Wayanad

ABOUT ITS TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURES, FLORA & FAUNA
Wayanad one of the loveliest hill station of Kerala State, lies nestled among the majestic mountains of the Western Ghats, at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 meters above sea level. It lies between North latitude 110 27I and 150 58I and east latitude 750 47I and 700 27I.

This District is bounded on the east by Nilgiris and Mysore and Districts of Tamilnadu and Karnataka, on the North by Coorg District of Karnataka, on the South by Malappuram and on the West by Kozhikode and Kannur.

Also known as green paradise, Wayanad is located at a distance of about 76 kms. from the seashore of Kozhikode. The name Wayanad is believed to have been derived from the word ‘Vayalnadu’, which means land of paddy fields. This District, carved out from parts of Kozhikode and Kannur Districts, is occupying an area of 2132 sq. km.

Referred to as the land of tribal’s Wayanad has the largest Adivasi population. In other words, this District alone accounts for 36% of the Adivasi population of entire State. The Adivasi population mainly consists of sects like Paniyas, Kurumas, Adiyars, Kurichyas, Ooralis and Kattunaikkans etc.

Although Wayanad is considered to be a backward district, it has attained a name as the biggest foreign exchange earner of the state on account of perennial cultivationof cash crops like pepper, cardamon, coffee, tea, rubber and other condiments etc. Other crops cultivated in this District are coconut, arecanut and a variety of vegitables etc.

Wayanad has a salubrious climate. The average rain fall is 2322 m. m. the high rain fall area of the district are Lakkidi, Vythiri and Meppadi etc. The annual rain fall in these areas ranges from 3000 to 4000 m. m.

The flora of Wayanad is characteristic of the Western Ghats. A major part of the district is covered by coffee plantations. The District is famous for trees like Rose-wood, Anjili (Artocarpus), Mullumurikku (Erthrina) and several species of Caussia and many other non-descript varieties. Eucalyptus is cultivated on large scale in certain areas.

Of the 20864 hectares of the reserve forest, a major part of the land has Teak plantation in addition to Arecanut palms and Jack trees.

Although Wayanad was once known for a large forest area buzzing with wild life similar to the characteristics of the forest in Western Ghats, however, clearing of the forest land by the Kerala Agricultural university for setting up the Regional Agricultural Research Station for promotion of cultivation of vegetables etc. at Ambalavayal has affected its fauna to a great extent. Still the forest area of this district has bonnet Monkeys, Loris, Mangooses, Jungle cats, squirrels, Jackals and hares bear and other wild animals straying in to this forest area from the neighboring wild life sanctuaries of Karnataka and Tamilnadu etc.

Wayanad is known for its famous Kabani River, the important tributary of the River Cauvery. Kabany River and its tributaries known as Panamaram river, Mananthavady river and Thirunelli river constitute a powerful network of rivers, adding to the beauty of the landscape of Wayanad. Panamaram takes its origin from the perennial lake known as ‘Pookode Lake’, which flows gently through the mountain gorges and joined by other streams cascading down in to the Panamaram valley. This river also joins with Mananthavady rivulet originating from the lower regions of the ‘Thondarmudi’peak.

HISTORY

According to historians organized human life had exited at Wayanad at least ten centuries before Christ. As a testimony to this finding of the historians, countless evidences confirming new stone age civilization were seen on the hills of Wayanad. The two caves of Ampukuthimala located between Sulthan Bathery and Ambalavayal having pictures and pictorial writings on their walls speak volumes of the bygone era and stone age civilization. The recorded history of this District can be traced back to the period from the 18th century. In ancient times, this land was ruled by the Rajas of the Veda tribute. In later days, Wayanad came under the rule of the Pazhassi Rajahs of Kottayam royal Dynasty. But later when Hyder Alibecome the ruler of Mysore, he invaded Wayanad and brought it under his regime. When Tipu Sulthan emerged on the scene, Wayanad was restored to the Kottayam royal Dynasty. But, Tipu handed over the entire Malabar region to the British as a sequel to the Sreerangapattanam Truce he had made with them. This was followed by fierce and internecine encounters between the British and Kerala Varma Pazhassi Rajah of Kottayam. When the Rajah was driven out in to the wilderness of Wayanad, he organized the war-like Kurichiya tribals in to a sort of people’s militia and engaged the British in several querrilla type encounters. In the end, the British could get only the dead body of the Rajah, who killed himself in the interior of the forest, ultimately, Wayanad fell in to the hands of the British resulting in the dawn of a new era in this District. It was the British who opened up the plateau for cultivation of tea and other cash crops. Roads were laid across the dangerous slopes of Wayanad connecting Kozhikode and Thalassery. Thereafter these roads from Kozhikode band Thalassery were extended to the cities of Mysore and Ooty through Gudalur. The facility of these roads enabled large number of people to come from different part of Kerala.

Important Tourist Attractions

Chembra Park

Chembra is known as the largest hill in Wayanad and situated near Meppady town. One can reach the top of the peak by trekking and it is possible for only those who have courage and skill for mountaineering. To reach the peak of the hill, it takes almost a day of trekking. Once a trekker reaches the peak, he can also stay for one or two daysthere at the top of the peak in a temporary camp. It will be an exciting and unforgettable experience to be on the peak and to imbibe the most scenic and irresistible beauty of the landscape of the Wayanad. The District Tourism Promotion Council has made arrangements to provide guides, canvases, sleeping bags, huts and all necessary trekking implements on hire for those who want to climb the Chembra hill and conquer its peak.

Edakkal Caves

It is located in the Ambukutty Mountain, three kilometers away from Ambalavayal and twenty five kilometers from Kalpetta. This is not a neutral cave as usually found in the mountain ranges. According to a reference made in the India Antiquary and in the District Gazettee, Kozhikode, once a cleft of about 96ft. in length and 22 ft. in width took place in this mountain following a fissure in a corner Rock when that part split off from the main body due natural causes. This fissure measured about 30 ft. deep. To any tourist coming to visit this site, this deep fissure gave the appearance of a cave. Because an enormous part of the broken rock weighing several tones formed as a roof over a large part of this fissure. The rock walls contain interesting carvings representing human and animal figures and objects of human use and symbols. These carving speak of the pre-historic age and have inspired the archeologists and historians to write the history of Wayanad.

Kuruva Island

The Kuruva Island is situated 17 kms. East of Mananthavady and 40kms. North West of Sulthan Bathery. This island is spread over 950 acres of evergreen forest land on the tributaries of River Kabani. It is an ideal picnic spot for holidayers situated far away from the disturbances of city life, where the holidays can be spend in peace and pleasure. This is an uninhabited island, surrounded by the breathtaking landscape. Rare species of birds, orchids and herbs can be found in abundance here.

LAKKIDI

Lakkidi is known as the gateway of waynad and perched atop Thamarassery a Ghat pass , at an elevation of 700m above the sea level. Being situated on the highest location in Wayanad , Lakkidi offers a picturesque view. It is locate 58kms north east of Kozhikode and 5kms south of Vythiri. The lofty mountain peaks, the gurgling streams , lush vegetalion and a bird’s eye of the deep valley one the south with zin-zag roads winding through the slops etc are breath-taking sights.

A tourist will take to reach Lakkidi 12 kms journey from Adivaram (bottom) negotiating the hairpin bends amidst thick forests and this fascinating experience will leave an indelible memory in the mind through the remainder of life.

Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary

It is a wildlife sanctuary situated among the thick forest covering an area of 345 sq. kms. It is 16 kms. east of Sulthan Bathery and located close to Karnadaka border. In this wildlife sanctuary, wild animals like elephants, spotted deer, bison, tiger, cheetah and wild boar etc. can be found roaming in its natural set-up. The forest department has facilities to provide elephant rides to tourists.

Pakshi Pathalam

Pakshi pathalam is located in the Brahmagiri hills at Thirunelli and attracts tourist seeking adventurism. This important tourist spot can be reached after seventeen kilometers of journey through the wild forest. The northern end of the Brahmagiri hills has deep rock caves formed among the thick blocks of rocks and these areas are natural habitat for various birds and wild beasts. For a tourist to go to Pakshipathalam, special permission should be obtained from the forest department. On getting permission District Tourism Promotion Council will arrange vehicle, guides and camping equipments etc to the tourists on hire.

Pazhassi Raja Tomb

This tomb is situated at Mananthavadi, where Pazhassi Raja has been laid to rest. Pazhassi Raja was known as the Lion of Kerala, who had launched a guerilla-type war fare against the British East India Company in 1805. He was also known for his extra ordinary bravery and heroism.

There is also a good aquarium located here. Also entertainment facilities for children exist at Mananthavadi. Coin operated toys are available for children here and also the boating facilities.

Pookot Lake

Pookot lake is situated three kms. south of Vythiri and known as one of the most sought-after tpourist spot of Wayanad. It is a natural fresh water lake set against the background of very lush and green mountains, thus providing it a beautiful view of landscape. The place has also an aquarium and a green house, in addition to boating facilities. Spices and handicraft items are also arranged for sale at Pookot.

Sentinel Rock Waterfalls

This waterfall can be seen at Vellarimala village near Chooralmala in Meppadi Panchayat. It is a renowned picnic spot as well as a most sought after trekking centre. This Sentinel Rock is more than200 m. in height and most ideal for rock climbing.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls

Kanthanpara waterfalls is comparatively smaller than Sentinel Rock waterfalls, but its natural surroundings present a pleasant view. Though less frequented, this waterfall is also a popular picnic spot by the tourists.

Soochippara Waterfalls

This waterfalls at Soochippara near Meppadi is a marvelous gift of nature, for its splendor and beauty. It is an unforgettable and pleasant treat to the eyes to view the waters cascading down from a height ranging from 100 to 300 ft. of the mountain. The pool below the waterfalls provides for water rafting, swimming and bathing etc. the tree top huts at Soochippara provides a unique opportunity to the tourists to view and get absorbed in the enchanting beauty of the valleys of the Western Ghats and the glittering shallow waters of the springs flowing below.

Banasura Sagar Dam

This has the unique distinction of being the largest earth Dam in India. Ipso facto, this Dam is drawing large number of tourists for sightseeing. According to its topographical features, many islands will be formed in the upstream of the Dam when it is full. These islands when formed in the upstream and in the background of the Banasura hills will provide a spectacular sight to the tourists.

Places Of Worship

Thirunelli Temple

This is an ancient riverside temple of Thirunelli and nestled in the midst of mountains and forests. This Temple is a superb specimen of classical Keralastyle of architecture and stands dedicated by Brahma to Vishnu in the form of Chaturbhuja. Thirunelli Temple is often reffered to as Dakshina Kasi (The Kasi of South) and it draws large number of pilgrims from all over India and they come primarily for ancestral rules. There is a mountain spring known as ‘PAPANASINI’ near Thirunelli Temple. It is believed by the faithful that a holy ritual dip in the waters of this spring will wash away all the sins. There are two main festivals celebrated here in April and August/September every year.

To reach this temple, a distance of 64 kms. from Kalpetta, 71 kms. from Sulthan Bathery and 29 kms. from Mananthavady requires to be covered.

Valliyoorkavu Temple

This Temple is an important place to worship for the tribal communities in Wayanad. Mother Goddess, manifest in three principal forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and Jala Durga, has been installed as main deity here. The annual temple festival lasting days is held in March/April.

This temple is situated 24 kms. away from Kalpetta, 31 kms. away from Sulthan Bathery and 5 kms. away from Mananthavady.

Sita Lava-Kusha Temple

This temple is known as the only temple dedicated to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. According to local legends, this region is connected with many episodes from the Ramayana. Being Pazhassi raja’s most favoured shrine devotes from all faith have been traditionally permitted entry to this temple.

Sita Lava Kusha Temple is 50 kms. away from Ka;petta, 25 kms. away from Sulthan bathery and 41 kms. away from Mananthavady.

Thrissilery Shiva Temple

This is a stunningly beautiful temple constructed with a perfect blend of architectural skill and craftsmanship and comparable with Vishnu Temple at Thirunelli. It is believed that performance of ancestral rites at Thirunelli Vishnu Temple remain unfinished unless followed by the offerings at this temple within the premises of this temple, there is another shrine which is devoted to Jala Durga and believed to have been built by none other than the legendary figure Parashurama. There are many myths connected with the temple tank here, which is believed to get never dried up.

This temple is located 50 kms. away from kalpetta, 25 kms. away from Sultan Bathery and 41 kms. away from Mananthavady.

Pallikkunnu Church

Pallikkunnu Church was built in 1905 at the initiative of a French Missionary Rev. Fr. Jeffrine and dedicated to Lourdes Matha. A very interesting fact about this church is that it has several rituals and practices similar to those as followed in Hindu Temples. Every year, in early February, two weeks long church ‘Perunnal’ (Festival) is conducted. Large number of devotees flog in this church from various parts of Kerala and also from outside the State to witness this annual festival.

This temple is 19 kma. Away from Kalpetta, 38 kms. away from Sulthan bathery and 23 kms. away from Mananthavady.

Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple

This Jain Temple is located amidst rims spread across the State of Kerala that testify to an era of strong Jain dominance in this Region. Believed to have been built in the 13th century, this temple served as a Hindu Shrine, an important centre for commercial activity and eventually as a battery (Ammunition depot) for Tipu Sulthan’s Army. Apart from this temple, some other temples like Punchavayal and puthengadi etc. had also existed, as evidenced from the Jain remnants in Wayanad. The temple rims in this region suggest that these temples had beautifully carved pillars. The sites here exude a peculiar air of mystery about Jain era.

This temple is 24 kms. away from Kalpetta, 12 kms. away from Sulthan Bathery and 41 kms. away from Mananthavady.