Around Idukki in 48 hours

Idukki is enticing. And it is not just about Munnar and Thekkady. There is much more that gets left out when you plan a trip to this hilly district. Our itinerary takes you to Anchuruli, Ramakkalmedu and a couple of other places that are not on the popular tour circuit. Come, explore.

Pitstop #1: Anchuruli

There has been a steady footfall of tourists to Anchuruli post the release of Malayalam movie ‘Iyobinte Pusthakam’. The climax scene, where the hero gets beaten up by his own brother, was shot in the tunnel at Anchuruli. Since then, many have come here to have their selfies taken. During summer, you can walk up the tunnel for a distance, after you have confirmed with the locals, of course. However, now that the rain has been heavy for the last couple of days, it is ideal not to go very close to the tunnel. You can go boating at the reservoir.

Pitstop #2: Ramakkalmedu

The story goes thus. Long long ago, when Lord Ram was searching for his wife, Sita, he is said to have reached this hillock. Rama rested here before he went on his way across the seas to Lanka to vanquish Ravana. And the hill on which Rama rested became Ramakkalmedu. A short distance away is the statue of the 'Kuravan and Kurathi'. Beyond the hill is Tamil Nadu. And the view is just spectacular.

Around Idukki in 48 hours — Ramakalmedu. Photo: Onmanorama

Drive up to Munnar, Stay over.

Pitstop #3 Marayoor

Start early from Munnar and drive by the Eravikulam National Park, at a leisurely pace to Marayoor, 40km away. This is one of the places where sandalwood trees grow. Marayoor is also famous for the muniyaras (dolmens)

Pitstop 4: Kanthaloor

Kanthaloor is one of the few places where oranges, plums, apples, and peaches grow in Kerala. Lying to the eastern side of the Western Ghats, this beautiful village will relax you.

If you have time, you can drive up to Vattavada for a view of the blue hills.

Tips

Fuel up at major cities like Munnar. Not every place on this route has petrol stations.

You can stay at Nedumkandam or at Munnar, again depending on the time you have at hand.

Read more: Travel | Hour Glass | Beyond Kerala

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