This unmapped Kerala destination draws tourists from far and wide

Chitteeppara in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram is not a place that can be easily found on the state's tourism map. However, for the emerging tribe of young tourism enthusiasts in the state and beyond, this misty haven isn't alien. Ask any of them what makes the spot special, and the answer would be on these lines: In Chitteeppara, mist curls through drifting clouds as the sun slowly rises, spilling a warm golden glow across the horizon, creating a view that feels almost unreal! The sunrise here, too, is indeed an experience that lingers long after a visitor leaves. Here's everything you need to know about it. 

The rock formation
From a distance, the rock formation at 'Chitteeppara' is striking in itself. One massive boulder appears to lean against another, as though it could slip at any moment, but still remains firmly in place. Seen from afar, its outline resembles the curve of a human neck, which is why locals also call it `Kazhuthan Para,' meaning neck-shaped rock.

In 2016, a portion of this rock face broke away and fell, bringing tourist visits to a sudden halt. Years later, word spread once again about the enchanting mornings at Chitteeppara, and visitors slowly returned. However, the growing and unregulated influx soon became a concern for local residents. In response, authorities tightened entry restrictions, introducing stricter police patrolling and regular inspections to manage the flow of visitors.

The panoramic views
A centuries-old temple still stands atop this rugged formation, which keeps age-old traditions alive on its elevated heights. Annual poojas and festivals are held here in accordance with tribal customs. Every year, thousands of devotees also gather at the Chitteeppara temple for the pongala festival.

This is also a natural viewpoint rock that opens up sweeping horizons. From here, distant landmarks such as Aryanad Junction, Vithura and Nedumangad come clearly into view. On clear days, when the skies are kind, even the airport and Shankumukham beach can be seen from this vantage point.

There is a growing demand to include Chitteeppara in the tourism map. However, what is needed here is a balanced approach that does not blur the lines between tourism, faith, and the region’s tribal cultural significance. Already revered as a pilgrimage centre, any development plan must preserve this delicate equilibrium.

In 2018, Tholicode Panchayat submitted a proposal to the concerned authorities seeking the inclusion of Chitteeppara in a tourism package. Suggestions were also made to develop a ropeway connecting Chitteeppara and Methottam–Poomarathukunnu. If integrated into a structured tourism circuit, a community-based system, similar to the Ponmudi Forest Protection Committee, could help regulate visitor numbers. This could also create employment opportunities for local residents.

Safety must be ensured
Meanwhile, the Chitteeppara Ayiravilla Thampuran Temple Trust has emphasised that any move to develop the site as a tourist destination must begin only after ensuring the structural safety of the rock formation. Following a partial collapse of the rock in 2016, the regional unit of the  Geological Survey of India conducted an inspection and submitted a report to the District Collector, recommending necessary protective measures. However, no follow-up action has been taken since then.

How to reach
Chitteeppara lies near Tholicode along the Ponmudi route, around 30 km from the city.