Munnar To Thekkady Travel
Munnar Altitude: 5000 – 8000 ft above sea level.Munnar or the “three rivers”, nestles amidst Western Ghats at the confluence of three mountains streams. The lush landscape is dotted with lakes, reservoirs, forests & several tea estates. The pepper, rubber & cardamom plantations lend a distinct aroma to the cool & bracing climate of the hill resort. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which rises over 2695 m and is an ideal spot for trekking.
Thekkady In the Periyar forests of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill town that hold great opportunities for treks and mountains walks.
Idukki One of the most scenic area of Kerala , Idukki offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries , hills stations , spice plantations tours , mountain treks , elephant rides etc. famous for its gigantic arch dam , the other popular places in Idukki are the Periyar Tiger Resrve at Thekkady and the enchanting hill stations of Munnar and Peermedu . Idukki, the hilly district of Kerala gets the name from Malayalam word “Idukku” which means a narrow gorge.
This beautiful High range district of Kerala is geographically known for its Mountainous Hills and Dense Forests.
For the people of Kerala, Idukki is always associated with Power Generation. About 66% of the State's Power needs come from the Hydroelectric Power Projects in Idukki.Idukki accounts for 12.9 percent of the area of Kerala and only 3.7 percent of the population of Kerala. About 50% of its area are Reserved Forests
.This district’s name, ‘Idukki’ is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word ‘idukku’, which means a narrow gorge. That could well be true, for narrow, steep-sided valleys are not strange phenomena in this hilly district, flanked by the Western Ghats in the east. The river Pamba originates in the mountains of Idukki.
With high ranges of altitude varying from 2500 feet to over 5000 feet above sea level, Idukki is the district where forests and wildlife abound. About 1500 sq ft of its area is reserved forest, much of which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. These forests are a source of teak wood, rose wood and sandalwood. They are also home to wildlife like tigers, deer, bisons and monkeys. Streams, valleys and hills combine to make Idukki district an ideal year-round holiday destination.
For the people of Kerala, Idukki is always associated with power generation since about 60 per cent of the state’s power needs come from the hydroelectric power station at Moolamattom, the biggest in the state. The famous Idukki arch dam, the first of its kind in India, is built between two huge granite hills across the river Periyar
A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. Three main rivers gird high ranges and wooded valleys - Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries. The River Pamba also has its origin here.
As a tourist destination, Idukki offers diverse attractions like Wildlife sanctuaries, Hill stations, Dams, spice plantation tours, Mountain treks, Elephant rides etc.
Tourist Place: Munnar & Thekkady/Periyar/Kumily
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower that bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m.
Thekkady In the Periyar forests of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill town that hold great opportunities for treks and mountains walks.
Idukki One of the most scenic area of Kerala , Idukki offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries , hills stations , spice plantations tours , mountain treks , elephant rides etc. famous for its gigantic arch dam , the other popular places in Idukki are the Periyar Tiger Resrve at Thekkady and the enchanting hill stations of Munnar and Peermedu . Idukki, the hilly district of Kerala gets the name from Malayalam word “Idukku” which means a narrow gorge.
This beautiful High range district of Kerala is geographically known for its Mountainous Hills and Dense Forests.
For the people of Kerala, Idukki is always associated with Power Generation. About 66% of the State's Power needs come from the Hydroelectric Power Projects in Idukki.Idukki accounts for 12.9 percent of the area of Kerala and only 3.7 percent of the population of Kerala. About 50% of its area are Reserved Forests
.This district’s name, ‘Idukki’ is supposed to be derived from the Malayalam word ‘idukku’, which means a narrow gorge. That could well be true, for narrow, steep-sided valleys are not strange phenomena in this hilly district, flanked by the Western Ghats in the east. The river Pamba originates in the mountains of Idukki.
With high ranges of altitude varying from 2500 feet to over 5000 feet above sea level, Idukki is the district where forests and wildlife abound. About 1500 sq ft of its area is reserved forest, much of which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. These forests are a source of teak wood, rose wood and sandalwood. They are also home to wildlife like tigers, deer, bisons and monkeys. Streams, valleys and hills combine to make Idukki district an ideal year-round holiday destination.
For the people of Kerala, Idukki is always associated with power generation since about 60 per cent of the state’s power needs come from the hydroelectric power station at Moolamattom, the biggest in the state. The famous Idukki arch dam, the first of its kind in India, is built between two huge granite hills across the river Periyar
A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. Three main rivers gird high ranges and wooded valleys - Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries. The River Pamba also has its origin here.
As a tourist destination, Idukki offers diverse attractions like Wildlife sanctuaries, Hill stations, Dams, spice plantation tours, Mountain treks, Elephant rides etc.
Tourist Place: Munnar & Thekkady/Periyar/Kumily
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower that bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m.
PLACES TO VISIT:
Pothamadu:(6 km from Munnar)
Pothaamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenary here are ideal for trekking and Long Mountain walks
Devikulam:(7 km from Munnar)
This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Pallivasal: (8 km from Munnar)
This is the venue of the first Hydroelectric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty
Attukal: (9 km from Munnar)
A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treaks.
Pothamadu:(6 km from Munnar)
Pothaamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenary here are ideal for trekking and Long Mountain walks
Devikulam:(7 km from Munnar)
This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Pallivasal :(8 km from Munnar)
This is the venue of the first Hydroelectric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty
Attukal: (9 km from Munnar)
A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.
Nyayamakad:(10km from Munnar)
Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 metres. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.
Chithirapuram:(10 km from Munnar):
With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old-world charm.Home of the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.
Mattupetty:(13 km from Munnar):
Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is known for its highly specialised dairy farm-the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over 100 varieties of high-yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into 3 of the 11 cattle sheds at the farm.
The Mattupetty lake and dam:
Just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed launch and motorboats are available on hire.
Lock Heart Gap: (13km from Munnar):
This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mistclad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of visit.
Rajamala: (15km from Munnar):
This is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri tahr. Half the world population of the rare mountain goat (Hemitragas bylocres) which is fast becoming extinct is now found here. The Nilgiri tahrs are today reduced to small herds found in the Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Nilgiri tahrs in Rajamala is estimated at 1317.
Echo Point:(15 km from Munnar)
This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Stations from Munnar.
Eravikulam National Park: (15 km from Munnar)
The 97 sq. km. park is situated in the Devikulam taluk and is home to the Nilgiri tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695m) is located in the southern region of the park.
Power House waterfalls: (18 km from Munnar)
This waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock, 2000m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.
Kundala: (20 km from Munnar)
Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Stations. The Golf Course, which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd., is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad waterfalls are also near Kundala.
Anayirankal: (22km from Munnar)
It is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Tata Tea Plantations and evergreen forests surround the Anayirankal Dam. It is an ideal picnic spot.
Top station: (32 km from Munnar)
1700 m above sea level, this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. The rare Nilakurinji (strobilanthus) belongs to this region. This plant blooms wants every 12 years bathing the hillsides in bright blue. Top Station also offers a panoramic view of the neighbouring state of Tamilnadu.
Marayoor: (40 km from Munnar)
This is the only place in Kerala that has natural growth of sandal wood trees. The sandal wood factory of the forest department, the caves (Muniyaras) with murals and relics from the new Stone Age civilisation and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single Banyan tree are of great interest to tourist's. Thoovanam waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also near by.
Cheeyappara: The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Nariamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi Madurai highway. The Cheeyappara waterfalls cascade down in seven steps. It is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking.
Meenuli : It is noted for two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge Rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and is an ideal spot for mountaineering
Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary: (60 km from Munnar)
Situated on the Tamilnadu Boarder, The Chinnar wild life sanctuary is spread across 90.44 Sq.km.
Thekkady/Kumily/Periyar
The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice-scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. Thekkady is the spice town and also home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The nearest airport is at Cochin and the journey takes around 5 hours.
Set amidst the splendour of the mountains, the Man-make Lake Periyar provides the ideal way to see the Wildlife Sanctuary, on a safari cruise. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see some of the wildlife. The partially submerged trees, scattered across the lake, provide ideal look out posts for a variety of birds.
The unique combination of climate, soil and terrain here, makes this one of the few places where so many varieties of spices can be grown. Here you will find pepper, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg and ginger, to name a few. The tea and coffee plantations add to the scent in the cool air. A walk through the plantations is a fascinating experience as you learn the peculiarities and special needs of the plants.
Some 15 kms to the east of the town, you will find yourself down in the lowlands of neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Here the fields are full of produce such as tomatoes, cabbages, sunflower, beans, papaya and acres of vineyards. A short ride along the narrow country lanes on an ox-cart adds to the understanding of true, simple rural life. Small ancient temples can be seen and a drive through the tamarind forests reveals a vast difference between these lowlands and the lush vegetation of Kerala.
Back in Thekkady, there is excellent trekking available, through dense forests and plantations. We offer short 2-hour treks, half day and full day treks and an expert of our local guides accompanies you. One of the most rewarding treks is up to the summit of Cross Mountain, named because of the solitary cross-planted here long ago. You will find the most magnificent views with each direction offering a contrasting panorama - the lowlands to the East, the plantations to the North and South, and the lake and valley to the West. This can be a half-day, hard trek or take a short jeep drive, followed by a 15-minute hike to the top. Palm grove rafting and visit to a tribal village and the delights of Thekkady.
Away from the Thekkady/Kumily/Periyar, with a wide variety of fauna and flora to discover. The Spice Garden has a small brook running through the garden and both offer total tranquility .
Thekkady/Kumily/Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (also called Periyar Tiger Reserve) is nestled along the Western Ghats Mountains ranges of Kerala in South India. The main objective of this programme is to create awareness about the need for conservation of rare and endangered species of plants and animals.
Detailed Information:
Home to some 35 species of mammals, 265 species of birds and hundreds of species of butterflies, reptiles and plant life, Thekkady/Kumily/Periyar is quite exclusive. Tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests and savanna grasslands make up the interior of the sanctuary. Now in an exciting fusion of local community involvement in tourism management, Kerala Travels, the oldest Travel House of Kerala, has introduced the National Award winning "Thekkady Tiger Trail" - an innovative programme of trekking and camping within the confines of this magnificent sanctuary.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary:
One of the worlds's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuary, Thekkady/Kumily/Periyar is noted for its geomorphology, wildlife and science beauty. The Periyar Tiger Reserve attracts travellers from all over the world. 360 sq.km. of the 777 sq km sanctuary is covered by evergreen forests. The 26 sq km artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar /dam across the Periyar River offers boating facilities. This is the only sanctuary in India where the wild elephant can be observed and photographed at close quarters from the safety of a boat. A boat cruise on the lake is perhaps the best way to watch the wildlife in the reserve.
The Sanctuary Watch Towers:
There are two watchtowers in the interior of the Periyar forest. Reservations can be made at Forest Information Centre, Thekkady, and Plantations: Tea, Cardamom, Pepper and Coffee plantations surround the Periyar Wildlife sanctuary. Twelve Varieties of spices grow in the neighbouring villages, pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, cumin seed, garlic, starriness etc.
REACHING THEKKADY:
The best months to visit Periyar are from August to May when there is a pleasant climate here. If you are planning to travel by air, the nearest airports are Madurai, at a distance of 140 kms, Kochi (185 kms), Thiruvanthapuram (253 kms). Thereafter you can hire a taxi or take a K.S.R.T.C. bus to your destination. You can also travel by train or road from Kottayam, 110 kms from Thekkady. By road it takes almost 3 hours from here. In Kerala, all tourist cars charge both way fares, irrespective of whether you are planning to return to your starting point in the same vehicle or not.
Set amidst the high altitudes of the Western Ghats and named after the Periyar river, the sanctuary is rich in evergreen forests, flora and fauna. It is the natural habitat of a vast species of terrestrial, aquatic and arboreal animals.
Access :
Air : nearest airport : Madurai (Tamil Nadu) 140 kms, Kochi (Nedumbassery - 185 km), Thiruvananthapuram (265 kms).
Rail : nearest railway station is Kumarakom 114 kms. Madurai station is about 136 kms.
Road : an excellent road network from kumily (4 kms) links the to all major towns and cities in india
WHAT TO SEE AT THEKKADY /Kumily/Periyar:
Besides the all important boat ride, visitors to the sanctuary can also take elephant rides or go trekking through the forest with a trained guide. Later, you can visit the spice gardens and tea, coffee and cocoa plantations nearby.
Other places of interest include the Mangladevi temple and the Mullaiperiyar Dam. Besides, Kumily has a good market for tourists, offering handloom fabrics, spices, rosewood and sandalwood items, batiks, silks and antiques.
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 geomorphology, 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 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 attractions of Periyar, however, are the herds of wild elephants that come down to play in the lake.
Entry timing: 0600 - 1800 hrs.
Kurisumala
A place for adventure tourism and trekking. This will offer a panoramic view of Kumily town and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Kumily (4 km from Thekkady)
This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. An important shopping centre ans spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region are in Kumily
Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady)
Washed in fresh spice-scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi (5 km from Kumily)
This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple (15 km from Thekkady)
This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a oeak 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 eastern slopes of the Ghats and some hill villages of Tamil nadu. Permission to visit the area can be abstained from the Wildlife Warden.
Chellarkovil (15 km from Kumily)
This sleepy little village with its breathtaking view of the plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Cumbum in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar (18 km from Thekkady)
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 Garden have a delightful array of roses, orchids and anthuria.
Vandanmedu (25 km from Kumily)
This is one of the world's largest auction centres for cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of Vandanmedu is a heady experience.
Pullumedu(43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar)
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 only by jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Jyothi illumination 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 Ph:04869-222027 or the Range Officer, Vallakkadavu Ph:04869-252515.
Ramakalmedu (40 km from Thekkady and 75 km from Munnar)
Rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hills top also offers a Panoramic view of picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the Eastern slop of the western ghats.
