Did an impromptu ride to serene Illickal Kallu on my Suzuki V-Strom 250

The last kilometers were through a normal country road surrounded by thick greenery, with lots of rubber trees and occasional houses around.

BHPian Mrs&Mr_Shenu recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Impromptu Ride to Illickal Kallu Backside:

Quote:

“Some of the best plans are made just before the execution.”

Illickal Kallu, the highest point in Kottayam District, Kerala, is a magnet for riders and tourists alike, thanks to its stunning natural beauty. Recently, a new road has been constructed behind this iconic spot, possibly under the Prime Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) scheme, though I need to confirm this detail.

This new route, known as Illickal Kallu Backside, is rumored to be the highest road in Kottayam District. It’s an exciting addition for those seeking new adventures and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious traveler, this road promises an unforgettable journey.

So, I geared up and got ready to explore the hidden gems of Illickal Kallu from a whole new perspective!

BackStory:

Planning a November Ride to Illaveezha Poonchira:

There’s a plan brewing for a day trip in November, covering both Illickal Kallu and Illaveezha Poonchira. However, I was bit doubtful about the timing to catch the best view. The cloud beds and mists that make this place so enchanting are specific to certain times.

Last Saturday, Kochi was drenched in heavy rain. I was all set to ride out next day and experience it firsthand, but my wife vehemently declined the idea since it was already late at night. She also wasn’t thrilled about me going solo (cue my angry bird mode). The rain gods sided with her, and by early morning, it was still pouring, making a 5 AM departure impractical.

By 9 AM, the sky cleared, chores were done, and a conversation sparked:

Wife: I think I have to go grocery shopping and will be back in two hours. Any plans for the evening?

Me: I had a plan for the morning, but it wasn’t considered. I’m not making any more plans.

Wife: What’s the big deal? Let’s go in the afternoon!

Me: Really? Are you ready?

Wife: Yes, let’s go.

We packed our essentials: Raincoats, an extra pair of sandals in case of rain, a water bottle, and a charging cable. The plan was to start around 1 PM after lunch, but we ended up leaving at 1:45 PM. It was sunny, and the riding gear made it all the more sweaty and sticky.

Route: Kochi --> Udayamperur --> Piravam --> Uzhavur --> Pala --> Illickal Kallu Backside & Back

Travel Time: Around 2 hours and 30 minutes

We started at quarter to 2. The estimated time to reach our destination was 4 PM. However, the weather gods were playing hide and seek with us. It’s amazing how the sky changes its color within kilometers. By the time we reached Pala, it was overcast. We took a loo break followed by a tea break at KR Bakers, a shop nicely located over a traffic circle with sufficient parking space.

Illickal Kallu was now 50 minutes away. We started the last leg of our journey. By the time we reached Erattupetta, it started drizzling, so we put on our second layer of coats and rain covers over our riding gear. The rock was clearly visible as we rode, and amusingly, despite the drizzle, I could see sunshine over there.

The last kilometers were through a normal country road surrounded by thick greenery, with lots of rubber trees and occasional houses around. Once the ascent started, it was steep, and I kept it mostly in first or second gear. The final hairpins had a lot of grass and vegetation around. I even saw a burned car sitting on the road.

At the summit, there are a couple of shops for refreshments. One can actually take a 45-minute hike from here. It’s a bit tricky as there’s no clear trail and it’s risky during mist. There’s sufficient space to park bikes and cars as the place is still not as famous as the front side of Illickal Kallu. There’s no entrance fee either.

One enthusiatic photographer snapped few pictures of Stromy and later shared with us. Let them speak for the beauty of Illickal Kallu too.

First part of return Journey till Irattupetta was covered in Rain. There after till Pala, there was slight drizzle. As it was night, nothing much to do other than riding the bike back to home. Finally reached back by 9:15 PM.

To conclude, a Day well spent. No complains. We got sun, rain and mist.. What else to ask for.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.