നാടുകാണി പവിലിയൻ (Nadukani Pavilion) കേരളത്തിലെ ഇടുക്കി ജില്ലയിലെ കുളമാവിന് സമീപം സ്ഥിതിചെയ്യുന്ന മനോഹരമായ ഒരു ഹിൽ വ്യൂ പോയിന്റാണ്. സമുദ്രനിരപ്പിൽ നിന്ന് 3000 അടി ഉയരത്തിലുള്ള ഈ സ്ഥലം പാശ്ചാത്യഘട്ടങ്ങളും താഴ്വരകളും ഉൾപ്പെടെ മനോഹരമായ പനോരമിക് ദൃശ്യങ്ങൾ സമ്മാനിക്കുന്നു.
പ്രധാന ആകർഷണങ്ങൾ:
രൂപകൽപ്പനയും സൗകര്യങ്ങളും:
1966-ൽ കേരള സംസ്ഥാന വൈദ്യുതി ബോർഡ് (KSEB) നിർമ്മിച്ച ഈ പവിലിയൻ ഇടുക്കി ഹൈഡ്രോഇലക്ട്രിക് പ്രോജക്ടിന്റെ ഭാഗമായാണ് രൂപം കൊണ്ടത്.
രണ്ട് നിലകളുള്ള പവിലിയൻ, വരൂടിയ ഗോപുരരൂപമുള്ള മേൽക്കൂരയും കാഴ്ചാഗ്രഹണ ഗാലറിയും ഉണ്ടായതിനാൽ ഈ പ്രദേശം സുരക്ഷിതമായും മനോഹരമായും ദൃശ്യമാകുന്നു.
പവിലിയന്റെ ചുറ്റുമുള്ള ചെറിയ തോട്ടവും വിശ്രമത്തിന് സജ്ജമാക്കിയ ബെഞ്ചുകളും സഞ്ചാരികൾക്ക് പ്രകൃതിസൗന്ദര്യം ആസ്വദിക്കാൻ അനുയോജ്യമാണ്.
പ്രകൃതിദൃശ്യങ്ങളുടെ സമൃദ്ധി:
മൂവാറ്റുപുഴ നദി, മൂലമറ്റം ടൗൺ, മലങ്കര ജലാശയം, നെടുവീർപ്പുള്ള പർവ്വതങ്ങൾ എന്നിവയുടെ മനോഹരമായ ദൃശ്യങ്ങൾ ഇവിടെ നിന്ന് കാണാനാകും.
പച്ചപ്പുള്ള താഴ്വരകളും മൂടിക്കിടക്കുന്ന മഞ്ഞുമലകളും കാഴ്ച്ചക്ക് പുതിയ ഒരു ഭംഗി നൽകുന്നു.
ഇതിഹാസവും നിർമാണത്തിന്റെ പ്രാധാന്യവും:
പവിലിയൻ കുളമാവിനു സമീപമുള്ള നാടുകാണി ഗ്രാമത്തിന് ആദരവായാണ് ഈ പേരിൽ അറിയപ്പെടുന്നത്.
ഇടുക്കി ഡാം ഉൾപ്പെടുന്ന വലിയ പ്രോജക്ടിന്റെ ഭാഗമായ ഈ പവിലിയൻ, ഏഷ്യയിലെ ഏറ്റവും വലിയ കൃത്രിമ തടാകങ്ങൾക്കൊന്നായ ഇടുക്കി തടാകത്തിൻറെ ചരിത്രം ഓർമ്മപ്പെടുത്തുന്നു.
കൂടുതൽ ആകർഷണങ്ങൾ:
കുളമാവ് ഡാം, ഇടുക്കി ആർച്ച് ഡാം, മലങ്കര ജലാശയം എന്നിവയും സമീപപ്രദേശങ്ങളിൽ സന്ദർശിക്കാൻ പറ്റുന്ന പ്രധാന സ്ഥലങ്ങളാണ്.
കേരളം എന്നും പ്രകൃതിയുടെ ശോഭയാൽ പ്രസിദ്ധമാണ്. എന്നാൽ പലപ്പോഴും പ്രശസ്ത വിനോദസഞ്ചാര കേന്ദ്രങ്ങളിൽ നിന്ന് മാറി നിൽക്കുന്ന സ്ഥലങ്ങൾ വളരെ കുറച്ച് പേർക്ക് മാത്രമേ അറിയാവുന്നുള്ളു. അത്തരം ഒരു അറിയപ്പെടാത്ത സ്വർഗ്ഗം ആണ് ഞണ്ടിറുക്കി വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടം.
ഇടുക്കി ജില്ലയിലെ പൂമല-മേത്തോട്ടി വനമേഖലയിലാണ് ഈ മനോഹര വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടം സ്ഥിതി ചെയ്യുന്നത്. ചെപ്പുകുളം മലയിൽ ആരംഭിക്കുന്ന നീലജലധാര, 200 അടി ഉയരത്തിൽ നിന്ന് താഴേക്ക് പതിക്കുന്നു. വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടത്തിന്റെ ഒഴുക്ക് തടസ്സം കണ്ടില്ലെന്ന് നടിക്കുന്നപോലെ ഒരു കുറുകെ പതിക്കുന്നു, അതിനാൽ അതിന് "Njandirukki" എന്ന പേര് ലഭിച്ചു, അതിന്റെ പാറകൾ ഞണ്ടിയുടെ രൂപം തന്നെയാണെന്നാണ് വിശ്വാസം.
Njandirukki: അനപരിചിതത്വത്തിന്റെയും പ്രകൃതിരമണീയതയുടെയും പ്രഭാവം
വെളളച്ചാട്ടത്തിലേക്ക് എത്തുമ്പോൾ പ്രാന്തപ്രദേശങ്ങളുടെ മഞ്ഞും കാഴ്ചകളും മനസ്സിൽ ഒരു ശാന്തിയും സൗഖ്യവും നിറക്കുന്നതാണ്. ഇടുങ്ങിയ പാതയിലൂടെ എത്തിച്ചേരാവുന്ന Njandirukki വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടം, രഹസ്യസ്ഥലമെന്നപോലെ അനുഭവപ്പെടും. വേനൽക്കാലത്ത് വെള്ളത്തിന്റെ ഒഴുക്ക് കുറയുമ്പോഴും, മഴക്കാലത്ത് ഈ വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടത്തിന്റെ പൂർണശോഭയിലേക്ക് സഞ്ചരിക്കുന്നതു പ്രകൃതിയെ ആസ്വദിക്കുന്നവർക്ക് ഏറെ രസകരമാണ്.
എങ്ങനെ Njandirukki വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടത്തിലെത്താം?
Njandirukki വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടത്തിലെത്താൻ വളരെ ലളിതമാണ്. തൊടുപുഴ നഗരത്തിൽ നിന്ന് പൂമാല ബസിൽ കയറി 19 കിലോമീറ്റർ യാത്ര ചെയ്ത് പൂമാല ടൌൺ വരെ എത്താം. അവിടെ നിന്ന് വെറും 200 മീറ്റർ മുന്നോട്ട് നടന്നാൽ ഈ മനോഹര വെള്ളച്ചാട്ടം കാണാം.
If you’re seeking a peaceful escape into nature, Malankara Dam in Idukki, Kerala, might just be the perfect destination. Nestled near Thodupuzha, this gravity dam offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engineering marvel, making it a must-visit spot for travelers exploring Kerala.
A Marvel of Engineering
Constructed across the Thodupuzha River, Malankara Dam was primarily built for irrigation purposes, utilizing the tailwater from the Moolamattom Powerhouse. While the dam’s primary function is irrigation, a small powerhouse has also been added, contributing to the region’s energy needs. Unlike the more famous Idukki and Cheruthoni dams, Malankara Dam is accessible to tourists year-round, offering a serene and unspoiled environment to explore.
Visiting Malankara Dam
Located near the village of Muttom, Malankara Dam is easy to reach and offers plenty of parking. Visitors can access the dam from the opposite side of the University College of Engineering, with an entry fee of just 20 rupees and a car parking fee of 10 rupees. As you walk across the dam, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the calm waters of the reservoir—a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty.
A Family-Friendly Destination
For those traveling with children, there’s a well-maintained park near the dam, offering a great place for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. While we didn’t explore the park during our visit, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, making Malankara Dam a versatile destination suitable for all ages.
Nestled in the lush hills of Idukki, Kerala, Uravappara is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and spirituality. Located just 3 kilometers from Thodupuzha town, this stunning viewpoint is a must-visit for nature lovers, trekkers, and anyone seeking tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Journey to Uravappara
The journey to Uravappara begins from Thodupuzha, taking you through the scenic route via Olamattom. The final stretch is an adventure in itself, with a steep and narrow road that winds its way up the hills. While the ascent requires careful driving, the reward at the top is well worth the effort.
A Walk Across the Giant Rock
At the summit, you’ll find a massive rock formation that serves as a natural walkway. As you stroll across, you’re greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The greenery is particularly vibrant during the monsoon season, with the added bonus of a water-filled quarry below that creates a picturesque sight. From this vantage point, you can also spot the buildings of Thodupuzha town, beautifully framed by the lush hills.
The Uravappara Temple
One of the key attractions at Uravappara is the ancient rock temple dedicated to Lord Subramanya. This temple not only offers a peaceful place for reflection and prayer but also connects visitors to the rich spiritual heritage of the region. According to local legend, the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, along with Draupadi, spent some time here during their twelve-year exile, adding a layer of mythical significance to the site.
Visiting Tips
While Uravappara is a serene and scenic destination, it’s important to come prepared. There are no shops or seating areas at the viewpoint, so make sure to bring your own water, snacks, and sun protection, especially if you’re visiting during the afternoon. The best times to visit are in the mornings and evenings when the weather is cooler and the light is perfect for photography.
Experience the Monsoon Magic
If you have the chance to visit during the monsoon season, you’re in for a treat. The rains transform Uravappara into a verdant paradise, with the surrounding greenery becoming even more lush and the quarry below filling with water, adding an extra layer of beauty to the already stunning landscape.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Uravappara offers something for everyone. Its unique combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination in Kerala.
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Idukki, Kerala, Hill View Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located approximately 60 kilometers from Thodupuzha and just 4 kilometers from Cheruthoni, this serene park offers breathtaking views, thrilling activities, and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Getting There
Reaching Hill View Park is an adventure in itself, with winding roads that offer glimpses of Kerala's rich greenery and mountainous terrain. Once you arrive, you'll find the entrance inviting and well-marked. Tickets are priced at an affordable 25 rupees per adult, making it a budget-friendly option for families and solo travelers alike.
The Walk to the Park
After purchasing your tickets, be prepared for a short yet invigorating 300-meter uphill walk to reach the main area of the park. This brief hike sets the stage for what’s to come, as the anticipation builds with every step.
Breathtaking Views from the Watchtower
One of the highlights of Hill View Park is the watchtower, which offers a panoramic view of the Idukki Arch Dam and the surrounding hills. The mountains flanking the dam are known as Kuravan Mala on the right and Kurathi Mala on the left, each with its own legend and history.
The Idukki Arch Dam, constructed in 1975, is one of the highest arch dams in Asia, with a length of 365.85 meters at the top. The dam was built along with two others at Cheruthoni and Kulamavu, and from the watchtower, you can also spot the Cheruthoni Dam in the distance. During peak vacation times—such as the summer months of April and May, Christmas to New Year, and Onam holidays—the Cheruthoni Dam is open to the public, offering a rare opportunity to walk across its top. Outside of these times, however, access is restricted.
Adventure Awaits
For those seeking a bit more excitement, Hill View Park offers an adventure area where you can indulge in activities such as Zip Line, Giant Swing, Sky Cycle, Burma Bridge, and Kutta Vanchy. These activities are available for an additional fee and are well worth the experience, providing a unique way to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Why Visit Hill View Park?
Hill View Park is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a place where you can connect with nature, challenge yourself with outdoor activities, and learn about the fascinating history of the Idukki region. Whether you’re a photographer looking to capture stunning landscapes, a family in search of a fun day out, or a solo traveler seeking tranquility, Hill View Park has something to offer everyone.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Idukki, make sure to include Hill View Park on your itinerary. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from September to March, when the weather is pleasant and the views are at their most vibrant.
Final Thoughts
Hill View Park in Idukki is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on every traveler’s list. From the moment you step into the park to the time you leave, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kerala.
Nestled in the lush green hills of Idukki, Kerala, the Anchuruli Tunnel is an engineering marvel that blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the region. Often overlooked by mainstream tourists, this tunnel offers a unique glimpse into Kerala's hydroelectric prowess and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone fascinated by engineering feats, Anchuruli Tunnel is a destination that deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
The Story Behind Anchuruli Tunnel:
The Anchuruli Tunnel, also known as the Anchuruli Water Tunnel, was constructed to channel water from the Erattayar Dam to the Idukki Reservoir. This 5.5-kilometer tunnel was built by drilling through the Kalyanathandu hill, a testament to the ingenuity of its engineers. Managed by the Kerala State Electricity Board, the tunnel plays a crucial role in the Idukki Hydro Electric Project, which powers a significant portion of the state.
Getting There:
Located about 8 kilometers from Kattappana town in Idukki district, the journey to Anchuruli Tunnel is an adventure in itself. The road leading to the tunnel can be rough, especially during the monsoon season, but it is commutable with a bit of caution. The drive takes you through winding roads, dense forests, and picturesque landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities to soak in the natural beauty of Idukki.
A Cinematic Connection:
Anchuruli Tunnel is not just a natural and engineering wonder; it has also caught the eye of filmmakers. The tunnel was featured in the climax scene of the 2014 Malayalam movie "Iyobinte Pusthakam," adding a touch of cinematic history to its charm.
Why Visit Anchuruli Tunnel?
Anchuruli Tunnel offers a unique travel experience that combines nature's beauty with human ingenuity. Whether you're there to marvel at the engineering, enjoy the serene views, or simply escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Anchuruli has something to offer every traveler. Its off-the-beaten-path location adds to its allure, making it a hidden gem in Kerala’s rich landscape.
Nestled in the heart of Idukki district, Kalvari Mount View Point offers an unparalleled experience of nature’s beauty. Located on the Thodupuzha-Kattapana Highway, this hidden gem is just 11 kilometers past Cheruthoni. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, photographer, or someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this place has something for everyone.
Getting There
The journey to Kalvari Mount is as exciting as the destination itself. From the main road, you need to travel about 750 meters to reach the viewpoint. Despite the ascent, the road conditions are good, making it accessible for all types of vehicles. For those who prefer not to drive, there are jeeps available for rent. Upon reaching the entrance, a ticket costs 25 rupees per adult, and car parking is also priced at 25 rupees.
What to Expect
As you walk towards the viewpoint, you'll pass through a charming garden-like setup. The main attraction here is the stunning view of the Idukki Reservoir. The viewpoint offers a 360-degree panorama of tranquil waters, lush green hills, and dense forests. The mornings and evenings are particularly magical, with beautiful skies that are sometimes veiled by a gentle fog, adding to the mystical ambiance.
Cinematic Charm
A fun fact for movie buffs: several scenes of the famous Malayalam movie "Idukki Gold" were filmed at Kalvari Mount. This adds a touch of cinematic charm to an already picturesque location.
