In its essence, for most part a tea plantation town, Vagamon has over the past few decades, emerged as a popular tourist destination that attracts domestic and international travellers. Picturesque, wrapped in tea and spice plantations and exuding a laid back charm, Vagamon is situated on the middle reaches of the Western Ghat mountains. The dense forests along the mountainsides here are a treasure trove of bio-diversity, home to endemic and migratory species of flora and fauna including many endangered species. The Western Ghats mountain range extending southwards along India’s western coast has been classified by UNESCO as a 'World Heritage Site'.
Vagamon Meadows
In the vernacular Malayalam, referred to as 'Mottakunnu', essentially a series of rolling meadows near Vagamon, ideal for contemplative, leisurely walks and picnics in the many scenic and secluded spots in the area.
Vagamon Lake
Set amidst meadows in Vagamon, the picturesque lake is man-made and offers boating facilities where visitors may engage a boat, ride around the lake or even explore an island formed in the middle of the lake. Guests could also opt to make a day trip to the area, perhaps even go out on a picnic.
Kurushumala Church
A popular Catholic pilgrimage spot, a church located atop a hill attracts droves of devotees on Good Friday when worshippers climb the hill hefting wooden crosses. In itself an interesting spectacle, spiritual seekers will also find a Trappist monastery at the base of the hill worth a visit. Guests could also opt to climb the hill simply for the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and gorgeous sunsets on a clear day.
Pine Forest
Extending over 6 acres and situated at an elevation of 1000m above sea level, the pines, planted during the colonial era are a rarity in the tropical humidity of Kerala. A destination that is very popular with film makers and photographers, besides trekking enthusiasts seeking to explore the forest and mountain trails.
Adventure Park
A magnet that attracts thrill seekers, the park offers an extensive range of physical activities tailor made for different levels of skill ranging from a zip-line, rappelling and off-road cycling with safety gear and experienced instructors at hand.
Parunthumpara
The name of this destination is derived from the vernacular, translated in English as 'Eagle Rock'. Surrounded by slopes blanketed by grasslands endemic to the area, it is also a location that offers stunningly beautiful sunsets and views of the Western Ghats mountains.
Ayyappan Kovil
An ancient Sastha temple set beside the Periyar river flowing through the area, devoted to the Hindu deity Ayyappan. The location is also popular with visitors for a 200 m suspension bridge, the area's longest, across the Periyar. It is believed that the ancient idol in the temple was consecrated by a mythical sage named Parashrurama, believed to have reclaimed the land that forms Kerala from the Arabian Sea.
Illikkal Kallu
A monolith and the highest point in the area, it is also the source of numerous rivulets and streams that, together, form the Meenachil river. Reaching the summit is a steep climb and many avid trekking enthusiasts would enjoy the challenge, besides of course, the superlative views of the surroundings forests and mountains below.
Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to a diverse range of endemic and migratory species, visitors could embark on safaris into the sanctuary to spot herds of elephants, leopards and tigers. The sanctuary also attracts birdwatchers who venture into the forest to observe the numerous colourful and exotic bird’s species that call the sanctuary home. Families in particular enjoy boat rides across a lake within the sanctuary.
Karikadu Viewpoint
Truly an authentic ride into the wild, an off-road jeep ride over a rock strewn path takes visitors to the Karikadu viewpoint, the highest point in the area, where, weather permitting, spectacular sunsets may be enjoyed.