Situated on the TamilNadu -
Kerala border, Chinnar is a tourist destination in
Devikulam taluk of
Idukki District. It is about 60 km from
Munnar. This picnic spot is surrounded by dry deciduous forests, high sholas, wet grasslands and the tea gardens forming a rhythmic combination that thrills the nature lovers.
Chinnar is famous for the Wildlife Sanctuary and Ulakkayurutty Falls. Set in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats, it is the second habitat for the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel in India. Mathukokka and Kozhikanam are other falls in the nearby location. The highest peaks here are Kottakombumalai (2144 m), Vellaikal malai (1863 m) and Viriyoottu malai (1845 m). Chinnar is rich in wildlife with the
Eravikulam National Park and Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary in the proximity.
The specialty of the place is that Chinnar gets only about 48 rainy days in a year during October - November season from the north-east monsoons.
By road, one can access Chinnar from either Kottayam or from Kattapana. It is easily accessible from Udumalpet in Tamil Nadu and Munnar in Kerala. The nearest railway station is at Ernakulam and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport. Lodges are available at Munnar, Marayoor and Udumalpet.
