Hello Friends, Welcome to Travellingbutterflies.com. Here, we will discuss about 5 Best Hill stations in Kerala, India. Travelling is all about finding new things and people you had never imagined existed. . Visiting India is an enchanting experience with innumerable charms to offer- undoubtedly making it one of the most attractive travel destination options today. The state is blessed with a moderate climate and the beautiful landscape makes it even more alluring. Its natural endowments are made up of lush greenery, snowy mountains, and beautiful beaches.
This article will help you explore the 5 Best Hill stations in Kerala which is still unexplored by many travellers
AAMAPARA
Aamappara is situated near Ramakkalmedu, Idukki District, and is an excellent hidden destination for adventure seekers that is still relatively unknown to many tourists. The mountain was given the name “Aamappara” (Turtle Rock) because it resembles a giant turtle when viewed from an aerial view. Its big attraction is its narrow walkways and alleys.
Under a massive boulder, there are two massive cave openings. You could enter the cave through one of the holes, explore it, and then exit through the other. Inside the cave, there are numerous slides and small obstacles, so be prepared for a thrilling adventure. When you finish all of the huddles and cross over to the other side, there is an amazing breathtaking view waiting for you as a gift from nature. If you could explore this magnificent beauty then it will be a lifetime memory for you to cherish
Places to visit: Idukki Dam, Kalvari mount, Anayirankal Dam Reservoir, Hill view park, etc.
Best time to visit: November-February
[It doesn’t fall in Rail or Air route]
Nearest Railway station: Kottayam (~114 km away),
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~124 km away)
PANCHALIMEDU
Panchalimedu is one of Idukki District’s best hill stations and soft hiking spots. You can visit this location with your family for a one-day picnic and be fascinated by nature’s beauty. It is not like other trekking destinations. It can be easily hiked by small children as well as seniors. Misty meadows will make you feel rejuvenated and refreshed. You can also see Pandava Guha (Pandava Cave) and Panjalikulam (Panchali Pond) According to Hindu mythology, the Pandavas and their wife Panchali took shelter in these hills during their exile. As a result, this hill was given the name “Panchalimedu” (Panchali Hill).
Private jeep services are available from Kuttikanam, Kottayam, to Panjalimedu.
Places to visit: Parunthumpara, Sita Devi Lake, Valanjamkanam Water Falls etc.
Best time to visit: Any time of the year
Nearest Railway station: Kottayam (~70 km away),
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~125 km away)
GAVI
Gavi is situated in Pathanamthitta District. If you are a nature lover, Gavi is a must-visit place in India. It’s a reserved forest area where you can find more than 260 species of birds and endangered species like Nilgiri Tahr, Kerala Elephant, and Lion-tailed Macaque. You can see a variety of wildlife in its natural habitat. Gavi is also known as Heaven for bird-watchers as you can see extremely beautiful birds like Great Pied Hornbill, Woodpecker, and Kingfishers. It has been attracting tourists all over the world because of its astonishing natural beauty and picturesque views. Gavi offers tourist activities like Night safaris, Wildlife watching, Trekking, Outdoor camping, etc. It is one of the 5 Best Hill stations in Kerala
In Gavi, you will endure the best trekking experience, Forest camping experience, Forest tree house experience, etc. When returning from this place you will have peace of nature in mind and soul. Sabarimala is so close to Gavi. If you are planning to visit Gavi you need to book and get prior permission from Kerala Forest Department (Contact details given below)
Places to visit: Kullur, Gavi Pullumedu, Kochu Pampa, Pachakanam
Best time to visit: September to February
Nearest Railway station: Kottayam (~128 km away)
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~160 km away)
For Booking:-
Kerala Forest Development Corporation Ltd.
Gavi Via Vandiperiyar, Kerala, India. – 685533
PhoneNo : +91-4869-223270, +91-4869 253270
Mobile: +91-994792399 , +91-8289821306.
Email: gavi@kfdcecotourism.com
VATTAVADA
Vattavada is a border village between Kerala and Tamil Nadu and it is widely known for its vegetables. It is the highest point in Munnar situated 2200m above sea level. It is known as the “Vegetable market of Kerala”. Vattavada is also famous for its crop diversity, which includes varieties of apples, oranges, strawberries, guavas, pears, blackberries, plums, gooseberries, canisters, peaches, and passion fruits, among others. People here are so friendly and they allow you to try the fruits which is a great experience. Don’t miss it, I have personally tried it and I promise; it is so different and yummy when compared to the commercial fruits we get in the city.
We can also buy fruits, vegetables, fruit wines, etc. from these farmers at a lower cost. On the way to Vattavada, you can also see wild animals in their natural habitat. Also, you can explore famous trekking routes like Kodaikanal, Top Station, Mattupetty, Kanthaloor, and Meesapulimala which is nearer to this location
Places to visit: Kurinjimala Sanctuary, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kundala Dam Lake, Pampadam Shola national park, Anamudi Shola National Park
Best time to visit: September to April
[It doesn’t fall in Rail or Air route]
Nearest Railway station: Aluva (~160kms away),
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (~158 km away)
NELLIYAMPATHY HILLS
Nelliyampathy is situated in Palakkad District, 60 km away from Palakkad town. Nelliyampathy is considered as one of the Best Hill Station in Kerala. It is an adventure-filled hill station within the Forest Reserve. It is attracting tourists around the world because of its astonishing natural beauty and picturesque views. One of the best ways to experience Kerala is by exploring nature. These hills are away from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate yourself with some peace. You can reach the top by bike or car. It is full of greeneries and is a must-visit place in Kerala. Don’t miss the night Jeep safari. An adventurous trip to Nelliyampathy is worth every penny.
Places to visit: Mayiladumpara, Pothundi Dam , Seetharkundu View Point, Kesavanpara, Karadipara, · Parambikulam, Meenvallam Falls etc.
Best time to visit: September to February
Nearest railway station: Palakkad Railway Station (~54 km)
Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport (~120 km)
Kerala is rich in hill stations and beautiful greeneries, Here I have listed only 5 Best Hill stations in Kerala, There are more to explore, I have tried to include less popular and exotic ones in this article. We will be exploring more places in future posts. You can check my Travel destinations for more beautiful destinations
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