Kuttikkanam Tourist Spots: Top 5 Places Worth Getting Out of Bed For!

Kuttikkanam is subtle. It doesn’t have the sheen of Munnar nor the privilege of a wildlife stamp like Thekkady. What it does have are the silent spaces: the spaces between the mountains, between the forests and small towns, and between people. All of the Kuttikkanam tourist spots stand tall (quite literally) in their quiet magnificence, nudging you to slow down and look around to find their beauty that is not oversaturated with marketing yet, thankfully!

If you are trying to find out the best and most worthwhile Kuttikkanam tourist spots, read along to find out the five places that genuinely will make you understand the beauty of Kuttikkanam.

If you are planning your trip to Kuttikkanam and are searching for affordable accommodation, explore our options here.

PARUNTHUMPARA: THE NEVER ENDING MOUNTAIN

Parunthumpara (Parunth = Eagle, Para = Rock, so quite literally Eagle Rock), is that spot where you instantly feel the contradiction- you’ll feel like the God and also feel like the worm!

This is the kind of place where you’ll involuntarily feel like lowering your voice as you are humbled by the sheer magnanimity of what you see. This is the kind of place that puts things in perspective, and you see how small and volatile you are. The mountain stretches out infinitely and in layers that, in clear early mornings, you can see far beyond what you can comprehend. And that, that is Western Ghats for you, my friend.

On misty and foggy days, you’ll see thick clouds drifting swiftly below your feet with strong winds whistling tales older than time. That is how being God feels: all the mighty forces of nature under your feet, in perfect harmony. What more is needed to make this place one of the finest among the Kuttikkanam tourist spots?

Local Tip: If you are a sunrise person, Parunthumpara is for you. If you are a sunset person, Parunthumpara is also for you. Visit before 8 AM or around sunset by 5.30 PM for the best experience. Midday is harsh with the sun falling flat on you. You won’t be finding any restaurants in Parunthumpara, so for your dining, you can check out My Guest Restaurant.

VALANJANGANAM WATERFALLS: MIGHTY

In monsoon, you’ll hear her before you see her. Just by the highway NH-183, right before reaching Kuttikkanam is this glorious waterfalls which is one of the most accessible and photogenic tourist attraction in Idukki.

The best time to visit is naturally the monsoon, and the months immediately following monsoon (latter half of May-July). The mighty fall with strong wind creates a scene so powerful that it pulls you to her. In monsoon with heavy rain, the water crashes down with utmost force, the mist hits your face, and your clothes will be wet. It is an experience

The shape-shifter among the Kuttikkanam tourist spots, in summer and spring, the fall will be dry, but still, the spot is photo-worthy.

Local Tip: In the monsoon, the rocks are extremely slippery, and hence caution is a must. Avoid being reckless.

PINE FORESTS OF KUTTIKKANAM: TRANQUIL HEAVEN

If you love green, wild, and silence, this is your heaven and you’ll spend hours here. Undoubtedly iconic, this planted forest stretches out to the horizon. It makes you feel like you are in a mystery Hollywood thriller or even precisely, the scenes of Twilight, all the while when you are in Kerala’s humidity.

Get a cup of black coffee from a local tea shop, and walk through the pines inhaling the woody scent of its resin. Naturally, this is a photographer’s paradise.

Local Tip: Early mornings are best for birdwatching and quiet time. Sunsets are also special with the sunlight falling through the pines, making this wild scene softer. Kindly don’t litter in the forest.

PANCHALIMEDU: MYSTIC BEAUTY

15 km from Kuttikkanam, you’ll reach this place where mythology meets beauty. As per local legend, this is the place where the Pandavas along with Panchali took shelter during their exile. If you are someone who likes gentle hiking, you’ll love Panchalimedu, as the hike is not harsh and is suitable for all ages.

This Kuttikkanam tourist spot is modelled and maintained with inclusivity in mind and thus is suitable for differently-abled travellers. You’ll be able to see the vast valleys spanning below while gentle wind breezes over the tall grass land. For clear view mornings of spring and summer is preferred.

Local Tip: A nominal entry fee has to be paid and the timing is between 6 AM and 6 PM.

PATTUMALA CHURCH AND TEA PLANTATION: HILLS OF GREEN SILK

Pattumala Our Lady of Good Health Church is located in one of the most beautiful scenic spot surrounded by the silk green lush of tea plantation. The church made with granite emulating the European beauty while visually contrasting the rich green canvas is a scene to be photographed.

The church is now a famous pilgrim location in the list of Kuttikkanam tourist spots where you can sit in tranquility and peace for hours. The view outside, the air and the cold atmosphere will ground you calmly without effort and hence is a suitable place to meditate.

The road uphill is an experience of its own with elevation changes, stretched view of tea plantations, and small towns. If you plan to walk through the tea plantation, early evening will be the most suitable time.

PRACTICAL TIPS WILE VISITING KUTTIKKANAM TOURIST SPOTS

Kuttikkanam is situated 3500 feet above sea level. Early mornings and evenings will be colder compared to other districts in Kerala.
During monsoon and winter, do bring insulating clothes and good footwear. The days and especially the nights will be colder and the roads and rocks slippery.
Most of the Kuttikkanam tourist spots can be accessed via public transport with good planning and time management. Private vehicles makes it further easy.
Mobile network will be inconsistent at times depending on the location.
Looking for a comfortable stay while exploring Kuttikkanam, consider checking out our property here.