Vagamon – The Trinity of 3 Hills

One of Idukki’s most popular hill stations, Vagamon is actually a trinity of sorts. A trinity of 3 hills named as Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala.

It is among these three hills that flow beautiful streams and  waterfalls that cascade over rocky edges. The region also offers you the opportunity to take a walk along the winding mist laden roads that meander lazily along the slopes of the hills. Adrenaline junkies can get their fill by indulging in some paragliding and rock climbing activities.

Popular Attractions:

Kurisumala:

A Christian pilgrim centre, where devotees flock to ascend the hill once every year on Good Friday is a sight to behold. Devotees bearing wooden crosses of various sizes are seen ascending the hill on this day.

Muruganmala:

Muruganmala gets its name from the rock cut temple that is dedicated to the Lord Murugan (Lord Shiva). Every year hundreds of devotees visit the place every year.

Thangal Para:

On the Elappara route, about 5 kms from Vagamon you will come upon Thangalpara. This is a site of religious importance to the Muslim community. There is a dargah here that is the resting place of a Sufi saint named Husrath Sheikh Fariduddin Baba who is believed to have come to these parts almost 800 years ago from Afghanistan. Ganjusakkar (a sweet dish) is the main offering here and the festival, Uroos, is conducted during the month of April.

Kurisumala Ashram:

Kurisumala Ashram, is a monastery run by Christian ascetics that is worth a visit. Located at the heart of the Sahya Mountains, which run parallel to India’s south west coast, it’s a place that is caressed  by the breeze which blows softly over the valley.

Waterfalls:

Vagamon is blessed with several waterfalls that are strewn over the lush green hills. These falls stretch into the forest on one side and end at the cliff on the other.  There are many pavilions along this stretch for one to enjoy the  rain, wind, and the immense view of the hills.

Pine Forest:

There is an immensely serene and silently haunting pine tree forest. On misty and fog laden days one could almost experience a surreal setting there in the midst of the tall pine trees.

Green Meadows:

The lush green meadows of Vagamon offer a picture postcard view for tourists. The cool windy breeze that gently sweeps the carpet like spread of grass is one that should be experienced in the flesh.

Wild Orchids:

Vagamon is home to some of the finest and rarest species of flora and wild orchids. One can catch a glimpse of these natural beauties along the way all over the region.

Tea Plantations:

There are many tea plantations that one can visit while at Vagamon. The major ones are Pulikkanam Estate and MMJ Plantations. One can seek permission from the respective estate offices and have a tour of the estate gardens and learn about the cultivation of tea.