot the ranges. Located at a distance of 52 kms from Palakkad, the cool hills of Nelliampathy, nestling atop the Western Ghats, offer a breathtaking view of the misty mountains and enchanting valleys interspersed with sprawling tea, coffee, cardamom and orange plantations.

Nelliyampathy

The bracing climate and green magic of nature enhance the exhilarating experience. For a vantage view of the spectacle, one must visit Seethakundu, where a 100m high waterfall provides an added attraction. It offers a fantastic view of the valley below a wide-angled vision of one-third of the entire Palakkad area. A forest range 75 kms from Palakkad, the Nelliyampathy hills comprise a chain of ridges cut off from one another by valleys of dense evergreen forests and orange plantations.

The height of the hills ranges from 467 meters to the tallest peak Padagiri looming at 1572 metres. Nelliyampathy has immense trekking potential. The community hall at Kaikatty provides a good camping ground for the trekkers.

Accessing Nelliyampathy from Palakkad is a sensation on its own, as one has to negotiate over a dozen hairpin curves on the Ghat Road, passing through the fascinating jungles of the Sahya Ranges. En route, 17 kms from Palakkad, the shimmering Pothundi Reservoir and its manicured surroundings make for the ideal stop over.

Silent Valley National Park : Located 40 km from Mannarkkad in the Palakkad district, echoes with the sounds of teeming wildlife. The denizens of this sprawling habitat of endangered virgin tropical forests include Rare Birds, Deer and Tiger. Perhaps, nowhere else can one also find such a representative collection of peninsular mammals as in this park, which was declared a National Park in 1980.

The Wild Population : The park has a huge variety of wildlife, with over a 100 species of Butterflies and 400 species of Moths and other animals like the Ceylon Frog Moth, Great Indian Horn-bill, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Lion-Tailed Macaque.The park has around 26 species of mammals and 120 species of fauna, many of them considered endangered. Apart from these, there are 11 species of snakes, 19 species of amphibians, and nine species of Lizards in the park. The Silent Valley has over 110 plant species of medicinal value, and seven new plant species have been discovered here.

Jain Temple : The 2,000-years-old Jain temple at Jainmedu is the remnant of what was once a thriving community of diamond traders. Four hundred Jain families lived here, with 24 wells, each dedicated to a tirtanker, till Tipu’s invasion drove them to Wayanad. Descendants of one family are the keepers of its fascinating history. It is an impressive, silent monument overhung with trees and heavy with the weight of centuries.

Malampuzha Dam : At the Malampuzha dam, visit the snake park, and the beautiful nursery near the bus parking lot.

Kanjirapuzha : 24 kms from Palakkad , this catchment lake of the dam lies in a single stretch. An evergreen forest, the ‘Vettilachola’, provides the backdrop to a lake surrounded by hillocks. During the rains, the mist-draped mountains create a picturesque landscape.

Kottayi : 15 kms from Palakkad, this village is the native place of the late Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, the doyen of Carnatic music.

Chulannur Peacock Protection Centre : Mailadumpara, in Chulannur is situated 22 kms away from Palakkad town and 5 kms from Peringothukrish, is also famed. It is here the peacock protection center is located. Kunjan Nambiar Smrudhi forest is also here.

Seetharkundu : Seetharkundu at Nelliampathy offers a fantastic view of the valley below. The 1000 meters high water falls is one of the major attractions. Legend has it that during the ‘vanavasa’, Rama, Sita and Lakshmana had lived here. Seetharkundu got its name from the legend that Sita devi during the vanavasa period with Rama, took a bath here.

Parambikulam : 97 kms from Palakkad, The Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a reservoir of tranquil greenery ensconced in a valley between the Annamalai ranges of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy ranges of Kerala.

JP Smirthivanam and Deer Park : JP Smirthivanam and Deer Park are located at Walayar reserve forest which has an area of 100 acres. One can see here deer and other animals roaming about in their natural habitat. This is situated 22 km away from Palakkad town in Palakkad-Coimbatore road. Here facilities for elephant riding are also available.

The traveling is always taxing on your body, though you forget everything once you reach your destination. The picture changes drastically once you reach the top as the sudden rushing sound of the cascading waterfall makes you feel that the water has begun to fall only now. Though the fact is that the waters have maintained this suddenness for a long time and they are still persevering. The Athirapally waterfalls are 80 feet high which start at the high ranges calmly and come crashing down through the gorges.

There is a rocky road that moves around the mountain providing you with a magnificent view of the Athirapally waterfalls. Visiting the Athirapally waterfalls in September is a good idea as the waterfalls are in full force just after the monsoons.

A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life. Let the soothing sounds take you to some of natures most relaxing places – the beautiful waterfalls of Athirampally and Vazhachal (Prounced as vaazhachaal).

The Landscape : As you move nearer through the beautifully landscaped road to Athirapally, you can enjoy the views of Arecanut Palms on one side and the Chalakudy river on the other side. First the river seems winding and then it crashes down suddenly, white with challenge. Only after a short distance, the river is back to its normal self again. Trekking is a wonderful way to explore the nearby areas, especially if you do it along the banks of the Chalakudy river.

Athirappally Waterfalls

The waterfall is located at a height in the Sholayar forest ranges and is very near to the Valparai which is a popular hill station.
The charm of the Athirampally and Vazhachal nature cannot be described by words, Starting calmly from the high ranges, and crashing through gorges overhung with trees, these waterfall is one of the best places in India to re-capture a real sense of the classical idea of the ‘Picturesque’ – not just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural.

Athirappally Waterfalls

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala’s famed rain forests, the waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. wild and beautiful, unspoilt by the passing of time.

Both this waterfalls are a part of the Chalakudy river and 5 km apart on the road to hill station (valparai) which has excellent tea estate and is one of India’s highest elephant density habitats and is a crucial corridor between Parambikulam and Malayattur.

The Surroundings : There are some vendors here who sell jute hats and plastic flowers, they definitely make the place more tourist friendly. The presence of the waterfall is unmistakable everywhere in Athirapally as it is present either in the form of a painting or a topic of conversation.

Athirappally Waterfalls

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala’s famed rain forests, the Athirapalli waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. The water plunges and joins to the Chalakudi River. The scenic attraction of Vazhachal, the other picnic spot is just a drive from Athirampally. These scintillating waterfalls in thick green forest are a part of the Chalakudy river stream.

The riparian forests of the Chalakudy River have revealed the existence of a thick riparian vegetation of more than 10 metres width for a distance of 10.5 km downstream from Peringalkuth, covering an area of 58.5 hectares. Out of this, 26.4 hectares lie within the Vazachal area, including three large islands densely covered by riparian forests.

The riparian forests of the area have been found to be characterised by the presence of typical riparian species of plants, in addition to evergreen and semi-evergreen species.Out of the 319 species of flowering plants identified from the study area, 24 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and 10 are rare and endangered.

Vaazhachaal Waterfalls

Moreover, the Chalakudy River is known for its diversity, as it contains 85 species of fresh water fishes out of the 152 species known from Kerala. Among these, 35 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and nine are considered to be endangered.

While the waterfalls are the highlight of this region, there are quite a few places to see in and around Athirapally.

• The Vazhachal waterfalls are located very close to the Athirapally falls and are a part of the Chalakudy river stream. Vazhachal is popular for its flora and herbal plantations (maintained by the forest department) apart from the scintillating waterfalls set in the backdrop of a lush green forest. This is an ideal picnic spot too.
• Two water-theme parks – the Dream World and Silver Storm are located to the west of Athirapally.
• The Thumpurmuzhi gardens are located amidst the two water theme parks. The water from the river is redirected to deep tanks at Thumpurmuzhi, creating a waterfall like impact. The gardens are well maintained and have scenic surroundings.
• The lesser-known Charpa falls are situated to the east of Athirapally. The water plunges on to the road in the monsoon, so get ready to get drenched if you are visiting it in the rainy season.
• If you take a ride through the deep forest and high ranges you will come across the Malakapara tea gardens. Around 50 kilometers from Athirapally, this tea garden has picturesque surroundings and sometimes one can spot wildlife here.
• Vachumaram is a calm and beautiful lake surrounded by hills. If you are lucky, you can spot deer and wild elephants here.
• A few kilometers from Vachumaram (about 20 kilometers from Chalakudy) is Anakkayam (which means elephant pit). Tourists will find a serene lake, bubbling streams, natural rock formations and flora here.
• The Peringalkuthu and Sholayar Dams are situated deep in the forest on the way to Valpara. Both the dams generate hydroelectric power to the state and entry to the dam site is with special permission only.

How to get There : Both Athirapally and Vazhachal are 90 kilometers from Cochin. The nearest airport is Cochin and tourists can get to Athirapally by road from here. Bus services are available from Chalakudy on the Cochin-Trichur highway. The Chalakudy Railway Station is around 30 kilometers from Athirapally and tourists can hire a cab or taxi from the station to Athirapally.
Accommodation : There are a couple of resorts at Athirapally that offer a comfortable stay.
What to buy : Athirapally is popular for herbs, wild honey, herbal soaps, bamboo wall hangings and hats.
Remember these things before you start…

• You can visit the waterfalls only between 8 am and 6 pm everyday.
• Consumption of alcohol or smoking is strictly prohibited.
• Swimming in the falls is prohibited too, as it can be very dangerous.
• Visitors are advised to refrain from feeding animals as the waterfalls are plastic-free zones.
• The best time to visit Athirapally is just after the monsoon season, when the waterfalls would still be in full force. September to February is the ideal period to visit.

Waterfalls Trekking Pathway

Thommankuthu waterfall is a beautiful seven-step waterfall offering salubrious weather. Amidst verdure foliage, this shimmering waterfall is a perfect place to spend time in the lap of nature. Thommankuthu waterfall tours will allow tourist to savor the wild beauty of forest and stream. Tours to Thommankuthu Waterfalls in Kerala with Kerala Travel Tourism truly has something for everyone. If you are looking for an adventurous vacation, and one that rivals the fun you have when you Go to Cheeky Bingo or go watch your favorite bands, Thommankuthu waterfall tours offer all the adventure you can handle.

Thommankuthu | The Hidden Jewel.

Thommankuthu waterfalls is one of the upcoming tourist destinations in Idukki, Kerala’s most nature rich district. Situated about 20 km from Thodupuzha town,this splendid waterfall comes down in seven steps with a cascade and pool at each step. This enchanting place with its natural splendor is also an ideal venue for adventure tourism.

This exotic place is congenial for trekking or mountain climbing. Tourists looking for adventure can trek the mountain, which is around 12 km of climbing. Since there are no accommodation facilities available at this site, tourists can enjoy only one-day tours. Tourists can also enjoy boating on the lake. Fishing and horse riding are other options available in this pleasant valley.

Thommankuthu | The Hidden Jewel.

Located 20 kms from Thodupuzha, Thommankuthu is a small and beautiful, wild waterfall Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a marvellous wonder of the nature situated 74 kms from Cochin. There are buses from Thodupuzha, which is 18 kms away from Thommankuthu.

There are accommodation facilities available in and around the city of Thodupuzha. Hotels and restaurants are available at Thodupuzha

Getting there: Thommankuthu which is accessible by road is about 20 km from Thodupuzha, a major town in Idukki.

Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam about 58 km.

Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport about 80 km

Thommankuthu | The Hidden Jewel.