Attractions
Vagamon Meadows/ Barren Hills/Motta Kunnu
Vagamon Meadows also known as Barren Hills or Motta kunnu is a famous attraction with vast stretches of lush green meadows spread over a large area. The sunset view that it offers draws people in large numbers. Because of its terrain, the hills are famous for trekking and rock climbing, making it a perfect attraction for adventure seekers.
Activity: This large grass covered area is ideal for a long or short walk and being with the nature.
Time to visit: Ideally either evenings or mornings when the sun is not very strong.
Vagamon Pine Forest
One of the most famous things about the Vagamon hills is the pine forest. Vagamon Pine Forest is a region with acres occupied by magnificent Pine trees thriving in the environment on steep slopes which is very unique to the region. This man-made forest was created during the British era and today also it is standing tall and beautiful. Even at noon, when the sun is very strong, the heat of sun does not penetrate and keeps the land very cool. It is worth taking some time to relax in the middle of pine trees enjoying the cool weather.
Activity: An ideal place for a walk or picnic in a relaxed setting.
Time to visit: Any time, Ideal when sun is strong to appreciate the natural air conditioning.
Vagamon Suicide Point
Vagamon Suicide Point is a spectacular nature view point with a deep-seated valley below. It is a V-shaped gorge from where you can see the deep-seated valley below. It is one of the beautiful locations in Vagamon. You get cherishing views of mountains and valley and can enjoy fresh air and light breeze. You will also be able to enjoy misty mornings and evenings during cold days especially in December, January, June, July months. Though Trekking to the Suicide Point is a bit of a strenuous activity, it is a wonderful experience too, as the way to the summit is very pleasing and enchanting.
Activity: Trekking, Cycling, View point
Time to visit: For trekking, anytime other than Monsoon as rocks can get slippery in rain. Anytime if you are not trekking.
Moon Mala
Moon Mala is an easy hiking spot with a spectacular view of nature on top. This is an ideal hill top to enjoy sun set. Views of hill tops dipped in mist and mist emerging from valleys will give a heavenly feel.
Activity: Hiking, View point
Time to visit: Non-rainy days. Beware of leeches in monsoon season
Karikad View Point
Karigad view point is on the way from Kottayam/Pala to Vagamon road. This is a must stop to enjoy the scenic beauty and appreciate the uphill drive you are having. From this point you can see the meandering road to Vagamon which is cut in solid rock with sky high mountains on one side and breath taking deep valley on the other side. Far away mountains dipped in mist, deep seated valley below, wild flowers, musical sound of water falls etc will get you completely refreshed.
Activity: An ideal stop to refresh yourself after the long drive, view point
Time to visit: Any time
Vagamon Orchidarium
Spread across 15-hectare (37-acre), Vagamon Orchidarium is known as the first orchid garden in Kerala which contains more than 3000 varieties of orchids. This unique garden was opened to the public in the year 2014 by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation, where you will also find more than 200 varieties of roses and other plants. This land is a collection of small meadows and a pond with lots of open sitting and relaxing area for the tourists.
Activity: Explore the orchidarium, relax in the sitting areas and enjoy a long or short walk. You can shop your favourite Orchid varieties and other natural products like honey, bee wax, spices etc.
Time to visit: Any time.
Palozhukumpara Water Falls
Vagamon is home to many water falls. Palozhukum para (milk flowing rock) is one of the most famous water falls in this region. As the name says, the water looks like flowing milk with its white color.
You will also find numerous water falls, small and big, especially if you are visiting Vagamon in Monsoon season (June, July). There are beautiful small water falls on the way to Vagamon from any direction (via Erattupetta or Kanjar or Kuttikkanam – the three routes to Vagamon).
Vagamon Kurisumala
Kurisumala, meaning the `Mountain of Cross’ is a Christian pilgrimage and one of the main attractions in Vagamon. The hike starts at kallillakavala (Kurisumala base), where you will find the statue of “Jesus in Tabore”. While hiking, you will pass 14 stations of “The way of the cross” to reach a small church built on rock at the peak of the hill. A welcoming light breeze is always awaiting you which will take away all your tiredness. You can see Kurisumala ashram and its surrounding farm from the top of Kurisumala.
Activity: Pilgrimage, Trekking.
Time to visit: Mornings and evenings. Thousands of people hike Kurisumala during easter season, especially on Good Friday.
Kurisumala Ashram
Kurisumala Ashram is a Christian Monastery with serene atmosphere for prayer and meditation. The Ashram was found in 1958 and is one among the top pilgrim centers in Kerala. You can also find a dairy farm and a milk processing and packing unit associated to the Monastery.
Activity: Meditation, Dairy farm visit, Milk unit visit, pilgrimage, walk in the nature.
Time to visit: Any Time with early appointment.
Thangal Para
Thangal Para is a Muslim pilgrimage centre. This is believed to be the resting place of Hazrat sheikh Farid Uddin baba, a Sufi saint, who is believed to have reached Kerala from Afghanistan about 800 years ago. Ganjusakkar is the main offering here and the festival, Uroos, is conducted during the month of April.
Activity: Pilgrimage, Trekking, Walk through ancient cave and experience the thrill of cave life.
Time to visit: Any time. Any time. Pilgrimage is peak during Uroos festive season
Murugan Mala
Murugan Mala or Hill is a Hindu pilgrim site. It is situated to the east of Kurisumala, a rock cut Temple of Lord Murugan is situated on top of Murugan Mala. Hundreds of devotees visit the place every year.
With this chain of three hills – Murugan Mala, Thangal Para and Kurisumala, Vagamon marks religious harmony and attracts lots of tourists and pilgrim alike.
Activity: Pilgrim, Hiking
Time to visit: Any time
Marmala Waterfall
One of the most beautiful and captivating waterfalls is shrouded by thick greenery is the Marmala waterfalls, popularly known as the ‘enchantress of the jungle’. The Marmala waterfalls is located along the Erattupetta route, 22 kms from Vagamon. Before, the waterfalls were inside a private estate and was not accessible to the public. But now as it is open for the public it has become one of the most famous places to visit in the Vagamon hills. The chirping sound of the birds with the waterfalls sound is surely one of the most blissful experiences. You can hear beautiful sounds in the backdrop which makes it a very peaceful and pristine place in Vagamon.
Activity: Waterfall
Time to visit: Any time.
Mundakayam Ghat
Mundakayam Ghat is a ghat passing through a mesmerizing terrain in the region. It is a panoramic place which is well known as a locale to watch the setting sun. Moreover, this place is famed as a place for birdwatching. One can get a beautiful top view of the scenic location as well. The terrain also makes the ghat an apt location for paragliding.
Activity: Paragliding (seasonal), bird watching
Time to visit: Any time
