Mullanthandu Kurishumala

Description

Ah, Mullanthandu Kurishumala – now there’s a place that’ll make your heart skip a beat! Tucked away in the lush greenery of Kerala, this off-road gem is a sight for sore eyes and a balm for weary souls. I stumbled upon this hidden treasure during my backpacking days, and let me tell you, it was love at first sight.

Picture this: rolling hills carpeted with emerald grass, wisps of mist playing hide-and-seek among the trees, and a towering cross standing tall against the backdrop of an endless sky. That’s Mullanthandu Kurishumala for ya! It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s a slice of heaven on earth.

Now, I’ll be honest – the journey here ain’t no walk in the park. The road less traveled is, well, less traveled for a reason. But trust me, every bump, every twist, and every turn is worth it. As you make your way up the winding path, you’ll feel the stress of everyday life melting away, replaced by a sense of anticipation and wonder.

Once you reach the top, oh boy, that view! It’s the kind that makes you want to break out into song (and I did, much to the amusement of my fellow travelers). The panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape are simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see for miles and miles, with the Western Ghats stretching out before you like a verdant sea.

But Mullanthandu Kurishumala isn’t just about the views. It’s a place of pilgrimage, a symbol of faith that draws believers and curious visitors alike. The giant cross atop the hill is a sight to behold, standing as a testament to human devotion and architectural ingenuity.

And let’s not forget the peace and tranquility that envelops you up here. It’s the perfect spot for some soul-searching, meditation, or just sitting in quiet contemplation. I’ve had some of my most profound moments of clarity right here, watching the world go by from my perch atop the hill.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Mullanthandu Kurishumala has something for you. It’s one of those rare places that manages to be both invigorating and calming at the same time.

So, pack your bags, lace up those hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure that’ll stay with you long after you’ve descended from the hilltop. Mullanthandu Kurishumala is waiting to work its magic on you, just like it did on me!

Key Features

• A ginormous cross perched atop the hill – you can’t miss it even if you tried!
• Jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Western Ghats – bring your camera, folks!
• Challenging off-road trail leading to the summit – perfect for you adventure junkies out there
• Serene atmosphere ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection – inner peace, here we come!
• Lush green surroundings that’ll make you feel like you’re in a real-life postcard
• Cool mountain breeze that’s a welcome respite from the Kerala heat – trust me, you’ll appreciate it
• Opportunity for bird watching – keep your eyes peeled for some colorful feathered friends
• Sunset views that’ll make you believe in magic – I’m not exaggerating, it’s that good!
• Rich biodiversity of flora and fauna – nature lovers, this one’s for you
• Historical and cultural significance as a pilgrimage site – a feast for history buffs

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing, shall we? When it comes to visiting Mullanthandu Kurishumala, you’ve gotta play it smart. Now, I’ve been here in all seasons (yeah, I’m a bit of a Kurishumala junkie), and I can tell you that each one has its own charm. But if you’re looking for the cream of the crop, listen up!

The best time to visit this hilltop haven is between October and February. Why, you ask? Well, for starters, the weather during these months is absolutely delightful. It’s like Mother Nature decided to roll out the red carpet just for you. The temperatures are cool and pleasant, making your trek up the hill a whole lot more enjoyable. Trust me, you don’t want to be huffing and puffing your way up in the sweltering heat of summer!

October to February is also when the skies are at their clearest. Remember those panoramic views I was raving about earlier? This is when they’re at their most spectacular. On a good day, you can see so far, you’ll half expect to spot the curvature of the Earth! It’s also the perfect time for photography enthusiasts to capture those postcard-perfect shots.

But here’s a little secret from yours truly – if you want to see Mullanthandu Kurishumala in all its mystical glory, try visiting just after the monsoon season ends in September. The landscape is at its lushest, with every shade of green you can imagine. The waterfalls are in full flow, and there’s a magical mist that hangs over the hills in the early morning. It’s like walking into a fantasy novel!

That being said, I should warn you about the monsoon season (June to August). While the rain-soaked landscape has its own wild beauty, the trek can become treacherous. The off-road trail turns into a muddy mess, and visibility can be severely reduced. Unless you’re part mountain goat, I’d suggest steering clear during these months.

And a word to the wise – weekends and public holidays can get pretty crowded. If you’re like me and prefer your nature experiences with a side of solitude, try planning your visit on a weekday. You’ll have more elbow room to soak in the tranquility and maybe even hear yourself think!

Remember, no matter when you choose to visit, always check the weather forecast before you head out. The last thing you want is to be caught in an unexpected downpour halfway up the hill. Been there, done that, and let me tell you, it’s not fun!

How to Get There

Alright, adventurers, buckle up! Getting to Mullanthandu Kurishumala is half the fun, and I’m gonna break it down for you. Now, I’ve made this trip more times than I can count, and let me tell you, it’s always an adventure!

First things first, you’ll need to make your way to the nearest town of Mundakayam. It’s like the gateway to our hilltop paradise. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 120 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or hop on a bus to Mundakayam. Fair warning: the bus ride can be a bit of a rollercoaster, but hey, that’s all part of the experience, right?

Now, if you’re more of a train person (and who doesn’t love a good train journey in India?), the nearest railway station is Kottayam. It’s well-connected to major cities across the country. From Kottayam, you can catch a bus or hire a taxi to Mundakayam. The journey takes about an hour and a half, and the scenery along the way is pretty spectacular.

Once you reach Mundakayam, the real fun begins! From here, you’ll need to hire a jeep or an SUV to tackle the off-road trail up to Mullanthandu Kurishumala. And when I say off-road, I mean OFF-ROAD. We’re talking bumpy, winding, and sometimes hair-raising paths that’ll have you gripping your seat one minute and marveling at the view the next.

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous (and trust me, I’ve done this a couple of times), you can also choose to hike up from Mundakayam. It’s a challenging trek that takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your fitness level and how many times you stop to catch your breath or snap a photo. Just make sure you’re properly equipped and have a good guide with you.

For those of you who prefer to drive yourselves, you can rent a car from Cochin or Kottayam. But a word of caution – unless you’re experienced with mountain driving and have a vehicle with good ground clearance, I’d recommend hiring a local driver. They know these roads like the back of their hand and can navigate the tricky terrain with ease.

Oh, and here’s a pro tip from yours truly – download an offline map of the area before you set out. Cell reception can be spotty in these parts, and the last thing you want is to get lost in the middle of nowhere. Been there, done that, and let’s just say it led to an unexpected camping adventure!

Remember, the journey to Mullanthandu Kurishumala is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself. So sit back, enjoy the ride, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!

Tips for Visiting

Alright, folks, gather ’round! After countless visits to Mullanthandu Kurishumala (and a few mishaps along the way), I’ve got some golden nuggets of wisdom to share. These tips will help you make the most of your visit and avoid ending up like me on my first trip – lost, sunburnt, and with a severe case of dehydration (not my finest moment, I’ll admit).

First off, dress the part! This ain’t no catwalk, my friends. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip. Trust me, you don’t want to be slipping and sliding your way up the hill. Loose, breathable clothing is your best bet. And don’t forget a hat and sunglasses – the sun can be pretty fierce up there.

Speaking of the sun, slather on that sunscreen! I learned this the hard way and ended up looking like a very unhappy lobster. The higher altitude means stronger UV rays, so protect your skin, even on cloudy days.

Hydration is key, people! Bring more water than you think you’ll need. There aren’t any convenience stores halfway up the mountain (shocking, I know). I always pack a reusable water bottle and some electrolyte tablets – they’re a lifesaver on hot days.

Now, let’s talk snacks. Pack some energy-rich bites like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars. The trek can be demanding, and you’ll need to keep your energy up. Plus, there’s nothing quite like munching on a granola bar while taking in those breathtaking views.

Bring a good camera or make sure your phone is fully charged. You’ll want to capture those panoramic vistas. But remember, no photo can truly do justice to the real thing, so make sure to put the camera down and soak it all in with your own eyes too.

If you’re planning to trek, consider hiring a local guide. They know all the best spots and can share fascinating tidbits about the area’s history and ecology. Plus, they’ll make sure you don’t end up accidentally trespassing on someone’s property (yep, that happened to me once).

Be respectful of the environment and the local culture. This is a pilgrimage site for many, so dress modestly and keep noise levels down. And for the love of all that’s holy, don’t litter! Pack out what you pack in – let’s keep this slice of paradise pristine for future visitors.

Check the weather forecast before you go. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, and you don’t want to be caught in a sudden downpour (been there, not fun). If rain is likely, pack a lightweight raincoat or poncho.

Start your journey early in the day. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to explore and won’t feel rushed. Plus, the morning light is absolutely magical for photos.

Lastly, and this is important – take your time! This isn’t a race to the top. Stop often, catch your breath,

Location

Places to Stay Near Mullanthandu Kurishumala

Find Tours in IN

Explore More Travel Guides