The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge |
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The sanctuary watch towers
There are three watch towers for observing wild life - at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi. Reservations can be made at the Forest information Counter, Thekkady. |
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Kumily
This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily. |
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Mangala Devi Temple
This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 M above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. |
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Chellarkovil
This sleepy little village with its spectacular view of the plains (and cascading waterfalls during the monsoons) is a feast for your eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Kambam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu. |
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Vandiperiyar
The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium. |
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Pullumedu
The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed from a jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady Tel.+ 91-486-322027 or The Range Officer, Vallakkadavu |
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Grampi
Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its high peaks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests trekking trails and picturesque views lend charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations. |
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Mullaperiyar Dam
On the way to top station, at a spot on the lake embankment, amid some hills, every loud sound is echoed manifold by the surrounding hills— the spot is called Echo point which also offers panoramic views. It is just 15 km from Munnar. An excellent place, especially for young travelers to disembark for a while, yell out — and listen to your voice coming back to you! |
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Mundakayam
Munadakayam is considered to be the main gateway to Thekkady. Crossing the Mundakayam Bridge, the road winds higher up the mountain side. The view of the mist-enveloped mountain stretches and the cool mountain air soothing and exhilarating. |
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Panchali Medu
15 kms from Mundakayam and 47 kns from Thekkady is Murinjapuzha from where you have to take a diversion and drive 5 kms for Panchalimedu.
‘Medu’ in Malayalam means meadow and Panchalimedu is one of the numerous meadows that dot the Kerala landscape. The road is motorable and jeep service is frequent. Going past a small temple and some crosses adjacent to it you reach the most charming spot of Panchali Medu. From this spot you can view the pond where Panchali, the wife of Pandavas, is said to have taken her bath. It is believed that the Pandavas stayed here. |
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Valanjaganam Waterfalls
17 kms from Mundakayam and 45 kms from Thekkady. You reach the Valanjaganam Waterfalls. A brief halt here to frolic in the cool spray of the waterfall is a thrilling experience. |
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Peru hills
1.5 kms from Kuttikanam, these hills are named after Peer Mohamed, the 18th century Sufi saint who traveled worldwide and was a close associate of the erstwhile Travancore royal family. Fascisaint’s mausoleum right at the foot of hill attracts tourists and devotees round the year. |
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Amrithamedu and Kokkad Hills
The highest peak in Kuttikkanam, the Amrithamedu is ideal trekking spot and an upcoming pilgrim centre too. At the top of the medu, one cand enjoy a panoramic vie of the entire Peermede region. ‘Amrith’ in Hindu mythology is the food of gods which renders them eternal youth. It is belived that a person who comes to this place frequently will have prolonged youth. |
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Pallikkunnu
The European planters and architects who came to /kerala during the early 18th century were the first to discover this beautiful place. The church built by them bears testimony to their culture. Surrounded by dreamy cypress trees, it is true architectural marvel. |
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Vagamon
25 kms from Peermede, Vagamon is idyllic locale with its grass draped hills, stretches of green flatlands and the cool mountain air. A curious blend of religious mystricism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala stand as symbols of religious harmony. The dairy frame managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit |
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The Moonhill
Two kms from vagamon is the Moonhill. At a height of over 4000 ft. you can have a panoramic view of Kurisumala, Allamala, Murukanmala, Anavilasam, Kottamala, Kolahalamedu etc from here |
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Patumaala
34 kms from Mundakayam and 28 kms from Thekkady, Pattumala meaning hill draped in silk is yet another enchanting destination. Lofty peaks, little streams and ever-expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala is home to the most famous tea plantations Harrison Malayalam and AV Thomas & Co. The Velankanni Matha Chucrh, built entirely of granite, at the top of the hill is famous pilgrim centre. |