Rewriting History: Life and Times of Pandita Ramabai – Uma Chakravarti
This work outlines the reconstruction of patriarchies in 19th-century Maharashtra through an exploration of the life, work and times of Pambita Ramabai, one of India’s earliest feminists.
It examines the manner in which the colonial state’s new institutional structures, caste contestations, class formation and nationalism transformed and reorganized gender relations.
It also explores the nature of the new agendas being set for women, how theses were received by them and in what ways and to what extent their consent to these reconstructed patriarchies was produced.
The author shows that while many women were ready to act as willing reproducers of caste, class and gender norms, there were others who witheld consent to the dominant model of patriarchy emerging in the 19th-century. She argues that certain processes in 19th-century Maharashtra created the conditions for a sharp critique of patriarchy to emerge
Moving on our next Kerala destination are the hills of Wayanad which is set high on the Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to 2100 meters. Formed on 1 November 1980 by carving out areas from Kozhikode and Kannur districts, there are many indigenous tribals in this area of which about 885.92 sq km of area are under forest cover. Pulpally boasts of the only Lava- Kusha temple in Kerala and Vythiri has the only mirror temple in Kerala which is a Jain temple. The edicts and caves of Ambukuthi Mala state that the place is as old as the beginning of the New Age Civilisation. The name Wayanad is derived from Vayal Naadu which translates to the land of paddy fields from Malayalam. Historians believe that the human settlements existed in these parts for at least ten centuries before Christ. Much evidence of New Stone Age civilisation can be seen in the hills. The Edakkal Caves has 6000-year-old rock engravings from the Neolithic age, though the recorded history of this district is available only from the 18th century. In ancient times, this land was ruled by the Rajas of the Veda tribe. Wayanad has the largest tribal population in Kerala with 8 scheduled tribes including the Adiyan, Paniyan, Mullukkurman, Kurichyan, Vettakkuruman, Wayanad Kadar, Kattuniakkan and Thachaanadan Mooppan. These communities have a number of symbolic oral narratives.
Chembra Peak: Located close to Meppady and just 8 km south of Kalpetta, stands the highest peak of the Wayanad Hill Range, the Chembra Peak which stands at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level. The Chembra peak offers a panoramic view of not only the entire Wayanad district but also a large chunk of Kozhikode, Malappuram and Niligiri districts. The peak, its surrounding lush greenery and the famed heart-shaped lake make it worth exploring. The peak is famous among trekkers for providing an excellent one-day trekking experience which takes about three hours from Meppady. On the way to the peak, you come across a heart-shaped lake which is believed to have never dried up and is a major tourist attraction. The view of the Banasura Sagar Dam from the peak is wonderful as the large dam stands out in the green blanket and appears to be a shiny silver metal disk sitting between the trees. Treks to the peak are organised by the Chempra Peak VSS which comes under the South Wayanad Forest Development Agency. The District Tourism Promotion Council provides equipment and guides on hire and charges for a group of 10 people are INR 500 for Indians and for INR 1000 for foreigners. You will have to take prior permission from the forest office in Meppady before trekking to Chembra Peak and this can be done through agents or from your hotel. Access to the peak is during daytime hours and the entry fee is INR 50.
Edakkal Caves: Famous for its exquisite rock and wall carvings, the pre-historic Edakkal Caves are two naturally occurring alcoves measuring at a massive length and width of 96 and 22 feet respectively and lie 1200 metres above the sea level. Owing to its precarious location, one needs to trek for one and half hours or around 4000 ft to reach the cave entrance, and another 45 minutes to reach the mouth of the cave. The Edakkal caves are of historical and archaeological significance as they have carvings that date back to the Neolithic era, the late Stone Age. The stonework in the interior of the cave is estimated to be as old as 5000 to 1000 BC. Edikkal which literally means a stone in between has a smaller rock has wedged in between 2 bigger ones to form a natural cave. In the truest sense of the word, it is not a cave but a natural fissure in the rock which has a heavy boulder on top. The cave thus has 2 levels. The first level of the cave can be explored through a small opening. Just opposite this is a passage that leads to another opening, this time in the roof. Here you come to the second level which is much bigger in size. To explore the caves visitors have to pass uneven boulders, an iron ladder and rock walls covered with fungi. The walls are covered with carvings of animal and human figures, some of which are hazy but are clear for the most part. The clarity of the carvings is even more surprising given the duration they have survived. There are three type of petroglyphs or rock carvings in the cave with oldest believed to be 8000 years old. The carvings include figures of animal, human or otherwise, squares, stars, crosses, wheels, triangles, spirals, tridents, plant and pot motifs. The human figures have masked faces and raised hair. There are ancient inscriptions as well with some pointing to a Tamil Brahmi script. Recently, historians and archaeologist have speculated that there is a link to the Indus Valley civilisation as they have found a carving of “a man with a jar cup”, one of the most distinct motifs of the Indus Valley civilisation. The caves are open between 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and the entry fee for Indians is INR 20 while foreigners pay INR 40. If you want to take a camera inside, it will cost you INR 25 and a video camera will set you back by INR 100 and it will cost you INR 70 for a jeep of 8 people.
Soochipara Falls: Also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, the Soochipara Falls is a three-tiered waterfall situated in Vellarimala. Surrounded by deciduous, evergreen and montane forests, this waterfall is regarded as one of the best waterfalls with the drive from Meppadi to the Sentinel Rock Waterfalls providing visitors with scenic views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad. The falls are 200 meters high that also offer a cliff face, ideal for rock climbing. Also, since the water falling from the waterfall forms a large pool, one can enjoy swimming and bathing in it. The water falling from Soochipara later joins Chulika River aka Chaliyar River after hills from Kerela and Tamil Nadu. The best time to plan a trip here is during the monsoon season because the waterfall is dry during the summers and closed for tourists from March to June. The falls are open from 9 am to 5 pm and entry fees are INR 80 per person with a camera incurring a charge of INR 50 per camera.
Meenmutty Falls: Located 29 km away from Kalpetta, the Meenmutty waterfalls is considered as one of the largest waterfalls in the region and the second largest in Kerala. It is also one of the most thrilling and beautiful natural attractions in Wayanad which is nestled in the lap of a jungle trek, making it a dazzling view. The bubbly water of this mighty waterfall flows in three tiers and is located near the Neyyar Reservoir area. In Malayalam, Meenmutty means a place where fishes are blocked. Cascading down three different tiers that each have an altitude of 300 ft, Meenmutty offers a splendid view and can be reached by an exciting 2 km jungles trek. This stunning fall is cuddled up in the verdant Mepadi forest range and makes up as one of the prime attractions for adventure seekers. It provides a fantastic view of over 1000 ft of cascading water and a picture-perfect backdrop for trekking activities. Moreover, one can also camp near the falls, but only after taking permission from forest officials. The amalgamation of the lush green mountains, blue water of the surging fall and the backdrop of bright blue sky offers of stunning contrast for photography. The falls are open between 9 am and 5:30 pm and adults pay INR 30, children INR 15 and foreigners pay INR 60 to access the falls. Cameras incur a charge of INR 75.
Kuruva Dweep: A beautiful little island in River Kabini, Kuruvadweep is the only island in India that is surrounded by fresh water. The island is about 950 acres in area and is surrounded by the River Kabini, a major tributary of the Cavery River and several other streams. Since it lies in the delta region, Kuruvadweep is actually a group of islands that can be accessed by boats or rafts. These boats and rafts are run by the Kerala Tourism Department in collaboration with Kerala Forest Department. The island has dense forests that are home to a variety of flora and fauna and hence is visited quite often by researchers and nature lovers. Certain areas can be explored by foot while others need to be explored in a boat or a raft. The Forest Department officials are very particular about keeping the islands unpolluted and unharmed. Thus, this is the place for travellers seeking uncontaminated natural surroundings. The climatic situation and round the year water supply through River Kabini, other rivulets and streams make it a suitable environment for flowers, orchids and herbal plants and numerous species of birds like parrots, hornbills and butterflies. There are also two small freshwater lakes on the island. During monsoons, elephants from nearby forests pass through Kuruvadweep Island, but this cannot be experienced by visitors as the Forest Departments shuts down entry to the island as the island is almost always flooded during monsoons. The island only allows 200 visitors a day between 9:30 am to 4:15 pm when the DPTC ticket counter closes. The Forest Department counter closes at 4:30. The entry fee by DPTC is INR 10 per person while the bamboo boat to island costs INR 5 per head. For the forest department fee, Indians pay INR 80 and foreigners pay INR 150. A camera will cost you INR 50 to take inside while a video camera will set you back by INR 100 and a guide will cost INR 100.
Chain Tree: The Chain Tree is a popular ficus which has many myths associated with it. According to one of the legends, the road up was built by a foreign engineer but the route was given to him by a local tribal youth who was shot to death by the engineer. His spirit is said to have stuck to the tree causing many accidents on the hair pin curve. Another story says that when the British first came to Wayanad, the Adivasi mahouts took them to the top the mountains. As the Portuguese were close behind them, they did not want the mahouts to go back and get the Portuguese and hence killed the mahout whose spirit lived in the area causing accidents. A local priest later chained the spirit to the tree with a chain over it.
Pookot Lake: A natural freshwater lake located around 2 km away from Vythiri, snuggled in the evergreen forests and wooded slopes, Pookode Lake is of the most pretty lakes in Wayanad. Also known as Pookot Lake, the lake is accessible via a motorable road and has an natural view. Panamaram river, which is one of the main branches of the Kabini River originates from the Pookot Lake and then joins the Panamaram valley. The Pookode Lake falls on the way back from Lakkidi towards Vythiri. It is situated at a distance of 3 km from the valley view area and 2 km away from Vythiri. The lake can be reached easily by hiring a car, bus, auto-rickshaw or taxi. This freshwater lake situated amongst the wooded hills in the shape of India’s map and is one of its kind in Kerala. A species of cyprinid fish known as Pethia pookodensis is known to be found only in the Pookode Lake. The lake also has a variety of blue lotus and other freshwater fishes present in large numbers. There are many wild animals, birds, and flies present in the forests surrounding the lake making it rich in fauna. The presence of scattered blue water lilies in the lake make it appear surreal. The pathway leading up to the Pookode lake is covered with thick bushes and tall trees adding even more charm to the place. The South Wayanad Forest Division is in-charge of the lake, and it is run by the District Tourism promotion council. The Lake can be visited between 9 am and 5 pm and boating is available till 5 pm while tickets are available for boating only till 4:30 pm. Entry fee is INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children. You need to pay INR 100 for 20 minutes of boating for 2 people and there is a fish spa which costs INR 50 for 10 minutes.
Lakkidi Viewpoint: The Lakkidi Viewpoint is a high altitude viewpoint offering a bird’s eye view of the city. Located 32 kilometres from Wayanad, at an elevation of 700 mts, the region mostly stays misty and offers a beautiful view of the hairpin turns down the hill. One should visit Lakkidi View Point for sunrise and sunset to get the best views. The viewpoint is also a popular picnic spot which is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Wayanad’.
Banasura Hill: One of the tallest mountains in the region, Banasura Hill is part of the Western Ghats of India having at an altitude of over 2000 metres. The hill has a wide variety of flora and fauna and offers a beautiful atmosphere for nature walks and trekking. The Kurichiya tribe, a tribe expert in bow and arrow, have their settlements at the foothills.
Karapuzha Dam: Situated in Wayanad and present on both sides of the Karapuzha River, Karapuzha Dam is one of the largest earth dams in India. The gushing water, swamped hills, scenic environment, and leafy islands make it a perfect spot for aquatic birds and a charming place for the tourists. Here, the water is 158 feet deep and the dam can be visited during the day preferably because the visibility gets low at dawn. This man-made marvel with its lush green surroundings and birds around is a great place to go to in order to unwind and relax amidst the natural surroundings. During the monsoon season, the water in Karapuzha Dam reaches to the brim making the scene quite amazing. The dam remains open throughout the year and is definitely worth a visit. The dam is open from 9 am to 6 pm, but entry is closed by 4:30 pm and there is no entry fee to the dam.
Banasura Dam: Lying in the lap of the Banasura hills, the picturesque Banasura Sagar dam is the largest earthen dam in the country and the second-largest in Asia. The view of the sprawling reservoir from the top of the dam is breathtaking. Adventures like speed boating are readily available, and a trek up to the Banasura Peak is filled with streams, diverse flora, fauna, lush tropical green and majestic waterfalls. An earthen dam, also known as an embankment dam is created by placing mounds of clay, sand, rock or soil. The view of Banasura Lake from the top of the hill is mesmerising. The dam is open between 9 am and 5 pm and you need to pay INR 10 per person to enter the dam. You can also do speed boating at INR 450 for a group of five people and if you want to do photography, you need to pay INR 20.
Thirunelly Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to the Lord Maha Vishnu, the Thirunelli Temple is surrounded by pleasing hills and lush green forests. It stands at the height of 900 meters, overlooking the mountainous landscape and thick forests, nestled on one side of the Brahmagiri hills, at the Karnataka border. Also known as the Sahyamala Kshetram and Kashi of the South, it is believed that the idol at the temple of Lord Vishnu was first found resting on a gooseberry tree before the temple was built, hence the name where nelli means gooseberry. Scriptures have been found that indicate that Thirunelly was an important centre of pilgrimage during the rule of the Chera king, Bhaskara Ravi Varma.
Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathy Temple: Valliyoorkavu Bhagavathi Temple is a temple with Goddess Durga as its presiding deity in three forms namely: Vana Durga, Bhadrakali, and Jala Durga. Situated about 24 kms from Kalpetta nearby Mananthavady, the temple was built in the 14th century. The main attraction of the temple is a 15-day festival held in February, March and April and this is the best time to visit. There is no entry fee to the temple and it’s open from 6 am to 8 pm everyday. The Valliyoorkavu Festival which is a festival dedicated to Goddess Durga is a 14-day festival which is held in March. The beginning of the festival is marked by bringing the sword of Valliyooramma from Palliyaara Bhagavathy Temple by the chief priest. The influence of tribal people in the festival is overwhelming since Tribal chiefs do the flag hosting on the 7th day. On all the 14-days, there are tribal dance performances and art acts which includes traditional ritual art form known as Kalamezhuthu performed at every night of the festival. The main attraction of the festival is on the last day when there are dance performances by tribal people using percussion instruments.
Thrissilery Shiva Temple: A famous pilgrimage place in Kerala, the Thrissilery Shiva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited along with the Lord Vishnu Temple at Thirunelli 19 km away. It is believed that the ancestral rituals at Thirunelli remain incomplete until one pays a visit to the Thrissilery Temple. The temple is also home to the shrine of Jala Durga installed, according to legend by Parasurama himself. It is located on the water tank that originates from the Papanasini River. The tank has never dried up till date. One of the oldest temples in the state, it is said to be built by the Rajahs of ancient medieval ages. The Malayalam festival of Meenam falls in March-April and Puthari is celebrated in October-November. Seasonally, the monsoons are best avoided due to heavy rainfall and summers can get quite hot with temperatures reaching 45 degrees. Winters are the best time to visit the temple.
Seetha Devi Temple: Located in Pulpally, the Seetha Devi temple is unique because it is the only temple in the state that worships the children of Sita, Lava and Khusha. The main deity of the temple is Goddess Sita, and the legends of Ramayana are closely related to the temple and its shrine. The temple pond is one of the largest, and according to legend, this is also the same spot where Sita disappeared into the earth. The temple was constructed by Sri Pazhassi Raja in the 18th century and the temple was later managed by the Kuppathode family and the Nair family of Wayanad. Till date, a member of the family is a trustee of the temple. Tipu Sultan tried to destroy the temple but retreated due to overpowering darkness at noon, believed to be a miracle of the Goddess. The temple festival takes place in January and is the best time to visit the shrine.
Puliyarmala Jain Temple: Dedicated to the Jain Tirthankar, Ananthanatha Swami, the Puliyarmala Jain Temple is also known as Anantnath Swami Temple and is one of the oldest temple in Kerala, built in the 13th century. The temple is also known as Tipu Fort because Tipu Sultan stored his ammunition inside the premises of the building. There is the influence of the Dravidian style painting all over the temple with beautiful carvings on the doors and on the stupa of the temple. The interior of the temple is peaceful and smoothly imprinted. It also has the largest brass idol in the premises and a carved statue of Lord Mahavir at the front door.
Koottamundu Glass Temple: An important pilgrimage site for Jains, the Koottamunu Glass Temple was created to honor the famous Jain saint Parshawanatha Swami. Situated 22 km from Kalpetta on the hill side Vellarimala, devotees come here to pay their respect and meditate. The interior of the temple is breathtaking and is decorated with mirrors reflecting the image of the idols inside the main temple.
Pallikunnu Church: One of the most popular and sought after pilgrimage centre in north Kerala, Pallikkunnu Church is also referred to as ‘Our Lady of Lourdes’. Situated about 19 km away from Kalpetta, this Latin Catholic Church was conceived by Fr. Jefreno in the year 1908. The Church is Latin-Catholic church and an important religious centre for Christians in Northern Kerala. A significant event of the year is Pallikunnu Church festival, which goes on for about 16-days from 2 to 19 February, with the 10th and 11th days being the most important ones. The most exciting feature of the church is that it has several rituals and practices similar to Hindu temples. Best time to visit Church is in February, during the Pallikunnu Church Festival. There is no entry fee, and the church is open between 7 am and 7 pm.
Varambetta Mosque: About 300 years old, the Varambetta Mosque is one of the oldest here. The whole complex is neat and well maintained and was built in remembrance of a Sufi saint. There is an annual festival which is held in the mosque in March where people all over the Wayanad come and participate irrespective of their faith.
Vythiri: A popular resort town famous for its old world charm of cottages, log huts & tree house accommodations cosily nestled in the forests of Wayanad, Vythiri is about 62 kms off Kozhikode and comprises of 18 villages. It is an ideal destination with little cottages and resorts to step back a little and relax. The Pookot Lake, Chembara Peak, Soojipara & Meenmutty Falls and the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary are its major attractions.
Kalpetta: A quaint town with a backdrop of majestic hills lurking in the shadows, lush green surroundings, fresh air and picturesque beauty, Kalpetta is located at a height of 780 m above the sea level. Encompassed with a mild fragrance of coffee and rustic lanes, the town is blessed with beautiful nature with scenic landscapes. It is also one of the major trading centres in Wayanad. Dotted ith ancient temples, Kalpetta has a stronghold on Jain communities with over 500 settlements in and around the region. Blessed with all the necessary elements of beauty, nature and charming romanticism, this sleepy town is a must on your Kerala itinerary.
Sulthan Bathery: Formerly known as Ganapativatom, Sulthan Bathery, is a quaint and peaceful town. The place came to be known by its new name after Tipu Sultan of Mysore invaded the region and used the Jain Temple located here as a battery. The pleasant weather in this beautiful town, coupled with excellent opportunities for shopping and spectacular historical sites makes the town of Sulthan Bathery a popular tourist destination that is visited by tourists all year round. Located at an altitude of 1000 meters above the sea level, the town boasts of a fantastic topography with majestic hills interspersed with valleys, cliffs and plains. Not only is Sulthan Bathery now the largest town in the district, but the place is also reputed for its tourism and commercial activities. The main attractions for the tourists are the pre-historic caves, jungle trails, sparkling streams and rivers and lush greenery of the undulating hills, along with many options to explore the city and its surroundings. Stopovers such as the Edakkal Caves, Chethalayam Falls, the Jain Temple, Muthunga Wildlife Sanctuary, Ambalavayal Heritage Museum and St. Mary’s and Yakoob Church make this town a suitable choice for every kind of traveller, having something for everyone to see.
Wayanad Heritage Museum: Also known as the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum, the Wayanad Heritage Museum is an archaeological museum that has an impressive collection of artefacts belonging to the tribes of the region. It has an intriguing collection of rare artefacts belonging to the 2nd century and some which have been dated to the Neolithic era and include regular daily items, decorative items, terracotta figurines, memorial stones, etc. This archaeological museum is divided into four sections namely: Devasmruthi, Gothrasmruthi, Veerasmruthi and Jeevenasmruthi. Each block houses various items that display the simplicity and intelligence and the rustic way of the living of the bygone era. From stones of primitive wars and tiger hunts to admiring stone idols of 12th to 16th century and belongings of Wayanad tribe, the museum brings alive the past of our country in a very special way.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary: Known to be the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a large variety of wild animals. This sanctuary is a part of the Nilgiri Bioreserve along with Nagarhole and Bandipur area of Karnataka and has been declared a Project Elephant site. You can spot these animals roaming around freely if you drive along the road. Being a dense forest situated amidst the hills of western ghats, the kind of animals you can spot here would include Indian Bison, tigers, elephants, and deer, Panthers, jungle cats, civet cats, monkey, wild dogs and bears. With the natural landscape and the wildlife it harbous, the sanctuary attracts photographers and wildlife enthusiats.
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: The second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary comprises of rare as well as endangered species of both flora and fauna. It is surrounded by the protected areas of Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu as well as Nagarhole and Bandipur in Karnataka. Founded in the year 1973, the wildlife sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which was the first biosphere out of the 14 present in India. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 345 square km and comprises of two parts namely Upper Wayanad and Lower Wayanad. Eucalyptus, as well as bamboo trees, are grown in the region.
Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary: A nature lover’s and bird watcher paradise, the Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary has a stunning population of birds thriving in the natural habitat preserved within the sanctuary. The sanctuary is a favourite amongst campers as well. Some rare species of birds and plants are also found here. Other than the well preserved natural terrain of the sanctuary, there are also some rock cut caves that one can explore.
Moving on from Wayanad, let’s go and explore the district of Malappuram
Malappuram is the most populous district of Kerala and is home to around 12.3% of the total population of the state. The district was formed on 16 June 1969 and is the largest district of Kerala with the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea on the eastern and the western borders respectively. The eastern part of the district is hilly and the western part is coastal region. During the early medieval period, the district was home to two of the four major kingdoms that ruled Kerala. Perumpadappu was the hometown of the Kingdom of Cochin, which is also known as Perumbadappu Swaroopam, and Nediyiruppu was the hometown of the Zamorin of Calicut, which is also known as Nediyiruppu Swaroopam. The term, Malappuram, which means over the hill in Malayalam, is derived from the geography of Malappuram. Several smaller hills are located in the midland area of the district with the coastal area being an exception for the general hilly nature of the district.
Bharathapuzha River: Flowing along a stretch of 209 km, Bharathapuzha River, a west-flowing river is also called River Nila. It is the second longest river in Kerala and provides shelter to 11 reservoirs with Malampuzha dam being the largest and there are several mentions of the river in the ancient Hindu scriptures. Several famous Hindu temples like Thiruvilwamala Sree Rama Temple, Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple, Chamravattam Ayyappa Temple and Panniyur Sree Varahamurthy temple lie on its bank. This sacred river is believed to bestow salvation to those who are cremated on its banks, and accordingly sons pay homage to their fathers by performing the Pithru Tharpanam ritual on the Karkidaka Vavu day.
Arimbra Hills: Also known as Mini Ooty, the Arimbra Hills is located about 1050 feet above sea level and is famous for its picturesque location and gorgeous views of the surrounding valleys and rolling hills. It is a favourite weekend getaway for the locals. Its resemblance to Ooty draws many tourists each year.
Padinharekara Beach: One of the best places to experience sunset, the Padinharekara Beach is located at the very end of the famous Tipu Sultan Road where you can also get mesmerised with the view of the rivers Bharathapuzha and Tirurpuzha before they merge with the Arabian Sea. You can find palm trees surrounding the white sandy beach, attracting tourists in large numbers.
Keralamkundu Waterfalls: A stunning natural water body, the Keralamkundu Waterfalls is falls down several feet forming a pool at the bottom. The pool is apparently formed by years of weathering caused by the cascading water. A basin at the base of waterfalls where people can enjoy a dip in the pond is something everyone wants to have an experience. The water flows in from the forest of the western ghat and forms a pool of crystal clear water at the base of the falls. Also, it is believed that the water has many medicinal properties. The falls are open between 8:30 am to 6 pm and has an entry fee of INR 10 per person.
Biyyam Kayal: A beautiful backwater lake, the Biyyam Kayal is lined with tall coconut trees and is famous for recreational activities and thrilling water sports that attract tourists every year. The annual boating competition is held at the lake during the festival of Onam. The lake is open between 6 am to 8 pm daily.
Kottakkunnu: Famous for the ruins of a really old fort, Kottakkunnu is a mesmerising garden situated on a hill with its beauty often compared to the picturesque Marine Drive in Mumbai. Located on the top of a cantonment hill, the fort belonged to the Zamorins or the monarchs of Kozhikode. Inside the fort, one can find famous monuments like Vettakkorumakan Temple and the Shiva Temple, both of which are famous for their architecture. The temples famously exhibits murals and relics of the Malabar. The fort was also the site where the British Shot the revolutionary Variyan Kunnath Kunjahammed Haji in 1921. There is also a water park, an adventure park, an art gallery, a 16D cinema, an open air theatre and a balloon park. It is open from 10 am to 9:45 pm.
Kovilakoms: The royal residence of the ruling family of Nilambur, the Kovilakoms consists of old palaces, some of them over 200 years old, and also some new houses where the current royal extended family stays. The brilliant traditional architecture, the rich cultural heritage and the history attracts tourists in large numbers. Entry fees are INR 5 per person.
Keraladeshpuram Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Keraladeshpuram Temple is situated around 3 km off Tanur and is believed to be one of the oldest Hindu temples in Kerala. Legend has it that St. Francis Xavier visited the temple in 1546 AD. The temple was later pillaged by Tippu Sultan and was rebuilt recently.
Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple: Situated in the remote town named Melmuri, the Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple is a unique temple with no idol of the deity. It was founded by Adi Shankaracharya and is often associated with the legend of Mahabharata. The forms of the Goddess worshipped here are Lakshmi, Durga and Saraswati. The fundamental god revered in the sanctuary is Goddess Kadampuzha, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva. The origin of the name Kadampuzha is considered to have been formed from Kadan Ambu Eitha Uzha which means “The Place where Kiratha Shot the Arrow” where kadan is kiratha, ambu is arrow, eitha is shot and uzha is place. The temple is open from 4 am to 12 noon and then again from 3:30 pm to 7 pm.
Thirunavaya Lava Mukunda Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Narayana Vishnu, the Thirunavaya Lava Mukunda Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desas and has been mentioned in the scripts written by Vaishnava Alwars. It has a religiously rich history and traditional temple architecture. Performing the sacred rituals for the deceased family members at this temple is believed to relieve one from the cycle of birth and death. The most majestic part of the rituals here includes the usage of the water from the River, same as in the fashion followed in Kashi. What is noteworthy is that the structure standing today is not the same as the original one, as it was destroyed twice in 18th century and 20th century, and somehow still retains the original charm. The temple is open daily from 5 am to 11 am and then again from 5 to 7:30 pm.
Alathiyoor Hanuman Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Alathiyoor Hanuman Temple is the only temple which has Lord Rama as the presiding deity but is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple is believed to be established by Vashisht Muni around 3000 years ago and is believed that anyone making a wish here is blessed and all their dreams come true when they offer prayers.
Pazhayangadi Mosque: A 500-year-old monument built in the memory of a Mohammed Shah, the Pazhayangadi Mosque, also known as Kondotty Thangal is a stunning structure and a fabulous example of the Mughal style of architecture made of pristine white marble. The mosque is a bustling pilgrim centre, especially during the Kondotty Nercha festival in February or March
Valiya Juma Masjid: One of the oldest mosques in Kerala, the Juma Masjid is an important pilgrimage site situated on the Kozikhod-Nilmbur-Gudallur road and there are some mausoleums of the Malappuram martyrs located in the vicinity of the Mosque. This place is prominently visited during the four day annual festival, which is held every year in the month of April.
Nilambur Teak Museum: Established in 1994, the Nilambur Teak Museum is the first teak museum in the country. They have a collection of information in the form of articles and comprehensive documents that also mention the historic and artistic value of the wood. The museum is open between Tuesdays and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm and has an entry fee of INR 10 per person.
Nedumkayam: A stretch of jungle near Malappuram, the Nedumkayam is famous for the rich foliage of rain forests and part of the Nilgiri Bioreserve. It is mostly known for its dense forestation with several species of flora and fauna including some rare and endangered species and several mesmerising water bodies making it is a perfect attraction for nature lovers. The region has a charming little guest house built during the colonial times, from where one can observe and capture photographs of the surrounding forest. You can spot elephants, bison, tiger, rabbit, blue monkey, bear, wildcat and deer while you are on a visit here. It is open between 9 am to 4 pm and entry fees are INR 10 for for adults and INR 5 for students
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Spread over a cluster of islands, surrounded by beautiful hillocks lies a bird watchers’ paradise, the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary. It sits right at the spot where River Kadalundi Puzha flows into the Arabian Sea. Easily accessible from Malappuram and Kozhikode, the bird sanctuary is host to about 100 species of native birds, and about 60 species of migratory birds. The sanctuary finds itself 200 m above the sea level. Open between 8 am and 8 pm, the sanctuary has an entry fee of INR 25 per person.
Our next destination is Palakkad. Also known as Palghat, Palakkad is situated about 350 kms north of state capital of Thiruvananthapuram and 50 kms southwest of Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. Known as the rice bowl of Kerala, the word Palakkad is commonly believed to be a fusion of two Malayalam words, Pala, which was the name given to barren land during the Sangam period, and Kadu, which means forest. Palakkad is also the gateway to Kerala due to the presence of the Palakkad Gap in the Western Ghats.
Palakkad Fort: A beautiful historical monument that is well preserved, the Palakkad Fort was built in the 1766 AD by Hyder Ali and is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. This picturesque fort is located in the heart of Palakkad town at the foothills of the Sahyadris range in a labyrinth of dense forests and crisscrossing cascading rivers. The mighty fort is spread over an area of 60,702 sq m and is famous for its architecture, which displays the efficiency of the French craftsman. The fort is in the shape of a square and is supported by walls and bastions which are square shaped as well. Earlier, the entrance to the fort was via a drawbridge, which has now been replaced by a permanent one in its place. The grounds of the fort served as stable for the horses and elephants of Tipu Sultan’s army. It is placed between the fort and the Palakkad Town Hall and is known as the Kota Maidanam. It is currently used as the venue for cricket matches, exhibitions and public gatherings. There is an open-air auditorium here as well, which is known as Rappadi. The Palakkad fort also houses some other smaller attractions such as the Hanuman temple, Martyr’s column, a small shrine called Anjaneya Swami Temple, a garden known as Vatika Shilavatika and a sub-jail. The fort is also known as the Tipu’s Fort and depicts the old tales of bravery and courage. The fort is open from 8 am to 6 pm and though there is no entry fee to access the fort,you need to pay INR 20 for a camera and INR 50 for a video camera as camera fees.
Kollengode Palace: A traditional shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and flaunts authentic Kerala and European architectural style, the Kollengode Palace has a large collection of murals from all over Kerala and is a beautiful edifice on the south-east side of Kollengode. The name comes from the blacksmith or Kollen community that lives in this village. This museum includes a range of different temples, manuscripts on dry palm leaves and megaliths, and artefacts from the forests of Thrissur and Wayanad. Along with that, this place holds Veerakallu of Hero Stones that are ancient stone engravings and sculptures of heroes. The palace is open all day and has no entry fees.
Meenvallam Waterfalls: A magnificent 5 step waterfall in Kerala, the Meenvallam Waterfall is also known as Meenvallom and is popular with locals who come to view the gushing falls that falls from over 100-125 feet. Meenvallam waterfall is the final one out of the ten between Palakkad and Mannarkkad and the waterfall passes through the Kalladikode Hills and disperses into different falls near River Thuppanad. The best time to visit this attraction is after monsoons, in October when the weather is more manageable and the falls are full. What’s interesting about these waterfalls is that they are often kept a secret. Situated in dense and unknown forests, they are mostly out of reach. There are a total of 7 waterfalls in Meenvallam. The final one is called Meenvallam Waterfall which consists of 10 steps. Each step is around 20-25 feet high but only 8 steps of this waterfall can be seen and 2 can be accessed. This area is mostly covered by rubber plantations, making the terrain extremely slippery. The waterfall originates from Siruvani Dam in Coimbatore along with Kanjhirampuzha and Attilla waterfalls. The waterfalls cascade from over 45 meters into Thappanadu River, which then flows into Bharathapuzha River, where the Meenvallam Waterfalls are located. It is surrounded by the extension of Silent Valley National Park. despite the terrain, this place is a beautiful picnic spot. The falls are open from 9 am to 5 pm and has an entrance fee of INR 20.
Pothundi Dam: One of the oldest irrigation dams in India, the Pothundi Dam is a stunning engineering marvel that has a core wall made of quicklime and jaggery. The dam is built across River Padipuzha and River Meenichiladipuzha forming a reservoir that expands over an area of 30 square kilometres. The serene surroundings of the dam with hills in the backdrop of the reservoir is a breathtaking sight.
Malampuzha Dam: One of the largest reservoirs of Kerala, the Malampuzha Dam is surrounded by the Western Ghats on all sides. A combination of a masonry dam with a length of 1,849 meters and an earthen dam with a height of 220 meters, the dam is 355 feet high and crosses the Malampuzha River, which is a tributary of Bharathappuzha, Kerala’s second largest river. The dam has many attractions nearby like the rock garden, ropeway, amusement park and visitors often enjoy boating here as well. It is the largest reservoir in Kerala and is served by a network of two canal systems. Its construction was initiated in 1949, and it took about six years to finish the project. The Malampuzha Dam has a total catchment area of 145 sq kms, and the reservoir has a capacity of 8000 sq m of water. Some major tourist attractions near Malampuzha Dam are Entrance Garden, Yakshi Garden, Japanese Garden, Upper Garden and viewpoint, Cable car ride, Fish shaped aquarium, Toy train for kids, Fantasy Park, Spiced fruits camp along with some excellent trekking tracks and river baths. The dam is open from 9 am to 8 pm daily though the Snake Park is closed on Mondays.
Malampuzha Gardens: Situated in the foothills of the Western Ghats, the Malampuzha Garden is near the Malampuzha Dam reservoir which is built on River Malampuzha, the tributary of River Bharatapuzha, Kerala’s largest river. The landscaped garden is a perfect picnic spot for tourists. The scenic beauty of the garden on the banks of the reservoir is a treat to the eyes. The garden occupies a huge expanse of land on the foothills of the Ghat. The well-maintained park consists of flower beds, tall trees, stretches of well-maintained grasslands, artificial water bodies. There is something for everyone here. Apart from the lush green garden, there is an aquarium, a rock garden, mesmerizing waterfalls and an amusement park. The entire area is adorned with captivating sculptures and structures. It also houses the famous Yakshi Statue sculpted by the renowned sculptor Kanai Kanhiraman. It is a perfect picnic location for art and nature lovers. Visitors can also go boating in the serene backwaters of the Malampuzha Dam or pay a visit to the aquarium where one can find a variety of species of fish. Pedal boat rides are a favourite here. The garden is also known as the Vrindavan of Kerala. The gardens are open from 9 am to 8 pm and children under the age of 12 pay INR 10 and adults pay INR 25 as entrance fees. Camera incur a charge of INR 100 while a video camera will incur a charge of INR 100 as camera fees.
Seethargundu Viewpoint: A famous viewpoint of the region, the Seethargundu Viewpoint is located on a cliff and offers a stunning view of the surroundings making it a perfect attraction for nature lovers and photographers. The dense forests all around the point are home to monkeys and other wild animals which one can spot, if lucky.
Vadakkanthara Temple: Dedicated to the Goddess Karnaki who finds mention in the Tamil epic Silapathikaram as a vengeful wife and a legendary woman, the Vadakkanthara Thirupuraikkal Bhagavathy Temple is the only temple in Kerala that celebrates the goddess in her complete idolic form. Apart from its religious reverence, the Temple is known for its sprawling architecture exemplifying the beautiful traditional Kerala architecture. Apart from Karnaki, the temple also has smaller temples for various other deities like Lord Ayyappa, Lord Ganesha, Lord Nagaraj, amongst others. The temple opens everyday from 4:30 am till 11:30 am and again from 4:30 pm to 8 pm daily.
Kalpathy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kalpathy Temple is a famous temple situated just 3 km away from Palakkad city. The temple is renowned for its 7-day Rath Yatra held in the month of November which draws devotees from across the country.
Thiruvalathur Randu Moorthy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, the Thiruvalathur Randu Moorthy Temple is considered to have religious importance for the Hindus. Devotees believe that the idols are self-manifested the idol of Lord Shiva is believed to possess immense powers and Lord Vishnu helps to balance these powers. The temple also has idols of Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati and Sri Ayappan.
Jain Temple: Believed to be more than 500 years old, the Jain Temple at Jainimedu is well known for its granite walls which are 32 feet long and 20 feet wide. Located on the south banks of River Kalpathy, this ancient temple is enshrined with the images of Jain Tirthankaras and Yakshinis.
Attapadi Reserve Forest: The Attapadi Reserve Forest is a protected forest area in a valley of the Nilgiri Hills expanding over an area of 250 square kilometres. The region is famous for the breeding the Attapadi Black goats. The beautiful reserve borders the Silent Valley National Park and serves as an informal buffer zone.
Silent Valley National Park: With its lush green forests and beautiful views of the rich flora and fauna, the Silent Valley National Park is a popular destination for nature as well as wildlife lovers. Spread across an area of 89 sq km, the Silent Valley National Park is located in the Kundali Hills of the Western Ghats. With its long, detailed history and the unique status of a rainforest, this national park is indeed a sight to visit. This park, though smaller in size compared to other national parks in India, is the last representative virgin tract of tropical evergreen forests in India with its lofty and majestic peaks and the several rivers that run through its length. The park has a strong faunal and floral population, with many of the endangered species residing here, unharmed by the outer environment. The ones who are most commonly seen here are the elephant, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, gaur, wild pig, panther and sambar. The vegetation of this park is the tropical, moist evergreen kind. It is also almost next to possible to ignore the presence of the River Kunthi, which descends from the Nilgiri Hills and then passes through this region, enchanting visitors with its crystal clear water, devoid of any impurities. Taking about four hours to cover the park, you can visit between 8 am to 1 pm. Entry fee is INR 50 per person and you need to pay INR 25 for a camera and INR 200 for a video camera as camera fees.
Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Best known for its constant efforts to preserve the dwindling tiger population, the Parambikulam Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary is the most protected ecological terrain of the Western Ghats. Surrounded by hills and rivers and endowed with peninsular vegetation and wildlife, this reserve has minimum human interference. Some of the most prized animals found here include lion-tailed macaques, Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, wild boars, sloths, king cobra, Travancore kukri snake, and the Western Ghats flying lizard among others. Flora includes teak, sandalwood, neem and rosewood trees. This sanctuary is also home to four different indigenous tribes- Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar and Mala Malasar. The Kannimara teak is not only the most massive living teak here in the sanctuary but in the world. It has a height of 39.98 m and circumference of 7.02 m. During 1994-95 it has also been awarded the Maha Virksha Puraskar. A local tribe here believes that when someone tried cutting this tree, blood spurted out from the place where the cut was made. Since then it is worshipped as the Virgin Tree by the Parambikulam’s tribal people. The Reserve is open from 7 am to 6 pm and you need at least two to three hours to explore the place. Entry fees for light vehicles is INR 50 and for heavy vehicles it is INR 150. There is a jungle safari in the reserve where the safari package includes a naturalist guide, drinking water, vehicle, washroom and shopping facilities and costs INR 200 for both Indians and foreigners on all days and children under the age of 10 get to go on the safari free.
Ottapalam: A quaint little town situated on the banks of the Bharatpuzha river Ottapalam is blessed with the bounty of untouched natural beauty and has a large number of palm trees. Ottapalam finds many mentions in ancient history as it was the host site for many cultural events during the reign of the Zamorins of Calicut. The gently swaying palms against the blue skies of Ottapalam sure do make for a lovely sight to behold. Always bubbling with activity, this region is quite famous among the locals for its history and its present as well. The Chinakathoor Puram which is held at the Chinakathoor Pooram temple of this town is one of the most well celebrated religious festivals of Kerala. Ottapalam was a major part of the ancient Valluvanad Swaroop dynasty. Valluvanad was a feudal state extending from the Bharatpuzha river in the south to the town of Pandalur in the north. According to local legends, the last ruler of this place gave away vast stretches of the land to one of his governors before leaving on a holy pilgrimage. The scenic beauty of this place has made it quite popular among photography enthusiasts, and you can often find Tamil and Malayalam film stars shooting here.
Attappadi: Lying on the foothills of the Silent Valley National Park, Attappadi lies at a distance of 38 kms from Mannarkkad. A perfect vacation getaway if you are a nature lover, it is also a great place to be for those who appreciate wildlife. Attappadi is one of those pleasantly beautiful locations you surely do not want to miss. Most of this magnificent and alluring village town of Kerala comes under government protection as the Reserve Forest area. Attappadi is a perfect amalgam of mountains, forests, rivers and has a hilly terrain. Thus it is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Kerala. Not only is Attappadi associated with nature’s beauty, but it is closely related to religion as well. People here have deep seated belief in Lord Murugan. The inhabitants of this region are mainly tribal people, who have been the natives of this area for a long time.
Nelliampathy: If you see the mist floating in the air and a pleasant aroma of coffee teasing your nostrils, a chain of majestic mountains peaking from all around and a wonderful weather relaxing your nerves, then you are not dreaming, you are in a small beautiful hill station of Kerala known as Nelliyampathy. The height of the hills ranges from approximately 467 m to 1572 m and it has an extremely calming effect on all who view it. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy. The Pothundy Dam is a beautiful locale with facilities for boating and is a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamil Nadu. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also well known for its orange cultivation. Not far away from Palagapandy is Seetharkundu where one can have a fantastic view of the valley and a 100 m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy Estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian Gaur, elephants, leopards, Giant Squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers.
After the beauty of Palakkad, our next destination as we move south is Thrissur.
Pregnant and still grieving the death of her fiancé, historian Megan Buchanan is forging ahead on a dream project: to restore to its original glory the landmark hunting lodge her own great-great-grandfather built on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. With the help of her fiancé’s caring best friend, it’s sure to draw much-needed tourist revenue to Cape Hudson, a town rich in southern history.
However, it’s Spring House, the caretaker’s cottage on the grounds, that holds the most intriguing history for Megan. In a cache of old letters, she’s drawn into the captivating life of a young woman who embarked on her own dream adventure a century ago. With each one, Megan is swept away into her enthralling world—and all its secrets. But Megan has secrets too.
Now, as one woman’s past unfolds in each revealing letter, Megan will discover more about herself and about the emotional tides of family that can be weathered with those you love and trust the most.
Our first stop in Kerala is the Kasaragod district which is situated in the rich biodiversity of Western Ghats and is known for the Chandragiri and Bekal Forts, Chandragiri River, historic Kolathiri Rajas, the natural environment of Ranipuram and Kottancheri Hills, historical and religious sites like the Madiyan Kulom temple, Madhur Temple, Ananthapuram Lake Temple and Malik Deenar Mosque. Located close to the Kerala-Karnataka border and closer to Mangalore than the capital of Tiruvanthapuram, Malayalam, Kannada and Tulu are the most widely spoken languages here, along with others like Beary, Konkani are also used by some people. The Malayalam spoken here is influenced by Tulu and Kannada and vice versa.
Bekal Fort: The 300 years old defensive mechanism which is the largest and well-preserved fort makes it one of the best places to view the Arabian Sea from the fort’s observation tower which was once used to fire the cannons. The impressive strength of the fort as well as an old mosque near this fort beings tourists here. Open from 8 am to 5 pm daily, the entrance fee is INR 5 per person for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.
Chandragiri Fort: Built-in the 17th century by Sivappa Nayak of Bedanore, today only a remnant of its original majestic form of the Chandragiri Fort remains which is protected under State Archaeology Department. The Chandragiri Boat Club nearby offers boat trips to the nearby islands and palm groves, and on some of the islands you can get down and camp. The local fishermen will accompany you in the boat rides, so you will get to know the unabridged stories of the locales, and any compelling story, legend or folklore about the fort, if there is any. Full of artistic and historical significance, this place is visited by locals as well as tourists for the breathtaking view of the estuarine that Payaswini river forms with the Arabian Sea. The fort is open from 8 am to 5:30 pm and entrance fee is INR 5 for Indians and SAARC nationals while foreigners pay INR 100.
Source
Hosdurg Fort: Also known as Kanhangad Fort, the Hosdurg Fort is a majestic fort which can be seen from distance and was established by the Ikkeri dynasty king Somashekhara Nayaka. Located about 30 km south of Kasaragod. The unique feature to this fort are its round bastions. Today, this fort houses a school and a few government offices. If you are visiting the fort, also visit the popular Nityanandashram which is comprise of nearly 45 caves. Another major spot lying in the proximity to the fort is the Poonkavanam Karpooreshwar Temple. Open 24 hours a day, entrance fee to the fort is INR 5 per adult.
Ananthapura Lake Temple: The only lake temple in Kerala, the Ananthapura Lake Temple is a serene Hindu temple built in the middle of a lake in the village of Ananthapura, with the main deity being that of Ananthapadmanabhan Swami. It is believed that Ananthapadmanabhan settled down here first and then moved to Thiruvananthapuram through a cave which lies to the right-hand side corner of the lake. The cave is said to be a natural structure that separates Ananthapura and Thiruvananthapuram and therefore, these two temples retain the name of the same deity. Carved with mythological tales of Puranas the Ananthapura Lake Temple is a perfect example of nature living in total harmony with each other and it is said the presence of a crocodile named Babiya, believed to be a protector of the lake, never attacks humans even when they use the tank for taking a bath and humans also never treat it differently. Located 12 km north or central Kasaragod, the temple is open from 5:30 to 12:30 pm and again from 5:30 to 7:30 pm and there is no entry fee.
Mallikarjuna Temple: Located in the heart of the town, the Mallikarjuna Temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples here and is renowned for its fascinating musical theater and festival of Yakshagana. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in form of Mallikarjuna, the annual festival which is held in March or April each year for five days at a time, the festival consists of cultural programmes with the last day reserved for the Yakshagana. Built by the Iyer kings, the walls of the temple are adorned with spellbinding paintings and the temple is open 24 hours a day, every day and has no entry fees.
Trikkanad and Pandayan Kallu: Popularly known as the Dakshina Kashi, Trikkanad and Pandayan Kallu is a temple sitting near the Bekal Fort. Located about 2 km from Trikkanad is the Pandayan Kallu, a rock ascending from the sea which is popular for swimming. The legend behind this rock is when one of the Pandya kings attempted to attack the temple, Lord Shiva changed the temple into a rock. A place nearby known as Palakkunnu Bhagavathi Kshetram is flocked by visitors during the festival of Bhurani held every year.
Bela Church: Believed to be the oldest church in the district, the Bela Church was constructed in year 1890 and is also referred to as ‘Our lady of Sorrow Church’, and is currently managed by the Mangalore Diocese. The church is built in a gothic style and is open daily from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Nellikunnu Mosque: Housing the tomb of Thangal Uppappa, the Nellikunnu Mosque is famous for its Nercha fest which lasts for a week in the month of November. Known for its hypostyle structure, it is known for its Uroos, a ritual celebrated by the local people to remember the demise of the saint Thangal Uppapa. It takes place once every two years and usually in the month of Dul Hajj. Open evert day, all day, there is no entry fee to visit this mosque.
Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary: A paradise for nature lovers, the Parappa Wildlife Sanctuary offers visitors not just nature’s beauty and tranquillity, but also the chance to see many wildlife creatures such as turtle, porcupine, pig, Malabar Hornbill, slender loris and jungle cat in their natural habitats. Blessed with thick cover of evergreen forest and many plants with medicinal value, this sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers. Located approximately 50 kms southeast of Kasaragod, the sanctuary is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily and does not charge entry fees.
Malom Wildlife Sanctuary: A popular tourist in the Kanhagad region, the Malom Wildlife Sanctuary is all about lush green tropical green forest and variety of wildlife. The sanctuary has a variety of animals and birds including peacock, the Malabar hornbill, wild pig, flying squirrel, rhesus monkey and porcupine etc. If you are lucky, you may also get to see the king Cobra and the Python. A blend of magnificent tropical fauna and wildlife, this sanctuary is home to animals like Elephants, Tigers, Bison, Deers and about 200 species of vivid birds, in case bird watching is your forte. The flora comprises of some rare herbs and other medicinal plants. The sanctuary is about 64 kms southeast of Kasaragod and is open from 7 am to 4:30 pm with an entry fee of INR 20 per adult.
Kammadam Sacred Grove Wildlife Sanctuary: Considered to be the biggest holy plantation in Kerala and linked with Bhagavathi Temple, the Kammadam Sacred Grove Wildlife Sanctuary represents a fascinating blend of sacredness and nature. Adorned with evergreen forests, medicinal plants, shrubs and orchids, one can also witness animals like fox, snake, bat, monitor lizard and civet etc. The sanctuary also houses various types of birds and butterflies.
Kareem’s Forest Park: A paradise for nature lovers, scientists, biologists, environmentalist and students of Ayurveda, Kareem’s Forest Park is believed to be the country’s leading private sanctuary. Situated about 48 kms from Kasaragod, this place is packed with plethora of medicinal plants, flora and fauna. In fact it is like melting pot where different species of animals, insects, reptiles, birds, wild animals, micro-organisms and amphibians inhabits. Holding a collection of exotic flora with a variety of endemic plants, shrubs, and medicinal plants. This place is also home to vivid fauna offering magnificent visuals of nature at its best and all of it created by a single man Abdul Kareem, who turned a barren land to this paradise, what it is today. Open 24/7, there is no entry fee as such, but you can book the tour packages to the forest which start from INR 1300 per person.
Manjeshwar: A beautiful coastal town famous for cashew nuts and a pilgrimage site, Manjeshwar is located about 30 km north of Kasaragod, close to its border with Karnataka. Manjeshwar has a rich history of unity in diversity and today houses about 15 mosques and several temples. This beautiful little coastal town sits over an area of 24 sq kms and is home to about 8500 inhabitants. The official language of the town is Malayalam and Tulu however; most of the locals also speak Kannada due to its proximity to Karnataka. The clean and fresh air, the natural surroundings and the simple lifestyle of the locals are worth experiencing at least once. The town is situated on the southern banks of River Manjeswaram at Bengara Manjeswar are two old Jain Bastis. Bengara Manjeswar is the fishing village of Manjeshwar which also houses the memorial a great poet of Kannada literature, Sri Govind Pai. The Kanwatheertha Beach is a local favourite which was formed as the sea settled in a formation that looks like a swimming pool.
Madhur: Famous for an ancient Srimad Anantheswara Vinayaka Temple, Madhur is located about 8 km northeast of Kasaragod. This temple with striking architecture and admiring turrets and gables is situated in front of the flowing River Madhuvahini giving the temple a mystic charm. The temple is dedicated to Srimad Anantheswara and is also referred to as Madhur Temple or Lord Shiva Temple. The sculptures and wooden carving in the temple depicting the epic Ramayana are awe-inspiring. According to local legend, Tipu Sultan who wanted to attack this temple changed his mind after quenching his thirst after drinking the water from the temple well. One can still witness the mark which is believed to have come from Tipu Sultan’s sword at the temple.
Kumbala: The ancient town of Kumbala situated about 26 km from Kasargod once served as the seat of power for Raja of Kumbala. Today, this place is famous for the temple of Lord Gopalkrishna which is quite popular among the devotees. Previously, this place was named Kanipura, but later it got the name, Kumbala, as the kings of this dynasty ruled the region and have a great influence on the region. This port of the era gone by holds the relics of history and is famed for its tranquility.
Ajanoor: The most striking feature of this small village of Ajanoor, located about 30 kms from Kasaragod is its Madiyan Kulom Temple. If you are looking for spirituality and tranquility amidst nature, the Madiyon Kulom temple is dedicated to Lord Bhadrakali and also houses the idols of Bhagavathi, Kshetrapalan and Bhairavan. The prayer is performed three times in the temple, in noon by the priest while in morning an d evening by a local sect called Maniyanis. A festival organised in May, June, December and January attracts devotees in large numbers.
Nileshwar: Also known as Nileshwaram, Nileshwar is a major town that is located about 42 kms south of Kasaragod. Nileshwaram is also referred to as the cultural capital of the Kasargod district and lies nestled between two rivers, the Nileshwaram Puzha and Thejaswini Puzha. With the Arabian Sea to its west, the town is breathtakingly beautiful and a spectacular site to be at. The name Nileshwaram comes from one of the names of Lord Shiva, Neelakanteshwaran, which means the blue-necked one. The name denotes that Nileshwaram is a land of Lord Shiva. Another story that is related to the name of the place is of Sage Neela, who mounted the deity of Lord Siva thousands of years ago. Nileshwaram once served as the seat of the Nileshwar Rajas of the Kolathiri family and was also associated with the war between the Nileshwar Rajas and the Bednore Nayaks. The town is particularly famous for housing numerous ancient temples that have significant meaning and importance attached to them. In fact, Nileshwar is the perfect place to be for those who wish to explore the rich culture and traditions of Kerala, as well as witness some age-old architectural masterpieces with their near and dear ones. A major town, this town is considered to be a wellness retreat with its own set of backwater stretches, a beach, and a hermitage not yet ruined by tourist influx. You can also go on a houseboat tour and cruise for a few days.
Cheruvathur: A small cosy town about 47 km south of Kasaragod and only 10 kms south of Nileshwaram, Cheruvathur is known for being the birthplace of great 19th century poet Mahakavi Kuttamath of Kerala. His work on musical drama and poem compilations is an excellent source of literary inspiration in Cheruvathur. Though the name was changed to Kuttamath Nagar, it is only officially and most people still call the town Cheruvathur. The etymology of the name has its origin in the Malayalam words “cheriya pathu ooru” which means ten small places. Cheruvathur is a peaceful suburban retreat for a short weekend trip.
Valiyaparamba: Believed to be one of the most gorgeous backwaters in Kerala, Valiyaparamba is the perfect backwater resort to push your cares away. The lush green groves and emerald green waters add on to the mesmerising pictures. Located about 50 km south of Kasaragod, this coastal island can be visited anytime, but the best time is during the sunrise or sunset time.
Moving on south, our next destination is the district of Kannur. Formerly known as Cannanore in English and Cananor in Portuguese, Kannur was part of the Malabar district in the Madras Presidency during the colonial British rule. The largest city of North Malabar region and 6th largest urban agglomeration in Kerala, Kannur was an important trading centre in the 12th century with active connections with Persia and Arabia. It served as the British military headquarters on India’s west coast until 1887.
Kannur was mostly ruled by the famous Kolathiri Rajas or kings and part of the original city of Kannur was under Kerala’s only Muslim Royalty called the Arakkal. The guerrilla war by the Pazhassi Raja, the ruler of Kottayam province, against the British had a huge impact on the history of Kannur.
Payyambalam Beach: The highlight of Kannur, the unspoiled Payyabalam beach has golden sand and foamy white waves with an incredibly peaceful and inviting aura. The approach to the beach is through a small crossover bridge that is built over a narrow canal. To the right of the bridge are the memorials of Kannur’s important political personalities who have passed away in the recent decades. Palm trees and casuarinas dot the shores in various shades of green and the beach is also a great place to relax and revitalise and spend time in boating, swimming and adventure activities.
Kannur Lighthouse: Being Kerala’s first lighthouse and Kannur’s only one, the Kannur Lighthouse is a pretty big deal. Standing tall at the height of 75 feet, this lighthouse was first built in the early months of 1903. Fully functioning for over a century, this cylindrical concrete tower has managed to withstand the attacks of the Arabian Sea. In the balcony of the lighthouse, there is a light which is lit during the evening as a beacon to sailors. From the lighthouse, you can see panoramic views of the town of Kannur as well as the Arabian Sea, Baby Beach and even parts of the Payyaballam beach. As you go up the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse, you can see a variety of ancient navigational equipment. There is a musical fountain show in the evenings and a small auditorium where you can see documentaries about the lighthouse. There is a Lighthouse Museum next to the lighthouse where exhibits include ancient and rare lights, lenses and lamps that were used in the 18th century and a whopping five-ton full-fledge lighthouse equipment display shipped over from the Kutch Strait in Gujarat. There are intricate and immaculate models of different ships and vessels on display here, as well as a giant optic lens used in Minicoy from 1885 to 1962 weighing more than 6 tonnes. The lighthouse and the museum are open from 9 am to 6 pm and there are no entry fees.
Baby Beach: As its name suggests, Baby Beach is a tiny yet attractive beach along the shore of the Arabian Sea with a panoramic view of the azure Arabian Sea. Baby Beach is actually an extension of the Payamballam Beach and is one of those rare rocky beaches where people can sit on the giant rocks and just stare at the waters. Sunrises and sunsets are very popular here.
Muzhappilangad Beach: Also known as the longest drive-in beach in India and the best in Asia as well as the one of the cleanest beaches of Kannur, the Muzzhapilangad Drive-in Beach is Kerala’s only drive-in beach. The concept of drive-in beaches means that you can drive right to the sandy shores of the beach and it is not very often that you get to drive along a 4 km long shoreline that offers an open road with no traffic and a stunning view. You can also go paragliding, parasailing, powerboating and many other water sports at the beach. There is no fee charged to enter the beach but if you want to drive a vehicle on the beach, you are charged INR 10.
St Angelo Fort: The focal point of interest for many dynasties of domestic as well as the international origin and has seen many bitter battles in the quest to conquer it, St Angelos Fort is a popular tourist spot enjoying a panoramic and unobstructed view of the Arabian Sea and also overlooks the mesmerising Mopilla Bay, a natural harbour. The magnificent stone fort was built by the first Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Francisco de Almeida, in the early 1500s who then imprisoned his successor, Alfonso de Albuquerque because he did not want to give up the reins of his power, leading to a series of bitter events and conspiracies. Walking around, you can almost picture the battles that this fortress has seen. There are tombstones of the soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the fort, barracks and an old chapel here that you can explore. Kannur’s first ever lighthouse also stands next to the fort. About a century later, the Dutch took over the fort and had it restored and renovated. Bastions were built in and around the fort and the structure brought up to date. St Angelos Fort was eventually sold to the Arakkal royal family during the 18th century. At present, the palace of the Arakkal family stands right next to the fort and has now been converted into a museum. The last known holders of the fort were the British and they did their part by building Kannur’s first lighthouse near the fort. St Angelos is not in its best condition right now, having been destroyed in many areas, the effect of the many wars and years that have passed. The fort is open from 8 am to 6 pm and there is no no entry fee to explore the fort. However, INR 20 is charged as a parking fee, and a toll of INR 20 is levied for using the Cantonment Road.
Arakkal Museum: Celebrating the memory and grandeur of Kerala’s only Muslim royal family – the Arakkal Ali Rajas, the Arakkal Museum was previously a majestic palace of the royal family and their actual place of residence. Today converted into a museum, the palace is an example of muslim architecture and design. The Durbar Hall of this palace, which was once the official venue of gathering for the kings and their nobles, has now been converted into the Arakkal Kettu Museum and is managed by the Arakkal Family Trust. Many artefacts dating to the rule of the Arakkal Dynasty and various relics of the royals are on display at this museum. The Arakkal Dynasty had gained the limelight because of their dominance and monopoly in the spice trade, cultivating excellent relations with Hyder Ali, the Dutch and even emperor Tipu Sultan. The Arakkal Museum does a great job at throwing light on these amazing achievements of the Arakkal Dynasty. There are exhibits on display that evidence the glory of the Arakkals in the maritime trade, including many of their equipment. A lot of the artefacts on display here also evidence trade relations of the Arakkals with the European colonial powers. Apart from the family heirlooms and heritage items, other interesting items on display include the royal copies of the Holy Quran, an old-fashioned telephone, swords, daggers and other artillery used by the royals and even a telescope. Personal items like the Pathayam, which is a chamber used to store precious items and valuables, an Adhara Petti – the royals’ document holder and even the family’s royal seal is also on display here. The museum is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and the entry fee is INR 10.
Sundareswara Temple: A very popular temple in South India, the Sundareswara Temple’s main diety is Lord Shiva who is worshipped and adulated as Lord Sundareswara, the ‘God of Beauty’. Naming the temple Sundareswara was an attempt to remind every visitor that ‘Everyone is beautiful’ and that one should look for the beauty in everything. Famed as one of the largest temples in the district, this majestic temple was built in 1916 with the interiors designed and decorated by the renowned artist and ardent Shiva devotee, Sri Chaithanyaall Swami. Sree Narayana Guru, a social reformer in Kerala, came up with the initiative to build this temple with the idea that people from the lower classes no longer barred from entering places of worship. The Sundareswara Temple also organises an eight-day annual festival between April and May each year, and it stands to be one of the most celebrated festivals in the south. The dates of this festival follow the Malayalam calendar and start from ‘Pooyam Nakshatram’ during the ‘Meenam’ month. The celebration of this festival is quite a pompous affair with lights, decorations and cultural programmes. On the last day of the festival, the ritual of Arattu or the holy bath is held at the Payyambalam Beach where devotees worship the lord and take a bath in the waters of the beach. After this, a celebratory procession is carried out with elephant rides and fireworks, marking the end of the festival. The temple is open from 5 am to 12 noon and then again from 5:30 to 8 pm.
Mridanga Saileswari Temple: Located in Muzhakunnu, the Mridanga Saileswari Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the Goddess Durga and is believed to be among among the top 108 Durga temples in ancient Kerala, the deity here being installed by Lord Parshurama, who is considered to be the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Enshrined as Mridanga Saileswari, a four armed Goddess Durga, she holds a conch and a disc in the arms behind, while one front arm is blessing a devotee and the last one rests on her waist. The temple which was in ruins for a long time has currently been restored to its original royal form. The most important festivals celebrated in the temple are Navratri and Pooram Mahotasavam. The idols at the temple were stolen thrice from the temple premises, but each time, the thieves experienced strange paranormal activity and were forced to return the idols and after these instances, people started believing in the powers of the temple even more. The temple is open from 6 am to 12 noon and then again from 5:15 to 8:30 pm.
Mappila Bay: Also called Mopila Bay, Mappila Bay is a natural harbour which used to serve as a major port connecting the Malabar Islands to faraway lands in its past. The Bay is surrounded by some colonial-era architecture, in the magnificent Fort St. Angelo, built by the Portuguese in the 15th century. There’s also the Arrakulam Palace and Museum on the other side of the harbour, dedicated to the Arakulam kingdom that ruled the Cannanore city-state in the 1500s. There are boating facilities that will take you around the harbour. However, it is advisable to stay only in the inland waters and avoid the coastal waters, that can turn unfavourable as the weather changes.
Parassinikkadavu Snake Park: Regarded as one of the finest snake sanctuaries of Asia, the Parassinikadavu Snake Park is the pride of the south. It is one of the most prominent reptile preservation centres in the country and is the only one in Kerala. Home to over 150 different species of reptiles like crocodiles, monitor lizards and snakes, both venomous and non-venomous, the Parassinikadavu Snake Park also goes a long way to preserve and protect many wild mammals, marine creatures as well as rare avifauna, both endemic and migratory. Established by the Visha Chikista Kendra, a medical institution that offers diagnosis and treatment of snakebites, the main idea behind establishing this park was to explain superstitions about snakes, educate the common man about these species and create the right awareness among them. Each enclosure of the different species of animals has a brief description of their habitat, moods, peculiarities and interesting titbits that educate the visitors about these exotic and truly extraordinary species. The park boasts of housing one of the most venomous snake in the world, the infamous King Cobra with a few of the king cobras here who are adult males having grown to their maximum capacity of 30 feet! Other striking and magnificent snakes include the Spectacled Cobra, Russel’s Viper, Pythons, Pit Viper, Rattlesnake and even Kraits. There are many different water snakes and rat snakes here too, both venomous and non-venomous. The Parassinikadavu Snake Park also boasts of a healthy population of amphibians like crocodiles and monitor lizards, including both- full grown males to newborn hatchlings. Apart from reptiles, you will also find porcupines, jackals, foxes, eagles, storks, peacocks and monkeys here. There are statues of different animals dotted along the entire park, but the most famous figure here is Steve Irwin’s statue holding a crocodile. Since the park also aims at dispelling unjust and false superstitions regarding these creatures, the staff at this park are trained to explain with demonstrations how these superstitions are void and meaningless. There are some shows conducted here by professionals who acquaint the laymen with the amazing capabilities and skills of many of these astounding creatures. Open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, entrance fees to the park are free for those below the age of five and above the age of 80 while those between the ages of 6 and 17 pay INR 20, adults between the ages of 18 and 79 pay INR 30.
Pallikunnu: Another major town close to Kannur is Pallikunnu which is best known for its ancient temple, the Shree Mookambika Temple, dedicated to Goddess Mookambika. As per belief, this temple was established by Adi Shankaracharya who first installed the idol in this temple. The presiding deity of the temple is believed to be representing three goddesses namely Saraswati, Mahalakshmi and Shakti. During the months of October and November the temple attracts a large number of devotees during Navratra Festival. Another main attraction of the city is the Kanathoor Maha Vishnu temple.
Pappinisseri: The Moonu Pettumma Palli is a famous mosque which is located in the town of Pappinisseri. Popularly known as Kattile Palli, the mosque is popular for its Kattile Palli Nercha festival. The Aaron church, Shree Vadeswaram Shiva temple of Aroli Village and Keecheri Paalottu Kavuis Temple are the other major attraction of the town.
Parassinikkadavu: About 16 km away from Kannur, Parassinikkadavu is a town popular for its Muthappan Temple and Parassinikkadavu Snake Park. The Muthappan temple, dedicated to Sree Muthappan is the only Hindu temple in the state which witnesses a Theyyam performance daily as per ritual.
Peralassery: At a distance of about 15 km from Kannur is the town of Peralassery, known for its Peralassery Subrahmanya Temple. It is believed that on their way to Lanka to free Goddess Sita, Lord Ram and Lord Laxman, stopped at the temple for a while and they left a bangle here. A significant religious and spiritual site, do visit this one if you find yourself in the town of Peralassery.
Madayipara: Perched upon a hillock near Pazhayagandi, Madayipara is renowned to have some of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire state. Often compared with the famous Tulip Gardens of Amsterdam, Madayipara is better known as ‘the land of flowers’ and changes its appearance with the seasons. Spring decorates the entire hillock in a spectacular gown of vivaciously coloured flora and as summer approaches, the hillock shapeshifts into a glamorous golden field filled with knee-high grass. Come autumn, the place is dotted with leaves that paint the field a raging crimson red while the monsoons decorate the whole 700 acres in striking shades of green. Decorated with a luxuriant variety of 300 flowering plants and more than 30 species of thick grass, Madayipara’s rich ecology draws the attention of 150 different species of stunning butterflies, including the Atlas butterfly, the world’s biggest butterfly. Over 100 species of birds, both endemic and migratory, call Madayipara their home and make this hill station a bird lover’s paradise.
Ezhimala: A 286-meter high hill, located surrounding a pristine beach, Ezhimala is situated at a distance of 38 km from Kannur in Payyanur. Ezhimala has a few carved stone structures, and the herbs found in this location are famous for their unusual medicinal properties. The term Ezhimala is an amalgam of the words ‘ezhu’ and ‘mala’, which mean seven and peaks respectively. A popular hill station in the region of Kerala in southern India, this site also has a rich history as it is believed that the seven peaks have been dropped here by Lord Hanuman while he carried the Sanjeevani herb to Lord Lakshman in Lanka. The Naval Academy Ezhimala (NAVAC), which is the largest in Asia, was inaugurated here in 2009. Ezhimala holds religious value for the Buddhist community, as it is believed that Lord Buddha had graced Ezhimala with his holy presence.
Taliparamba: A small town situated about 25 km from Kannur, Taliparamba is surrounded by lush green fields all around along with ancient tile-roofed houses which together make the place appear so much more beautiful. The Valapattanam and Kuppam rivers flow through this town which is full of temples, mosques, and churches. However, the most frequently is the Taliparamba Sree Krishna Temple which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. A saint named Maharshi Shambara meditated here, and he is the one after whom the temple is named. The front elevation of the temple is simple, but as one gets inside the temple, the main chamber of the temple is filled with exquisite sculptures belonging to the 15th and 16th centuries. The Kanjirangad Vaidyanatha Temple, St. Mary’s Forane Pilgrim Church and the Syed Nagar Mosque are some other tourist attractions in the city. Taliparamba is an important trading centre of hill produce and spices. History has it that the original inhabitants of Taliparamba were the Perinchalloor Brahmin community and initially, there were 2000 Brahmin families who settled down there, but eventually all of them moved out leaving only 45 families today. The District Agricultural Farm, which was started in 1905, and the hanging bridge at Kuttiyeri and Kooveri are famous landmarks of the town.
Kavvayi Islands: Recorded in the travel writings of scholars and explorers Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo, Kavil Pattanam, now called Kavvayi, has been recreated into a beautiful island. Spread over the districts of Kannur and Kasaragod, the Kavvayi islands, also called Kavvayi Kayal are the largest backwater island group in north Kerala. Historically, Kavil Pattanam used to be the hub for the spice and gems trade, through the port of Malabar, which also brought in precious Damascus steel. The port, however, was closed after it was banned by the British in the 17th century and the name Kavil Pattanam was changed to Kavvayi by Sir William Hogan. The backwaters are fed by four rivers and streams – the Kavvayi, Kankol, Vannathichal, Kuppithodu and Kuniyan rivers. The largest island of the island group is Valiyaparamba, and the backwaters near it are also known by the same name. The Payyannur municipality, in an attempt to draw in more tourists, organises kayaking events and has developed a park near the ferry at Kavvayi, which has a breathtaking view of the entire backwaters. Visitors can sit and watch the boats go by, and also avail boating facilities. One of the most popular adventures sports here is water zorbing, where one has to get inside a large inflated plastic ball, to be able to “walk” on the water without getting wet
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary: Being the northernmost wildlife reserve in Kerala and the only wildlife sanctuary in Kannur, the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is quite a big deal. Amidst these sky-touching trees and mesmerising greenery, many exotic wildlife species have marked their territory. Taking a safari through the thick verdure and venturing deeper into the forests, you will encounter many striking and remarkably extraordinary species of animals as well as birds. There are nature camps organised at the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary that attempt to bring people, especially students closer to wildlife. The sanctuary also has a few trekking locations that have attracted the attention of many tourists. The landscape of the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is an interesting one that ranges between a depth of only 50 metres above sea level to an altitude of 1145 metres in the skies at Katti Betta, its highest peak. Dotted with towering trees and dense foliage, this sanctuary is adorned with a beautiful mix of a diverse forestation- evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous. The diversity in the forestation and the tropical climate makes the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary an ideal home for more than 23 species of mammals. Going on a safari will get you close to the native residents of the sanctuary like the Sloth Bear, Mouse Deer, Elephant, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar and Gaur. If you’re in luck, you may also be able to spot leopards, tigers and other wild cats in all their majestic glory. Another interesting resident of this incredible sanctuary is the Malabar Giant Squirrel or the Flying Squirrel, a rare species, and it is an absolute delight to watch these wonderful creatures in action. There are also about 22 species of reptiles and 23 species of amphibians that will make your visit to the sanctuary all the more exciting, like the rare and lethal, King Cobra. The main water body around this sanctuary is the Cheenkannippuzha river, a haven for ornithologists and avifauna enthusiasts. The sanctuary is has more than 188 different species of birds, including scores of endemic and endangered species, including the Great Pied Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, the Blue Winged Parakeet, Ceylon Frogmouth, Broad Billed Roller and Nilgiri Wood Pigeon as well as 144 beautiful species of butterflies. The sanctuary waters now support over 39 species of fish and are on the way to expand a lot more. Entry to the sanctuary is INR 15 per adult while children below the age of 12 pay INR 7 per child. Foreigners pay INR 150 per person and heavy vehicles need to pay INR 150 while light vehicles pay INR 75 per vehicle and other vehicles pay INR 20. You will need to pay INR 50 for a guide while a video camera will set you back by INR 150 and an ordinary camera will cost INR 25 to take inside. Also note that that smoking, liquor and polythene bags are not allowed within the premises of the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary which is open from 8 am to 4 pm.
Palakkayam Thattu: Tucked away in the verdant greenery of the Western Ghats and soaring at a dizzying altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, Palakayyam Thattu is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala. Adorned with luxuriously dense greenery, sky-touching trees and majestic hillocks, the view that Palakayyam Thattu enjoys is one that you will rarely find. Owing to its considerable altitude, this hill station is often visited by low hanging clouds that render the entire atmosphere misty and fresh, making it a popular trekking destination.
Paithalmala: A small hill station tucked in the forest of Kodagu, Paithalmala has one of the most beautiful peaks in the Western Ghats. Standing tall at 4500 ft, Paithalmala is the tallest peak in the district and a very popular trekking destination. A 6 km long trek from the base to the top of the hill takes you through dense forests and grasslands, ultimately leading to a watch tower at the top. The watch tower is the highlight of the whole trek as one get to see breathtaking scenery of the Kodagu forests, Coorg Forests and the adjoining areas. Small detours to the nearby ponds or lakes located via the help of the local people can add to your experience of Paithalmala.
As we go southwards, the next district we will be visiting is Kozhikode.
Also known as Calicut, Kozhikode is the second-largest urban agglomeration in Kerala and the 19th largest in the country. During classical antiquity and the Middle Ages, Kozhikode was dubbed the City of Spices for its role as the major trading point of Indian spices. A historical city, it was the capital of an independent kingdom ruled by the Samoothiris or the Zamorins in the Middle Ages. The exact origin of the name Kozhikode is uncertain, but according to many sources, the name Kozhikode is derived from Koyil-kota, meaning fortified palace. The name also got corrupted into Kolikod, or its anglicized version Calicut. The word calico, a fine variety of hand-woven cotton cloth that was exported from the port of Kozhikode, is thought to have been derived from Calicut. It is the historical capital of Kerala as the history dates back to 1498 AD when Vasco da Gama landed in Kappad, near Calicut.
Kozhikode was the capital of an independent kingdom ruled by the samoothiris or the Zamorins in the Middle Ages and later part of the erstwhile Malabar District under colonial British rule. Arab merchants traded with the region as early as the 7th century and the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama landed at Kozhikode on 20 May 1498, opening a trade route between Europe and Malabar. A Portuguese factory and the fort was constructed in Kozhikode for short period between 1511 and 1525, until the Fall of Calicut. The English landed in 1615 by constructing a trading post in 1665, followed by the French in 1698 and the Dutch in 1752. In 1765, Mysore captured Kozhikode as part of its occupation of the Malabar Coast.
Backwaters: Kozhikode has always been a popular for its backwaters which are a distinctive feature and have been generously blessed with abundant natural beauty, dense greenery and exotic flora and fauna. The palm-fringed rivulets, lakes and canals of Kozhikode are decked with engaging beauty. Unlike most rivers that flow towards the direction of the seas and oceans, backwaters are a part of the river that has little or no current and so boating in the backwaters allows you to move against the river’s natural current. Canoli River and Kallai River are blessed with these wondrous backwater streams, and they provide a great opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes of this town. Cruising along the placid backwaters of the Canoli River and Kallai River along the paddy fields, coconut lagoons, narrow canals and coir villages is a treat to everyone looking for a break from the monotony and hurry of our fast-paced lives.
Kozhippara Falls: Easily accessible by roads, the Kozhippara Falls are situated on the borders of Kakkadampoyil on the Malappuram -Calicut District divide in Malappuram. Providing a stunning sight, these falls are best known for its swimming, bird watching and jungle trekking. Also known as Kakkadampoyil Waterfall, the Kozhippara waterfall is located on Kuthradampuzha river area.
Thusharagiri Waterfall: Lying in the Western Ghats, Thusharagiri Fall cascades down as three waterfalls. Located in a small tribal village, the name of the falls means snow covered mountains. It is a trekking and rock climbing haven and the trekking trails towards Lakkidi Ghat passing through thick foliage & lush, green surroundings offers its visitors sheer delight.
Beypore Beach: Located about 10 kms from Kozhikode, Beypore Beach is a beautiful beach on India’s western coastline. The beach is located at the mouth of River Chaliyar and the beautiful skies over the pristine sea and the long stretch of golden sand and the tall coconut trees make for a fabulous vacation destination. Sunsets are a special treat to the eyes and early morning joggers find it a wonderful place to run. Beypore or Beypur port was a bustling trade port in ancient India and the 1500 year old shipbuilding yard in the beach is famous. There is a 2-km long stone bridge leading to the sea which is a major attraction. Beypore is also famous for its water sports. You can also find dolphins swimming in the sea at Dolphin Point which is lined by tall and lush-green coconut trees. One can go boating in the sea as well to spot some friendly dolphins in the sea.
Kozhikode Beach: Also known as Calicut beach, Kozhikode Beach is located on the Malabar Coast and the beach road was named as Gandhi Road after Mahatma Gandhi paid a visit to Calicut in 1934. The place has always been prominent for hosting public meetings and has a long drive from Beypore in the south to Kappad in the north. The beach is ideal for witnessing the orange sunsets in Calicut. It is the most visited beach in Calicut as it is the central beach of the place. As a result of the 28 km long drive; Beypore, Payyanakkal, and Marad; Kallayi, Kuttichira and Thekkeppuram; Vellayil, South Beach and Valiyangadi; Kamburam, Putiyappa and Elathur, all beaches are a part of the Calicut Beach or the Kozhikode Beach. This entire stretch is known as the Beach Road. Located on the western side of Kozhikode town, the beach is easily accessible through 4 roads over bridges in the city. Kozhikode beach has ample illumination and paving stones. The other attractions here include a Lion’s Park and an aquarium, which serve as excellent spots for children visiting the beach. It is open on all days of the week from 8 am to 8 pm and the beach is home to two piers, situated towards the middle of the sea. Each of these piers dates back to a century ago. In the early hours of the morning, people can even spot some dolphins.
Kappad Beach: Famous for being the landing point of Vasco de Gama, Kappad Beach is lined with palm trees and sedimentary rocks. Also known as Kappakkadavu, the beach is perfect for swimming, boating, beach games and other water activities as well as activities like Paragliding, Snorkelling and Surfing. Along with the Pookat Lake and Kadalundi Bird Santuary, Kappad makes your visit to Kozhikode complete.
Thikkoti Light House: Said to be built on the remains of a shipwreck, the Thikkoti Lighthouse is a major attraction and is located on a rocky shoreline. Best known for the scenic views it offers as well as several species of nomadic birds, the lighthouse is a must visit when you are in Kozhikode.
Mananchira Lake and Manchira Square: Spread over 3.49 acres, Mananchira Lake is a freshwater man-made lake in the heart of the city and is fed by a natural spring and was originally the bathing pool of the 14th century ruler Zamorin Mana Vikrama. Manchira Square was opened in 1994 and previously was known as Manachira Maidan and was famous for the football matches played here. Today, it is an architectural wonder in the middle of the city with its open theater, fabulous landscaped lawns, and musical fountains. There is an artificial hill and has been kept as a reminiscent of the ancient times due to its traditional architectural style.
Peruvannamuzhi Dam: Situated 60 km off Kozhikode, the Peruvannamuzhi Dam is a beautiful place surrounded by verdant greenery. The reservoir here offers speed boats and row boats to ride across the Smaraka Thottam, a garden built in the memory of freedom fighters in the region. There is also a crocodile farm & bird sanctuary located a close to the dam for the wildlife lovers. The Dam is easily accessible by bus from Kozhikode.
Tali Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Tali Temple is one of the oldest temples in the region. It is popular for its five different religious ceremonies performed every day. The Malayalam New Year is the best time to visit the temple.
Lokanarkavu Temple: Situated in Memunda, the Lokanarkavu Temple is a revered Hindu temple and an ancient heritage site. The name Lokanarkavu is a derivation of the Malayalam word Lokamalayarkavu; lokam meaning world, mala meaning mountain and kavu meaning grove. The shrine is a subtle memorial for the valiant heroes of Vadakkanpattu of the bygone era and associates itself with Kalarippayattu, the local martial art. According to lore, the local martial hero, Thacholi Othenan used to worship here everyday. The temple is replete with fascinating murals, frescos and sculptures which are a wonderful depiction of the heroism of those days. Believed to be the official family temple of 500 ancient Aryan Nagariks who migrated to Kozhikode along with their ancestors, the temple enshrines Goddess Durga. There are two adjacent shrines dedicated to the gods Vishnu and Shiva and in addition, a quaint water tank in the centre of the premises accentuates the beauty of the temple built in the spectacular Kerala style architecture with traditional patterns. Pooram is an important festival at Lokanarkavu and it is also the only temple where the unique folk dance Poorakkali is performed during the annual festival. The temple is open from 4 to 9 am and then again between 5 to 7 pm.
Azhakodi Devi Temple: Situated in the heart of Kozhikode city in Thiruthiyadu, the Azhakodi Devi Temple which is also known as the Azhakodi Devi Mahashekthram, is an ancient and renowned Devi temple. The presiding deity Bhadrakali poses in a calm disposition; the other seven maternal incarnations being Brahamani, Maheshwari, Kowmari, Vaishanavi, Vaarahi, Indarni and Chamundi. A Shivalinga is also present in the temple premises and is highly revered. The shrine is the only existing place of worship in Kerala which has two Devis as the chief deities. The majestic idol of Lord Shiva installed in the temple complex symbolises the very famous sensuous dancing sequence of Lord Shiva along with Goddess Parvathi at dusk as Anthimahakaalan. The idol of Nataraja symbolises the rhythmic tandava danced by Lord Shiva. However, the major attraction of the Azhakodi Devi temple is the Kizhakkekavu or the kavu on the east. The Goddess Kali enshrines the Kizhakkekavu and the shrine is thronged by pilgrims day in and day out. Navratri Mahotsav and Vijaydashmi are the main festivals of the temple and are celebrated with grandeur. The temple is open from sunrise to sunset.
Valayanad Temple: Situated in Valayanad near Kozhikode, the Sree Valayanad Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagvathy or Goddess Parvathy. Believed to have been built in the 14th century by the Zamorins, the temple has a unique architecture and is different in plenty of aspects from all other Devi temples in the area. The shrine faces north and has four magnificent gopurams which each face a direction. The poojas performed in the Shatheya temple are based on the Saktheya injunctions and are in accordance with the practice of Ruruji worship. The Moosads practice the Kashmiri way of prayers and worshipping. Built in the traditional Dravidian style of architecture, the Sreechakra is a major attraction of the temple. Designed by Sivayogi Thayyavur Sivasankar, this sreechakra is placed in the sanctum sanctorum which is believed to be the permanent place of residence of the Goddess. The sanctum sanctorum also has carvings of the Sapthamathrukkal or the seven mother Goddesses on its southern walls. Besides this, the temple also enshrines idols of Lord Shiva, Godess Thevaara Bhagavathi, Lord Ayyappa, Lord Vigneswara and Ksethrapaalan or Lord Subrahmanya and is open between 4 to 9 am in the morning and then again between 5 to 7 pm in the evening. A legend of the temple goes that Valayanad Bhagvathy was the family deity of Zamorin and he believed that she favoured Valluva Konathiri, the king of Valluvanad. To get to the truth of the matter, Zamorin prayed to the Goddess to appear before him, which she did. Zamorin requested her to follow him to his kingdom, the Devi agreed but had one condition. She said she will follow Zamorin only till the time he doesn’t doubt her but if he turns back to look, the Devi would retreat. Zamorin did as was told; however, some time later he couldn’t hear the tinker of Devi’s anklets so he turned to look. As per the condition, the Devi decided to go back but as a present to Zamorin’s devotion she said she would throw her bangle to Kozhikode. The place where the bangle would fall would have her presence forever and always. The bangle fell is the spot where the temple stands today.
Varakkal Temple: Located at the West Hill area, the Varakkal Temple is the 108th and also the last Devi Temple built by Lord Parshuram, the legendary founder of Kerala. A common myth states that Lord Parshuram ploughed this area in order to make the Devi appear in front of him. Popular for promoting cultural arts in the ancient era, the temple is thronged by thousands of devotees annually to perform Vaavu Bali, a local ritual performed for the departed souls. Enshrined by Goddess Bhagvathy, the temple has smaller shrines of Ganapati, Dakshinamoorthy and Sree Ayyappan. Another major festival of the temple is Navratri which is celebrated with a lot of zeal and fervour. Legend goes to say that Lord Parshuram prayed to Goddess in the Threthayuga, an ancient period of time when the Devi appeared before him and promised to be present at a particular place on the Vaavu day or the full-moon night to bless his followers. On hearing this, Lord Parshuram established the temple at the spot and over the years, the was abandoned. The Zamorin then took responsibility of the temple, got it renovated and started the traditions again and till today, the temple is managed by the successors of Zamorin. The temple is open between 5 am to 12 noon and then again from 5:30 to 8 pm.
Mishkal Palli Mosque: Believed to be constructed around 700 years ago at Kuttichira, the Mishkal Palli Mosque was named after Nakhooda Mishkal, an Arab merchant who established this mosque, which doesn’t have any minarets making it unique.
Muchundi Palli: This 13th century mosque with beautiful wooden carved ceilings and double tiled roofs is built in the unique temple style of architecture. The mosque is well known as Sheikh Zainuddin Makhdoom II’s mosque, who is the author of the famous book Tuhafat Ul Mujahideen. The mosque houses a stone slab inscribed in Arabic and an earlier form of the Malayalam script which depicts the story of the Zamorin king of the area.
Juma Masjid: Located at Kuttichira, this mosque can be traced back to 14th century with the capacity to accommodate around 1000 worshipers at a time. Built in Kerala style of architecture, it has beautiful wooden carved ceilings. Among the mosques in Kerala, this mosque has the largest floor area and is open to Muslims only.
Matri Dei Cathedral: B uilt in Roman style of architecture, the Matri Dei Cathedral is one among the older churches of Malabar, tracing back its history to 1513 AD and housing a 200-year old portrait of St. Mary. It is also referred to as Mother of God Cathedral.
Sargaalaya Kerala Arts & Crafts Village: Located near the beautiful backwaters of Iringal near Vadakara, the Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts village is a wonderful initiative by the Department of Tourism, Kerala. An exquisite blend of brilliant hand crafted designs and age old traditions, the centre boasts of rich craftsmanship displays and some incredible handiworks of local artisans. Sprawling over a vast 20 acres of land, the village was inaugurated with the objective to promote tourism along with encouraging the local arts and crafts. Boasting over 60 stalls, the village also houses The Crafts Design and Technology development centre which facilitates training for enthusiastic craftsmen and helps them learn new techniques and skills in traditional handicrafts. The village hoists the annual Sargaalaya Iringal International Festival between December 20th and January 5th every year where artisans and craftsman from all over the world are invited to display their talents and skills. The village is open from 10 am to 6 pm and entry fees for adults is INR 30 while children pay INR 15.
Pazhassiraja Museum: Located on East Hill, the Pazhassiraja Museum has been named after the great Pazhassiraja Kerala Varma of the Padinjare Kovilakom of the Kottayam Royal Family. The museum is famous for its various archaeological remains such as antique bronzes, ancient paintings and the historical umbrella stones etc.
Regional Science Centre & Planetarium: Situated in the JafferKhan Colony, the Regional Science Centre and Planetarium sprawls over 4,000 sq m and aims at encouraging and propelling science along with spreading awareness of intimidating science techniques and methodologies in everyday lives through active interaction and participation. The gallery showcases umpteen experiments and models with an objective to inculcate scientific temper in the society. The premises house a quaint well-maintained dome-shaped planetarium with a seating capacity of 250 people and airs an absolutely spectacular hybrid show of the stars and movement of the planets. The 3D show puts up another enthralling show and the centre has three permanent galleries as well as an audio-visual auditorium, science demonstration section, children’s activity nook, library and a telescope corner for star gazing. The centre is open from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm. The 3D show timings are 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm. The planetarium show timings are 12 noon, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm. Entry fees are INR 25 for adults and INR 15 for children.
Art Gallery: If you are a Raja Ravi Varma fan, then this museum is definitely up your alley. And if not, you can still appreciate the Indian themed paintings using western style techniques of oil on canvas and the life-like form of European Art.
Indian Business Museum: Inaugurated in 2013 and sprawling over an area of 23,000 sq ft, the Indian Business Museum was opened with the objective to safeguard and perpetuate the rich business history of India. The museum showcases the business history over the years and was constructed by spending INR 1.5 crores. Today many Indian business giants including the Tatas, Godrej, Reliance, Reserve Bank of India and Infosys have set up their gallerys inside the museum and also has a Malabar Pavillion. The museum is closed on weekends and during the week is open from 10 am to 5 pm.
Deepanjali Lamp Museum: Possibly the only lamp museum in India, the Deepanjali Lamp Museum is located in Puthiyangadi and houses an extensive collection of lamps dating back to the 19th century including primitive brass lamps, wick lamps, indian heritage lamps, gas lamps, cart lamps etc.
KIRTADS: Located seven km from Kozhikode, the Kerala Institute for Research, Training and Development of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes or KIRTADS, is a museum that chronicles tribal lives of Kerala. It exhibits tools and devices used by tribal communities and have a good library with books on Anthropology and Sociology.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Spread over a cluster of islands, surrounded by beautiful hillocks lies the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary which is located on the Kadalundi River. This virgin land, 200 m above sea level, is home to 60 migratory and more than hundred native birds. The river flowing inside forms a union with the Arabian Sea at a point called Kadalundi Nagaram. This river houses a variety of fish, crabs, and mussels. You must visit the sanctuary between December and April when the forest seems no less than a green blanket and most of the birds are visible. The sanctuary is open 24 hours and there is an entry fee of INR 25 per person.
Sarovaram Bio Park: Located in Kottooli near Kozhikode, Sarovaram Bio Park is a venture by the government to conserve the rich mangrove forests and wetlands of Kerala. Situated adjacent to Canoly Canal, the bio reserve has been developed on an eco-friendly theme and it aims to preserve and protect its rich ecosystems and biodiversity. Abounding in natural beauty and blooming with verdant greenery and wildlife, the park is a wonderful break which allows visitors soak in the rejuvenating environment. Spread over 200 acres of protected land, the Sarovaram Bio Park is a part of the extended project undertaken by the Government of India to protect the identified 27 wetlands. Other attractions in the park include a canal walkway, boating facilities, otter park, butterfly park, bird sanctuary, aquarium, amphitheatre, floating rafts, musical fountains and a children’s park. Built in the traditional Kerala style architecture, the park is especially popular among locals especially morning and evening joggers. The park is open between 10 am and 7:30 pm with an entry fee of INR 30 per person.
Beypore: A cosy coastal town tucked away near Kozhikode, Beypore is located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River and the town is covered in vibrant shades of green and surrounded by mystic shades of blue. When this area was under the reign of Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, it was named Sultan Pattanam. In spite of being a small town, it is very famous for ship-building. The shipbuilding yard here is renowned for the construction of Urus and Dhows, the traditional Arabian trading vessel. This craft is over 1500 years old now and is carried out carefully by the expert craftsmen. The flagship vessel of Lord Horatio Nelson, the British admiral who defeated Napoleon Bonaparte in the battle of Trafalgar in 1805 was made in Beypore along with numerous other vessels of his celebrated fleet. It is said that the wooden barges that sailed during the reign of Cleopatra were also said to have been made at Beypore. No matter how big the ships are, they are made without a formal plan or design without any sketches ever made. The Beypore Port is a prominent port and active fishing harbour. In fact, there is evidence that suggests direct trade links between Beypore and Mesopotamia. The Beypore Port holds a great historical significance, it acted as a major maritime trading centre for Arab, Chinese and European travellers. Soon after prospering as a marine trading centre, ship building activities started growing to cope with the increasing demands for ships in Western Asia. Beypore was ruled by the family of the Beypore branch of the Parappanad family. It was first visited by Romans and then by Chinese, Syrians, Arabs and Europeans for trade. During the early 19th century it was further expanded under the East India Company and it is believed that the Beypore Siva Temple protects the whole kingdom.
Elathur: Surrounded by a lake on one side, and a river on the other, Elathur is a quaint little village with serene surroundings. The place is also a paradise for seafood lovers as you will be served with some of the best seafood, fresh-water fishes and toddy to complete the beach-side experience.
Payyoli: Located 36 km north of Kozhikode and renowned as the hometown of the famous athlete P. T. Usha Payyoli was first recognised when Vasco Da Gama, the famous Portuguese traveller, discovered a sea route to India and arrived at Kappad Beach, 21 km from Payyoli. The entire village is cradled in the laps of nature and has been blessed with scenic beauty like nowhere else. The palm-fringed Payyoli Beach is a major attraction here and is the getaway relief for many travellers. During December, thousands of Olive Ridley Turtles crawl onto the beach and lay eggs and many visitors throng the beach to see this phenomenon. The beach is also very close to an estuary of the Moorad River which is an absolute haven for bird watchers. Other crowd pullers at Payyoli are the Kunjali Marrrakar Museum, Velliyamkallu and the Trikkottur Perumalpuram Temple.
Kakkadampoyil: Located about 48 km from Kozhikode, Kakkadampoyil is a small village at an elevation of more than 2000 feet and is has dense forests surrounding it with pristine waterfalls and deep valleys, adding to the village’s charm and is often referred to as Malabar’s Ooty.
Moving further south, our next destination is the Wayanad district which hugs Kerala’s eastern border.
Gemma Robinson comes into Elliot’s life like a whirlwind, and they marry and settle into his home. When she asks him if her parents can come to stay for a couple of weeks, he is keen to oblige – he just doesn’t quite know what he’s signing up for.
The Robinsons arrive with Gemma’s sister, Chloe, a mysterious young woman who refuses to speak or leave her room. Elliot starts to suspect that the Robinsons are hiding a dark secret. And then there are the scars on his wife’s body that she won’t talk about . . .
As Elliot’s in-laws become more comfortable in his home, encroaching on all aspects of his life, it becomes clear that they have no intention of moving out. To protect Gemma, and their marriage, Elliot delves into the Robinsons’ past. But is he prepared for the truth?
Memories and Such 