Kootickal
Kootickal is a picturesque village nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats, marking the border between Kottayam and Idukki districts. Known for its rolling hills, vast rubber estates, and sparkling waterfalls, this place offers a mountain-like experience within the Kottayam district. The vill age gained international attention due to its resilience after the heavy floods, but it remains one of the most beautiful trekking destinations in the region. The Pullakayar River flows through the heart of the village, adding to its charm. Kootickal is surrounded by several peaks like Muthukora Mala and Urumbikkara, which are popular among off-road enthusiasts and hikers. The air here is noticeably cooler and fresher than in the lowlands. The landscape is dominated by thick canopy covers of rubber trees, interspersed with pepper and cocoa plantations. For those who enjoy long drives, the winding roads leading to Kootickal offer breathtaking views of the valleys below. It is a land of waterfalls, with many seasonal cascades appearing during the monsoon. The local culture is a blend of mountain life and traditional Kerala agrarian values. It is also an important stop for pilgrims heading to Sabarimala. The mist-covered hills in the morning make it a photographer's dream. Visiting Kootickal is about embracing the wilderness and enjoying the rugged beauty of the Eastern hills of Kottayam.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Full DayPlace Type:
Hill Station / AdventureEntry Fees:
No Entry Fee: Most of the natural sites in Kootickal are free to access. Some private estate areas might require permission. If you hire a Jeep for Urumbikkara, it may cost around Rs.2,500 to Rs.3,500 for a full trip. ...No Entry Fee: Most of the natural sites in Kootickal are free to access. Some private estate areas might require permission. If you hire a Jeep for Urumbikkara, it may cost around Rs.2,500 to Rs.3,500 for a full trip.Timing:
Regular Timings: Nature is open 24/7, but it is best to visit between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning is best to avoid the afternoon mist if you are trekking, or late afternoon for the views. ...Regular Timings: Nature is open 24/7, but it is best to visit between 7:00 AM and 5:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning is best to avoid the afternoon mist if you are trekking, or late afternoon for the views.Special Events:
St.
George Church Festival: The local church festivals in Kootickal and nearby Mundakayam are celebrated with great fervor, usually featuring colorful processions and community feasts in the month of May. ...St.
George Church Festival: The local church festivals in Kootickal and nearby Mundakayam are celebrated with great fervor, usually featuring colorful processions and community feasts in the month of May.Best Photo Spots:
Kavali Hilltop: This spot offers the best panoramic shots of the Kootickal valley. The sight of the clouds floating below the mountain peaks during the monsoon is a sight to behold and perfect for landscape photography. ...Kavali Hilltop: This spot offers the best panoramic shots of the Kootickal valley. The sight of the clouds floating below the mountain peaks during the monsoon is a sight to behold and perfect for landscape photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trekking to Muthukora Mala: Adventure seekers can embark on a trek to the top of Muthukora Mala, which provides a bird's-eye view of the three districts: Kottayam, Idukki, and Pathanamthitta.
Waterfall Hopping: During the months of June to November, you can visit multiple waterfalls within a 5-km radius. Each has its own unique charm and natural pool for a refreshing dip.
Rubber Plantation Walk: Take a guided tour through a rubber estate to see how 'latex' is collected and processed into sheets. It is an educational experience for those unfamiliar with Kerala's plantation culture. ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Waterfall Hub: Kootickal is famous for being surrounded by numerous waterfalls such as Vembly, Vellappara, and Vadakkemala. It is also a significant center for rubber production in Kerala, with some of the oldest and largest estates located in this belt. ...Waterfall Hub: Kootickal is famous for being surrounded by numerous waterfalls such as Vembly, Vellappara, and Vadakkemala. It is also a significant center for rubber production in Kerala, with some of the oldest and largest estates located in this belt. -
Architecture:
Hillside Stone Construction: The architecture in Kootickal includes many estate bungalows dating back to the British era. These buildings typically feature thick stone walls, wooden rafters, and spacious verandas measuring about 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft. to provide panoramic...Hillside Stone Construction: The architecture in Kootickal includes many estate bungalows dating back to the British era. These buildings typically feature thick stone walls, wooden rafters, and spacious verandas measuring about 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft. to provide panoramic views of the plantations. Modern houses here often use reinforced concrete designed to sit on steep slopes. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 100 KMS away.
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is the nearest major station (54 KMS). You can take a bus to Mundakayam and then a local bus or taxi to Kootickal.
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Near Tourist Places:
1. Vagamon (25 KMS), 2. Mundakayam (6 KMS), 3. Urumbikkara (10 KMS), 4. Panchalimedu (20 KMS), 5. Parunthumpara (35 KMS), 6. Illikkal Kallu (30 KMS), 7. Marmala Waterfalls (25 KMS), 8. Peerumedu (30 KMS), 9. Kuttikkanam (28 KMS), 10. Pine Forests (26 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Be cautious near waterfalls as rocks can be very slippery. Leeches are common in the plantations during the rainy season, so carry salt or tobacco.
Packing: Wear sturdy trekking boots and carry a raincoat.
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