Panchalimedu, Thekkady - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 11 km from Kuttikkanam, and 45 km from Thekkady, Panchalimedu is a small hill station near Peerumedu in Idukki district in Kerala. It is an ideal spot for hiking in Kerala and among the top Thekkady tourist places.

Situated at an altitude of about 2,500 feet, Panchalimedu is known for its climate and viewpoint. The place is surrounded by deep valleys and hills, accompanied by meadows and grasslands. According to the legend, the Pandavas of Mahabharata along with their wife Panchali took shelter at Panchalimedu during their exile. Hence, the name Panchalimedu is derived from the words 'Panchali' meaning Draupadi, and 'medu' meaning hill.

There are two hills at Panchalimedu, one has a temple dedicated to Bhuvaneswari Devi. Several Shiva lingams, Trishulas (trident), and Naga idols are also placed near the temple. A small circular pond known as Panchalikulam is situated here, which is the place where Pandavas and Panchali take their daily bath. It is about 5 m in diameter. Even during hot summers, it will be filled with plenty of water. There is also a cave named Pandavaguha, in which the footprints of Bhima can be witnessed.

Panchalimedu is more of a soft hiking spot rather than a hiking trail that can be completed by elderly people and children. It is the perfect place to take a day off with your family. From Panchalimedu, one can see Mundakayam, Ponkunnam, Kanjirapally, and Erumely towns on the west side, while Parunthumpara Hills and Periyar Tiger Reserve on the east. Alappuzha backwaters can be seen in golden color by the reflection of sunlight and is a breathtaking view.

Many tourists arrive there during the summer season for hiking and to get refreshed. Apart from Pullumedu, Panchalimedu is another popular spot in Idukki where many pilgrims gather to witness the Makaravilakku, a holy flame, which appears annually on 14 January at the Ponnambalamedu summit near Sabarimala.

There is a ticket counter maintained by the DTPC with a nominal entry fee. A rock-laid walkway takes one to the summit. There are many benches and some pillared halls en route to the hilltop. There is also a cafeteria and restrooms near the entrance. On special request, a wheelchair will also be made available in the booking office.

Timings: 6 AM - 6.30 PM

Entry: Rs. 10 for Adults, Rs. 5 for Children, & Rs. 50 for Camera