Best time to visit : October to March
Illithode Village is a beautiful eco spot located on the banks of the Periyar River in the Ernakulam District of Kerala. Located near to Malayattoor, it is an ideal place for nature enthusiasts and the people wanting to spend some time in the solitude of unspoilt nature. It is an upcoming tourist destination and is gradually gaining popularity as a preferred weekend getaway. The place is also regarded as one of the best scenic locales for movie shootings. If you are looking forward to get away from the hustle bustle of the city life and spending a day in the lap of nature and revitalize your soul, Illithode is a perfect tourist place for you.
Facts
Encircled by enchanting hills on one side and the calm flowing Periyar River on the other side, Illithode is an amusing place to spend a relaxing day. To see the Periyar River, you can trek through the dense forests of Teak and Mahogany. Options of boating in the river are available for the tourists here.
Since, Illithode is a very small village; you will not find many hotels and restaurants at this place. Be sure to carry some snacks while visiting the place. Fort Kochi is just about 60 km. away from the village where you can enjoy authentic South Indian food. Kashi Restaurant in Kochi is a nice Art Café, where you will enjoy not only the authentic filter coffee with some delicious snacks but also find some nice paintings and sculptures around. People often visit this restaurant to enjoy the breakfast. At a short distance, do not miss on visiting The Rice Boat restaurant in the Taj Malabar that serves the best seafood and cocktails. Fish served here cannot be missed by any non-vegetarian food lover. Their signature fish is served wrapped in banana leaf with the authentic sauce made of variety of herbs, spices and coconut milk.
The major city around Illithode is Kochi, so, tourists are recommended to do some exclusive shopping in Kochi. Kochi is well known for its handicrafts made from coir, sandalwood and bamboo, so, do buy some souvenirs for your friends and relatives. Kathakali face is the most famous item bought from here as a souvenir. Getting some spices and herbs from this place is also a good idea.
Nearby Places:
- Kodanad: Kodanad is known for the biggest elephant training centers in South India. This training centre is located on the banks of the Periyar River. Elephants are trained here and are available to tourists for amazing elephant rides. When in Kodanad, tourists can also visit the St. Thomas church which is situated on the other side of the river.
- Marine Drive: This is a long walkway on the seacoast of Kochi. Tourists can get amazing views of the harbour and backwaters from this beautiful walkway.
- Fort Kochi: Here you can see the Chinese Fishing Net. At the Chinese fishing nets area, you can also indulge in some fishing and enjoy the delicious seafood served by some local vendors.
- Malayattoor St. Thomas Church: This is the major pilgrim centre for Christians in South India. It is situated on the top of 600 ft. high Malayattoor hill. The church is visited by thousands of devotees during the annual festival in the months of March and April.