Kalyanathandu

Kalyanathandu is a paradise on earth. Forest rich in a variety of flora and fauna, silvery cascades down mossy slopes, vast watery expanses and the distant blue hills kissing the skies- Kalayanathandu offers all these and more.

Considered to be one of the tallest mountains in Idukki district, Kalyanathandu is 68 km from Thodupuzha. Board any bus to Idukki or Kattapana and alight at 10th Mile, better known as Calvary Mount (the name is derived from the presence of a wooden cross here). From here, a 30-minute trek will take you to the top of the mountain.

The trek through the lovely, dark and deep woods is quite an experience. The well-maintained serpentine path which is used even in the rainy season makes the trek less cumbersome and more exciting. From a top Kalyanathandu, the view across the land is breath taking.

Other excursions from Kalyanathandu are equally beautiful places like the Narakakkanam tunnel, Kathitheppu etc. On one side of kalyanathandu which falls in the protected forest area under Kattapana divisional forest, the remains of an ancient temple where local Adivasis worship can be found. At 10th mile stands a dilapidated board, a pointer to the fact that a major tourism project was once in the offing. Food and accommodation are available at Kattapana, 13 km from here.

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