PAITHALMALA-KANNUR-KERALA

        Paithalmala (Pi-thal-ma-la) is an enchanting hill station in North Kerala (India) in the Western Ghats near Kerala-Karnataka border. Standing as tall as about 4,500 feet (1372metres) above sea level, the summit is located about 65 kms north-east of Kannur (Canannore) city and 35 kms east of Thaliparamba. North of Paithalmala is the Kudaku forest.

These huge mountains lay spread over 500 acres of land enriched with dense forest. The easiest access to the summit is from a place called Kappimala. One can go by bus up to Kappimala (kaappi-mala) and then a bumpy jeep ride of two kilometers through the "muttatham-vayal" mountain till the forest border at "Manja-pullu". A two (2) km trekking through the forest will then take you to the summit.

The peak offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains beneath it. It is also a haven for a wide variety of rare flora and fauna. There are many seasonal waterfalls and brooks in the nearby areas. Paithalmala is an ideal spot for adventure tourism as well. There are not many such fascinating  hill stations in the region. It is believed that the name 'Paithal' (meaning an infant) has connection with the 'Paithalkon' dynasty of Malabar.

Tourism development in Paithalmala is being taken up as a major scheme by Government of Kerala. The works include a suspension bridge for watching the seasonal waterfall, renovation of the watch tower, facilities for camping, trekking path and road widening. At the base of the mountain at Kudiyanmala, a tourist information center and dormitory have been constructed.  The tourism development  at Paithalmala is estimated at about 27 million Indian rupees

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KANJIRAKKOLLY-KANNUR-KERALA

KANJIRAKKOLLY-ALAKAPURI WATERFALLS

             Kanjirakkolly is located in the Kannur District and is 18 Kms from Payyavoor town/ near Chemperi. The distance from the Kannur railway station is 68 Kms to the water falls area. The main attraction in the Kanjirakkolly is Alakapuri Waterfalls and which contains 3 phases.  First phase is known as Elappara Waterfalls; Second phase is the famous one and is also known as Alakapuri Waterfalls. The third phase contains the biggest water fall in the monsoon season. But in summer more visitors are going for the second phase and are around 500 ft height. The water falls located between the foot hills of Western Ghats, bordering the Coorg area of Karnataka Evergreen Forests. The second stage of the water falls contains seven stages of shelves of rock. On the both sides of the water fall, hard Rocks look like Salamanders of the forest. The surrounding area of the falls filled with "Kurinji" and which blossomed it in every 8 years of the era. In October 2002 and then in November 2010 the plant produced blue flowers and which looks like a blue bed in that large area. The "Kurinji" is a rare wild plant and which give us pleasure. The water here is starting in the area under Karnataka and then it flowing through the Kerala region. We need to walk, around 2 Kms from the road to see this falls through the forest. Kanjirakolly is not developed as a tourist place but many travellers are coming here in every year. The parking of bigger vehicles is difficult here but to park light vehicles we can use the side of road. It is better to travel in a commander/ jeep like SUV’s to the Kanjirakolly because of the present road condition and the road slope. Taxi’s are available from Payyavoor. and also a bus service (kokkadan bus) from chemperi to kanjirakkolly.

How to reach:

• Kannur- Thalipparamba-Sreekandapuram- Payyavoor- Kanjirakkolly. or
• Thalassery-Mattannur- Iritty- Ulikkal- payyavoor-Kanjirakkolly.

SASI PARA

           The second attraction in the Kanjirakkolly is "Sasi para". Myth 1: Though “sasi” in Malayalam means moon, this rock is named after an unlucky inhabitant who once resided nearby and his name was “Sasi”. He suicide in this rock. Myth 2: Struck down by Lord Indra, it is believed, Lord Sri Hanuman fell down on this rock. Whatever be the truth in this myth may be due to an optical illusion, a part of the rock takes the shape of a monkey- head while viewed down from the distant valley. Unfortunately this curious portion of the rock has been destroyed during the fencing work on the rock by the Forest Department of Kerala. From Sasippara we can see Kanjirakolly Valley, Coorg Range of Reserve Forest in Karnataka, River Udumbe, Elappara and other villages. The view of the hills from Sasippara is exotic. Human beings moving in the adjoining villages down below appear like small ants from the top. The hill has rich winds almost throughout the year and it is like a window opened from a tower situated by the side of Arabian Sea. This is situated at a height of about 4000 ft. from the sea level. Sasipara is 4 Kms from the Water falls. 

camp fire at kanjirakkolly

kanjirakkolly

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TALAKKAVERI-KARNATAKA

THALAKKAVERI

 Talakkaver  is the origin of river Kaveri on the eastern slopes of Brahmagiri peak at 1350 metres altitude, about 8 km by road from Bhagamandala.An enclosure around the spring called Gundige is connected to a small pond beside. The water from the pond goes underground and comes out after about one kilometer down the hill. There are three shrines above the spring and birds eye view of west-coast from the hill range.On a predetermined date and time of Tulasankranthi every year the spring from Gundige overflows called Thirthodbhava. This holy water is carried home by all pilgrims when they go back after paying the last rituals to their parent or spouse departed during the preceding year.

There is a shrine near the kundike and a big tank in front of it where devotees baths before offering prayers. There are 2 temples here, a Shiva temple with a rare and ancient Shiva Linga, and another Lord Ganesha’s temple. According to legend, the Trimurtis – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh gave darshan to sage Agastya at the holy Ashwantha tree near the temple.

Legends also has it that every year on Tulasankramana day which falls approximately on 17 October Goddess Parvati appears in the Kundike as the sacred teerthodbhava. This occasion is marked by the sudden spring of water in the kundike and is considered very auspicious.

From Talakaveri, steps lead up to the nearby Brahmagri peak. It is believed that the 7 great sages called the Sapta Maharishis had performed a special yagna here. From the peak, as well as on the drive to Talakaveri, you can enjoy a good view of the misty blue Brahmagiri hills.

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NEELAMBARI RESORT-KASARGOD

 Kerala is gods own country, the land to inspire. It is one of the most popular destinations of the world. Neelambari Resort is in the unexplored North Kerala district Kasargod. still beautiful and sublime but without the influx of tourists. Its mist clad blue hills, lush tropical forests, fascinating wildlife and burnished sunsets provide an ideal setting for a holiday destination.


Accommodation 
   The Resort accommodates its guests in its 16 traditional Kerala style cottages and 12 heritages house.  The rooms are large, furnished to high standards with its own dressing room/ washroom facilities and opens into its own  private veranda and garden overlooking the mountains and the forests! One can simple laze around with a book or simply enjoy being so close to nature! The rooms do not have Televisions or CD players. There are showers rather than bath tubs in each room. Hair dryers and heaters are available on request. Water is purified on site and is provided in all bedrooms and is safe to drink. Bottled water is charged extra.

Retreat facilities
Ayurveda treatments
A choice of indoor and outdoor yoga areas 
A large ozonated swimming pool, 20m x 8m. 
Two ayurvedic treatment rooms offering an extensive range of wellness packages
Beauty salon & Spa “Kaveri” 
Extensive library for guests to borrow books during their stay.
Home theatre with extensive audio visual facilities and a wide choice of DVD’s to watch. 
Conference hall available for guests’ use. 
Resort Boutique “Karma” for your holiday shopping! 
Organic farm shop 
Gourmet sea food restaurant 
Spend a day with your very own elephant, Lakshmi 
Accessibility 
By Air: To Mangalore from Mumbai and Bangalore followed by a 2 hour drive to the Resort.

By Road: From Bangalore (330 Km), Calicut (185 kms) and Mangalore (120 kms)
                                            From Bangalore take the Bangalore-Mysore Highway upto Sreerangapatanam (127kms). Then take the Hunsur road and drive to Kushal Nagar via Hunsur (93 kms). From Kushal Nagar, drive for 31 kms to reach Madikkeri, Another 34 kms drive will bring you to Bagamandala. Immediately after Bagamandala, turn right on to the state highway to Kerala and drive on through forest roads for 31 kms to reach Panathur the Kerala border town. From there, drive on for another 12 kms. Then take a left turn onto Malom Road. Neelambari is 7 kms on this road. ( The resort is well signposted from Panathur)

From Mangalore Take the National Highway NH 17 towards Kerala state and drive towards Kanhangad (distance of 80 kms). When you reach Mavungal, (3 kms before Kanhangad turn left onto Panathur Road, and drive for 30 kms you will reach Kallar. Turn right and drive for about 6 kms to reach Neelambari. (The resort is well signposted from Mavungal)

From Calicut Take the National Highway NH 17 towards Mangalore and drive for 160 kms towards Kasargode. When you reach Mavungal Junction, (on the Kanhangad – Kasargode Bypass,) turn right onto Panathur Road, and drive for 30 kms you will reach Kallar. Turn right and drive for about 6 kms to reach Neelambari. (The resort is well signposted from Mavungal) 
By Train: From Goa (approx 8 hours overnight journey), Cochin, Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Being on the Konkan route, there are train connections from all major metropolitan cities of Northern India. Arrive in Kanhangad followed by a 45 minute drive to the Resort.
Transfers: The Resort is happy to arrange transfers from station/ airport at additional cost.
ROOMS
Double occupancy: 6850  (12 % gov. taxes extra) 
single occupancy : 4850
Maruthom Thattu
Chully P.O
Kasargod Dist
Kerala - 671533
India

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FORT COCHI-KERALA

                         To explore the historic town of Fort Kochi, there is no better choice than setting out on foot. Relax, breathe deep and come out in cotton dresses, soft shoes and yes - a straw hat. At each and every nook of this island steeped in history, there is something amusing awaiting you. It is a world of its own, retaining the specimens of a bygone era and still proud of those days. If you can smell the past, nothing can stop you from walking through these streets.

Walking straight through the K. J. Herschel Road and turning left, you can have a glimpse of Fort Immanuel. This bastion once belonged to the Portuguese and is a symbol of the strategic alliance which existed between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Monarch of Portugal, after whom the fort is named. This fort was built in 1503 and reinforced in 1538. Walking a bit further, you come across the Dutch cemetery. Consecrated in 1724 and managed by the Church of South India, the tomb stones here silently remind visitors of those Europeans who left their homeland to expand their colonial empires.

The next spot to watch is the ancient Thakur House, which stands erect as a concrete specimen of the colonial era. The building is simply graceful. Formerly known as Kunal or Hill Bungalow, it was home to the managers of the National Bank of India during the British rule. Now, it belongs to the Thakur and Company, renowned tea trading firm.

Walk on and there is another colonial structure awaiting you - David Hall. It was built around 1695 by the Dutch East India Company. The hall is associated with Hendrik Adriaan van Reed tot Drakeston, renowned Dutch commander, who is more admired for his monumental book on the flora of Kerala namely Hortus Malabaricus. However, David Hall is named after David Koder, a later occupant of the hall.

Walking past the Parade Ground, the four acres of ground where the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British had once conducted military parades, you reach the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. It has passed through many phases ever since the Portuguese built it in 1503. Now the church is under the Church of South India. By the way, it was in this church that Vasco-da Gama had been buried and his tombstone can still be seen.

The Church Road is a nice place to walk, with the cool breeze from the Arabian Sea caressing your body. Walk down a bit closer to the sea and there is the Cochin Club, home to an impressive library and collection of sporting trophies. Set in a beautifully landscaped park, the club still retains its British ambience.

Walking back to the Church Road, on the left side, you would stumble across another majestic mansion, the Bastion Bungalow. This wonderful structure of Indo-European style had been built in 1667 and is named after its location on the site of the Stromberg Bastion of the old Dutch fort. Now it is the official residence of the Sub Collector.

The Vasco-da Gama square is nearby. A narrow promenade, this is an ideal place to relax a little. Stalls full of delicious seafood and tender coconuts are simply tempting. Savour a bit and feed your eyes on the Chinese fishing nets, being raised and lowered. These nets had been erected here between AD 1350 and 1450 by the traders from the court of Kublai Khan.



Refreshed, you can now proceed to the Pierce Leslie Bungalow, a charming mansion, which once had been the office of Pierce Leslie and Co., coffee merchants of yesteryears. This building reflects Portuguese, Dutch and local influences. Its waterfront verandahs are an added attraction. Turning right, you come to the Old Harbour House, built in 1808 and owned by Carriet Moran and Co, renowned tea brokers. Nearby is the Koder House, the magnificent building constructed by Samuel S. Koder of the Cochin Electric Company in 1808. This structure shows the transition from colonial to Indo-European architecture.

Turn further right and you reach the Princess Street. Mind having some fresh flowers from the shops here. One of the earliest streets of the area, this road has European style residences on both its sides. Located here is the Loafer's Corner, the traditional hangout for the jovial and fun loving people of Kochi.

Walking northwards from the Loafer's corner, you come across Santa Cruz Basilica, the historic church built by the Portuguese and elevated to a cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. In 1984, Pope John Paul II declared it as a Basilica. After having a quick look at the Burgher street and the Delta Study, a heritage bungalow built in the year 1808 and now functioning as a high school, you walk down, once again to the Princess Street and then to the Rose Street. There you would find Vasco house, believed to be the residence of Vasco-da Gama. This traditional and typical European house is one of the oldest of Portuguese residences in Kochi.

Turning left, you walk over to the Ridsdale Road to find the VOC gate, the large wooden gate facing the Parade ground. The gate, built in 1740, gets its name from the monogram (VOC) of the Dutch East India Company on it. Close by is the United Club, once one of the four elite clubs of the British in Kochi. Now, it serves as a classroom for the nearby St. Francis Primary School.



Walking straight, you reach the end of the road and there is the Bishop's house, built in the year of 1506. It had once been the residence of the Portuguese Governor and is set on a small hillock near the Parade Ground. The facade of the house has large Gothic arches and the building was acquired by Dom Jos Gomes Ferreira, the 27th Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin whose jurisdiction extended over Burma, Malaya and Ceylon apart from India.

Yes, now it is time to wind up the walk. With the feel of the bygone days still lingering in your minds, mesmerizing sights staying back in your eyes and your taste buds yearning again for the delicacies and it is not at all a sin, if you feel like another walk!

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KOVALAM BEACH | TRIVANDRUM-KERALA | BEST BEACH IN SOUTH INDIA | BEACHES IN TRIVANDRUM | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

 Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres.

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle. But if you are on holiday it is better to stay in Kovalam and visit the city.

The City of Thiruvananthapuram has interesting places to see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ponmudi hill station etc. SMSM Institute, a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.
Best time to visit: September to March, though it is an all-year-round destination.

HOW TO REACH:

Location: Just 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, South Kerala.
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 10 km.

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HOTELS IN KANNUR-KERALA | FOR STAY IN KANNUR | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

		Kairali Heritage A River Side Resort
		Kattampally
		info@kairaliheritage.com www.kairaliheritage.com +91 4602 241665, 243460 - 63, +91 4602 243165 Tariff Rs.3500 - 4000

		Mascot Beach Resort
		Near Baby Beach Burnasseri
		mascot_beach_resort@vsnl.com www.mascotresort.com +91 497 2708445, 2708450, 2708455, +91 497 2705862, 2701102 Tariff Rs.1200 - 3700 Asian Heritage Chettipeedika P.O. Pallikkunnu asianheritagekannur@gmail.com +91 497 2702346, 2702347, +91 497 2712082 Tariff Rs.700 - 2000 Palmgrove Heritage Retreat Near Govt.Guest House Mill Road  palmgroveheritage@gmail.com www.palmgroveheritageretreat.com +91 497 2703182, 2702816, 3290606, +91 497 2766297 Tariff Rs.200 - 1000 Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel, Kannur Near Police Club tamarindkannur@ktdc.com www.ktdc.com +91 497 2700717, Tariff Rs.1400 - 2500 Omar's Inn Station Road +91 497 2706313, Tariff Rs. 250 - 860 Hotel Meridian Palace Bellard Road info@hotelmeridianpalace.com www.hotelmeridianpalace.com +91 497 2701676, 2701519, 2711452, +91 497 2701993 Tariff Rs. 250 - 1200 K. K. Residency Opp Bus Stand Payyanur info@kkresidency.co.in www.kkresidency.co.in +91 4985 201111, Tariff Rs. 300 - 800                         The Pearlview Regency Pearlview Junction Thalassery pearlviewregency@hotmail.com www.pearlviewregency.com +91 490 2326702 - 04, +91 490 2325741 Tariff Rs.950 - 1750 Paris Presidency P.B. No.33, New Paris Complex Logans Road, Thalassery parisconcerns@hotmail.com www.parispresidency.com +91 490 2342666 - 68, +91 490 2343666 Tariff Rs.600 - 1500 Hotel Sharara Plaza A.V.K. Nair Road Thalassery hotelsharara@hotmail.com hotelshararaplaza.com +91 490 234101 - 03, 91490 2341103 Tariff Rs. 800 - 2500 Mark Residency Narangapuram Thalassery +91 490 2321014, Tariff Rs. 250 - 950

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MADAYI PARA -KANNUR-KERALA | NATURAL TOURISM | MADAYIPPARA KANNUR | SHOOTING LOCATIONS IN KERALA | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

            I invite you to the green, laterite hill, located at Pazhayangadi in Kannur District, which would soon get its due share of attention as a center of tourist attraction. Less known to the leisure and travel world, Madayipara in the near future would benefit from a government project to transform the area into a cultural village. But, Madayipara as it is now, itself is a place worth visiting, especially for those who would like to walk and explore things own their own.  

                            

  Madayipara is a significant spot owing to its bio-diversity as well as history. In the past, Madayipara was the administrative center of the Ezhimala kings. In and around Madayipara, one can find remnants from the past. At the southern side of the hill, stand the remains of a fort called Pazhi Kotta (kotta means fort in Malayalam). Here one can also find watchtowers at the four corners of the fort. Between AD 14 and AD 18, Madayipara used to be the site for the coronation ceremony of the rulers of the princely state of the erstwhile Kolathunadu.

The hillock of Madayipara, which carries several signs of historic relevance, is also a place important from a religious point of view. Here, a pond in the shape of a hand held mirror, connected to ancient jewish setllers is another historic attraction. Similarly, a temple at this site, called Vadukunda Siva Temple and the adjoining lake, about an acre in extension form yet another attraction at Madayipara. The lake near the temple will not go dry even in hot summer months and remains a source of nourishment to life forms at Madayipara. The pooram festival of Madayi Kavu (kavu - family temples and those in the midst of thick vegetation) held at Madayipara has been responsible for much of its fame.

With regard to the bio-diversity of Madayipara, it has been found that the region contains about 300 flowering plants, about 30 varieties of grass, and several insect-eating plant species. Madayipara is also home to several rare medicinal herbs, which are sought by people from near and far off places. Coming to avian life, Madayipara sustains about 100 species of butterflies and about 150 species of birds. Among the biggest butterflies in the world, the Atlas butterfly is a visitor to Madayipara.

The upcoming cultural village project of the state government is aimed to sustain and keep intact the physical as well as historic importance of Madayipara, and at the same time encourage visitors to savour the unparalleled attractions of this beautiful terrain.

HOW TO REACH?

Nearest railway station: Pazhayangadi, about 2 kms away.
Nearest airport: Karipur Airport, about 118 kms away.

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RANIPURAM HILL STATION-KASARGOD-KERALA

          Ranipuram is a beautiful hill station situated about 750 m above sea level in North Kerala, Kasargod. It is about 48 kilometres from Kanhangad on the Panathoor road branching off at Panathady and is adjacent to Bhagamandala forest range. Jeep services from Panathady are a viable option to get to ranipuram

This place was formerly known as Madathumala. Ranipuram is famous for its trekking trails and varied vegetation – evergreen shola woods, monsoon forests and grasslands. Wild elephants can also be seen.There are Tourist cottages on the hill top, provided by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation Kerala Tourism Development Corporation .

How to reach:

Nearest major railway station: Kanhangad, about 48 km and Kasargod 85km from Ranipuram, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route.

Nearest airports: Mangalore, about 135 km from Ranipuram;

Karipur International Airport is around 200 kilometers

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KUMARAKOM KOTTAYAM KERALA | KUMARAKOM TOURISM | HOUSE BOAT | KERALA SPECIAL | PARADISE OF TOURISTS | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

    

     Kumarakom- a cluster of little islands on the Vembanadu Lake, the largest backwater in Kerala, in Kottayam district. This charming Emerald peninsula, clustered in the ever flowing blue beauty-Vembanadu Lake- is undoubtedly the most amazing, mind catching, fascinating paradise in Kerala. The vembanadu kayal flourishes the mainland Lagoons, brookes, canals and water ways, all year, and thus Kumarakom is one of the main Back water tourism center in God's on Country, Kerala.The never ending paddy fields, incredibly gorgeous mangrove forests, meandering lagoons and backwaters, more than hundred varieties birds can calm your mind and these all makes Kumarakom, a pristine beauty, and is a very apt place for the newly married honeymoon couples to make thier love in the Emarald Beauty.

The back waters of kumarakom is famous for its rich marine life, which includes the exclusiveKarimeen, Konju, Njandu and Chemmeen.

            The main economic activities here is the Fishing, Agriculture and of course Tourism. Kumarakom is famous for the large Paddy fields and for the Coconut groves. One can see Cocunut trees or palms leaning towards the kayal/Lake, and is also a great SNAP for a good PHOTOGRAPHER...! Also the smaller canals are often lined by hibiscus plants which lean partly over the canals to form a green canopy, from which hang the lovely hibiscus flowers.

After the Thanneermukkam bund was constructed, the tidal movement of the water in the canals stopped, and thus plenty of water hyacinths started growing densely in the canals, forming lovely green carpets with pale lilac flowers carpets. When flowers, this also becomes another eye-catching scenery.

Climate: Kumarakom has a tropical climate approximately round the year. This is a cool place over the full year with fresh gentle wind from the Canal and River sides. The rainy season is from early June to middle of August. November to March is regarded as the best months for a vacation over there.

Kumarakom is famous for its House Boats also. These are not used by the local people for their daily fishing and other jobs, these are exclusively for Tourists. Many Resorts and private peoples owns House Boats with very good facilities...(One can get House baots with 3 star or 5 star facilities-but the cost will be high...!). Local people uses KettuVallam for their daily uses. Small Canoes are also available for the local water transport.

Kumarakom Boat Race is another famous one which is always conducted in the Onam season (September)...

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary/Vembanad Bird Sanctuary is situated on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Spread over 14 acres in area, this sanctuary is a paradise for Bird Watchers and is a favourite haunt of different species of migratory birds. Nicely placed Foot paths are made in this santuary. Also one can use Simple canoes for seeing the santuary, and is very cheep for a 2 hour journey. The journey will start from the very entrance of the sanctuary.

Accomodation:
Good facilities for the accomodation and food are available here at Kumarakom. Home Stays are available. Many Resorts have their own House Boats and Ayurvedic Massage Parlours.

Hotel Golden Waters Retreat: It is a Five Star deluxe hotel with 28 rooms. Fully air conditioned rooms with direct dial comfort, color televisions with cabled connections. For the entertainment of the guests there is the swimming pool, speedboats, water-skies, backwater cruises, fully equipped ayurveda centre with trained practitioners.

Hotel Kumarakom Lake Resort: Is a five Star deluxe hotel with approximately 40 rooms. All the Amenities like 24Hrs room service, running hot and cold water, Direct dialing facility with STD and ISD, water sports, Sunset cruise, Cultural programmers, Ayurvedic centre, Village outing etc.

Waterscapes: It is a beautiful resort and has nearly 40 cottages. All the basic facilities like attached washroom with the shower, cable facility with color television, Swimming pool, Cab on rent, money changing facility, Ayurvedic centre, meeting halls, boating, arrangement for backwater tours and visiting the attractions around.

How to reach:

Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport and the nearest railway station is Kottayam.

One can use the public boat service from Muhamma (near Alappuzha) to Kumarakom Jetty.
Kumarakom is just 16 kilometres away from Kottayam town. Buses and taxis are easily available at all times of the day from Kottayam.

Remember:
*Please don't put/throw plastic bottles in the Canal, River side, or any where in the water. Plastic bottles and sheets are very much harmful for the life in water.
*It is better to take the Canoe trip to the sanctuary in the evening or early morning to avoid the afternoon sun.
*Please don't forget to eat the homely food "Karimeen Pollichathu with Kappa and pure 

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ARALAM WILD LIFE SANCTUARY-KANNUR-KERALA | WILD LIFE SANCTUARIES IN KERALA | SOUTH INDIA TOURISM | ECO TOURISM | ARALAM FARM KANNUR

             

The northernmost Wildlife Sanctuary of Kerala, Aralam, 45 km east of Kannur, lies on the western slopes of the Western Ghats. With an area of just 55 sq km, Aralam Wild Life Sanctuary- Covered with Tropical Evergreen, Tropical Semi Evergreen and Hilltop Evergreen Forest, it is the northernmost protected area of Kerala state

this is one of the smallest sanctuaries in Kerala. Established in 1984, it adjoins the State Farm in Aralam at Kannur district and is headquartered at Iritty, a small town that lies 10 km to the east. About 490 hectares of teak and eucalyptus plantations populate this bio-rich forest range that houses diverse plant and animal life. The tallest peak here is Katti Betta, scaling to a height of 1,145 m. The hilly terrains provide ample opportunities for trekking while the predominantly evergreen forest teeming with various species of flora and fauna sets the stage for some delightful outdoor activities.
Ecotourism Activities
Home to a variety of birds and animals including elephants, sambar, bison, leopard, boar, deer, jungle cat and different species of squirrels, the Aralam Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. An overnight stay in the forest watchtower provides ample opportunity for spotting the wildlife. The Meenmutty Waterfall near the watchtower is an ideal place to relax. Another interesting pursuit is the trek from Valayanchat to Meenmutty covering a distance of 14 km. The placid Aralam River, not far from the Sanctuary, is an ideal picnic spot.

Aralam:, a small village near Iritty, in Kannur dist., is also noted for the Central State Farm, 
The Aralam Farm:
The Aralam Wildlife sanctuary adjoins the State Govt: Farm. The state govt:
has bought 3060 hectare Aralam farm from the State Farming Corporation of India. a 3060 hectare farm started in 1971 by the Government of India. This is one of the main production centers of hybrid coconut seeds in the country.
Half of the land is provided for adivasis ( tribal peoples ) in Wayanad and Kannur district.
The sanctuary is situated on the slopes of the Western Ghats and it includes parts of 3 beautiful towns nearby named Aralam, Kelakam and Kottiyoor.
The 55 sqkm sanctuary/forests is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The main water source which nourishes this sanctuary is Cheenkannippuzha. Narikadavuthodu, Kurukkathodu and Meenmuttithode nourishes this river.
The sanctuary terrain is rugged in most places with hillocks. Here one can feel the best combination of forest and mountains. The Altitude ranges from a lower 60 m to a top 1489 m. (The highest peak is known as 'Katti Betta')

In and Around

Chavachi and Meenmutty Waterfalls are a must-see, while the nearby Ambalapara Peak is also worth a visit.

Climate and Best time to visit:
The hottest months are April and May. December to February is relatively cool. The period from October to June is suitable for visiting this area.Flora and Fauna:
A variety of animals and birds usually found in the Western Ghats are seen here. Different kinds of deer, boar, elephant, and bison are quite common. Leopard, jungle cat and various types of squirrels are sighted.Trekking:
Eco-tourism is promoted in a big way in this forestland. Enthusiastic trekkers can look forward to a 20-km trek route that commences from the beginning point of the sanctuary and ends at Ambalapaara (1400mts above sea level) located on the border area of Wayanad. Camping equipment like tents and sleeping bags are made available to the trekkers.

Different trekking facilities are arranged here for the visitors such as:
*Adventurous trekking to Ambalappara
*Trekking to Meenmutty falls
*Day visit at Aralam Sanctuary
Accessing Aralam: 

Location: 45 km east of Kannur, 35 km northeast of Thalassery.
Altitude: 50 m to 1,145 m above sea level. The highest peak is Katti Betta.

Distance
Air: Nearest airport is at Kozhikode, 115 km southwest.
Rail: Nearest railway station is Thalassery, 45 km away. Kannur Railway station is 60 km away.

Road: 45 km from Kannur and Thalassery.

There are a large number of buses from Thalassery and Kannur to Iritty.
Remember:*Keep Silence while trekking. Avoid White and Dark Coloured clothes
*Visiting Time: 8 am to 4 pm
*Smoking, liquor, Polythene bags are prohibited
*Approved Guides are available

For enquiries and bookings, contact: 
Wildlife Sanctuary Office, Aralam Ph: 0490-2493160 
District Tourist Promotion Council, Kannur Ph: 0497-2706336

Accomadation:Various accommodation facilities are available in this area.Nearest stay is at Iritty town, 20 km from the Sanctuary. Night camping with minimum facility is available at Meenmutty as well as dormitory facility for 40 persons at Aralam. 
for advanced booking or for any enquiries, feel free to contact these addresses:

The Wildlife Warden
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Iritty 670703., Kannur, Kerala
India
Ph: +91- 490-2493160
Email: wildlifewarden@aralam.com

Asst. Wildlife Warden
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary
Aralam Farm P.O
Valayamchal, Kannur, Kerala,
India
Ph: +91-490-2413160

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