Accessible only by forest trek, it offers stunning panoramic views and spiritual tranquility.
Hidden deep in Periyar Tiger Reserve, the 1,000‑year‑old Mangaladevi Temple crowns a grass‑covered knoll 1,337 m high. Dedicated to Goddess Kannaki-heroine of the Tamil epic 'Silapathikaram' and icon of justice-the ruined granite sanctum, built in Pandyan style, still displays delicate stone reliefs of deities and flowering creepers.
The shrine opens to pilgrims only on Chithrapournami (April/May). A panchaloha idol is borne up from Kambam, floral arches bloom, women prepare pongala, and Kerala‑Tamil Nadu priests jointly perform rites that celebrate cross‑border unity. At all other times visitors need a permit from the Wildlife Warden, Thekkady, safeguarding the fragile montane habitat.
Reaching the site is half the adventure: a jolting 12 km Forest‑Department jeep ride from Kumily check‑post snakes through shola woods, sweet‑scented grasslands, and sandal groves. En route you may glimpse Nilgiri Tahr, Malabar giant squirrels, elephants, and orchids such as Habenaria periyarensis.
From the summit, dawn mists lift to reveal a 360° sweep of the Western Ghats, Cumbum Valley, and ridge‑top villages, photographers time their visit for sunrise. October-May brings clear skies; monsoon downpours can close the trail.
Stay in eco‑lodges or tree huts around Thekkady/Kumily, where guides arrange night safaris, tribal heritage walks, and other forest experiences. Mangaladevi thus offers a compact fusion of legend, biodiversity, and spectacular high‑range scenery, an unforgettable pilgrimage for both spiritual seekers and adventure lovers.
Address: Mangaladevi Temple, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Near Kumily, Idukki District, Kerala - 685509
How To Reach
By Road: Kumily (12 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam (about 114 km) and Madhurai (about 140 km)
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away
Madhurai Airport (about 140 km)
