A Bridge to Hell! Really?

We keep facing challenges in life, but most of them drain us out and sometimes without any reward. In such times, it is better to take up complex tasks set by nature. Havent you thought why we get more excited about treks or adventure? Unlike the real life challenges, these tasks are rewarding and soothing at the same time. Check out for yourself at Illikkal Kallu in Kerala!The road to Illikal KalluPhoto Courtesy: Praveencs7The mystery behind the formation of any rocks or hills is exciting to know. That too, rocks with unique shapes always allure us. Illikkal Kallu is one of such peaks in the Western Ghats of Kottayam that is known for its unusual rock formations.A trek for 3km from Erattupetta along the steep hilly road takes you to Illikkal Kallu. First, it is the hairpin bends and zigzag routes that feed your adventure quotient and later it is the mystic rocks that take you to a Utopian world.Misty Hills in Illikkal MalaPhoto Courtesy: Praveencs7These are the stars of the show! Each with peculiar shapes is engrossing to discover. One hill is called Kuda Kallu as it is in the shape of an umbrella. The second hill is named as Koonu Kallu (the hunch back rock) and across this is a narrow, slushy route which is called Narakapalam (Hell bridge).Rock Formations at Illikkal MalaPhoto Courtesy: Kkraj08A Bridge to Hell?Maybe it has got this name because of its narrow, steep route. Adventurous ones can walk across this bridge to reach the gigantic hunch back rock. However, one has to be really careful while taking this path otherwise you might straight away end up in hell or heaven (if you are lucky)!Attractions in Illikkal KalluMisty surroundings, green blanket across the hills, the medicinal herb with purple flowers Neela Koduveli and a distant view of Arabian Sea are the prominent attractions in Illakkal Kallu. Of course, dont miss out on the dramatic view of the Sunset from this peak.A view of the road from the summitPhoto Courtesy: ActivedogsIllikal Kallu is one of the highest peaks and offbeat destinations in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Earlier, the summit could be reached only through a hike but now there is a road through which vehicles can reach near the summit. Even for trekkers, it has become easy to reach Illikkal Kallu.Having said that, Illikkal Kallu is still a developing tourist place in Kerala. A visit to this picturesque destination is worthwhile!Best Time to Visit Illikkal KalluPost monsoon season from September to January is the best time to visit Illikkal Kallu. However, it is risky to go during the monsoon as the hilly paths are slippery.Lush Green Illikkal MalaPhoto Courtesy: Praveencs7How to Reach Illikkal KalluIllikkal Kallu is 60km from Kottayam and Teekoy is the nearest city to this hill.By Road: Several buses are available from Kottayam to Erattupetta. Further, take a bus from Erattupetta to Mankombu. It is a 3km trek to the summit from Mankombu.However, if you have a private vehicle, you can reach till Pazhukkakaanam and from there jeeps are available to go to Illikkal Kallu.By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station is the nearest rail route.By Air: Cochin International Airport is the nearest to Kottayam.