Amappara in Idukki district is one of the favourite hunting grounds of those who want to ride high on an adrenaline rush. After Amappara had found a prominent place on the world tourism map, tourists are arriving to this amazing natural destination in droves. Those visiting the historic hamlet of Ramakkalmedu make sure to step onto the mesmerizing Amappara.
The path leading to the intriguing rocks is so narrow that only one person can trek at a time. After walking for a while, one has to crawl through the crevice between the rock formations to reach the other side. There are mammoth rocks on both sides and once you reach the other side, nature’s splendour is in full display.
The wobbly journey from Ramakkalmedu to Amappara is not for the faint-hearted. One thing is for sure, the off-road enthusiasts can have a ball while travelling to Amappara.
A 4-km journey from the hanging bridge on the Nedumkandam-Ramakkalmedu road will take you to the Thovalappady junction and from there you can proceed to Amappara in a jeep vehicle.
Misty Amappara hills
The sight of thick mist slowly enveloping the Amappara hills is breathtaking, to say the least. After a downpour, it is all hazy as the mist will embrace everything on its way, even the narrow path leading to the huge rocks.
In a bid to woo adventure enthusiasts to Amappara, the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) and the Nedumkandam panchayat, under the stewardship of 11th ward member Vijimol Vijayan, joined hands to erect a steel fence around the hills. The fencing was put in place as part of Rs 2.25 crore worth of tourism projects and as the risk factors were completely eliminated, tourist footfall increased manifold.
Projects are underway to set up basic facilities and make the place more attractive and secure. Moreover, a comfort station complex, a 20m tall watch tower and lighting facilities are also coming up. A hanging bridge will be constructed in the next phase of development and the project is being overseen by the Steel Authority of India.
