Thodupuzha Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, tourist attractions, and local culture in Thodupuzha, Kerala. Find out about the food and drink scene, where to stay, and how to get there.


Introduction to Thodupuzha

Thodupuzha is a small town located in Northern Travancore, in Kerala, Southern India. It is a serene and picturesque destination that is nestled amidst the lush green mountains of the Idukki district in Kerala. The town is a perfect getaway for those who want to experience the charm of rural India and explore the natural beauty of Kerala.

List of Places to Visit in Thodupuzha

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Thodupuzha has a rich cultural and historical heritage and is home to many famous museums and historical places.

Kattadikadavu Boat Race

One of the most popular cultural events in Thodupuzha is the Kattadikadavu Boat Race. The event takes place in August every year and is a thrilling spectacle to watch. It is also known as the ‘mini-Vallam Kali’ or a smaller version of the famous Vallam Kali conducted in Alleppey.

Thodupuzha Archdiocese

Thodupuzha is also home to the Thodupuzha Archdiocese, which is one of the largest and most important archdioceses in Kerala. The Archdiocese is famous for its beautiful churches that showcase stunning architecture.

Muniyara Dolmens

Another popular tourist spot is the Muniyara Dolmens, which are ancient burial chambers that date back to the Neolithic era. These dolmens provide a glimpse into the fascinating history of the region and are a must-visit for history buffs.

Natural Attractions of Thodupuzha: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Thodupuzha is a natural paradise and offers a plethora of outdoor activities and scenic views.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls

Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a beautiful natural waterfall located around 20 km away from Thodupuzha. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and provides a scenic view that is perfect for nature lovers.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular attraction that is located around 30 km away from Thodupuzha. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and leopards.

Nadukani

Nadukani is a beautiful hill station located around 25 km away from Thodupuzha. It is a great place to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area and is perfect for trekking and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thodupuzha

Thodupuzha is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. There are many beautiful trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Thekekudi Rock Stone

The Thekekudi Rock Stone is a popular hiking spot in Thodupuzha. The hike to the top of the rock provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Anjanadri Hills

Anjanadri Hills is another popular spot for hiking and biking. The hills offer a stunning view of the Periyar River and are a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Best Things to Do in Thodupuzha: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Thodupuzha.

Bamboo Rafting

One of the most popular activities in Thodupuzha is bamboo rafting. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful ride along the Periyar River and experience the natural beauty of the area.

Elephant Rides

Another popular activity is elephant rides. Visitors can ride on an elephant through the beautiful forests and get a chance to see wild animals up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thodupuzha

To make the most of your visit to Thodupuzha, we recommend a week-long itinerary that includes exploring the natural beauty of the area, visiting historical and cultural landmarks, and indulging in local cuisine.

Day 1-3: Explore the natural attractions of Thodupuzha, including Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nadukani.

Day 4-5: Visit the famous historical and cultural sites such as the Thodupuzha Archdiocese and Muniyara Dolmens.

Day 6-7: Indulge in local cuisine, enjoy bamboo rafting and elephant rides, and shop for souvenirs to take back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Thodupuzha

Thodupuzha has a diverse food and drink scene, offering a mix of traditional and fusion cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes in Thodupuzha include:

Puttu-Kadala

Puttu-Kadala is a traditional breakfast dish in Kerala. It consists of rice flour and grated coconut, served with boiled chickpea curry.

Malabar Biryani

Malabar biryani is a spicy rice dish that is unique to Kerala. It is made with chicken or lamb and a blend of fragrant spices.

Local Beverages

Thodupuzha is famous for its refreshing beverages. Two must-try drinks are:

Tender Coconut water

Tender coconut water is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot and humid days in Thodupuzha.

Sulaimani Tea

Sulaimani tea is a traditional black tea infused with ginger, lemon, and other spices. It is a popular drink that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Thodupuzha: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thodupuzha offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.

Budget Accommodation

For budget travelers, there are several guesthouses and homestays that offer comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

Mid-Range Accommodation

There are also many mid-range hotels and resorts that offer comfortable rooms, delicious food, and great amenities.

Luxury Accommodation

For those who wish to indulge in luxury, there are several luxury resorts and hotels that offer world-class amenities and services.

What to Buy in Thodupuzha: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thodupuzha is known for its rich cultural heritage and unique handicrafts. Some of the best souvenirs to take back home include:

Handicrafts

Thodupuzha is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including wooden carvings and bamboo products.

Spices

Kerala is known for its spices, and Thodupuzha is no exception. Visitors can buy fresh spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper from local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Thodupuzha

Thodupuzha is a land of ancient customs and traditions. The local culture is deeply rooted in the region’s history and is reflected in the art, music, and dance forms of the area.

Festivals

Thodupuzha celebrates many festivals throughout the year, including Onam, Vishu, and Christmas. These festivals showcase the region’s cultural heritage and are a must-see for visitors.

Best Time to Visit Thodupuzha

The best time to visit Thodupuzha is from October to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without any hindrance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thodupuzha

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

  • Try the local cuisine and indulge in local activities and customs.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.

  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.

  • Litter or pollute the environment.

Safety and Health

Thodupuzha is a safe place to visit and explore, and the crime rate is low.

Safety in Thodupuzha

To ensure a safe trip, visitors should avoid traveling alone at night, carry only necessary valuables, and be weary of pickpockets.

Health in Thodupuzha

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever and malaria. They should also drink bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Getting to Thodupuzha: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thodupuzha is well connected by road and rail networks, making it an easily accessible destination.

Airports Near Thodupuzha

The nearest airport to Thodupuzha is Cochin International Airport, which is located about 85 km away.

Bus Stations Near Thodupuzha

Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs regular buses to Thodupuzha from major cities in Kerala.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or take a private car to reach Thodupuzha.

How to Get Around Thodupuzha

Thodupuzha is a small town, and the best way to explore it is on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to get around and explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Thodupuzha: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thodupuzha is surrounded by many popular tourist destinations, including Munnar, Alleppey, and Thekkady. Visitors can easily reach these destinations by road or rail networks.

Conclusion

Thodupuzha is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. Its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique handicrafts make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the authentic flavor of Kerala. With its diverse food and drink scene, comfortable accommodations, and easy accessibility, Thodupuzha is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Kerala.

Shiva Temple Kanjiramattom Shiva Temple Kanjiramattom