| Edakkal Cave |
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An interesting trek up the Ambukuthi
Hill near Ambalavayal town takes you to the fascinating neolithic cave
site of Edakkal. Etchings found on the walls of these caves have drawn
the serious attention of archaeologists and historians worldwide. With at
least three distinct sets of petroglyphs, the earliest thought to date
back over 5000 years, it is assumed that the Edakkal caves had been
inhabited at various stages in history. |
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| Pookote Lake |
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Set in a beautiful valley and
surrounded by evergreen forests and wooded hills, Pookote is one of
Wayanad's top visitor draws. This natural lake near Lakkidi is just a
short distance off the NationalHighway212. It has been developed as a
recreational center having boating facilities, children's park, shop for
souveniers and spices, and a fresh water aquarium. Replete with a cafe
and restautant, this is a good setting for day outings with family. |
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| Thirunelli Temple |
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A short walk from Thirunelli temple is
the clear mountain spring known as Papanasini. A ritual dip here is
believed to wash one away of all worldly sins.
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| Wayanad Heritage Meuseum |
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Located in the town of Ambalavayal,
this museum is home to an interesting collection of artifacts that shed
light on the history, culture and heritage of the Wayanad region. These
include headgear, weapons pottery, and objects associated with tribal
life. A series of pictorial rock edicts referred to as Hero Stones,
memorialise a bygone age of valiant warriors. Adjoining the museum is a
small theatre where you can watch a multimedia presentation on Wayanad. |
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| Sentinary Rock Falls |
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Locally known as Soochipara, this is a very popular leisure
destination. While younger visitors love to romp in the pool formed at
the foot of the fall, the more restrained can have equally good fun just
taking in the scenery. |
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| Chembra Peak |
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At 2100 metres, the spectacular Chembra
Peak located towards the southern part of Wayanad is the tallest summit
in the region. Climbing this peak is a challenging mountaineering
endeavour and would take a full day. The surrounding areas offer
exceptional photo opportunities. Camping on the peak is a unforgettable
experience. |
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| Pazhassi Raja's Tomb |
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Pazhassi Raja, a scion of the Kottayam
royal family was one of the earliest to strike the banner of revolt
against British overlordship in this part of India. Taking refuge in the
Wayanad hills, he resorted to classic techniques of guerrilla warfare
against superior British forces. He remained successful for a remarkably
long period until finally the English brought in heavy reinforcements
from Madras and Bombay. This Lion of Kerala was downed in a ferocious
encounter that took place at Mavilanthode in the last days of 1805.
Pazhassi’s tomb marks the point where he was cremated. |
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| Jain Temple Sulthan Bathery |
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This temple is one of the most
important amongst a series of Jain ruins spread across the state of
Kerala, testify to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region.
Believed to have been built in the 13th century, it served as a Hindu
shrine, an important for centre for commercial activity and eventually as
a battery (ammunition store) for Tipu Sultan’s marching armies. |
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| Valliyur Kavu |
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This temple dedicated to the Mother
Goddess, manifest in the 3 principal forms of Vana Durga, Bhadrakali and
Jala Durga is an important place of worship for various tribal
communities in Wayanad. Every year a 15 day festival is held in
March/April. |
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| Pallikunnu Church |
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Dedicated to the Lourdes Matha,
Pallikkunnu Church was established in 1905 at the initiative of a French
missionary Fr. Jeffrine. An interesting aspect of this church is that it
has several rituals and practices similar to those prevalent in Hindu
temples. The annual 2 week Perunnal festival in early February draws
large throngs of devotees from other parts of Kerala, as well as outside |
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| SeethaLavaKusa Temple |
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This is the only known temple dedicated
to Lava and Kusha, the sons of Lord Rama. Local legends connect this
region with many important episodes from the Ramayana. As the favoured
shrine of the Pazhassi Raja, this temple has traditionally permitted
entry to devotees from all faiths. |
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| Korom Mosque |
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This nearly 300 year old mosque is
built in traditional Kerala style with extensive wood carvings.
Originally built by local Nair gentry, Korome Mosque to this day is seen
as a sterling example of communal amity. The annual Uroos festivities
draws participants from all religions. |
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| Kanthanpara Falls |
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Relatively smaller than Sentinal Rock,
and rather less frequented, Kanthanpara and it’s surroundings are nonetheless
very pleasant. An easy hike away from the main road, it’s perfect for
picnics. |
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