Emerging from the borders of the Idukki district, Vagamon is a hill station in Kottayam at an elevation of 1100 meters. With its stunning views of rolling green hills, deep ravines, and winding and rivulets, Vangamon is the perfect weekend getaway. The captivating hill station is surrounded by tea gardens, pine forests, waterfalls, and meadows. Vagamon is amongst one of the few places in India that have not yet been touched by commercialization. Vagamon has pleasant weather throughout the year. There are several things to do in Vagamon, from trekking and adventure sports to meditation.
How to Reach Vagamon
Cochin International Airport (98.4 km) is the closest airport to Vagaomon. Cochin International Airport has flights to major cities in India. The nearest railway station Kottayam is 62 km from Vagamon. There are KSRTC buses to Vagamon.
Reaching Vagamon itself is an exceptional experience. The drive to Vagamon is spectacular as you drive through serpentine roads through pine forest. As we gradually climb up green hills, you can see the beautiful view of the gently rolling valley below.
Best Time to Visit Vagamon
Vagamon is an all-year-round destination. Tourists plan their trip to Vagamon amid the dry seasons from March to June or October to March. Visiting Vagamon in these two seasons has its own advantages. While the summer season is best for elephant riding and paragliding, the winters in Vagamon are perfect for mountain climbing and tea ranch visits. The dry seasons are the best time to visit Kerala. It rains very heavily from June to September and sightseeing can be difficult.
Things To Do in Vagamon
Though Vagamon is a remote hill station, it has plenty to offer. Whether you are into adventure sports or like to meditate, there are many things to do in Vagamon.
This hill station is a hotspot for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adrenaline junkies offering a plethora of activities and attractions that are sure to make your vacation worth remembering. Here are some of the delightful activities to absorb the overwhelming beauty of this picturesque destination, Vagamon in South India.
1. Paragliding
If you want to have an adventure you will never forget, you can try paragliding in Vagamon. The small plantation town of Vagamon located along the Kottayam-Idukki border attracts glider pilots from around the world. You will be mesmerized by the view of the mountains, lakes, and green valleys. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Western Ghats from high above with paragliding. You feel like you are flying at an altitude of 3000 ft. A trained pilot will accompany you during the 20-minute ride.
2. Trip to Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
A trip to Ulipponi Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular things to do in Vagamon. The sanctuary is 10 km from Vagamon and is an ideal escape from our noisy and chaotic urban life. The picturesque location is the perfect picnic spot with boating facilities available. Surrounded by rugged mountains and charming lakes, the boat ride across the lake nearby the sanctuary will leave you with the most memorable experience. The sanctuary has a variety of fauna and flora and is home to animals like Tigers and Elephants.
3. Picnic by Vagamon Lake
Vagamon lake is magical, nestled between three hills. The adjoining lush green hills with blooming colorful flowers make the lake look vibrant. Vagamon Lake is a popular destination for a leisurely picnic with friends and family. Avid photographs will enjoy taking pictures at the picturesque location. You can enjoy boat rides at the lake. The calm and tranquil atmosphere at the lake is perfect for people who want to enjoy some solitude.
4. Hikes in Vagamon
All of us would like to go on an adventurous journey while we are in the midst of nature in Vagamon. Vagamon’s hilly terrain is the perfect location for trekking enthusiasts. Several trekking routes in the hill station are one of the things to do in Vagamon. It is advisable to wear comfortable hiking shoes during the trek, avoid trekking in the monsoon when the rocks are slippery.
Kurisumala – Located about 3 km from Vazhikkadavu in Kottayam, Kurisumala is a renowned Christian pilgrim center where devotees come from far and wide to climb the hill in faith carrying small wooden crosses. The trail to the Kurisumala hills is interesting, as you pass dairy farms set up by the Catholic monks in the monastery. The Syro-Malankara Catholic church established Kurisumala Ashram in 1958. The monastery is at an altitude of 1200 m, and it takes 45 minutes to trek up to the top. It is an important Christian pilgrimage, and many followers congregate here on Good Friday weekend. The monastery is serene and silent. It is a perfect location to introspect and meditate.
Moonmala – Moonmala is an easy hike with a spectacular view from the top of the hill. You will enjoy the fantastic view of the 3 dams from the hill. The view from the hill at sunset is spectacular, as the mist-covered hilltops and mist emerge from the valley give a heavenly feel.
Thangal Para – At a distance of 3 km from Vagamon Pine Forest and 7 km from Vagamon Bus Stop, Thangalpara is a popular trekking destination. Thangalpara is a beautiful location and is at an elevation of 2500 meters. The hill has a unique spherical rock formation and is a pilgrimage for Muslims in the region. Shaikh Fariduddin, a Sufi Saint lived on the hill. According to legends, the spherical rock grew considerably after his death; his tomb is near the spherical rock. Thangal para holds captivating views of Vagamon town and its surrounding areas. You can spot Kurisindi Peak and Murugan Mala from Thanglapara.
Murugan Mala – Situated on the eastern side of Kurisumala Hill in Vagamon, Murugan Mala or Murugan Hill has a beautiful rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. Murugan Mala has a spectacular terrain that makes it an ideal place for sightseeing and the weather conditions add to the effect. Walking up to the temple through the breathtaking terrain is one of the things in Vagamon that will surely rejuvenate you. The atmosphere on top of Murugan Hill is divine. Meditating in the tranquil setting is rejuvenating.
5. Adventure in Vagamon: Rock Climbing, Mountaineering, Ziplining
The enthralling hilly landscape of Munnar is what makes it popular among adventure lovers. Vagamon offers adventure sports enthusiasts plenty of options for adrenaline-filled activities. Some of the things to do in Vagamon are adventure activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, paintball, and archery. Though there are a number of avenues for adventure in Kerala, ziplining in Wayanad will give you a wholesome experience. Kayaking is another fun-filled activity you can try during your stay. Do add these adventure activities to your list of things to do in Vagamon, Kerala.
6. Drive down to Vagamon Falls
The beautiful Vagamon Falls also called Palozhukumpara waterfalls is surrounded by dense vegetation. The falls cascading down the hills is a treat for the eyes. Photographers love taking pictures of the milky water while water gushes down the green hills. The picturesque location is an ideal location for photographers. The natural beauty and the splendor of Vagamon Falls make it one of the best waterfalls in Kerala for a memorable and fun-filled day. Vagamon Falls is a perfect place for those who are looking forward to a few moments of calmness and peace. A drive down to falls through the Western Ghats is spectacular. Though the waterfall is not big, the drive down to Vagamon Fall is one of the popular things to do in Vagamon.
7. Explore the Vagamon Pine Forests
Being one of the elevated cities in Kerala with an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius, Vagamon is famous for housing rare pine forests. The British planted tall pine trees during the Raj. Exploring the pine forest on foot is one of the relaxing things to do in Vagamon. Tourists can stroll down the hill and enjoy the spectacular view. The forest overlooks the Vagamon valley. If you are seeking tranquility away from the hullabaloo and the loud streets of the city, then these pine forests in Vagamon are your calling!
8. Enjoy Idukki Dam Reservoir Boat Ride
Idukki Arch Dam is an engineering marvel built on River Periyar. With a height of about 550 feet, Idukki Dam is one of the highest arch dams in Asia. Perched beautifully between the two hills, Kuravathi and Kuravan, Idukki Dam is a visual delight with a surreal landscape that offers a soothing retreat. A boat ride sailing through the dam is an enriching experience to savor the natural beauty of this picturesque dam. Spotting various species of birds and animals like deer, elephants, and bison and watching the sunset are other things to enjoy as you silently sail through the scenic waters of the dam.
So, plan your trip to Kerala and visit Vagamon hill station to experience eternal bliss and peace of mind.
