Elaveezha Poonchira, Kottayam Overview

Located at a distance of 15 kms from Thodupuzha and 60 kms from Kottayam, Elaveezha Poonchira is a small quaint hill station. Perched at a height of 3200 feet above the sea level, it can be reached by a jeep ride through the unpaved rocky mountainous terrain. Literally translating to a ‘flowery lake where no leaves fall’, the place has acres of barren land without any plantation or trees with a perennial lake ‘Poonchira’. The area receives heavy rainfall, and the entire valley turns into a river during monsoons.

A well kept secret of Kerala, Elaveezha Poonchira is replete with rocky cliffs, contours and crevices and hence, lures a lot of trekkers, mountaineers and adventure enthusiasts to the spot to try their hand at trekking. You can either embark on the tried and tested terrains or pave new trails for yourself. The mountain peak also offers an enthralling view of the Malankara Dam in addition to providing several captivating vistas of the surrounding paradise. Besides, it has traces of burial chambers, tribal settlements and several caves including Nilavara, Pandavan Guha etc., which are a personal favourite among the tourists.

Legend of Elaveezha Poonchira

It is believed that the place was a temporary abode for the Pandavas for a short while. One day, while they were living here, their wife Draupadi went to take a bath in the pond. Some devas saw her and were enamoured by her beauty. To prevent any kind of misdeed from happening, Lord Indra built hills in the form of screen to block the view. The pond thus became a dam surrounded by hills. Since the hills were tree- less, there were never any astray leaves; hence the place came to be known as Elaveezha Poonchira.

Accomodation at Elaveezha Poonchira

There is only one accomodation option available at the top of the mountain peak- a single tourist bungalow with a few rooms to facilitate a handful of travellers. The cottage is in the middle of nowhere with no mobile or internet connectivity. There is no electricity as well. So, it is only ideal for wanderers who are ready to spend a candle lit night cut away from the rest of the world. The sun rise and sun set view though, add to the unique experience. Any other accommodation options can be found (nearest at) Thodupuzha or Kottayam.

Best Time To Visit Elaveezha Poonchira

Any time of the year is a good time to visit Elaveezha Poonchira except monsoons. Rainy Season can prove very fatal as the entire valley gets immersed in water. The roads also turn slippery and any journey should be avoided.

Tips For Visiting Elaveezha Poonchira

1. Remember to pack food and water with you as there are no shops in the area upwards.
2. If you are not planning to stay, it is advisable to return before dusk for safety reasons.

How To Reach Elaveezha Poonchira

The nearest town to Elaveezha Poonchira is Thodupuzha, which is 15 kms away. You can reach Thodupuzha from Kottayam in a public bus or a private taxi. From Thodupuzha, there is a jeep facility which can take you to your destination.