Major Fire Erupts at Ilaveezhapoonchira Hill in Kerala During Christmas Holiday

A major fire broke out at Ilaveezhapoonchira Hill in Kottayam, Kerala, on December 25, 2025, coinciding with the Christmas holiday when the area was crowded with tourists. The blaze, first reported in the afternoon, was partially controlled but reignited later in the evening, prompting ongoing monitoring by local fire services.

Major fire breaks out in Ilaveezhapoonchira hill amid holiday rush

Read more at: https://t.co/5WKunGQJZj#Kottayam #Kerala #FireAccident #Ilaveezhapoonchira

— Mathrubhumi English (@mathrubhumieng) December 26, 2025

The initial fire alert came from visitors around Thursday afternoon. Two fire service vehicles from nearby Erattupetta were immediately dispatched, and crews battled the flames for several hours. By evening, the fire appeared under control, but as darkness fell, hotspots reignited, raising concerns about the safety of visitors and nearby residents.

A dedicated Fire and Rescue Services unit has been stationed at the site to prevent further escalation. Officials are keeping a close watch on residual flames and monitoring the area for any potential spread.

Authorities have indicated that negligence by visitors could have contributed to the fire. Preliminary findings suggest that improper disposal of waste or open flames from picnics in the dry grassy terrain may have triggered the incident.

Ilaveezhapoonchira, known as the "valley where leaves don’t fall," is famous for its panoramic views, trekking trails, and mist-covered mornings. It draws thousands of domestic and international tourists annually, with peak visits during holidays like Christmas. The fire temporarily disrupted this popular tourist spot, with thick smoke and visible flames affecting the natural landscape.

Local officials have stressed the importance of visitor safety and adherence to guidelines in natural areas. No injuries or casualties have been reported so far, but the fire serves as a cautionary reminder of the risks in eco-tourism destinations during peak travel periods.

Why This Matters

The incident underscores the vulnerability of Kerala’s natural sites to human negligence, especially during holiday crowds. Fires in sensitive terrains can quickly threaten both the environment and public safety, highlighting the need for stricter awareness and preventive measures among tourists.

What Happens Next

Investigations by the district administration and fire services are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the fire. Visitors planning trips to Ilaveezhapoonchira are advised to check official updates and follow safety advisories. Fire monitoring units will remain on-site until the area is deemed completely safe.

Key Takeaways

• A major fire erupted at Ilaveezhapoonchira Hill on December 25, 2025, during Christmas.
• Fire crews partially controlled the blaze, but it reignited later in the evening.
• No casualties have been reported; emergency monitoring is ongoing.
• Preliminary investigations suggest visitor negligence may have triggered the fire.
• Officials urge tourists to follow safety guidelines and check updates before visiting.