How to Get to Vadattupara (Without Getting Lost)

It’s Not Exactly on the Highway…

One of the best things about Vadattupara is that it isn’t a place you just “pass through” on the way to somewhere else. You have to want to go there. Because it’s tucked away in the forest-edge area of Kuttampuzha, Google Maps sometimes likes to suggest “shortcuts” that are actually narrow tractor paths or dead ends. I’ve seen it happen.

Whether you’re coming from the chaos of Kochi or the nearby hub of Kothamangalam, here is the most straightforward, no-nonsense way to get here.

1. Coming from Kochi / Ernakulam (The Road Trip)

If you’re starting from Kochi city, plan for about 2 to 2.5 hours. It’s roughly 60 kilometers, but don’t let the distance fool you — the traffic in Aluva and Perumbavur can be a mood-killer if you leave late.

The Recommended Route:

Kochi → Aluva → Perumbavur → Kothamangalam → Keerampara → Vadattupara

1. The Perumbavur Stretch: Head toward Kothamangalam. This is the standard AM Road (Aluva-Munnar Road).
2. The Kothamangalam Bypass: Once you hit Kothamangalam, you’re almost into the green belt. Keep going toward the Thattekkadu/Kuttampuzha side.
3. The Keerampara Turn: This is the important part. When you reach Keerampara, you’ll see signs for Bhoothathankettu. Turn toward that road.
4. The Forest Drive: From here, the air starts to change. It gets cooler, the trees get thicker, and the road winds through small rubber plantations and forest patches until you hit Vadattupara.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have time, stop at the Bhoothathankettu Dam on the way. It’s only about 14 km from the village and makes for a great “halfway” break.

2. From Kothamangalam (The Local Way)

Kothamangalam is the “Gateway to the High Ranges,” and it’s your last stop for a proper ATM, a full tank of petrol, or a big supermarket.

Distance: 16 km | Travel Time: 30–40 minutes

From the Kothamangalam town center, take the Kuttampuzha Road. It’s a pretty straightforward drive. You’ll pass through small junctions like Thankalam and Keerampara. The roads are generally in good condition, but they are narrow. If a KSRTC bus is coming the other way, be prepared to tuck into the shoulder.

3. Can You Reach by Bus?

Yes, but you need a little patience. There are no direct AC buses from Kochi to Vadattupara. Here’s how you do it like a local:

• Step 1: Catch any bus (KSRTC or Private) heading to Kothamangalam from Aluva or Ernakulam (Kaloor/Vyttila). They run every 10–15 minutes.
• Step 2: Get down at the Kothamangalam Private Bus Stand or KSRTC Stand.
• Step 3: Look for a bus heading toward Kuttampuzha or Vadattupara.

Note: Not all Kuttampuzha buses go into Vadattupara village, so just ask the conductor: “Ee bus Vadattupara pokumo?” (Does this bus go to Vadattupara?)

The bus ride from Kothamangalam is quite scenic and very cheap (around ₹20–₹30).

4. Trains and Planes

If you’re coming from outside Kerala:

• By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest, about 45 km away. A pre-paid taxi from the airport is the easiest option, taking about 1.5 hours.
• By Train: Aluva (AWY) is your best bet, not Ernakulam. Aluva is closer to the Kothamangalam side and saves you an hour of city traffic. From Aluva, grab a bus or a taxi.

Three Things You Must Know Before You Drive

1. Download Offline Maps

Once you get deep into the Kuttampuzha area, mobile signals can drop to zero. Download the Kothamangalam/Vadattupara area on Google Maps for offline use before you leave the city.

2. Fuel Up Early

There are no petrol pumps in Vadattupara. The last reliable pumps are in Kothamangalam town. Make sure you have enough fuel for the return journey, especially if you plan on exploring the forest interior.

3. Watch for the Locals (The 4-Legged Kind)

This is forest territory. While it’s rare to see an elephant on the main road in broad daylight, it does happen — especially in early mornings or after dusk. Drive at a moderate speed and keep your eyes on the forest edges.

Quick Reference

Planning to stay overnight? Check out our guide to homestays near Vadattupara to find the best forest-edge stays.

Need to see the falls? Read our Vadattupara Waterfall visitor guide.