Meenuliyan Para

Meenuliyan Para, also known as Meenulinjan para, is a high peak near Thodupuzha, in the Vannappuram Panchayat of the Idukki district of Kerala. In Malayalam, the word “para” means “rock.” Meenuliyan para is known for a massive rock that rises more than 4000 feet and is surrounded by a two-acre evergreen forest. The rock itself is more than 500 acres in size. Because the surface of this massive rock mountain resembles fish scales, it is known as ‘Meenuliyan Para.’

On rainy days, the Meenuliyan para’s lofty peaks are shrouded in mist, but on clear days, the lower Periyar area, Bhoothathankettu, and even Ernakulam can be seen from these heights. Muvattupuzha is 47 kilometers away, and Thodupuzha is 51 kilometers away from Meenuliyan Para. Only a 3-mile walking trail from Pattayakkudy, in Vannappuram Panchayath, in Idukki district, leads to Meenuliyan para. From the top of the Meenuliyan para, one can overlook Cochin Port and sections of the Thrissur district.

Meenuliyan Para is an ideal spot for trekking lovers and there are 27 different varieties of uncommon evergreen trees known to thrive here. The remains of ‘Muniyara,’ or the graveyard, can also be found here. It is highly recommended to carry enough water and food if you are planning to trek to Meenuliyan Para.