One of the many peculiarities of this site is the ascendance of the three hills together forming a magnificent colossal structure. One amongst these hills called umbrella rock is extensively popular as due to the friction and other natural occurrences over the course of years have given it a shape of an umbrella. Tourists specifically seek these hills to enjoy the beauty of natural structural formation. Other hills have unconventional shapes too even though they are not yet attributed to the shape of a specific known object. Still, some people call the second hill a hunch back rock as you can see a convex edge to the rock. Besides, in the same location, you will also come across an extension which looks like a bridge but does not serve the purpose. It opens itself into the deep valley hence receiving a name Narkappalam which means scaffold to damnation. Besides, the trekking zones, any numbers of small water bodies including small streams and intermediate waterfalls are pleasant to the eyes
Attractions of Illikkal Kallu
Illikkal Kallu even though is an attraction itself as a beautiful scenic point as well as an adventurous destination, there are many other places nearby which makes the spot even more attractive to the tourists. There is no limit for enjoyment in case you want to move to another destination immediately. There are multiple attractions to entertain you. llaveezhapoonjira is probably is the closest beautiful tourist location near to Illikal Kallu as it is only 12 KM away.
Another enchanting location near Illikkal Kallu is Thangal Para situated only 32 KM away. Kattikayam Waterfalls is absolutely stunning. This majestic waterfall will attract your eyes and will provide you with a refreshing experience. If you are going to Illikkal Kallu this is a must visit spot. Parunthumpara located 72kms from illikal kallu is another tourist spot you wouldn't want to miss in your journey. Vagamon Meadows is situated only at a distance of 40 KM from this beautiful place and it is a widely sought out tourist destination.
Marmala Waterfalls situated 11kms from illickal kallu and Naadukani View Point (20kms from illikkal kalu are commonly visited by all the tourists and they are preferred by everyone very much due to the beauty of the place. The lush greenery, chilly valleys and majestic hills around are true pleasantries to anyone’s eyes. Ramakalmedu which is a very popular attraction situated in Idukki district is not that far away from Illikkal Kallu. You only need to drive 104kms from illikkal kallu to reach there. The road to the destination is extremely beautiful.
Also Read: Top Wildlife Sanctuaries and Forest Destinations in Kerala for Jungle Safari
How to Reach From Kochi
There are many ways to get to Illikal Kallu. For tourists who are not from Kerala, the easiest way to reach this destination will be by air. Cochin International airport is situated only 85 Km away from Illikkal Kallu. From Cochin or nearby localities you can hire a cab to reach the destination. If you are from other parts of Kerala or India and if you would like to cover major parts of your journey by train, Kottayam Railway Station is the closest one to Illikkal Kallu as it is only 56 km away from the main viewpoint.
There are also buses available to Kottayam from all the major cities in Kerala. However, regardless of your way of access to Kerala, road route needs to be covered by the tourists to reach the exact locations. Even though there are young people travelling by two-wheelers to access the location, the use of cars is most preferred by travellers due to the convenience and the adventurous nature of it. Besides, travelling on two-wheelers to the hilltops can be highly dangerous.
Indus Go is a self-drive car facility offered by Indus Motors. They are the first authorized dealers in Kerala. With Indus Go, you can experience convenient pickup and drop off facilities at affordable prices. It doesn’t matter where you are from. With a valid license and a copy of identification proof, you can book Indus Go services with greater flexibility. During your trip to Illikkal Kallu, you can hire this service rather than heavily priced cabs to experience maximum freedom and convenience.

Best Time to Visit Illikkal Kallu
This is a year-round tourist destination. However, the best time to visit is between October to February when you will experience enormous morning mist and chilly wind. But in the summer if you would like a reasonably cold climate, you can visit this place between March to May as well. Be that it may, from to June to September, just like the rest of Kerala, this place also experiences monsoon climate and there will be rain. Illikkal Kallu is any man’s dream adventurous destination for a weekend trip to get away from the everyday chaos of daily lives. This place offers the best sunsets and sunrise’s views anyone can imagine. Besides, the morning mist and twilights in this area are extremely beautiful.
Things to do in Illikkal Kallu
Situated in Moonnilavu Village, Illikkal Kallu is one of the highest peaks in the vicinity. The beauty and the landscape of Illikkal Kallu are similar to that of the pillar rocks in Kodaikanal but now only one half of the original rock remains, as the other half has fallen off. Here’s a list of things to do in Illikkal Kallu -
- Visit Kattikayam Waterfalls, which is located 2 kilometres away from Illikkal Kallu. The best time to visit this enchanting waterfall is in monsoon when it cascades in all vigour and splendour. Be careful of the slippery rocks if you visit this spot.
- Barren Hills - It is a famous attraction with vast stretches of lush green meadows. When you are there, do not miss out on the sunset.
- Vagamon Pine Forest - Located on the Kottayam-Idukki border, this is a must-visit destination in Vagamon. This Pine Forest offers some wonderful natural sceneries and moments amidst great surroundings.