If you’re an NRI planning your next vacation to Kerala, here’s a lesser-known destination worth adding to your list—Chitteeppara. Reporting from Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No. 1 Malayalam Radio, this travel guide brings you a hidden gem that’s quietly capturing the attention of young explorers and nature lovers.
A misty escape beyond the usual map
Tucked away in Thiruvananthapuram, Chitteeppara may not feature prominently on mainstream tourism maps, but among offbeat travellers, it’s already a favourite. The biggest draw? Its surreal sunrise. As dawn breaks, mist drifts through rolling clouds and golden sunlight spreads across the horizon, creating a view that feels almost dreamlike. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you long after your trip ends.
The iconic rock formation
One of the most striking features here is its unique rock structure. From a distance, a massive boulder appears to lean against another, almost defying gravity. Locally known as Kazhuthan Para—or “neck-shaped rock”—its unusual silhouette adds to the site’s charm.
However, this beauty comes with caution. A portion of the rock collapsed in 2016, which led to temporary restrictions on visitors. While tourism has gradually resumed, authorities now maintain tighter control with regular patrolling and inspections to ensure safety and manage crowds.
Panoramic views and cultural roots
Chitteeppara isn’t just about scenic beauty—it’s also a place of cultural and spiritual significance. A centuries-old temple sits atop the formation, preserving tribal traditions through annual rituals and festivals. The site comes alive during the pongala festival, drawing thousands of devotees.
From the viewpoint, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of nearby areas like Aryanad, Vithura and Nedumangad. On clear days, you might even catch distant glimpses of the airport and Shankumugham Beach.
Planning your visit: what NRIs should know
There is growing interest in developing Chitteeppara as part of Kerala’s tourism circuit, but for now, it remains a relatively raw and uncommercialised destination. That’s part of its appeal—but also why visitors need to be mindful.
- Check access rules: Entry may be regulated due to safety concerns and local restrictions.
- Respect local traditions: This is both a tourist spot and a place of worship.
- Go early: Sunrise is the highlight, and early visits are safer and less crowded.
- Be cautious: The terrain can be uneven, and weather conditions may affect visibility and footing.
Safety and future development
Local authorities and temple trust members have stressed that any tourism development must prioritise safety. After the 2016 rockfall, the Geological Survey of India recommended protective measures, though further action is still awaited.
There are proposals to include Chitteeppara in a structured tourism package, possibly even connecting it via ropeway to nearby destinations. A community-based tourism model could also help regulate visitor flow while creating jobs for locals—something that would benefit both travellers and residents.
For NRIs heading home this vacation season, Chitteeppara offers something different—untouched beauty, cultural depth, and a sunrise you won’t forget. Just remember: the charm of places like this lies in preserving them as much as experiencing them.
