The legend of Hindi cinema Nasseruddin Shah’s latest release “The Blueberry Hunt” has been shot in a beautiful hill station located in the Kottayam-Idukki border in Kerala called “Vagamon”. This hill station which is elevated at an altitude of 1,100 meters above sea level is known for its pleasant climate and great landscapes. The landscapes that include beautiful waterfalls, flowing streams, dense forests of pine trees etc add not only to its natural beauty but also creates an extremely romantic environment. Which is why this quaint hill station is perfect for honeymooning couples. Adding more allure to Vagamon is the magnificent view of the beautiful mountain peaks and the lush green plains. Outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountaineering, paragliding, trekking etc can also be undertaken in this hill station due to the landscape available. So if complete relaxation in the presence of natural beauty is what you want, you are adventure junkie who is in search of excitement, or you are in search of a perfect honeymoon destination then “Vagamon” is a destination that you certainly need to visit.
Read More: 5 ENCHANTING HILL STATIONS IN KERALA
How to get there?
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By train:
The closest railway station to Vagamon is in Kuttikanam. The other options are in Palai, Kumily, Thodupuzha, and Kottayam.
By road:
There number of bus services available from places in and around Vagamon.
By flight:
The closest airport to Vagamon in Cochin. The Cochin Airport receives both domestic and international flight on a regular basis. There are taxi and bus services available from Cochin Airport to Vagamon.
Climate and the best time to visit Vagamon Hills
The climate in Vagamon throughout the year is pleasant. The summer months which begins in March and ends in May is pleasant with temperatures varying from 10 degrees to 25 degrees. The rainfall received during monsoon (June to September) is heavy. While the winter months of October to February are severe with temperatures dropping to below 0 degrees at times at nights. The best time to visit the beautiful hamlet is during summer i.e. March to May.
Things to do
Kurisumala Ashram: Perched high on the Kurisumala hill, this ashram is a well-known pilgrimage center for people belonging to all religious beliefs. There is a large hall for prayer and meditation. There are twelve sub-mounds and the highest among them is known as the ‘Resurrection Garden’. This Ashram is beautifully encircled by lakes and tea plantations.
Kurisumala Hill: It is also known as the ‘Mountain of the Cross’. This is a Christian pilgrimage site which has a total of 14 crosses along the way that leads to a hilltop church. During the Holy Week, devotees go up the hill with wooden crosses.
Thangal Para: This is a religious place for the Muslims. The huge spherical rock houses the tomb of Sheikh Fariduddin. The Urs festival witnesses thousands of devotees every year. A walk through the ancient cave nearby is a great experience.
Vagamon Lake: This place enjoys a great scenic environment amid three green hillocks. These hillocks have splendid lawns that enhance the beauty of the lake. Boating facility is available which offers one of the best views of the surrounding landscape. The area is frequently used for film shoots.
Suicide Point: The Moonpara suicide point is a V-shaped gorge that is one of the most enchanting locations of Vagamon. The verdant valley beneath appears ravishing from this point. Trekkers are bound to enjoy the cool breeze and the awe-inspiring views while climbing up the peak.
Dairy Farms: These farms are located on the way to Kurisu mala Ashram. Possessing a very clean environment, the dairy farms are a perfect location to enjoy the best that nature has to offer.
MundakayamGhat: Located within a short distance from Vagamon, this place is ideal for enjoying sunset. Also, it is a great locale for bird-watchers. Paragliding activity here is quite popular.
Vagamon Falls: It is a small and beautiful stream that forms a lake at the end. The dense woods around adds further beauty to the waterfall. Trekkers love to trek the route leading to the waterfall as it offers some mesmerizing views of the beautiful green hills that surround it.
Murugan Para: This beautiful temple has been built by carving out rock and is devoted to Lord Murugan.
Other places of tourist interest in close proximity to Vagamon includeKottayam, Kumarakom, Peermede, Idukki, Pathanamthitta, Chottanikkara, and Thiruvalla.
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