The serene hamlet of Chathurangapara and the nearby places in Idukki are bound to become major tourist destinations in the district with the completion of the Kochi-Theni national highway (NH-85). The Kochi-Theni road passes through Chathurangapara, which is the last village in Kerala that touches NH-85, which is part of the central government’s ‘Bharatmala’ project.

The 163km-long four-lane national highway connects 19 villages in Ernakulam district and 16 villages in Idukki district before entering the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. Presently, Chathurangapara Mettu is the main tourist spot where tourists travelling on the Munnar-Thekkady road can easily access. This mesmerizing place is near the Kallippara mountains where ‘Neelakurinji’ flowers were bloomed last month.The stunning view of the windmills of Chathurangapara can be enjoyed by standing atop the Kallippara mountains.

Chathurangapara is one of the last hills before the valley begins. Photo: Sajesh Mohan
Chathurangapara is one of the last hills before the valley begins. Photo: Sajesh Mohan
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The strong winds and the panoramic view of Kombai, Thevaram , Korangini forest region and Cumbum in Tamil Nadu are the highlights of Chathurangapara. The vistas of Chathurangapara are reminiscent of the enthralling views of Ramakkalmedu, a picturesque hill station in Idukki district. One could also see the towns and lush green farmlands of Tamil Nadu apart from the windmills that dot parts of Ramakkalmedu and Pushpakandam.

Most of the regions in the eastern tip of Kerala’s Chathurangapara are under the control of Tamil Nadu. As there are lingering border issues between Kerala and Tamil Nadu in Chathurangapara, the authorities of both the states are reluctant to provide basic facilities to the tourists. Once the Kochi-Theni greenfield business corridor becomes a reality, it is expected that Chathurangapara and its adjoining places would find a place on the tourism map of Kerala.  

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