Apart from the crowded tourist destination like Munnar, Vagamon, Meeshapulimala in the Idukki district of Kerala, there is a spot that gained fame recently. Thommankuthu waterfalls are among the best spurts in Idukki. Thommankuthu is within the lush green forest, nomadic rivers, unending cascades, woodlands and plenty of caves. It is just 20 km away from Thodupuzha. ‘Kannadiyar’ river is formed from the fall that is originated 20 km inside the Plakkulam forest area and touches the Kaliyar ranges. The Thommankuthu fall has a ten-step waterfall which is at an altitude of 1500m. In each step of the falls, there are ponds and chutes which has unique names like ‘Thommankuthu’, ‘Ezhunilakuthu’, ‘Thenkuzhikuthu’, ‘Chekuthankuthu’, ‘Palunkankuthu’, ‘Kudachiyarkuthu’, ‘Muthikuthu’, ‘Nakkayankuthu’, ‘Thekkanthonikuthu’, and ‘Koovamalakuthu’.
One of the major tourist attraction of this falls is the seven caves. It’s the best place for wildlife lovers as it is the home for rare species of butterflies like Tamil yeoman, Nilgiri clouded yellow and southern bird wing. It is also rich with colorful bird species like the Great Indian Hornbill. There are tourist guides alloted at each of the seven steps to ensure the safety of the tourist. All effective safety measures were placed in 2003.
For those who are interested in trekking deep inside the forest can go with prior consent from a guide. This consent gives chance for the tourist to explore and visit the other five waterfalls that are not allowed for other tourists. It is one of the ways you can get to know more about this place. Trekking consist of 5 people in a group with a nominal charge of Rs 1000 and Rs 100 for each additional member. The ticket fares and other charges are cheaper here compared to other destinations. This destination is eco-friendly in every manner. There are only limited lodging facilities in this spot. The proximate accommodation facilities available are at Thodupuzha which is 17 km away from the destination.
Best season to visit:
May to september
How to reach :
Cochin International Airport – 70 km
Thodupuzha KSRTC bus station – 20 km
Aluva railway station – 70 km
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