Illikkal Kallu, Kottayam - Activities | Tips

Illikkal Kallu, Kottayam Overview

Located at a height of 6000 ft above the sea level in the Western Ghats of Kottayam, Kerala, Illikkal Kallu is a major tourist attraction and one of the most pristine spots in all of India. Situated in Moonnilavu Village, Meenachil taluk, the nearest city to the summit is Teekoy. Besides several other factors which make this peak unique, the most prominent feature is that half the boulder of the majestic rock has fallen apart. The remaining half stands sturdy and presents an extremely exalted picture. Surrounded by colossal green hills, the offbeat destination boasts of immaculate environs, enchanting panoramic vistas and an all around utopian atmosphere. In addition to the surreal natural beauty, the sublime view of the Arabian Sea in the near horizon as a thin blue stroke, is a sight beyond description.

One of the highest peaks in the vicinity, Illikkal Kallu comprises of three different hills- each rising to at least 4000 ft above the sea level. Boasting of mystical surroundings, hills imbued with a green blanket and an overall idyllic setting, the destination is blessed with bounteous natural bliss and is still unexploited and untapped by tourism. Above all, the sunset view as seen from the peak is absolutely riveting; the moon rises adjacently as the orange sun goes down. Also, the winding roads leading to the majestic boulders can give an adrenaline rush to all the adventure junkies.

Composition of the Hills in Illikkal Kallu

Illikkal Kallu comprises of three hills, each rising to at least 4000 ft above the sea level. The first one shaped like a mushroom is called Kuda Kallu which means umbrella shaped rock. Neela Koduveli, the blue flower grows here. The herb is known to have medicinal properties and is one of the most sought after plants in the world. The locals believe that the plant has supernatural powers which can increase wealth and ensure a better harvest in addition to curing any disease on the face of the earth.

The second boulder has a small hunch on the side and is called Koonu Kallu which translates to hunchback rock. Across this rock is the notorious yet exciting Narakapalam, commonly known as the Bridge to Hell. This half foot wide bridge connects the first boulder to the second. Walking this narrow bridge is extremely thrilling. Besides the fear of height and danger, the bridge offers a mesmerising scenery of the surrounding haven, verdant green valleys and the merging of the skyline in the mountains below.

Places of Attraction at Illikkal Kallu

1. The View Point is the ultimate point at the highest elevation for captivating views of the valley below. A lot of people sit down here to have a picnic amidst natural bliss.
2. Kattikayam Waterfalls is located at a distance of 2 kms from Illikkal Kallu. The enchanting waterfalls can be best seen in monsoon cascading in all vigour and splendour. Be careful of the slippery rocks if you visit this spot.
3. Healthacation-A Health Park is a wonderful resort cum health park situated at 1 km from here. With its captivating setting in the beguiling surroundings, the extremely beautiful resort is one of a kind.
4. Ilaveezhapoonchira is another hilltop 14 kms from Illikkal Kallu with similar features.

Best Time To Visit Illikkal Kallu

Any time of the year is ideal to visit the place except rainy season. Monsoons can get extremely slippery and dangerous due to the possibility of landslides and landslips.

Tips For Visiting Illikkal Kallu

1. Wear comfortable shoes to have a better grip of the terrain, as the region is rocky and slippery.
2. If you plan on walking the Bridge to Hell, be very sure of your decision. The narrow bridge is really fatal and risky and you need to be super careful. One wrong step or a careless slip can land you in the gorges below.
3. If you plan on trekking to the hilltop, make sure you do it in the first half of the day. The evening can get misty and foggy with very little visibility.
4. Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated. The area has no shops.

How To Reach Illikkal Kallu

Illikkal Kallu is located 60 kms away from Kottayam. Several buses operate from Kottayam to Erattupetta. Get down at Erattupetta and take a bus to Mankombu. The hilltop is a 3 kms trek from Mankombu. Alternatively, you can also drive down or hire a private vehicle which can drop you till Pazhukkakaanam, from here jeeps are available to take you to Illikkal Kallu.