Kuttampuzha is a village in the Kothamangalam taluk of Ernakulam district in the Indian state of Kerala. The Manikandamchal bridge within the Kuttampuzha forest connects the tribal areas of Vellaramkuth and Kallelumedu. Trekking through the forest can take you to the beautiful waterfalls, tribal settlements and their huts. Blawana is a place in Kutumbuzha. From this Blavanah, head to the tribal town of Thalavuppara to cross the Pooyamkutty river. The shop here is called Blavanakadavu. The two boats are tied together to deliver everything needed to the tribals.
If a birdwatcher dies and is told that he can spend the rest of his time on a paradise he chooses on earth, he might pick a beautiful spot on earth named Thattekkad. The name signifies a flat piece of wooded land. What an understatement for such a magical piece of earth! Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary with barely 25 square kilometers, which is the first bird sanctuary of Kerala, is also one of the most popular ones in the country. Thanks to the world-renowned ornithologist, Dr. Salim Ali, the legendary ‘Bird man of India’, who during his Travancore - Cochin ornithological survey found to his pleasant surprise this patch of evergreen lowland forest on the banks of Periyar. Today the sanctuary is known after his name, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.
Bhoothathankettu is a dam that also doubles as a tourism spot attracting a large number of people around the year with its picturesque views, bountiful nature and of course the myths pervading it. The Malayalam name Bhoothathankettu means, 'monster fort', which throws light to that legend pervading the crude dam built by the demons. History records that it was a flood in Periyar that checked Tipu Sultan’s military advancement in Kerala. When he and his forces came and settled for a night or two on the banks of Periyar at Aluva, a small group of patriotic men managed to go upstream and break the walls of Bhoothathankettu causing heavy flood. Tipu had to return in despair.
Vadattu para village is known as the ‘Queen of Village Beauty’. Scenic beauty of the village is enriched with the lovely beauty of periyar. Vadattu para Village is located 16km from Kothamangalam, 14km from Bhoothathankettu, 16km from Thattekkadu. Vadattu para is home to a wide variety of fauna such as Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Grizzled Giant Squirrel and so on. These are found in the Vadattu para forest reserves. Vadattu para is a best weekend travel destination for sightseeing in Ernakulam. The calmness and beauty of the nature and wide variety of fauna and flora will never disappointing the visitors
Inchathotty suspension bridge is located in Inchathotty village near Kothamangalam. It is one of the longest hanging bridges across river Periyar in Kerala with a length of 183 meters and 4 feet in width. It is an amazing experience to be on the shaking hanging bridge with a mixed feeling of adventure and excitement. The view from the bridge gives an ethereal panoramic view of Thattekad. This place is very rich in flora and fauna. Kayaking and paddle boating is available here. This place can be reached by road which is 5kms from Bhoothathankettu, 60 km from Munnar and 70 km from Kochi.
Mamalakandam boasts a rich historical background, with its origins dating back to ancient times. The village has been a witness to several historical events and cultural transitions in the region. The remnants of old structures and temples in and around the village tell tales of a bygone era, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. The local traditions and folklore add to the historical allure of Mamalakandam.
Munnar is a tranquil hill station nestled in the hills of Idukki district in Kerala. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala, Munnar is located at a height of 1600 m above the sea level, offering stunning views like few others. A land that seems to have been plucked from the realms of fantasy and painted onto the canvas of reality, Munnar is magically ethereal in every facet. Undulating hills cloaked in emerald greenery, mist-kissed valleys, sprawling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and the crisp mountain air together weave a tapestry of beauty like no other.
The largest reserve in the State, the abundant wildlife here along with its vibrant flora attracts throngs of visitors each year. Widely recognised as a breeding ground for tigers, the reserve is also considered to be the ideal place for researching elephantine life. Today the tiger population in the area is estimated to be around 40. Including several rare and endangered species, there are over 35 species of mammals in the reserve. The ideal way in which to see animals such as the Gaur, the Sambar and so on is a boat ride on the lake. The Gaur is the largest of the bovines here and the Sambar, the largest deer in India. They are also the main prey of the tiger and wild dog.
Vagamon is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes that include verdant hills, sprawling tea plantations, dense pine forests, and lush meadows. The hill station is situated at an altitude of around 1,100 meters above sea level, providing a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. The misty mornings and evenings add a touch of magic to the already stunning scenery, making Vagamon a photographer's paradise.
The trip to Athirappilly and Vazhachal waterfalls is an experience in itself. To feel the low rumble of the massive waterfalls from a distance grow bigger, louder and more intense as one draws closer, the enchanting sight of a torrent of water tumbling over massive rocks and a cliff, the cool misty water spray that fills the air, every bit of the experience etches in one's heart memories that are sure to last a lifetime.