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Major attraction in KERALA
Munnar, Thekkady, Kovalm, Athirapally, Idukki, Cochin, Kumarakom etc......
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Munnar
Altitude: 1500 - 2500 m above sea level
Temperature: OOC - 300C Rainfall: 275 cm
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years will bloom next in 2018 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.Tea plantations, trout-filled streams, placid lakes, picnic spots at each bend of the winding road, wildlife reserves, trekking routes that take you to the highest peak in South India... For long, the best-kept secret among hill-station destinations, now the choice of honeymooners, tea tasters, corporate warriors and wannabe colonial masters. Wrapped in the greenest of carpets this side of Eden. Munnar is not just South India’s most sought-after hill resort. It is also the centre of Kerala’s premier tea-growing district, aptly known as the High Range. In Tamil, moon aar literally means ‘three rivers’, a reference to the streams around whose confluence the town grew. The Nallthanni and Kundalai streams flow into the Muthirapuzha River, which cascades out of the hills to join the Periyar and, later, the Arabian Sea.Tea is Munnar’s claim to fame. Here, more than 12,000 hectares of lush, manicured tea fields form an irresistible canvas against which honeymooners pose. Stately eucalyptus plantations, which fuel the many tea factories in the vicinity, sway gently in the wind, their fragrance wafting over Munnar. And shola trees hug the mist-shrouded hillsides, sheltering several highly endangered species of wildlife.A trip to Munnar is a journey through picturesque surroundings, but the most sought-after offering of the estates is the unbelievably pure air. There are also wild animals to spot, golf to be played; some trout fishing to be done… the list is endless. But if lazing around is all that you want to do on your holiday with your partner, Munnar’s idyllic surroundings let you do that too.
Of course, for the more adventurous, there’s the challenge of climbing the 8,841-foot-high Anaimudi Peak, which towers majestically over the town. This is the highest peak south of the Himalaya and was once a landmark for ships approaching the port of Kochi. It’s a spectacular view, and even if you are not lucky enough to be here when the Neelakurinji blooms (an event that happens only once in 12 years between August and November with a peak period of late September and October; the next is expected in 2018), you won’t despair. Munnar’s beauty will ensure that.
Munnar is not just South India’s most sought-after hill resort, it is also the centre of Kerala’s premier tea-growing district, aptly known as the High Range. In Tamil, moon aar literally means ‘three rivers’, a reference to the streams around whose confluence the town grew. The Nallthanni and Kundale streams flow into the Muthirapuzha River, which cascades out of the hills to join the Periyar and, later, the Arabian Sea.
Tea is Munnar’s claim to fame. Here, more than 12,000 hectares of lush, manicured tea fields form an irresistible canvas against which honeymooners pose. Stately eucalyptus plantations, which fuel the many tea factories in the vicinity, sway gently in the wind, their fragrance wafting over Munnar. And shola trees hug the mist-shrouded hillsides, sheltering several highly endangered species of wildlife.A trip to Munnar is a journey through picturesque surroundings, but the most sought-after offering of the estates is the unbelievably pure air. There are also wild animals to spot, golf to be played, some trout fishing to be done… the list is endless. But if lazing around is all that you want to do on your holiday, Munnar’s idyllic surroundings let you do that too.A visit to a tea factory for a firsthand introduction to the complexities of tea-processing and tea-tasting is a must — it’s an aromatic experience. And at the local Tea Museum, the first of its kind in India, one can take a peep into the past.Of course, for the more adventurous, there’s the challenge of climbing the 8,841-ft Anaimudi, which towers majestically over the town. This is the highest peak south of the Himalayas and was once a landmark for ships approaching the port of Kochi. It’s a spectacular view, and even if you are not lucky enough to be here when the Neelakurunji blooms (an event that happens only once in 12 years), you won’t despair. Munnar’s beauty will ensure that. Many newly married couple often prefers Munnar as their honeymoon destination. You can see honeymoon couple roaming their at every time of the year
In And Around Munnar
Pothanmedu: Pothanmedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills and the lush mountains here are ideal for trekking and long mountain walks.
Devikulam:This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Pallivasal: This is the site of the first Hydro-Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.
Attukad: A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukad, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.
Nyayamakad: Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 metres. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point. Gravel Banks, the delightful trout fishing site is tucked away in a remote corner of Nyayamakad Estate.
Chithirapuram: With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.
Mount Carmel Church: Established in 1898, this was the first Roman Catholic Church in the High Ranges.
Lockhart Gap:This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.
Blossom International Park: Sprawled over 16 acres, this park has a garden with a profusion of blooms and a plethora of activities for adults and children including boating, cycling, roller skating, games etc.
Rajamala: This is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr. Half the world population of the rare mountain goat (Hemitragas hylocres) which is an endangered species, is now found here. The Nilgiri Tahrs are today reduced to small herds found in the Eravikulam - Rajamala region and their total number in this region is estimated to be 1317.
Mattupetty: Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into 3 of the 11 cattle sheds at the farm.
Visiting time: 0900 - 1100 hrs and 1400 - 1530 hrs.
Entrance fee: Rs. 5 per head. The Mattupetty Dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala Tea Plantations and the Kundala Lake are the other attractions nearby. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats are available on hire.
Echo Point: This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar.
Eravikulam National Park: The 97 sq. km park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695 m) is located in the southern region of the park.
Sanctuary visit: The Park is divided into three regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area which is in the Rajamala region. The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here.
Visiting time: 0800 - 1700 hrs. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.
Entrance fee: Rs. 10 for adults Rs. 2 for children below 12 years Rs. 50 for foreigners
Permitting authority: Wildlife Warden, Munnar
Trekking facilities are available here. Tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. This is also a place for adventure tourism.
Trekking Areas: Anamudi Rajamala
Power House Waterfall: This waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkad
Kundala: Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is loated here. The Kundala Artificial Dam is another attraction and is also known as Sethuparvathipuram Dam. Aruvikkad 'aterfall is also near Kundala.
Anayirankal: This place is a lush green carpet of tea plants. The Anayirankal Dam is surrounded by the Tata Tea Plantation and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot and a boat ride on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience.
Top Station: 1700 m above sea level, this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal Road. The rare Neelakurunji 'Strobilanthus) belongs to this region. This plant blooms once In every twelve years bathing the hillsides in bright blue. Top Station also offers a panoramic view of the neighbouring State ofTamil Nadu.
Kollukkumallay: Located in steep, rugged terrain, Kollukkumallay is the highest tea garden in the country at 7900 ft. Accessible only by jeep, a visit to the estate includes a drive around the tea fields and a tour of its factory. What gives ollukkumallay tea its special flavour is presumably the high altitude.
Palkulamedu: Kochi, Alappuzha and other nearby towns can be seen from this peak which is located 3125 m above sea level.
Marayoor:This is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory of the Forest Department, the ancient caves (muniyaras) with murals and relics from the Neolithic Age and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single banyan tree are of great interest to tourists. Thoovanam Waterfall and the Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also nearby.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Situated on the Tamil Nadu border, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across 90.44 sq. km.
Cheeyappara: The Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls are located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi- Madurai Highway. The Cheeyappara Waterfall falling in seven steps, is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking.
Meenuli: It is noted for the two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering.
Malankara Reservoir: Located on the Thodupuzha - Moolamattam Road, this artificial lake is accessible by road. The reservoir is ideal for boating and fishing.
Thommankuthu: Famous for its seven-step waterfall, Thommankuthu is an ideal place for adventure tourism. Other attractions: Pedal boating, forest trekking, night camping, bathing in the waterfall ete.
Keezharkuth:The Rainbow Waterfall which cascades down a rock from a height of about 1500 m is a wonderful attraction of this spot. It can be seen throughout the year in all its splendour. The forest around this spot is home to various medicinal plants. It is an ideal place for rock climbing, mountaineering, camping and trekking.
Rarnakalmedu: Cool, green hills and the fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hilltop also offers a panoramic view of the picturesque villages of Bodi and Cumbum on the eastern slope of the Western Ghats. Distance: 45 km from Idukki, 40 km from Thekkady and 75 km from Munnar.
Bus timings: 0930 hrs Munnar, 1030 hrs Kottayam, 0930 hrs Ernakulam.
Idukki
Kerala’s largest district, Idukki is one of the most nature-rich areas of the State. A landlocked region, here, high ranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers- Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar- and their tributaries. Powering Kerala with one-third of the State’s electricity, Idukki is also famous for its gigantic arch dam. Powering Kerala with one-third of the State’s electricity, Idukki is also famous for its gigantic arch dam. Predominantly populated by tribes, and astonishing 50 percent of its total area is covered by forests. As a tourist destination, the place offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides etc. Idukki’s numerous trekking trails and spectacular landscape dotted with rich flora and fauna make it a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.
The largest districts in Kerala, Idukki covers nearly 13 per cent of the states’ total area, 97 per cent of which is covered in rugged mountains and dense forests. Three large rivers, numerous trekking trails, Stunning views and a diverse wildlife make it an outdoor enthusiast’s delight. This pristine hideaway has successfully retained its charm – sans tourist hysteria.Idukki has a predominantly tribal population with 200 tribal settlements scattered all over the district in remote hilly areas and dense forests. Base yourself at Cheruthoni or Kulamavu to explore the three great dams on the Periyar and other tourist attractions such as Nadukani Viewpoint, the Iukki Wildlife Sanctuary and the mesmerizing Thommankuthu waterfalls.
Places of Interests
Idukki Arch Dam: The periyar river flows through a gorge formed by two huge rocks called kuravan and Kurathi. The magnificent parabolic structure of Asia’s first arch dam spans the gorge. On one side stretches the placid reservoir, whereas on the other, the dam plunges deep into a forested valley. A technological marvel, this magnificent parabolic structure is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi Hills. 550 ft high and 650 ft wide, the dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by.
Kalvary Mount: Located 35 KM from Thodupuzha , Kalvary Mount offers a stunning view of its scenic surrounding – the vast Idukki reservoir and the forested valleys. A wonderful place for trekking, visitors may, if there are fortunate, spot a herd of elephants. During lent, pilgrims climb up the hillock in a procession, and on God Friday, they carry crosses up the hill to the top.
Thommankuthu: Thommankuthu is famous for its waterfall. These alls have been named after Thomban, a tribal leader who was washed away near a waterfall called ‘Thommankuthu’ Later, the name changed to ‘Thommankuthu’. The seven step fall drops down a rock from a height of 1,500 m and is a popular picnic spot. At each step, there is a cascade with a pool below it. The 12-KM trek to the top of the hill is a memorable experience. The less adventurous have the option of enjoying the shallow pools below.
Nelliyampathy
This fascinating hill station is at a height of467 to 1572 m above sea level. At least 10 hairpin bends have to be negotiated on the Ghat Road that passes through the breathtaking evergreen forests of the Sahya Ranges. Seethakundu at Nelliyampathy offers a panoramic view of about one-third of Palakkad. This hill country is the delight of trekkers.Situated south of the Palakkad Gap, Nelliyampathy has all the attractions of a typical hill station-coffee,tea, and cardamom plantations, a pleasant climate, sublime scenery and an abundance of flora and fauna. Locally called ‘poor man’s Ooty’, it offers the inhabitants of Palakkad an escape from the sweltering summer heat of the plains.
Nelliyampathy is close to the wildlife sanctuaries of Parambikulam, Anamalai and Peechi- Vazhani. The Nelliyampathy Range, once owned by the maharajas of Kollengode and Kochi, is now part of the Nenmara Forest Division. It consists of a chain of ridges separated by valleys that abound in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, teeming with wildlife.
Place of interest
Pothundy: A picturesque reservoir, it lies on the way to Nelliyampathy, close to the scenic village of Nenmara, and is built across two tributaries of the Ayalar River-the meenachadypuzha and Padipuzha. Situated on the way to Nelliampathy, the Pothundy Reservoir Complex is a charming location for picnics and half-day trips.
Seetharkunda: Located within the Karuna plantations, Seetharkundu attracts visitors as much for the drive from Nelliyampathy as for the place itself. The drive offers a fabulous view of the plains, as far as Palakkad town and its surrounding countryside. Besides the waterfalls, there is a gnarled tree here, a major attraction. Legend has it that Rama, Sita and Lakshman once lived here, hence the name.
Mampara Grasslands: These sprawling grasslands can be reached can be reached only through only through a treacherous road, but it is well worth the effort for the spectacular views of the Palakkad range- verdant slopes, thick forests and a patchwork of lush paddy fields.
Orange and Vegetable Farm: Set up by the rulers of the erstwhile State of Cochin in 1943 to provide food for British troops and resolve a crisis that arose in the land during the time, this once thriving farm has now been revived and 237 acres of land re-planted with orange trees .The fruit preservation unit, located at Pulayanpara, where guavas and passion fruit are used to make delicious jama, preserves and squash, is open to visitors.
Thenmala
Thenmala literally means, ‘Honey hills’.Honey from these hills was sought after because it was mistakenly believed to have medicinal properties. However, today the region is better known for its eco-conservation efforts.As India’s first planned ecotourism destination, Thenmala is the nerve-centre of 10 satellite ecotourism attractions scattered across the hills of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam and Pathanamthitta.
Thenmala Covered by dense forests, rubber and tea plantations, Thenmala were selected by the World Tourism Organization as one of the world's best eco-friendly projects. It has a leisure zone with winding pathways, a sway bridge, a sculpture garden and a boardwalk; a culture zone with an amphitheatre, a musical fountain as well as a Nokshotrovonom (a nursery of trees considered sacred to the 27 constellations, located inside one of the zones. Visitors can take back a sapling of the tree relevant to their birth star); and an adventure zone that includes activities like trekking, bird watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, rappelling and river crossing. In addition there is the Deer Rehabilitation Centre (0600 - 1700 hrs) as well as the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary. Only temporary visits are permitted to the interior of the reserve. A major attraction is the boating in the Shenduruney Reservoir.Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society of TEPS is responsible for spreading eco-awareness and ensuring that the eco-system of the region is left undisturbed. The well –trained staff of the TEPS brief visitors on how best to explore the region, but also guide them on appropriate behavior. The organization has also taken under its wings the nearby Shenduruney wildlife Sanctuary.The palaruvi falls, riverfront leisure zones, rock shelters and a deer rehabilitation centre are some of the attractions in Thenmala. Located 500 m above the sea level, in the foothills of the southern Western Ghats, Thenmala’s diverse flora and fauna and vast tracts of forests attract adventure seekers, naturalists and conservationists.
Peermedu
Peerrnedu, the famous plantation town, takes its name from Peer Mohammed, a Sufi saint and close associate of the erstwhile royal family ofTravancore. Wide vistas of tea, cardamom, rubber and coffee plantations interspersed with silver cascades, sculptural rocks, meadows and mist-cloaked hilltops make Peermedu an unforgettable experience. The most delightful trekking trails complement the panoramic landscape. Monuments like the summer palace and summer residence of the royal family add to the splendour of the land. The summer residence now converted into a government guest house under the Department ofTourism, offers comfortable accommodation.
Sprawling estates of tea, coffee, cardamom rubber and eucalyptus surround this charming hill station, once famous as the summer retreat of the Travancore kings. Peermeds’s history is also closely linked to that of the Sufi saint, Peer Mohammad, believed to be the first trader of spice in the region.
Natural grasslands , pine forests and a salubrious climate make Peermede an enchanting and picturesque destination. The legacy of the raj can still be seen in colonial buildings such as Ashley, Henwoods, Greenwooods
Accessing Peermedu
Road: Frequent bus services are available from Kottayam and other destinations in the State to Peermedu. Jeeps are the best mode of transport.
In And Around Peermedu
Kuttikanam: A place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even a languorous, tranquil break. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush, green hills.
Thrissanku Hills: The rolling hills, the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset. Summer Palace: The huge palace where the Maharajas of Travancore used to spend their summers is set amidst lush greenery.
Panchalimedu: This largely unexplored area is said to have been the camping site of the Pandavas. The pond, Panchalikulam is said to have been used by Panchali, the wife of the Pandavas.
Peeru Hills: This idyllic hill station is a favourite haunt of trekkers and picnickers. The hill is named after Peer Mohammed, the Sufi saint, who spent his last days here. The mausoleum of the saint, the summer palace of the royal family and the residence of the Diwan situated nearby are all worth a visit.
Grampi: Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its high peaks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests, trekking trails and picturesque views lend charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.
Amritha Medu: The second highest peak in South India after Anamudi, Amritha Medu offers a birds-eye view of the entire Peermedu region. An ideal trekking spot, on Good Friday large numbers of people throng here in memory of Christ's crucifixion.
Madammakkulam: A natural pond under a gushing waterfall encircled by deep woods, this was a favourite spot of British planters in the colonial times. The pond has been named Madam's pond or Madammakkulam after a British lady who used to frequent this spot.
Pattumala: Lofty peaks, little streams and ever expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala (which literally means hill draped in silk) is home to two famous tea plantations - Harrisons Malayalam and AVThomas & Co. The Velankanni Matha Church, built entirely of granite, at the top of the hill is a famous pilgrim centre. The nearby flower garden with roses, orchids and anthuria is a fascinating riot of colors.
Koottickal-Mundakayam: Excellent stopovers, these adjacent places are blessed with the bounty of nature. But Mundakayam's claim to fame is that the first commercial production of rubber was started here in 1904.
Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre: A well-established Ayurvedic Hospital, Sahyadri, managed by the Peermedu Development Society in Pallikunnu, is known for its curative and rejuvenating treatment packages. The centre has well-appointed treatment and accommodation facilities, a unit for manufacturing Ayurvedic medicines as well as a well-maintained raw drugs museum where more than 200 varieties of rare and endangered herbs are preserved. More than 400 herbs used for medicines are grown in the hospital's own garden spread over 35 acres. For permission to visit the herb garden, contact the Director- Peermedu Development Society, Peermedu, Idukki.
Vagamon: A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit. The breeding centre of the Kerala Livestock Board is located here.
Vagamon
A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is a haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit. The breeding centre of the Kerala Livestock Board is located here.
Pristine forests, exotic flora and fauna and verdant meadows characterize Vagamon, a location straight out of a tourism brochure. Located 1,110 m above sea level on the western fringe of idukki, and bordering Kottayam, the Vagamon mountain range was cleared by the early planters for the cultivation of tea and coffee.
There’s only one reason we’re listing Vagamon here in our website, among the top 10 hill getaways in India. By this time next year, you’ll be lucky if you can so much as find a room, let alone muse in blissful solitude amidst the hillocks and rolling glades of this stunning place. For Vagamon is surely God’s final creation, so nearly perfect that it looks like the culmination of eons of practice in sculpting the other beautiful spots in God’s Own Country.
Come to think of it, you’ll be hard pressed to find a room even today — there are few hotels currently available, and finding a bed to crash out on can become an exercise in desperation. So what gives? A hill station sans hotels? A place high up in the clouds with naryaro offor shelter? The fact is Vagamon, 3,500 ft above sea level, is a paradise in the making or, more correctly, an unknown heaven only now beginning to show its charms to the world outside. Like a bride being prepared for a dazzling wedding, Vagamon is now gathering the accoutrements that will embellish the grand occasion when the whole world gasps at her beauty, her trousseau, her gait. You can see it happening, as the thin mist lifts with the rising sun to reveal... a young architect squatting in the midst of a 100-acre forest, seeking inspiration on how to integrate stone and wood into a villa, without displacing a single rock formation. Workers carting stone from a hillside to landscape the surrounds of a jungle hut. Up a driveway on top of a hill, a grand cottage being painted and touched up, its wooden panels are glistening with fresh varnish. At the bend of a road, ramparts of bamboo and stone being built to buttress what promises to be Vagamon’s ‘hideout’, home to many nights of romance and laughter, long after the last guest has left the wedding reception.
Now you know why you ought to be in Vagamon. Go there now, to ensure that later you can say wistfully, “Yes, I know what Vagamon was like, so perfect even the cows wouldn’t come home after dusk, preferring to spend the night in the woods.”
Vagamon first witnessed changes in 1926 when Walter Duncan and Company set up their tea plantations in a massive 534-acre plot of land. A decade later, Christian missionaries set up the Kurisumala Ashram, which transformed the region into a spiritual nerve centre, popular even today
Places of interest
Kurisumala: Located 5 KM from Vagamon, is Kurisumala , an important Christian pilgrim centre, with a church atop a hill. There are 14 crosses along the path leading to the church, which commands stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Kurisumala Ashram: This Catholic monastery, which strives to combine Indian religiosity with Christian spirituality, has been attracting monks from around the world for close to four decades. Abbot Francis Acharya, a Belgian, and Fr Bede Griffiths, and Englishman, established this Cistercian abbey in 1958.
Murugan Para: On the eastern side of Kurisumala is Murugan Para, a rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Murugan that attracts a large number of worshippers.
Pine Forests: This valley in Kolahalamedu, with its groves of pine trees, is a protected area. These are boards cautioning tourists to keep from littering the forest.
Vythiri
Vythiri stands as a gateway to Wayanad, to the realm of gurgling streams, hills and valleys. Lakes, gorges and ravines, verdant hills that nudge distant clouds, dreamy dawns and misty evenings are standard fare. This region offers a true taste of Wayanad. The charming Pookot Lake is only a kilometer away, towards Lakkidi. The tallest summit in the district, Chembra peak, 6,890ft above sea level, is nearest from Vythiri. Waterfalls, at Kanthampara and Sentinel Rock, lie to the south. A number of Resorts, nested in sylvan surrounding, add to the attraction of the destination.
Vythiri is an unassuming little town. All the places that a tourist might like to visit are within a 40-km radius of the town. If you do not engage your own vehicle, you may have to depend on the local rickshaws and old-style Willys jeeps. It is difficult to put in a kind word for them! If you have a modest budget and want to make the best use of your time, then the strategic location to stay would be in nearby Kalpetta, the district headquarters. It is a livelier place.
There are very few places that simultaneously offer a holistic experience of wilderness and education, combined with the comfort of a modern holiday. Wayanad is a confluence where the needs of the body, mind and soul are met. You can trek both mountains and streams, and bathe under waterfalls balancing you on sharp rocks. You can simply lie down and dream as big as the sky’s expanse, with the symphony of wild calls in the background. Or you could turn philosophical and measure death with dry leaves. If you are enterprising, you can speak to plantation owners who trade coffee, tea, spices, vanilla and exotic oils. And while you are at it, you can talk to plantation workers about the aesthetics of the red flags that dot the lush green terraces of manicured tea hills. You can listen to scary legends by the campfire and accidentally pick up lessons in history. By way of just desserts, there is sumptuous Malabar food to indulge in. These myriad experiences come together as one perfect package in Wayanad.
Places of Interest
Lakkidi: The gateway to Wayanad, Lakkidi is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest of the Thamarasseri Ghat Pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station.
Begur Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary has a wide variety of animals.
Karalad Lake: An unusually quiet retreat, facilities for angling and boating as well as a recreational park are provided here. The trek to this lake can also be quite exciting. Karalad is a huge lake spread across 7 acres and surrounded by dense bamboo groves, it is ideal for a peaceful, quiet break. Adjoining hills provide great trekking options. The banasura sagar Dam is only about 3 KM to the north from the Karalad Lake.
Pookot Lake: This perennial freshwater lake in Vythiri nestling among wooded hills is a popular picnic spot. Adjacent to the lake is a spice shop, a souvenir showroom and an aquarium. And for the kids, there is a children's park at the recreation centre here. This large lake is fringed by low wooded hills. Horses and horse carts trot along the 1.5 km pathway, passing around the lake. A curio shop next to the ticket counter sells bamboo and wooden artefacts and hill produce such as spices, tea and honey. Then there is the boat club where pedal and rowboats await visitors.
Soochipara and Kanthampara Falls: From Vythiri, the drive to these falls, considered one of the most beautiful in the district, is delightful. A winding road through verdant tea country, and then a narrow trail through rugged terrain lead to the falls in a dense forest. The three-pronged waters hit the sharp spikes of granite at the base, hence the name, ‘soochipara’, or ‘needle rocks’.
Meenmutty Falls: Meenmutty falls, a 300-m long cascade of water, is the largest and most spectacular waterfall in the whole of Wayanad. The drive from Vythiri itself is charming –all woods, verdant hillsides and rolling plantations. It will also take you past charming villages such as Chundel, Meppadi and Vaduvanchal.
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