Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 186

the most beautiful natural tourist attractions. Kumarakom welcomes one
to backwaters and lagoons. The spot is very congenial for vacations and
holidays. It is an unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forest,
emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with
enchanting waterways and canals adorned with water lilies and lotus
flowers. Motor boats, house boats, speed boats, rowing boats, canoeing,
water sports, lake side driving, fishing using hooks, nets and other
improvised aids etc. keep one enjoyable for hours and days here.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: (16 km from Kottayam town) An ornithologist’s
paradise, Kumarakom bird sanctuary on the banks of the Vembanad lake is
a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Syberian stork, Egret, Darter,
Heron and Teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane,
water hen and parrots are also found here. A cruise through the Vembanadu
lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, one of the
loveliest of islands on the lake, can be reached by boat from here.
Erumeli: (60 km north-east of Kottayam town) Erumeli is a pilgrim centre.
This is the entrance point to the Sabarimala Temple, the most prominent
pilgrim centre in South India. This nature rich village is nestled in the lush
green Western Ghats.
Nadukani: The lovely location at the top of hill with endless stretches of
meadows girded by huge rocks.A bird’s eye view of the low lying lands can be
enjoyed from here.
Kannadipara: Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place
exotic. As the name points, the valley of this rocky mountain reflects the
morning sun with a mirror like perfection.An added attraction of this beautiful place is the Kazhukankulimali waterfalls that playfully cascade down
the mountain and greet the river below with a magnificent splash. It is
the highest peak of Ilaveezhapoonchira and a natural fort is set on the
eastern side of Kannadipara.
Illikkal Kallu: Three hills, each rising to 4000 feet and above, together form
this huge hill. Each of the hills has a peculiar shape. One resembles a
mushroom and hence Kudakallu(umbrella shaped rock). Neelakoduveli,a
medicinal herb bathes the hillsides in blue is found here. It has also
supernatural powers to increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The
second hill has a small hunch on the side and is Koonukallu(hunch back
rock) and
a half feet wide bridge across this rock is called
Narakapalam(bridge to hell). The sunset from this rocks is really a sensational view.
Vavarambalam, Erumeli: A mosque, dedicated to Vavar, companion of Sree
Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimala. This mosque is very significant
because Hindu Pilgrims customarily worship here before trekking to
Sabarimala. Festival - Pettathullal (January)
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KOTTAYAM|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS