Poor roads make Ilaveezha poonchira inaccessible to tourists this season

Moolamattom: Ilaveezha poonchira may be a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Kerala, but reaching there will be next to impossible this season due to the pathetic state of roads - thanks to lack of coordination between ruling local bodies, Kerala Tourism Department and Kerala State Public Works Department.

The valley known for its trekking potential, a perennial lake, caves and tribal settlements, is literally inaccessible to tourists now. A 7km journey from Thodupuzha along the Kanjar-Koovappally route should take one to Ilaveezha poonchira. Another route via Melukavu also links the valley. But both these stretches are either destroyed or under maintenance, hence unusable.

Picture-postcard status

Surrounded by three mountains at 3,200 metres above sea level, Ilaveezha poonchira is considered as one of the best trekking spots in God's Own Country. As the name suggests, Ilaveezha poonchira (the lake of flowers where the leaves do not fall) is free of leaves as there are no trees around.

The cold breeze and the fog that rolls through the mountains during most parts of the year are a delight for visitors. Besides, the sunrises and sunsets at Ilaveezha poonchira are also the most spectacular in Kerala.

Apart from true natural beauty, there are myths associated with Ilaveezha poonchira. Click to read in detail.

Unfortunately, tourists have to be content with photographs and reviews extolling Ilaveezha poonchira as it is out of reach for them now.

Together in misfortune

Along with Ilaveezha poonchira, Kurishumala at Chakkikavu is also popular among pilgrims and tourists. However, the fate of these places are no different from Ilaveezha poonchira. A 5km journey along Kanjar-Vagamon will take one to the Kurishumala. The recent rains have destroyed the roads, bringing vehicle movements to a complete halt. The authorities have road repair works have begun.

For those who manage to reach Ilaveezha poonchira, there is another attraction just 2 km away -- a cave. Known as Muniyara cave, one can hear the sound of water flowing with force from outside.

It has got a narrow opening but once you reach a few feet inside, one can walk straight and can see water falling from a stream that never dries up. The Muniyara cave too used to be frequented by tourists.