Nestled in the heart of the Idukki district in Kerala lies the quaint village of Poopara, beckoning travelers to immerse themselves in its scenic beauty. This little gem, located just 32 kilometers away from Munnar town, is a paradise for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Poopara is a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, boasting sprawling tea plantations, spice gardens, and wildlife. The views from this hill station are nothing short of breathtaking, with verdant hills rolling into misty valleys and pristine waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs.
Poopara Tourism
Poopara is famous for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Its proximity to other popular tourist destinations such as Munnar, Thekkady, Kumily, and Kochi also adds to its appeal.
If you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Poopara is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you spellbound. This idyllic village is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes you’ll ever lay your eyes on – from the lush green hills to the misty valleys and sparkling waterfalls.
But that’s not all. Poopara is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts who want to explore the rich biodiversity of the region. Here are some of the top attractions that you simply can’t afford to miss:
- Poopara View Point: This View Point is a stunning vantage point that provides visitors with a captivating panorama of AnayiranKal Dam Reservoir, surrounded by verdant hills, as well as cardamom plantations, tea estates, and coffee farms.
- Anayirankal Dam: Built across the Panniar River, this hydroelectric dam is a sight to behold. It offers a panoramic view of the reservoir and the surrounding hills, and you can even indulge in some boating or fishing in the lake.
- Elephant Abode Boating Center: This bearing center at Anayirankal Dam is a place where you can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Panniyar River and get up close and personal with the majestic elephants that live in the nearby sanctuary.
- Mathikettan Shola National Park: Covering 12.82 square kilometers of evergreen forest, this protected area is home to a diverse range of endangered animals and birds. From elephants and leopards to tigers and Malabar giant squirrels, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity that’s just waiting to be explored.
- Lockhart Gap View: From this viewpoint, travelers can get a panoramic view of the tea-covered slopes, misty blue hills, and winding roads in the valley. It is a popular picnic spot, heaven for trekkers, and a quiet recess for anyone who wants some solitude.
- Lockhart Tea Museum: If you’re a tea lover, then you simply can’t afford to miss this tea museum. Lockhart Tea Museum is part of the Lockhart Estate and is situated in a building dating back to 1936 and is a fascinating showcase of the rich history and culture of tea production in the region.
- Mullanthandu Kurishumala: A picturesque hilltop known for its stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations and valleys, which can be enjoyed from the top of a cross. The hilltop is also a popular spot for off-road enthusiasts who enjoy driving their vehicles on rough and muddy terrain.
- Sita Devi Lake: A picturesque lake famous for its mineral-rich waters that are believed to have healing properties. It is also a popular picnic destination for tourists and locals alike, who enjoy the serene and scenic surroundings of the lake.
Best Time to Visit Poopara
Poopara boasts excellent air quality all year round, with the optimal time to visit being from September to March when the weather is comfortably cool. The monsoon season from June to August also presents a viable option for visitors, though it is advised to exercise caution as heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and obstruct roadways. The summer months of April and May experience temperatures ranging from 22°C to 32°C and are best avoided for travel if you aren’t a fan of a little heat.
How to Reach Poopara
Poopara enjoys convenient connectivity by road to other prominent tourist destinations such as Munnar, Thekkady, Kumily, and Kochi, which can be conveniently accessed by bus or private vehicle. The closest railway stations are Bodinayakanur (located 16 kilometers away in Tamilnadu) and Ernakulam Junction (located 135 kilometers away). Meanwhile, Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, situated approximately 117 kilometers from Poopara.
Poopara is well connected by road to other parts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can reach Poopara by bus or taxi from Munnar, which is 32 kilometers away. Munnar has regular buses from Kochi, which is 130 kilometers away.
Poopara is a veritable treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored by curious travelers. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and stunning natural surroundings of Poopara for an unforgettable trip!