Located at 1800 meters above sea level, Devikulam in the Idukki district is one of the popular hill stations in this region. The most popular tourist destination here is the picturesque Sita Devi Lake. The place is called DeviKulam as it believed that Goddess Sita Devi bathed in this lake. This lake is also said to have curative powers. For a fishing enthusiast, this place is considered a paradise as trout fishing can be done here. It is important to note that the officials do not allow live bait to be used for fishing. Artificial baits can be used. At the end of the day, you must record the day’s catch with the officials in the region.
The Devikulam hill station is also famous for mountaineering, hiking, and trekking. It is one of the most famous picnic spots in the Idukki district. Walking up the mist filled hills and breathing fresh unpolluted air is a given here. Every year, scores of travellers visit this hill station to enjoy all that it has to offer. Trekking is one of the most popular eco activities that is conducted in Devikulam. Trekking trips are organized for both beginners and youngsters. Devikulam is also a very popular spot for honeymooners due to its cool climate and lush greenery. Numerous waterfalls can be found in Devikulam of which the Pallivasal falls is the most famous. The picturesque view offered here has no match. The Chinnar wildlife sanctuary can be found in about fifty kilometres. It is home to the endangered grizzled giant squirrel. In addition to this, other animals like elephants, sambar deer, jackal, tigers, wild dogs, and leopard can also be found in the sanctuary. Many species of birds can also be found in this region.
Another popular tourist spot is the Eravikulam National Park which is only a short eleven kilometres away. This park is home to the endangered species, the Nilgiri Tahr. Plenty of flora and fauna can be found in this park which stands at 7000 feet above sea level. The park is divided into core, buffer, and tourism region and is spread across a ninety seven square kilometre radius. The tourism region is called Rajamalai. Here, the tourists may travel deep within the forests and explore the breathtaking beauty of this park. Occasional sighting of certain animals are found in this region. Trekking is available in the tourist region of the national park. Trekkers may opt to trek from the Lakhom falls to Pakkumarathery from where the Anamudi peak may be seen. The trekkers may also opt to stay at the log house here.
The entry tickets for children and students with bonafide certificates stand at rupees five. The ticket is priced at rupees fifteen for adults and rupees two hundred for foreigners.
Plenty of tea plantations can be found in Devikulam. Pepper, clove and cardamom spice plantations can also be found aplenty. Gum trees is in red and blue are very popularly spotted here. Various spices and condiments are available in powdered and natural form in the markets here.
Devikulam enjoys a pleasant climate all through the year and hence a visit to this hill station can be planned at any time. December to February is winter, and the temperature is as low as ten degrees. It is a great season to be here and is much preferred by honeymooners. Summer begins from March to May. Even during this season, many tourists throng this place as the climate is pleasant and cool. June to September marks the beginning of monsoon. Rains here are a treat to the eyes as the entire place comes alive with rains bathing the greenery in varied hues of green. Government guest houses with adequate facilities are available here.
The nearest railway station to Munnar is in Aluva or Angamaly which are one hundred and eight and one hundred and nine kilometeres respectively. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport. The KSRTC and private bus services are also available in Munnar.