• Jan 25 2016
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Ilaveezhapoonchira

Nestled in the midst of cotton like clouds, the mystical, ethereal valley of Ilaveezhapoonchira is undoubtedly one of the best picnic spots in Kottayam district. 

Ilaveezhapoonchira is a dreamlike valley sprawled across thousands of acres. It is located approximately 55 km from Kottayam and 20 km from Thodupuzha. Each of the lush green hillocks that stand guard for the valley rises to around 3200 feet above sea level. The three hillocks are Mankunnu, Kodayathoormala and Thonippara. This spot is widely regarded as the best place from which to enjoy the most magical sunrise and sunset. 

The name Ilaveezhapoonchira literally translates to ‘pond of flowers where leaves don’t wither or fall’. According to local legends, when the Pandavas, the heroes of the Indian epic Mahabharata, halted here during their 12 year exile their wife, Draupadi stepped out to take a bath in a pond here. Allured by her divine beauty the devas (supernatural beings residing in heaven) gave in to their voyeuristic impulses. This infuriated Indra the king of devas. He went on to create hillocks with flowers around the pond to stop devas from getting a glimpse of her. Since there were no trees at all around the pond, it was always free of leaves and hence the name. Every year as the monsoons weave their magic on the valley the mythical pond gets revived and brought back to life. The monsoons paint the valley and the surrounding hills into a surreal spectacle. 

The highest point in the Ilaveezhapoonchira Range is the Kannadipara or the Rock Mirror. It is a valley of rocky protrusions that reflect the sun brilliantly like a perfect mirror, hence the name. Illikkal Kallu, one of the best viewpoints in the state is yet another destination that’s just a stone’s throw away from Ilaveezhapoonchira.  

One of the most sought after trekking spots in the state, the summit of Ilaveezhapunchira offers you a glimpse of a plethora of districts, including Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Thrissur as well as the Malankara reservoir spread over the steep valleys. The Kazhukankulimali Waterfalls with its vibrant cascades is another pitstop in the area that you shouldn’t miss. The invigorating trek that takes you through Nature at her best is one that will help you forge memories that will last a lifetime. The verdant landscape, gigantic hills, fresh, clean air and beautiful terrain make it the perfect trekking spot. When out trekking do ensure you have an ample supply of water and snacks at hand.