Ottakathalamedu Watch Tower
Overview of Ottakathalamedu: Ottakathalamedu is a hidden vantage point located on a high peak near Thekkady, offering some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. The name literally translates to "the cliff of the camel's back" due to the unique shape of the mountain crest. This spot is situated at an elevation of about 1,300 meters above sea level. From the watchtower at the top, visitors can see the vast expanse of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the bustling town of Kumily, and the lush spice gardens of Idukki. On a clear day, the view extends even to the plains of neighboring Tamil Nadu. The area is relatively less crowded compared to other spots in Thekkady, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers. The journey to the top involves a drive through narrow, winding roads lined with cardamom and pepper plantations. The cool mountain breeze and the scent of fresh spices make the trip delightful. It is an ideal spot for a short trek or a quiet evening to watch the sunset. The watchtower provides a safe platform to enjoy the 360-degree views of the Western Ghats.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Viewpoint / AdventureEntry Fees:
General Access: Usually, there is no entry fee for the viewpoint itself.
Parking Fee: If traveling by a private vehicle, a small parking fee of 20 to 50 might be collected by the local samiti. ...General Access: Usually, there is no entry fee for the viewpoint itself.
Parking Fee: If traveling by a private vehicle, a small parking fee of 20 to 50 might be collected by the local samiti.Timing:
Regular Timings: The watchtower is open from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time is either early morning for the mist or late afternoon for the sunset. ...Regular Timings: The watchtower is open from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time is either early morning for the mist or late afternoon for the sunset.Special Events:
Environment Day: Local eco-clubs sometimes organize cleanliness drives here during June to promote sustainable tourism.
Tourism Week: During the Kerala Tourism Week in September, the path to the tower is often maintained for better accessibi...Environment Day: Local eco-clubs sometimes organize cleanliness drives here during June to promote sustainable tourism.
Tourism Week: During the Kerala Tourism Week in September, the path to the tower is often maintained for better accessibility.Best Photo Spots:
The 360-Degree View: The top floor of the watchtower is the ultimate spot for capturing a panoramic shot of the Periyar Lake in the distance.
Camel Back Shape: Take a photo from the approach road to capture the distinct "camel hump" silhouet...The 360-Degree View: The top floor of the watchtower is the ultimate spot for capturing a panoramic shot of the Periyar Lake in the distance.
Camel Back Shape: Take a photo from the approach road to capture the distinct "camel hump" silhouette of the hill.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Hiking to the Summit: The final stretch to the watchtower is a great short hike for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity.
Jeep Safaris: Many local operators offer off-road jeep safaris that take you through the rugged terrain to reach this point.
Photography: Spend time capturing the layers of mountains that fade into the horizon.
Bird Watching: The high altitude makes it a good spot to observe birds of prey like eagles and hawks soaring on the thermals.
Nature Walks: Explore the spice gardens located at the foothills of the cliff before making the ascent.
Picnicking: The quiet surroundings are perfect for a small family picnic, provided you carry your own supplies and leave no litter.
...Hiking to the Summit: The final stretch to the watchtower is a great short hike for those who enjoy a bit of physical activity.
Jeep Safaris: Many local operators offer off-road jeep safaris that take you through the rugged terrain to reach this point.
Photography: Spend time capturing the layers of mountains that fade into the horizon.
Bird Watching: The high altitude makes it a good spot to observe birds of prey like eagles and hawks soaring on the thermals.
Nature Walks: Explore the spice gardens located at the foothills of the cliff before making the ascent.
Picnicking: The quiet surroundings are perfect for a small family picnic, provided you carry your own supplies and leave no litter.
Sunset Viewing: Reach the tower by 5:30 PM to secure a spot for the most beautiful sunset in Thekkady.
Information
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Why Famous:
Panoramic Vistas: It is famous for providing a bird's-eye view of the entire Periyar region and the border areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Sunset Point: Many travelers visit specifically to witness the sun setting behind the mountains, paint...Panoramic Vistas: It is famous for providing a bird's-eye view of the entire Periyar region and the border areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Sunset Point: Many travelers visit specifically to witness the sun setting behind the mountains, painting the sky in shades of orange and purple. -
Architecture:
The Lookout Structure: The architecture of the watchtower is a simple multi-story concrete structure designed for maximum visibility.
Tower Dimensions: The tower stands approximately 35 feet high, with three observation levels. Each level i...The Lookout Structure: The architecture of the watchtower is a simple multi-story concrete structure designed for maximum visibility.
Tower Dimensions: The tower stands approximately 35 feet high, with three observation levels. Each level is roughly 15 feet by 15 feet in area, protected by iron railings. The design focuses on utility, allowing the Kerala Police and forest officials to monitor the surrounding forest area for any signs of fire or illegal activity. The base of the tower is built on a solid rock foundation to withstand high wind speeds at this altitude. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Madurai (140 km) is the closest airport.
By Train: Kottayam (110 km) is the nearest railhead.
By Road: Take the bypass road from Kumily towards Murikkady.
By Local Trans...By Air: Madurai (140 km) is the closest airport.
By Train: Kottayam (110 km) is the nearest railhead.
By Road: Take the bypass road from Kumily towards Murikkady.
By Local Transport: It is best reached by hiring an auto-rickshaw or a private taxi from Thekkady or Kumily. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Winter Season: November to February offers the clearest views without the interference of heavy clouds.
Summer Season: March to May is also good, though it can get a bit hazy during mid-day. ...Winter Season: November to February offers the clearest views without the interference of heavy clouds.
Summer Season: March to May is also good, though it can get a bit hazy during mid-day. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Kumily (4 km), 2. Periyar Lake (5 km), 3. Murikkady (2 km), 4. Pandikuzhi (6 km), 5. Chellarkovil (14 km), 6. Elephant Junction (5 km), 7. Mudra Cultural Centre (4 km), 8. Spring Valley (8 km), 9. Vandanmedu (20 km), 10. Gavi (42 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Be careful while climbing the tower stairs as they can be steep.
Packing: Carry a windcheater as the wind can be quite strong and cold at the top.
Cash and Connectivity: No shops are avail...Health and Safety: Be careful while climbing the tower stairs as they can be steep.
Packing: Carry a windcheater as the wind can be quite strong and cold at the top.
Cash and Connectivity: No shops are available at the summit; carry water and snacks from Kumily. Mobile signal is decent.
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