Thusharagiri Water Falls - A Trekker's Joy

Thusharagiri water falls 

Nuzzled in the folds of the majestic Western Ghats in the picturesque Thusharagiri is a pretty little secret- a set of alluring cascades forming the Thusharagiri Waterfalls whose desperate dash across the rocks is one spectacular sight which can warm the cockles of your heart. Lying 50 km from Kozhikode, the Thusharagiri Waterfalls comprises Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattom, and Thumbithullum Para which can be reached through trekking.

The journey to track down the waterfalls is in itself a scenic adventure. Hike up the trekking trail in Thusharagiri, an exciting stretch which winds its way through lush greenery. The trail feathers out to a hanging bridge. As you traverse this bridge, treat yourself to your first waterfall- Erattumukku waterfalls. Stop, breathe and feast your eyes on the grand view of this waterfall spilling down the rocky face. 

Along the trail, one will encounter the Thanni Muthassi (Grandmother Thanni), a Thanni tree (Bedda Nut Tree) which is believed to be 400 years old. Ever wanted to sneak into a tree? Well, snuggle into the womb of this grandma tree, feel her might and listen to her whisper to you jungle lore. Hollow inside, Thanni Muthassi can accommodate 3 persons at a time.

From Erattumukku one can trek up 400 meters further and you will reach the roaring Mazhavil Chattam (Rainbow Falls). This alluring waterfall gets its name owing to the streaks of rainbow that gets splashed across the rocks as sunlight scatters through the waterfalls. 500m away from here is the third waterfall- the mighty ‘Thumbithullum Para’.

Mist capped mountains, gushing streams, roaring waterfalls, dramatic backdrops of lush woods-this tangle of nature needs to be experienced atleast once in a lifetime. Nature enthusiasts will be in their element here. Come and feel the romance of this captivating place. You will never be the same again. 

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 50 km 

Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport, about 23 km from Kozhikode town

Vadakkumnathan Temple - An Architectural Wonder in Wood And Stone

Vadakkumnathan Temple

AT

THRISSUR

An architectural marvel in wood and stone, the Vadakkumnathan Temple, one of the oldest in the state, stands tall right at the heart of Thrissur, in a nine-acre walled patch of green. This centuries-old temple which is a classic example of Kerala's rich cultural heritage has sent flutters in the international circuit by clinching the ‘Award of Excellence’ last year at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation for taking great strides in protecting its legacy in architecture. And now it stands tall, restored to its old glory.

It was no easy feat for the team of archaeologists, craftsmen and others who toiled to restore the temple to its original state, an effort that spanned more than 10 years. The work was carried out under the guidance and control of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Every effort was taken to keep the original structure intact and renovate in the traditional way.

Restoration of the stunning centuries-old murals, intricately carved wooden sculptures, and exquisite wood work were done keeping in line with rituals and using only organic matter. The restoration process used the same methods and techniques that were used for the original construction.

A walk through the serene surrounds of the temple will treat you to a heady mix of architectural beauty, heritage, culture and history. The temple is also renowned across the world for its Pooram Festival. Lakhs of devotees and tourists gather every year to witness the famous "Thrissur Pooram" at the temple premises where ceremoniously decorated elephants are paraded amidst much fanfare and which also involves a spectacular display of fireworks.

This majestic structure nestled right in the centre of a buzzing local life has many a story to recount. Are you willing to lend an ear?

Annual Chariot Festival- Kalpathi Ratholsavam In November

Kalpathi Ratholsavam

Start date: 13-11-2016

End date: 15-11-2016

Venue: Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple

Location: Kalpathi

District: Palakkad

It is that time of the year again to soak yourself in a rich colourful spectacle. The Sree Viswanatha Swamy Temple at Kalpathi in Palakkad is getting decked up to celebrate its annual chariot festival- the Kalpathi Ratholsavam.

One of the remarkable events in Kerala, this festival sees devotees and visitors arriving in droves to Kalpathi to join in the festive splendour. Kalpathi is a traditional Tamil Brahmin settlement in Kerala and the temple dedicated to Lord Viswanatha or Shiva is believed to be 700 years old. The annual chariot festival usually falls in the month of November. Vedic recitals and cultural programmes render a unique ambience to the place.

Three huge, magnificently decorated temple chariots are taken out through the streets of Kalpathi village on the third day. This marks the end of the festival.

The first day witnesses the pulling of one chariot followed by two chariots on the second, and three on the last day of the festival.

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Palakkad Town, about 3 km

Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 55 km