Painavu, Idukki

Vandanmedu is located 25 km north of Kumily, on the Thekkady-Munnar Highway. The place is famous for rich spices like cardamom and it is said to be the biggest auction centers for Cardamom. The visitors traversing the plantations can enjoy the aroma of cardamom wafting through the air.The place is also a budding commercial center and is known for its historic colonial-era buildings. The anchel office constructed in the early 20th century by the British housed the first post office in Idukki.Distance: 45 km from Munnar.Timings: All day.Entry fee: None.

Valara Waterfalls, is one of the places to visit in Idukki, is located on Munnar-Kochi Highway. The gushing waters from a series of waterfalls, falling from an altitude of 1000 meters provide an alluring view.Nestled in the verdant vegetation featuring various types of woods and multitude of the animal kingdom, it is an ideal place for nature lovers and bird watchers.The rocky hillocks that dot the place is a hub for adrenaline-pumping activities like trekking, rock climbing etc. The monsoon and post-monsoon periods witness a heavy tourist turnout due to the spectacular scenic beauty of the falls and surrounding flora.It is a favorite getaway for photographers, honeymooners, and romantic persons.Distance: 42 km from Munnar.Timings: All day.Entry fee: None.

Another of the Idukki tourist places, Sita Devi Lake, is located at an altitude of 1800 meters (5900 ft) above the sea level. The lake also referred to as Devikulam, which means lake of the Goddess, is supposedly linked to the epic Ramayana. According to the myth, it is said that Goddess Sita Devi, the consort of Lord Rama, had bathed in these waters.Tourists prefer to take a dip in the waters of this lake, not only due to its sacredness but also because of the purported curative powers of its mineral waters. The distant cloud-capped the Blue Mountains, the velvety rolling evergreen hills, and the natural vegetation of slim red, blue, and yellow gum trees hypnotize the visitors.This makes it a wonderful picnic spot. Its pristine waters also make it be a perfect place for trout fishing. Devikulam is a trekkers’ haven.Distance: 5 km from Munnar.Timings: All day.Entry fee: None.

Ramakkalmedu, situated 3500 ft above the sea level, presents a bird’s eye view of the countryside of the neighboring Tamil Nadu State. The striking feature of the Ramakkalmedu is the historical monument of Kuravan and Kurathi, a huge statue that illustrates the Sangam period of Kerala.Rama-Kal-medu literally means “Land of Rama’s stone” or “ Land where Lord Rama set his holy foot”. Another unique feature of Ramakkalmedu is the prevailing wind conditions, irrespective of the seasons. It offers excellent trekking options to adventure enthusiasts. Other attractions include Frog-rock, Turtle –Rock etc.Distance: 40 km from Thekkady.Timings: All day.Entry fee: None.

Pothamedu Plantations, one of the places to visit in Idukki, bedazzles the tourists with its lush greenery. The lush green beds of coffee, the groomed tea gardens, and the wood-shaded cardamom plantations imprint an unforgettable picture in the minds of the visitors.The nature lovers lose track of the time gazing at the beautiful environs of the cloud covered mountains and ravines soaked in a blanket of greenery. The trekkers, hikers, and walkers feel soothed and refreshed by the panoramic beauty of the surroundings.The Muthirapuzha River and Idukki arch dam can be viewed by the tourists from the Pothamedu viewpoint if the atmosphere is clear and devoid of mist. It is a great getaway for photo fanatics to capture captivating pictures of this dreamland.Distance: 6 km from Munnar.Timings: 6 AM to 6 PMEntry fees: None

Ponmudi Dam, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is a picturesque destination known for its serene surroundings and breathtaking views. Nestled amidst the lush green hills of the Western Ghats, this dam is a hidden gem offering a peaceful retreat into nature.