Devikulam

Devikulam is a charming mountain seven kilometers from Munnar. Tourists will be tempted to go barefoot on its lush meadows. The combination of old legends and scenic natural beauty makes for an incredibly captivating and enchanted trip experience. Devikulam is one of those hill stations that, despite their seemingly tiny size, can astound you.

It is a little village about 12 kilometers southwest of the well-known Keralan town of Munnar, nestled under a blanket of clouds and pure oxygen. The literal translation of Devikulam is "Devi," which means Goddess, and "Kulam," which means Lake. According to mythology, Goddess Sita bathed in the glistening waters of Devikulam Lake, which is nestled among the healthy hills, as they lived in the surrounding forests during the exile.

Devikulam - City Guide

Some wonderful bird - watching opportunities exist here, and there is top class accommodation in restored traditional homes nearby. Great opportunities also exist here for walks through village environs and it is a wonderful place to observe traditional life and agricultural practices in a relaxing atmosphere.

Devikulam: Interesting Facts

Beyond its legendary tales, Devikulam boasts a number of fascinating features that will further heighten your desire to come. Fun trivia facts include the following:

Due to its distinctive technique of painting using sand, chalk powder, and rice flour, Devikulam has gained international recognition. The painting technique, officially called as Kolam, uses these powdered materials in a variety of colors to manually create eye-catching images. Like rangoli, which is well-known in North India, Kolam takes pleasure in using only natural dyes. Besides their religious use of worshipping the Hindu goddess of prosperity, Lakshmi, these designs are also used to feed insects and birds.
Devikulam is still a wonderful place to visit all year round even when it is 20 degrees Celsius in the summer and 0 degrees in the winter.
In Devikulam's forests, there are tall gum trees, rare flora, and wild flowers in abundance. The forests will be of interest to naturalists in general and botanists in particular.
In the charming hill station of Devikulam, over 100 types of cows are bred as part of the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project.
Although boating is not typically associated with hill towns, Devikulam provides visitors with boating possibilities because of the lakes on its grounds. You can anticipate motorboat rides, pedal boating, or even an attempt at rowing.

Tourist Attractions of Devikulam

Sita Devi Lake
Lockhart Tea Museum
Lockhart Gap View Point
Swiftlet Cave
Chokramudi Peak
Power House Waterfalls
Kalladanthy Natural Cave
Chithirapuram View Point
Ripple Waterfalls

For those of you wanting more, there are also other experiences like trout fishing in the lake, learning about tea cultivation through guided tours at the Devikulam tea estate, boating, wildlife tours of nearby parks like the Idukki National Park and the Eravikulam National Park, visits to well-known lakes (Kundala Lake and Mettupetty Lake) and waterfalls (Pallivasal Falls, Thoovanam Falls) close by. The Blossom International Park nearby is popular with kids for its exciting recreational facilities. (Please note that prior permission from Tata Tea is required in order to visit the lake or catch the fresh water fish.)

Top Things to Do in Devikulam

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In Devikulam, you may visit the Sita Devi Lake, go for sports like trekking and hiking to surrounding peaks such as Chokramudi Peak, and enjoy boating or fishing at Kundala Lake. Other choices include taking in the surrounding animals and scenic beauty, or having a picnic at Pallivasal Falls. The wide range of activities available here make this hamlet a favorite among young and old alike. Among the many activities available are hiking, rafting, fishing, picnicking, worshipping, off-roading, mountaineering, biking, and swimming.

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Climatic Condition:

Devikulam's location in Kerala's highlands, at an elevation of almost 1,800 meters above sea level, contributes to its year-round calm and pleasant temperature. During the monsoon seasons, it receives a lot of rainfall, just like the rest of the Idukki district.

How To Reach Devikulam?

By Air :

Devikulam's closest airport is located in Kochi. This highland station is almost 112 kilometers from the Cochin International Airport (COK), and it would take over three and a half hours to reach there by taxi. You may be flying down from any foreign nation that has direct flights to Kerala because COK is an international airport.

By Train :

The closest trains are at Kochi and Kottayam, however there aren't any that go directly to Devikulam. While Kottayam Railway Station is 144 km away and takes about the same amount of time to get to, Cochin Harbour Terminus on Willingdon Island is 135 km away and the road trip would take about 4 hours.

By Road :

The steep roads leading to Devikulam hill station require a skilled driver. It is best to choose experience tours and travel agencies because they will not only provide you with a pleasant trip, but will also stop at scenic locations for you to take pictures.

FAQs:

What is the best time to visit Devikulam?

October through February is the ideal time of year to visit Devikulam in order to enjoy the lovely and calm winter weather. Even though the climate is generally pleasant all year long, this period is ideal for sightseeing.

How many days are needed to explore Devikulam properly?

You will need at least two to three days to thoroughly explore Devikulam, taking in the key sights such as Devikulam Lake, the neighboring Eravikulam National Park, and additional locations for trekking and picnics.

Is Devikulam safe for tourists?

Devikulam, which lies in Kerala's Idukki district, is usually regarded as a safe tourism destination. Kerala is renowned for its low crime rate and friendliness toward tourists. However, exercise caution like in any other travel destination.

Is Devikulam safe for solo travelers/female travelers?

Yes, Devikulam and the entire state of Kerala are generally regarded as safe destinations for women and solo travelers. Basic precautions such as being aware of surroundings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night are recommended.

What should I pack for a trip to Devikulam?

When traveling to Devikulam, pack light and breathable clothes, a rain jacket, a sweater for chilly nights, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and essentials like a reusable water bottle and power bank.

Which area is best to stay?

The town of Devikulam itself is peaceful and ideal for travelers seeking tranquility. However, Munnar—just 8 km away—offers more accommodation choices, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly stays.

Do I need a rental car or is public transport sufficient in Devikulam?

While local buses are a good and affordable way to travel around, especially between Munnar and Devikulam, a rental car gives you more freedom, especially if you intend to explore several neighboring locations. Although buses are available, the routes might be steep, so if you have specific travel needs or prefer convenience, the best way to enjoy your vacation is to take organized tours and packages.

Do I need a rental car or is public transport sufficient in Devikulam? How far is Devikulam airport from the city center?

Devikulam, being a hill station, does not have an airport inside its municipal limits. About 150 kilometers separate you and the closest airport, Kochi International Airport (COK). The only ways to get to Devikulam from the airport are by bus or taxi. If you book through reputable tour operators, they can provide hassle-free transfers.

What types of accommodation are available in Devikulam?

In the Devikulam region, lodging options include hotels, resorts with pools and spas, and homestays for a more authentic local experience. To accommodate varying budgets and tastes, options range from luxurious resorts to more modest stays.

How far in advance should I book hotels in Devikulam?

Since it’s a popular tourism destination, it’s best to book hotels in Devikulam 1–3 months in advance for regular trips. For the peak season (October to March), booking 4–6 months ahead is recommended for better rates and room availability.

What is the local cuisine of Devikulam?

Keralan cuisine, which emphasizes rice, coconut, and spices, is reflected in Devikulam's native food. Popular dishes include vegetarian staples like appam and stew, as well as seafood curries — a local favorite thanks to Kerala’s coastal influence.

Are ATMs and card payments easily available in Devikulam?

Since Devikulam is a rural location, visitors should bring sufficient cash and expect limited electronic payment options. While some places in nearby Munnar may accept cards, smaller shops, local transport, and homestays mostly deal in cash.