Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 287

Village Life
Transportation of village people

Silent Valley National Park: (40 km North-West of Mannarkad) The 89.52 sq
kms national park is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen
forests in Sahya Ranges. The peculiarity of Silent Valley Forest is that it
is devoid even of the chirping of cicadas. Vehicular transport is possible
only upto Mukkali, nearly 24 kms from the park. It is the abode of many
South Indian animals and birds. The park attracts visitors from all over
the world. The rest of the way has to be covered on foot up to the source of
Kunthipuzha which flows through the valley before merging into River
Bharathapuzha. Permission: Wildlife Warden, Silent Valley National Park,
Mukkali, Ph: 04924 253225.
Attappady: (38 km North-East of Mannarkad) A beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forests, Attappady is of great interest to anthropologists
as this is the habitat of many tribes like the Irulas and Mudugars. The
Malleeswaram peak is worshipped as a gigantic Sivalinga by the tribals
who also celebrated the Sivarathri festival with great gusto. A PWD Rest
House, and a few private hotels offer accomodation at Agali.
Vellinezhi: This small village was the home for several Kathakali artists in
19th and 20th century. This village is situated near Ottapalam.
Hemambika Temple, Olavakkode: The temple is dedicated to Bhagavathi
and there is no deity in Sanctum Sanctorum but only a sign of palm is visible.
Mayiladumpara: (30 km from Palakkad) This grove takes its name from the
large number of peacocks found here.
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TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS|PALAKKAD