District Kottayam Vehicle registration KL-35 | Time zone IST (UTC+5:30) | |
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Similar Marmala waterfall, Thazhathangady Juma Mosque, Panachikkadu Temple, Dakshina Mookambika Temple, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls | ||
Illikal Kallu (malayalam: ഇല്ലിക്കല് കല്ല്) is a major tourist attraction spot in Kottayam district of Kerala (India). Situated about 3400 feet above sea level, it is also one of the highest peak in the Western ghats. Illikal Kallu is a rock situated above Illikal Mala. The thing that makes this rock unique is that half of the rock has fallen off, and only the other half remains. This supplements the beautiful mountains which surrounds the rock.The nearest city is Teekoy.
Illickal Mala, located in kottayam,Kerala, India, measures approximately 3400 ft. above sea level. 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.
Illickal Kallu comprises three hills, each rising to 3400 ft. and 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). 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 ft. wide bridge called Narakapalam (bridge to hell). From the hilltops, the Arabian Sea can be seen in the over horizon as a thin blue stroke. The view of 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.
Major Attractions
The road to Illikal kallu is very steep and winding, and even experienced drivers may find it challenging. The peak is ideal for paragliding although the services are not offered there. Basic amenities like electricity is not available and some networks may experience poor signal reception.The place offers excellent panoramic view of the western ghats. Illikal Kallu is every photographers dream.
Illikal Kallu is at its best in the summer and in the rainy season it is altogether a different experience, Thick mist covers the mountain and adds to the natural beauty of the surroundings. Sometimes the visibility can drop to zero. Illikal Kallu is a good place for trekking but activities are limited during rainy season due to sudden change in weather and lightning hazard.
Kattikayam waterfalls is enroute illikal kallu. It is a mystic waterfalls masked away from the sight of tourists. A trek of 2 km among bushes and hills is needed to reach it. It can be vistited during any season
As part of tourism development several new activities are coming up in the place. It is also an excellent place for shooting movies.