Illickal Kallu
Illickal Kallu
| Illikkal rock | |
|---|---|
| Tourist destination | |
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Illikkal rock
| |
| Coordinates: 9°46′3″N 76°45′3″ECoordinates: 9°46′3″N 76°45′3″E | |
| Country |  India |
| State | Kerala |
| District | Kottayam |
| Government | |
| • Type | Panchayat |
| • Body | Moonnilavu |
| Area | |
| • Total | 33.41 km2 (12.90 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 1,830 m (6,000 ft) |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Malayalam, English |
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) |
| PIN | 686586 |
| Vehicle registration | KL-35 |
| Nearest city | Moonnilavu, Erattupetta |
Illikkal Kallu is a major Indian tourist attraction spot in Moonnilavu village of Meenachil taluk in the eastern Kottayam district of the state of Kerala, India. Situated 6000 feet above sea level, it is also one of the highest peaks of the Western ghats. Illickal Kallu is a rock situated above Illickal Mala. What makes this rock unique is that half of the rock has fallen off, and only the other half remains. The nearest town to this spot is Teekoy. Numerous mountain streams in this peak, flow down to form the Meenachil River. Tourists must trek 3 km to reach the summit of the peak.
Illikkal Kallu comprises three hills, each rising to 4,000 ft above sea level. Each of the hills has a peculiar shape. One of them resembles a mushroom, which is why it is known as Kuda Kallu (umbrella-shaped rock). The beauty and the landscape of illikkal kallu is similar to the pillar rocks in Kodaikanal. It is said that the medicinal herb Neela Koduveli grows here. This blue flower is also believed to possess supernatural powers, which could increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The second hill has a small hunch on the sides and is therefore referred to as Koonu Kallu (hunch back rock). Across this rock is a 1⁄2-foot-wide bridge called Narakapalam (bridge to hell). From the hilltops, the Arabian Sea can be seen in the over the horizon as a thin blue stroke. The view of the sunset from above the peak on the evening of a full moon day can be sensational: the moon can be seen rising up like another sun, as the orange sun goes down. Now this entire place needed protection. Because of the unlawful quarries that located nearby this ecologically sensitive area is creating threats to its existence. Environmental activities are either unaware or not concerned about it.
Tourism
The View Point: Illikkal Kallu or Illikal Rock is a common spot for picnics.The place is at a higher elevation that offers views of the lands below.
Kattikayam Waterfalls is very near to the place at a distance not more than 2 kilometers from Illikkal Kallu. The waterfalls are full during monsoon. Though there are no risks in visiting this waterfalls, visitors need to take care of slippery rocks. A trek of 2km through a dense forest leading to the falls is indeed a mesmerizing experience.
Mistywindvalley Resorts; a unique mountainside lodging is 3 kms away from Illikkal kallu which houses luxurious cottages and an in-house restaurant for nature lovers. Adventurous activities are organized to Illikkal kallu including Offroading, Nature Trails, River Rafting and Soft Trekking for adventure lovers from all parts of India. The resort is known to offer a steep hilly trek to Moonnilavu River, flowing through the foothills.
Healthacation-A Health Park"' is 1km away from illikkal kallu and it features a unique health park cum resort which is only one of its kind where you can get close to nature more at its best.
Ilaveezhapoonchira is another hill-top view which is only 7 kilometers away from Illikkal Kallu. The road to Ilaveezhapoonchira should be considered rough. Ilaveezhapoonchira means ‘valley where leaves don’t fall’. The highest point is Kannadipara. Valley of this rocky mountain reflects the morning sun with mirror-like perfection. Pazhakakanam plateau with bamboo groves, meadows & wildflowers nourished by Thodupuzha river & Kazhukankulimali waterfalls is nearby. During monsoons, the valley fills up to form a scenic landscape.
Vagamon: Another nearby attraction is Vagamon, which is a hill station where there are resorts and homestays for accommodations.
The road to Illikal kallu has a very steep winding and even experienced drivers may find it challenging. Basic amenities like electricity is not available and some networks may experience poor signal reception.The place has views of the western ghats.
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