Embark on a thrilling journey filled with adventure at every step – that’s what awaits travelers at the Urumbikkara Hills in Idukki district. Situated at an impressive altitude of 3,500ft above sea level, these magnificent hills stand proudly between the picturesque Kuttikanam and the untouched beauty of Vagamon.
Enthayar village, located approximately 12km from Mundakkayam, is nestled against the backdrop of the hills. From Enthayar, an exhilarating off-road trip through a rocky forest path begins, leading to Urumbikkara. Embark on a daring expedition through a serene environment, where the uphill journey will reward travelers with breathtaking views of misty hills, lush pastures, vibrant flora and fauna, and towering rocks. Along the way, Nature will delight you with pleasant surprises, including the magnificent Pappani and Vellappara waterfalls.
The end result of the strenuous climb will leave you astonished, as you’ll be rewarded with an unobstructed 360-degree view of the lowlands, adorned with dark rock patches and lush green pastures.
If you crave more, you have the option to take a stroll among the vast expanse of tea estates and cardamom plantations in the vicinity. Alternatively, you can embark on a trek towards the little-known Madamkkulam waterfalls with the assistance of a guide.
The estates and mansions in the area have an interesting story to tell. Back in the 1900s, the British introduced tea plantations in Urumbikkara. An Irish planter named John Joseph Murphy, commonly known as Murphy saipu among the locals, collaborated with a native named Raman to establish plantations, estates, and factories. Following the end of the colonial era, Raman became the owner of the estates and mansion.
If you are seeking an adventurous journey to an unexplored destination abundant in natural beauty, then the Urumbikkara Hills should definitely be on your bucket list.
History of Urumbikkara
Urumbikkara has a captivating aroma of wildflowers that fills the air. Every morning, you can experience the refreshing essence of nature. Each morning in Urumbikkara holds the tales of centuries, waiting to be discovered. Years ago, John Joseph Murphy (1872-1957), the father of the rubber plantation (also known as Murphy Saipu), founded tea plantations, tea factories, and orange plantations, among other Ventures… You can still see these things there. Urumbikkara retains its beauty of antiquity, untouched by modernity. The wife’s bathing pool is now known as “Madamkkulam”. The suicide point and hills offer breathtaking views.
Where is Urumbikkara
Urumbikkara can be reached from Enthayar via Vadakkemala. However, it is highly recommended to visit the place with an experienced guide who is familiar with the area. Enthayar is located approximately 12 km from Mundakkayam in Kottayam district. It is from Enthayar that the off-road trip to Urumbikkara begins. To fully enjoy this thrilling trip, it is recommended to use a four-wheel jeep as the vehicle of choice.
How to reach Urumbikkara
Urumbikkara is located 73 km away from Kottayam town. To reach there, one can take the Mundakkayam–Kootikkal–Vembly road.
Nearst Railway station Ernakulam Railway station
Nearst Airport Cochin International airport
Also Read : Madammakkulam Waterfalls | Kuttikanam | Idukki