Neelimala Viewpoint
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Neelimala Viewpoint
Nelliyampathy Hills, Palakkad
Nelliyampathy Hills, Palakkad
From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the
cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy hill ranges are a sight to
behold. The height of the hills ranges from 467 m to 1572 m. 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 picturesque 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 Tamilnadu.
On the way up, those interested in bio farming can take a
close look at the privately managed farms and also vast expanses of tea estates
managed by different plantation companies. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also
well known for its orange cultivation.
Privately owned hotels and resorts are located at various
points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here
are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at
Palagapandi estate. The estate has a quaint bungalow, built during the period
of the British rule in India, and has now been converted into a private owned
resort. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a
base by those interested in trekking.
Not far away from Palagapandy is Seetharkundu where one can
have a fantastic valley view, 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.
Getting there
Nearest railway station: Palakkad Railway Station is about
52 km from Nelliyampathy.
Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport is about 55 km from
Palakkad.
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Pattumala in Idukki
Pattumala
in Idukki
Pattumala or Hill draped in silk, thats what they call the
fascinating place. This silken hill, in
Peermede in exhilarating Idukki, has charms like no other. The lofty peaks, the
little streams and the green expanse of the tea plantations give the hills an
ethereal beauty. An early morning walk through all this breathtaking loveliness
might make you want to repeat the immortal lines, Bliss was it that dawn to be
alive! At the top of a hill is the Velankanni Matha Church, a famous pilgrim
center, which is built entirely of granite. Don't miss the delightful flower
garden nearby. Pattumala is also home to two of the biggest names in the tea
production sector - Harrisons Malayalam and A V Thomas & Co.
Getting
there
Nearest railway station: Kottayam Railway Station, about 75
km away
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 km
away
Munnar
Munnar
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain
streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this
hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in
South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and
holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora
found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which
bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018.
Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over
2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar
that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill
station of Munnar.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Kuttikanam - an adventure tourism spot
Kuttikanam - an adventure tourism spot
Kuttikanam near Peermedu in Idukki is a place for adventure
tourism and trekking, or even a languorous, tranquil break. This picturesque
plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush,
green hills.
Madayipara in Kannur
Madayipara in Kannur
Madayipara,a laterite hill,
located at Pazhayangadi in Kannur District, which would soon get its due share
of attention as a center of tourist attraction. Madayipara or Madayi para is a place worth visiting,
especially for those who would like to walk and explore things own their own.
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