Illikkal Kallu, a beautiful holiday destination for adventure seekers

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Illikkal Kallu is a rock situated above Illikkal Mala in Kottayam district of Kerala. This is a major tourist attraction of the state. It is located at an altitude of 3,400ft above sea level. This is also one of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats. The unique feature of the rock, which attracts travellers is that the half of the rock has fallen off, and only the other half remains. 

There are numerous beautiful streams in this peak that flow down to form the Meenachil River. To reach the summit of the peak, travellers need to trek 3 kms. This hill range comprises of three hills of different peculiar shapes and each located at an elevation of 3,400ft above sea level. One of the hills resembles the shape of a mushroom and is known as Kuda Kallu. The medicinal herb Neela Koduveli is said to be found here. This blue flower is also believed to possess supernatural powers, which could increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The second hill has a small hunch on the sides and is referred to as Koonu Kallu. From these hilltops, the Arabian Sea can be seen in the distant horizon as a thin blue line. The sunset view from the hilltop is amazing. 

There are two bridges connecting the hills, known as Naragapalam (Hell bridge) and Swargavathil (Entrance to Heaven). A new rope-way is proposed connecting Illikal Kallu and the nearby hill Ilaveezha Poonchira, as a part of Kerala Tourism.

The road to the place is very steep and winding. The place offers excellent panoramic view of the Western Ghats. The best time to visit is the summer season and in the rainy season it is altogether a different experience, as thick mist covers the mountain which adds to the natural beauty of its surroundings. This is a good place for trekking but activities are limited during rainy season due to sudden change in weather and lightning hazard. 

 

Illikkal Mala is situated 6 kms and 22 hairpin bends away from Meladukkam, in the Thalanad panchayat. Frequent buses are available to Erattupetta from Kottayam and all major cities in Kerala. From Erattupetta or Pala you will get direct bus to Mankombu. From there, you can hire jeep or trek 3 kms to reach the hill top. The nearest railway station is Kottayam railway station and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport.

The main nearby tourist attractions of the place are:

  • Vagamon: at about 24 kms. This is one of the most visited tourist places of the state.
  • Kattikayam waterfalls: at about 3 kms.
  • Moolamaattom, Idukki: at about 5 kms.
  • Elavizhapunchira Mountain: at about 3 kms.
  • Kudayathoor: at about 6kms.
  • Kanjar: at about 6.5 kms.
  • Ilaveezhapunchira Mountain: at about 6 kms.
  • Melukavu Mountain: at about 6 kms.
  • Nadukani: at about 5 kms.
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