About Illithode
Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, sunrise, and sunset
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Angamaly Railway Station, about 21 km
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 18 km
Nearest Bus Stop: Gothumbhu Road bus stop, about 6 km
Illithode is situated along the banks of the Periyar River, near Malayattoor in Ernakulam district. The dense forest on either side of the beautiful flowing river makes for a calm and beautiful scenery. The trail meandering through the tall trees with bird calls in the distance provides a delightful experience, making it a perfect addition to places to visit in Kerala. Dipping your feet in the Periyar with smooth pebbles under your feet adds an element of connection to nature.
The visit gains cultural and ecological depth from nearby attractions, including the Malayattoor Church and forest reserve. It is an ideal place for picnics with family or nature walks for couples, or just sitting by the river by yourself. The natural beauty of the place also provides ample photo opportunities, as the place looks straight out of a storybook.
Illithode Highlights
• Visit the beautiful riverside retreat of Illithode, near Malayattoor in the Ernakulam district of Kerala.
• Sit beside or bathe in the beautiful Periyar River, and the pristine waters will calm your soul and connect you to nature.
• Walk through the dense forest while enjoying the rich biodiversity and the melodious bird songs.
How To Reach Illithode
By car/taxi: Illithode is about 4 km from the Malayattoor city centre. It will take you around 10 minutes to get there.
Best Time To Visit Illithode
Peak Season (October to March):
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, moderate temperature.
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, enjoying nature.
Moderate Season (June to October):
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season, heavy showers.
- Things to do: Enjoy nature is its full capacity, nature photography
Low Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Rising temperature, high humidity.
- Things to do: Enjoy the sights without the crowds, take a dip in the river.
Illithode Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the river requires a short walk through forest trails with uneven terrain.
- Check for weather forecast and refrain from bathing in the river when it is raining. Keep an eye out for rising water levels.
- Bring insect repellent as the dense forest tends to get infested by mosquitoes, especially after rain.
- Pack water and food, as the options available in the forest region are limited.
- Keep the environment clean, collect your trash and dispose of it in the designated bins.
Sit by the Periyar River
The Periyar River flows gently through Illithode, and the smooth stones in the clear waters naturally make shallow pools ideal for taking a bath in it. Simply sitting at the banks of the river with the background of the beautiful forest and the gift sound of flowing water is a meditative experience.
Walk Through the Forest
The forest features bamboo, mahogany, and teak, among other trees, that you can explore. The rich biodiversity offers chances to spot birds, butterflies, and small animals. An excellent way to see the area is to walk through the forest to the Periyar River.
Indulge in Bird Watching
Illithode is part of the biodiverse Western Ghats, known for its diverse birdlife, providing amazing opportunities for birdwatching in Kerala. Some of the species found here include the Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-cheeked Barbet, Indian Paradise Flycatcher, and Greater Racket-tailed Drongo.
Tourism Board Alliances
Illithode FAQs
What is Illithode famous for?
Illithode is famous for its undulating forest paths, calm Periyar River flow, and unspoiled natural beauty. Families, nature enthusiasts, and photographers who enjoy forest walks, birdwatching, and picnics in a serene, crowd-free environment find great delight here.
Is Illithode suitable for swimming or bathing?
Yes, Illithode is suitable for swimming or bathing. The Periyar River here features generally safe shallow, slow-moving stretches for swimming or bathing. Still, care is advised since water levels might rise suddenly, especially in or following rain. It is advisable to keep an eye on your young ones and not let them swim without the supervision of an adult.
Are there food and water facilities available?
The food and water facilities at Illithode are limited, it is advisable to pack your own water and snacks. There may be local stalls near the entrance, but the options are minimal inside. It is also advisable to carry your trash in a separate bag and dispose of it carefully, maintaining the pristine nature.
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