Ilaveezhapoonchira

Beneath the cover of clouds like cotton, the mystical, dreamy valley of Ilaveezhapoonchira is without doubt one of the finest picnic destinations in Kottayam district.

Ilaveezhapoonchira is a dreamland valley spread over thousands of acres. It is about 55 km from Kottayam and 20 km from Thodupuzha. Every one of the green hillocks that stand sentinel for the valley peaks at about 3200 feet above sea level. The three hillocks are Mankunnu, Kodayathoormala and Thonippara. This place is generally accepted as being the best spot to view the most enchanting sunrise and sunset.

The title Ilaveezhapoonchira translates literally to ‘pond of flowers where leaves do not wither or fall.’ As per local myths, when the Pandavas, the protagonists of the Indian epic Mahabharata, stopped over here during their 12-year exile, their wife, Draupadi, went out to bathe in a pond here. Enchanted by her divine beauty, the devas (supernatural beings dwelling in heaven) yielded to their voyeuristic desires. This enrages the king Indra of devas. He proceeded to make hillocks surrounded by flowers around the pond in order to prevent devas from catching a glimpse of her. As there were no trees whatsoever surrounding the pond, it was always leafless, and thus the name. Each year as the monsoons spin their magic spell on the valley, the mythical pond is rejuvenated and brought back to life. The monsoons color the valley and the surrounding hills into a surreal vision. The Kannadipara or the Rock Mirror, is the highest in the Ilaveezhapoonchira Range. It is a rocky valley of protrusions that reflect the sun beautifully like a perfect mirror, thus the name. Illikkal Kallu, one of the finest viewpoints in the state, is another spot that lies but a stone’s throw away from Ilaveezhapoonchira.

One of the most desired trekking places in the state, the peak of Ilaveezhapunchira gives you a view of an array of districts such as Kottayam, Idukki, Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Thrissur, along with the Malankara reservoir extending across the rugged valleys.

The Kazhukankulimali Waterfalls, with its colorful cascades, is yet another halt in the region that you would not want to miss. The thrilling walk that goes across nature at her best is a trek that shall see you make memories to stay for life. The lush land, colossal hills, pure fresh air, and handsome landscape make it the ideal trekker’s paradise. Out trekking, ensure that you have plenty of water and snacks around. Veiled from the madness of city life, a haven of peace nestles in the green hug of nature. Ilaveezhapunchira is more than just another location.  It is a journey that defies time and space, beckoning fatigued hearts to step into the transcendent beauty of unspoiled Kerala landscapes.

The air fresh with the scent of wildflowers, and the harmony of birdsong adds to the charm of this piece of paradise. A feeling of peace that permeates every nook of Ilaveezhapunchira. Do make a visit for a refreshing vacation.