Parunthumpara is a popular hill viewpoint near Peermade in Idukki district, Kerala, India. It lies on the way from Kottayam to the famous tourist centre Thekkady, and gives a wonderful view of many hills, deep valleys and the green Western Ghats, often covered with mist. The weather is cool, the drive passes through tea estates, and it is a great spot for photographers, couples, nature lovers and film shoots. This guide covers how to reach Parunthumpara, the best time to visit, nearby places and safety tips for your Parunthumpara trip.
Parunthumpara Quick Facts
| Location | Near Peermade, Idukki District, Kerala (between Peermade and Pambanar on the Kottayam-Kumily road) |
|---|---|
| Distance from highway | About 3-4 km from the Kottayam-Kumily national highway, through tea estates |
| Known for | Hill views, valleys, mist, photography, film shoots |
| Best time of day | Late morning to about 4 PM, or evening for the cool weather |
| Best season | Post-monsoon to winter (October to February) |
| Nearest big towns | Peermade, Kuttikkanam, Kumily (Thekkady), Vagamon |
| Time needed | 1 to 2 hours |
About Parunthumpara Hill Viewpoint
Parunthumpara is a hill with a rocky cliff side where you can see deep-cut mountains and valleys for hours. It gives a bird's eye view of an endless stretch of green forest and low-lying land. The name is commonly explained as "eagle rock" in Malayalam. It is also a place where film shootings happen, and in the evening you can enjoy hot bajjis from the local stalls.
Best Time to Visit Parunthumpara
- Season: October to February is pleasant, with clear views and cool weather. In the monsoon the hills are very green, but mist and rain can hide the view and make the road slippery.
- Time of day: Finish your photo shoot before 4 PM. After that, heavy mist often covers the deep valleys and blocks your view.
- Evenings: The climate is good in the evening, but plan your visit so that you leave before dark.
- Crowd: Parunthumpara attracts many domestic tourists on weekends, so go on a weekday for a quieter visit.
How to Reach Parunthumpara
Parunthumpara is about 3-4 km from the Kottayam-Kumily national highway (earlier NH 220, now NH 183) on the way to Thekkady, between Peermade and Pambanar. The road goes through tea estates and is good, and you can reach the hill by any vehicle.
- By road: Take a bus or taxi from Kottayam or Kumily towards Peermade, get down at the Parunthumpara junction and take a taxi or auto, or drive up your own vehicle. It is also on the way to Vagamon.
- By train: Kottayam is the nearest major railway station (roughly 70-75 km).
- By air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest big airport. Plan 3 to 4 hours by road.
You can park your vehicle on the hill top and walk along the cliff side. The Peermade panchayat has built protective fencing and a tiled pathway through the dangerous areas.
Parunthumpara Location Map
Watch: Parunthumpara Video
Nearby Places to Visit Near Parunthumpara
- Peermade: A cool hill town with tea, coffee and spice plantations.
- Kuttikkanam: Rolling hills and plantations, a quiet stop on the same road.
- Vagamon: Pine forests, meadows and paragliding. It lies on the same route and is a popular add-on.
- Thekkady (Periyar Tiger Reserve): Famous for boating, wildlife and spice plantations; Parunthumpara is a good stop on the way from Kottayam.
- Pattumala and Grampi: Tea estates, a church and viewpoints in the Peermade area.
Travel Tips and Safety
- Visit in a group rather than alone, and avoid staying after dark.
- Reach before 4 PM, so you can see the view before the mist covers the valleys.
- Wear shoes with good grip, as the rocks and path can be wet and slippery.
- Carry a light jacket or raincoat; it is cool and misty.
- Take your own water; local stalls sell snacks and bajjis.
- Do not litter, and do not leave plastic or bottles on the hill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is Parunthumpara?
Parunthumpara is near Peermade in Idukki district, Kerala, between Peermade and Pambanar on the Kottayam-Kumily road.
How far is Parunthumpara from the main highway?
About 3-4 km from the Kottayam-Kumily highway, through tea estates.
What is the best time to visit Parunthumpara?
October to February, and before 4 PM, because heavy mist often covers the valleys after that.
Is Parunthumpara on the way to Thekkady?
Yes, it is on the way from Kottayam to Thekkady, and also on the route to Vagamon.
Is Parunthumpara good for photography?
Yes. It is a favourite with photographers and film makers because of the hills, valleys and mist.
Read Also
- Top 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala India - Kerala Tourism
- Medappara - Kozhikode District, India
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