A windswept hillscape near Poonjar, known for its rugged trails, misty mornings and expansive views across four districts.

A Hill Once Known to Locals
For years, Muthukora Hills was simply part of life for the people living around Poonjar. They would climb the slopes, spend some time on the hilltop and head home, without thinking of the place as a tourist destination. Then photographs of the hills began travelling beyond the villages, and social media brought curious travellers along.

Today, Muthukora is particularly popular with trekkers and adventure seekers looking for a more rugged experience in the Kottayam highlands. The landscape hasn't changed much. The audience has.

Trekking at Muthukora
Counted among the highest peaks in Kottayam, Muthukora offers a trek through steep and rocky terrain, with grass, shrubs and trees giving way to more open stretches as the trail rises. The hills can be approached from Kaippally, Kunnoni and Enthayar, with some sections requiring careful navigation.

Strong winds are a familiar feature here, especially on exposed stretches. Mist and clouds can move quickly across the slopes, while rain can make the trails more difficult to negotiate.

This is an adventure trek.

The terrain is moderate to challenging, and it is not advisable to attempt it alone. Travellers should preferably go with experienced local guidance or as part of a group, check the weather before setting out and allow enough time to return before dark.

The View from the Top
At the summit, Muthukora opens out into an expansive stretch of high ground extending for around three kilometres. Trees, shrubs, rocks and green vegetation spread across the hilltop, creating plenty of space to pause after the climb.

And then comes the view.

On a clear day, the landscape stretches towards parts of Kottayam, Idukki, Pathanamthitta and Ernakulam districts. Early morning is especially rewarding, when the rising sun gradually lifts the mist and reveals layers of hills and valleys beyond.

The weather can change the view completely. One moment the distant landscape may be clearly visible; the next, clouds and mist can draw a veil across it.

A Landscape with a Story
Muthukora is also part of a landscape shaped by the history of agriculture and plantations in the high ranges of Kottayam. Close to the hills are the former residence and final resting place of J. J. Murphy, the Irish planter associated with the early development of commercially successful rubber cultivation in Kerala.

Murphy's story adds another dimension to a visit here, connecting the hill with the agricultural transformation of the Poonjar highlands.

Explore the Surroundings
Muthukora can be included in a wider journey through the highlands of Kottayam. Ilaveezhapoonchira, Illickal Kallu and Vagamon are among the attractions in the surrounding region.

But Muthukora deserves time of its own.

Come early. Let the mist lift. Take the climb at your own pace and give yourself time at the top to watch the landscape change.

The hills will do the rest.

Plan Your Visit
Location: Near Kunnoni, Poonjar Thekkekara, Kottayam district
Nearest major town: Erattupetta
Main approaches: Kaippally, Kunnoni and Entayar
Nearest major transport hub: Erattupetta
Accommodation: Homestays and small hotels are available around Poonjar, with a wider choice in Erattupetta
Entry fee: No fee
Visiting hours: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Trek difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Safety tips
Muthukora has steep and exposed sections, and some stretches of the trail may be narrow or difficult to follow. Rain, mist and poor visibility can make the terrain considerably more challenging. Do not attempt the trek alone. Inform friends or family about your route and expected return time, carry adequate water and essentials, wear suitable footwear and avoid setting out in extreme weather.