Nestled in Kerala’s lush Western Ghats, Kumily is a scenic town, acting as the entrance to the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve. This places is an important shopping center and spice trade centere in Kerala. Its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery make it a beloved spot for nature lovers and adventurers. Whether you’re eager to see elephants up close, go on a wilderness trek, or delve into Kumily’s cultural heritage, this charming hamlet has something for everyone.
Places To Visit In Kumily
Kumily is a charming town renowned for its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity. Kumily offers an array of attractions that captivate visitors. Some of the top must-visit places in Kumily that promise an unforgettable experience are:
1. Periyar National Park
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Also known as Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar National Park is one of the places to visit in Kumily. It is a stunning wildlife sanctuary in the verdant Western Ghats of Kerala. Established in 1982, this protected area is a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The park boasts a thriving elephant population, making it a prime spot for elephant spotting.
You can also see elusive tigers, majestic sambar deer, and even rare lion-tailed macaques. One of the most popular activities here is a scenic boat ride on Periyar Lake. For a more adventurous experience, explore the park’s trails on guided hikes. Trek through the dense foliage and listen to the voices of different animals.
Distance From Kumily To Periyar National Park: 1.2 Km
Travel Time From Kumily To Periyar National Park: 4 minutes
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Must Read: Tea Castle Resort Munnar
2. Kurisumala And Pandikuzhi
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Kurisumala and Pandikuzhi are a trekker’s paradise offering scenic escapes in Kerala. Kurisumala, or Spring Valley Mountain, lives up to its name with its verdant slopes and misty mornings. The hilltop boasts a quaint Christian church, St. Thomas Church. Pandikuzhi, on the other hand, stuns with its panoramic vistas.
Both locations provide excellent opportunities for trekking amidst the lush greenery. Imagine the thrill of reaching the peak and being rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, possibly even spotting wildlife in the distance. The tranquil mornings filled with birdsong and the mystical evenings bathed in soft light paint a picture-perfect scene for nature lovers.
Distance From Kumily To Kurisumala and Pandikuzhi: 10.9 Km
Travel Time From Kumily To Kurisumala and Pandikuzhi: 25 minutes
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: October to February
3. Abraham’s Spice Garden
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Abraham’s Spice Garden is a must-visit place in Kumily Kerala. Established in 1952, this family-run farm spans 12 hectares of organic bliss, boasting lush gardens brimming with spices, ayurvedic herbs, and vegetables. Tourists flock here for its insightful one-hour guided tours. As you meander through the vibrant greenery, knowledgeable guides will introduce you to the various spice plants, explaining their cultivation and traditional uses.
While on the tour, one can breathe in the intoxicating aromas of cardamom, pepper, and vanilla and discover many other spices that grace your kitchen shelves. Take advantage of the opportunity to taste some of the freshest spices you’ll ever encounter, and take a piece of Kerala’s bounty home with you from their on-site shop.
Distance From Kumily To Abraham’s Spice Garden: 4.2 Km
Travel Time From Kumily To Abraham’s Spice Garden: 8 minutes
Entry Fee: ₹200 per person
Best Time to Visit: November to February
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4. Thekkady Lake
Image Credit: Jigyasu for Wikipedia
Periyar Lake, also called Thekkady Lake, is a beautiful man-made lake located within the Periyar National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary. This picturesque lake was artificially created when the Mullaperiyar Dam was constructed in 1895. It is Kerala’s most famous lake and a major tourist destination. This stunning lake, surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Kerala and spot a variety of wildlife.
The lake covers 10 square miles (26 square kilometres) and offers boat rides where visitors can observe water birds up close. Mornings are ideal for birdwatching, while afternoons provide opportunities to spot wild animals quenching their thirst. It is among the top places to visit in Kumily, Kerala.
Distance From Kumily To Thekkady Lake: 3.7 Km
Travel Time From Kumily To Thekkady Lake: 10 minutes
Entry Fees: Adults: ₹225 and Children: ₹75
Best Time to Visit: June to September
5. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre
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The Kadathanadan Kalari Centre offers a window into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. This performing arts centre showcases two unique art forms: Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art believed to be one of the oldest fighting methods, and Kathakali, a classical dance drama known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling through gestures. Tourists flock here to witness these shows, and it’s one of the top places to visit in Kumily, Kerala.
The Kalaripayattu demonstrations are a sight, with performers displaying exceptional agility and wielding traditional weapons. The Kathakali shows, with their dramatic enactments and symbolic makeup, offer a glimpse into Hindu mythology. The centre caters to tourists by providing well-designed viewing areas for a comfortable and safe experience.
Distance From Kumily To Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: 190 metres
Travel Time From Kumily To Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: 1 minute
Entry Fees: ₹200 per person
Best Time to Visit: October to February
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6. Chellarkovil Village
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Chellarkovil is a peaceful village tucked away in the green hills of Idukki. It’s right next to the border with Tamil Nadu, about 15 kilometres from the town of Kumily. This beautiful spot is known for its amazing: lush mountains, cascading waterfalls, and even the flat plains of Tamil Nadu.
Tourists can go for walks on nature trails, see many different kinds of birds, or visit a spice plantation to learn how spices are grown in this area. There’s also a unique garden with medicinal plants, where one can learn how these local plants can be used as medicine.
Distance From Kumily To Chellarkovil: 15.3 Km
Travel Time From Kumily To Chellarkovil: 32 minutes
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: September to May
How To Reach
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Kumily is well-connected by road and rail to major cities in India. Some of the ways to reach Kumily are:
By Flight
The nearest airports to Kumily are Kochi Airport (157 Km away) and Madurai Airport (150 Km away). Airlines like Air India, Jet Airways, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara offer direct flights from major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. You can hire a taxi from the airport or take a bus to Kumily, which takes about 4 hours.
By Road
Kumily is well-connected to major cities by bus services. Additionally, Kumily is reachable by car from adjacent cities like Kottayam, Kochi, and Kollam.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Theni, 64 km from Kumily. It is well-connected by a robust railway network to major cities in India, including Kodaikanal, Palani, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Further Read: Agasthyakoodam Trekking
Kumily is a delightful place to visit if you love nature. Imagine walking along picturesque trails in the Periyar Tiger Reserve, surrounded by lush greenery. You’ll also get to savour local cuisine and experience warm hospitality. It’s a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts! Book your trip to Kerala today and discover the enchanting wonders of Kumily. Indulge in the breathtaking scenery, abundant cultural legacy, and life-changing events in God’s Own Country.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kumily
What is Kumily famous for?
Kumily is a town well-known for its breathtaking landscapes and vast spice plantations. It’s a major producer of spices like cardamom, pepper, coffee, and cinnamon. The British transformed this once lush forestland into a beautiful plantation town. Visitors to Kumily can enjoy plantation walks, observe diverse wildlife, go boating and trekking, and even experience Ayurvedic massages.
Is Kumily a hill station?
Yes, Kumily is a hill station. It’s nestled in the Cardamom Hills at an altitude of 2,890ft. The town’s pleasant climate throughout the year makes it a tourist favourite.
Is Kumily and Thekkady the same?
No, while Kumily and Thekkady are often mentioned together, they are different. They are located 2 -3 Km apart. Kumily is a town in the Cardamom Hills. In contrast, Thekkady is a popular tourist spot that includes the Periyar Tiger Reserve and surrounding areas.
What is the old name of Kumily?
In the past, Kumily was referred to as Kuzhumoor and served as the capital city of the Thekkumkoor Kings. However, in the 18th century, a significant power shift occurred when Marthanda Varma of Travancore triumphed over the Thekkumkoor Rajas.
Which station is near Kumily?
The Kottayam railway station, located approximately 108 km away, is the closest major railhead to Kumily. To reach Kumily, one can hire a taxi or take public transportation from Kottayam.
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With a passion for travelling, and carving beautiful stories of stunning locations I chose my profession as a content writer. The unique blend of creativity and strategy ensures that each narrative takes readers on a journey to their desired destination. With distinct locations and unique vibes, I strive to deliver captivating content that speaks to the hearts of readers.
