Devikulam

Devikulam, or the Goddess of the Pond, is a hilly town tucked at an altitude of 1,800 m. in Kerala. Located in close proximity to one of the most admired hill stations of South India, Munnar, the town is a pilgrimage destination as well as a nature resort. Sita Devi Lake is the main draw for travellers. The town is cuddled with luxuriant green hills and awestruck scenic vista, which enchants the visitors.

The mountainous terrains of Devikulam are sheathed with vast areas of tea plantation. One can take guided tours of the tea plantations. It is an ideal hill station for those who wish to enjoy fresh mountain breeze and boundless exquisiteness. The place is also in proximity to some popular wildlife sanctuaries of the region. Hiking trails in the region are travelled by enthusiastic adventurers on regular basis. Pleasant climatic conditions throughout the year keeps Devikulam busy with tourist activities.

September to May

One can savour South Indian cuisines at small restaurants and roadside stalls that can be easily located across the town. Idli, sambhar, dosa and many similar preparations keep the visitors amused. Most of the hotels and resorts here offer dining facilities.

Devikulam is an ideal place to shop for exotic spices and tea from the spice and tea gardens. Obtain tourist information from the local residents on where to find the best of these items.

Devikulam is conveniently accessible by road from the places like Kochi and Kottayam. Travellers can avail state transport or private buses, taxis and private cars from these locations. Nearest railheads are at Ernakulam (about 132 km. away) and Aluva (about 112 km. away). Closest international airport is located at Kochi, around 111 km. from the town. Hire a taxi to visit attractions of Devikulam. Fabulous sightseeing in Devikulam is possible on foot.

Trekking in the Shola Forests is an engrossing activity near Devikulam. One can enjoy the beauty of small rivulets, cascades and wide array of birds and also avail horse ride on the mounts. The extensive tea and spice farm of the region is neatly trimmed with rows of tea shrubs, pepper, clove and cardamom.

Munnar (about 10 km.): Popular for enchanting lakes, waterfalls, vantage points, wildlife parks and sanctuaries and many other well-known attractions. Rajamala (about 20 km.): It is a region speckled with rolling grasslands and verdant green forests. Endangered mountain goat Nilgiri Tahr and other animals can be spotted at Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary. Top Station (about 40 km.): A unique picturesque place blended with history. During British rule, this was the vital shipment point for tea from Munnar. The region is marked with Neelakkurinji, an exceptional flower which blooms once in several years. Valara and Cheeyapara waterfalls (about 35 km.): At the backdrop of lush green forest, these cascading waterfalls over a rocky slope originate from Deviyar River and create a mesmerising vista for the onlookers. Marayur (about 48 km.): The place hidden between mountains is believed to be a part of the Stone Age. The place holds many dolmens, rock edicts, caves and engravings, which assert the existence of ancient human race. The place has rock paintings and vast spreads of sandalwood forests. Thommankuthu (about 66 km.): Known for the stimulating beauty of the undulating seven-step waterfall which drops from a height of around 1,500 m., it is among the most visited tourist places near Devikulam. Idukki (about 47 km.): It is a hilly terrain with lavish green vegetation and the main attraction is the two-fold curve Arch dam. Chinnar wildlife sanctuary (about 57 km.): This natural habitat covered with verdant greenery is ideal for wild life enthusiasts to encounter species like goliath squirrel and star tortoise. Vagomon (about 115 km.): An enchanting green-carpeted hill station filled with fresh cool air, small streams and pine forests. The adventure seekers can engage in ample option of trekking, paragliding or rock climbing. Other major attractions are the three hills of Murugan, Kurishumala and Thangal, which offers space for religious beliefs of Hinduism, Christianity and Islam.