Kerala's misty highlands hold secrets that most travellers speed past without a second glance. The winding stretch of road between Vagamon and Kuttikanam is one of those rare corridors where every bend rewards the curious eye, with rolling tea estates, plunging valleys, gushing waterfalls, and cool mountain air that feels like a gift.
Whether you're planning a leisurely drive, a weekend escape, or a soul-refreshing mountain retreat, this guide covers the best places to stop, explore, and fall in love with along this beautiful route.
1. Vagamon Pine Forest
Not far from the meadows lies the Pine Forest, one of the most photographed spots in the region. This man-made forest, planted during the British era, is a striking departure from typical Kerala scenery. Tall, straight pines cast dramatic shadows across the soft grass below, and the air carries the fresh, sharp scent of pine needles.
Walking through on a foggy morning feels like being transported somewhere far away. The forest is relatively uncrowded, making it ideal for quiet nature walks and photography. A small river runs alongside the pines, adding to the overall charm of the place.
2. Vagamon Lake
Nestled between three green hills, Vagamon Lake is a peaceful spot perfect for families and couples alike. Boating and pedal boating are available, and the lakeside is a lovely place to sit and watch the mist roll across the water in the mornings. The surrounding hills reflected in the still surface of the lake make for beautiful photographs.
3. Kurisumala Ashram
Kurisumala, which translates to "Mountain of the Holy Cross," is a Syro-Malankara Catholic monastery established in 1958, sitting at an elevation of around 4,000 feet. Pilgrims and travellers alike come here for the short trek to the hilltop, where a cross overlooks sweeping views of the green hills and forests below.
The ashram also runs a dairy farm and prayer hall, giving the place a warm, self-sustaining energy that is quite different from a typical tourist attraction. The surrounding landscape is quiet and beautiful, making it as much a nature destination as a spiritual one.
4. Thangalpara
Thangalpara is a massive granite rock formation that serves as a Muslim pilgrimage site and one of the finest viewpoints in the region. The climb to the top takes about 20 to 30 minutes and rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the valleys below and the distant Peerumade ranges.
The surrounding grasslands are perfect for a quiet picnic, and the cave tunnel within the rock formation is a fascinating historical feature. Not many tourists find their way here, which means you will often have the entire viewpoint to yourself.
5. Parunthupara (Eagle's Rock)
Located between Vagamon and Peerumedu, Parunthupara is a rocky outcrop also known as Suicide Point, famous for its sheer drop and panoramic views across the valleys below. It’s a paradise for trekkers and a dream destination for photographers. The views from the edge are dramatic and unforgettable, stretching across deep forest valleys all the way to the horizon.
6. Elaveezhaapoonchira
Elaveezhaapoonchira is one of those places that genuinely surprises first-time visitors. The name translates to "valley without leaves," and that description says it all. Unlike the dense forests surrounding most of the Western Ghats, this landscape is open and grassy, a vast natural bowl of green meadows surrounded by forested hills.
It is a sunrise and sunset destination of rare beauty, and the silence here feels almost intentional. Trekking, camping, and simply sitting in the middle of the meadow looking out are equally valid ways to spend your time here.
7. Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
About 10 kilometres from Vagamon town, the Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers. You can explore the sanctuary by boat, which offers a rare and immersive way to take in the forest and catch glimpses of wildlife in its natural setting. The area is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife, making it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in Kerala's rich biodiversity.
Getting There
The route is easily accessible from Kottayam (around 60 to 70 km), Ernakulam (around 100 km), and Kochi International Airport (around 110 km). Roads are generally in good condition, though some sections near waterfalls and viewpoints can be narrow, especially after rains.
Stay Right in the Heart of It All at Misty Mountain Experience, Kuttikanam
Why just pass through when you can truly belong? Misty Mountain Experience is located in Kuttikanam, right at the end of this beautiful highland route and the gateway to everything it has to offer.
From Misty Mountain Experience, every attraction on this list is within easy reach. Whether you spend your days trekking to viewpoints, chasing waterfalls, exploring pine forests, or simply sitting on a hillside with a cup of fresh-brewed tea, you have the perfect base to do it all at your own pace.
Book your stay at Misty Mountain Experience today and make the mountains your home for a while.
People Also Search:
Best Resort in Kuttikkanam, Kuttikkanam Resorts, Peermade Resorts, Misty Mountain Resort
Kerala's misty highlands hold secrets that most travellers speed past without a second glance. The winding stretch of road between Vagamon and Kuttikanam is one of those rare corridors where every bend rewards the curious eye, with rolling tea estates, plunging valleys, gushing waterfalls, and cool mountain air that feels like a gift.
Whether you're planning a leisurely drive, a weekend escape, or a soul-refreshing mountain retreat, this guide covers the best places to stop, explore, and fall in love with along this beautiful route.
1. Vagamon Pine Forest
Not far from the meadows lies the Pine Forest, one of the most photographed spots in the region. This man-made forest, planted during the British era, is a striking departure from typical Kerala scenery. Tall, straight pines cast dramatic shadows across the soft grass below, and the air carries the fresh, sharp scent of pine needles.
Walking through on a foggy morning feels like being transported somewhere far away. The forest is relatively uncrowded, making it ideal for quiet nature walks and photography. A small river runs alongside the pines, adding to the overall charm of the place.
2. Vagamon Lake
Nestled between three green hills, Vagamon Lake is a peaceful spot perfect for families and couples alike. Boating and pedal boating are available, and the lakeside is a lovely place to sit and watch the mist roll across the water in the mornings. The surrounding hills reflected in the still surface of the lake make for beautiful photographs.
3. Kurisumala Ashram
Kurisumala, which translates to "Mountain of the Holy Cross," is a Syro-Malankara Catholic monastery established in 1958, sitting at an elevation of around 4,000 feet. Pilgrims and travellers alike come here for the short trek to the hilltop, where a cross overlooks sweeping views of the green hills and forests below.
The ashram also runs a dairy farm and prayer hall, giving the place a warm, self-sustaining energy that is quite different from a typical tourist attraction. The surrounding landscape is quiet and beautiful, making it as much a nature destination as a spiritual one.
4. Thangalpara
Thangalpara is a massive granite rock formation that serves as a Muslim pilgrimage site and one of the finest viewpoints in the region. The climb to the top takes about 20 to 30 minutes and rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the valleys below and the distant Peerumade ranges.
The surrounding grasslands are perfect for a quiet picnic, and the cave tunnel within the rock formation is a fascinating historical feature. Not many tourists find their way here, which means you will often have the entire viewpoint to yourself.
5. Parunthupara (Eagle's Rock)
Located between Vagamon and Peerumedu, Parunthupara is a rocky outcrop also known as Suicide Point, famous for its sheer drop and panoramic views across the valleys below. It’s a paradise for trekkers and a dream destination for photographers. The views from the edge are dramatic and unforgettable, stretching across deep forest valleys all the way to the horizon.
6. Elaveezhaapoonchira
Elaveezhaapoonchira is one of those places that genuinely surprises first-time visitors. The name translates to "valley without leaves," and that description says it all. Unlike the dense forests surrounding most of the Western Ghats, this landscape is open and grassy, a vast natural bowl of green meadows surrounded by forested hills.
It is a sunrise and sunset destination of rare beauty, and the silence here feels almost intentional. Trekking, camping, and simply sitting in the middle of the meadow looking out are equally valid ways to spend your time here.
7. Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
About 10 kilometres from Vagamon town, the Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers. You can explore the sanctuary by boat, which offers a rare and immersive way to take in the forest and catch glimpses of wildlife in its natural setting. The area is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife, making it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in Kerala's rich biodiversity.
Getting There
The route is easily accessible from Kottayam (around 60 to 70 km), Ernakulam (around 100 km), and Kochi International Airport (around 110 km). Roads are generally in good condition, though some sections near waterfalls and viewpoints can be narrow, especially after rains.
Stay Right in the Heart of It All at Misty Mountain Experience, Kuttikanam
Why just pass through when you can truly belong? Misty Mountain Experience is located in Kuttikanam, right at the end of this beautiful highland route and the gateway to everything it has to offer.
From Misty Mountain Experience, every attraction on this list is within easy reach. Whether you spend your days trekking to viewpoints, chasing waterfalls, exploring pine forests, or simply sitting on a hillside with a cup of fresh-brewed tea, you have the perfect base to do it all at your own pace.
Book your stay at Misty Mountain Experience today and make the mountains your home for a while.
People Also Search:
Best Resort in Kuttikkanam, Kuttikkanam Resorts, Peermade Resorts, Misty Mountain Resort
Author
Team Misty Trails
Date
26 February 2026
Share
