August 10, 2003

Pandikuzhi

Location : 5 km from Thekkady
Cradled between Chellarkovil in Idukki district and the Tamilnadu border lies a fine stretch of picturesque land Pandikuzhi. The place, a feast for the senses, is rich in a wide spectrum of flora and fauna, heritage, vales and dales, gurgling streams, cascading waters , quaint villages and villagers. Need one ask for more?. Pandikuzhi is just 4.5 km from Kumily. Board and bus from Kumily to Kattapana. Alight at Ettammmile (Anakkara). One can either take an autorickshaw to Chellarkovil, 1 km away and trek a 1/2 km or trek the entire distance to Pandikuzhi. Or, catch any bus from Thodupuzha to Kattapana. Alight at Puliyanmala and take the bus to Kumily then get down at Ettammile

The thunderous cataract in the picture falling from a high of 1200 ft is just one among the seven falls here. But to get a full view of all the falls, one should go to the Gudalloor area of TamilNadu. The falls, against the backdrop of the lush greenery and the blue canopy above, are so inviting that one, for a split second, would like to plunge headlong. But never ever think of it. It's too dangerous. Three lives were lost recently.

This picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.

Getting there:

Nearest airport: Madurai in Tamil Nadu, about 140 kms
Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 190 kms.

Nearest railway station: Theni in Tamil Nadu, about 60 kms
Changanacherry, about 93 kms.