One day Chimmini Trek, Thrissur

It was almost an year since I went for a trek.  So, when I was free for a day, I planned a trek to  Chimmini Forest.

At 6.30 a.m. we boarded the van from Kochi. When each one of us boarded from different locations, some of them tried to greet others and introduced themself. It was drizzling outside which made our travel more enjoyable on the Ernakulam-Thrissur National Highway. After Amballur, we diverted to Palapilly Road. I craned my neck out of the Van to get a closer look at the rubber trees on both sides of the road.

We reached Chimminy check post at around 9'o clock. Entry ticket is Rs.20/- per person.

Chimminy Wildlife Sanctuary Sanctuary  is situated in Thrissur District and is close to Nelliampathy and shares a part of it with Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary and Parambikulam Sanctuary.

After breakfast, we started our trek. Two forest officials also accompanied us. This is a 5 km trek which can be covered within 3 hours. It was indeed a beautiful experience, walking with a 19-member enthusiastic and energetic team.

We had frequent stops for photography and rest. The sanctuary in itself was picturesque with a variety of flora and fauna along the way.

After few kilometers of trek, we reached Choorathala. Since monsoon is yet to arrive, there were no waterfalls, which disappointed us. But we managed to overcome that with some entertainment which lasted for around half an hour.

After few kilometers from Choorathala, we came out of the forest. We could see the reservoir of Chimmini Dam and mountains and forests around it. We walked through the reservoir area and reached starting point of the trek. Dormitory facility is available near Forest office.

After lunch and rest for some time, it was time to coracle ride popularly known as Kottavanji ride, in the dam reservoir. Since this is an Ecotourism Centre, there was a heavy rush of   tourists. A 20-minute ride for four persons cost Rs.400/-. 

We, four persons each in a coracle, started our ride in 30 ft deep water with life jackets. It was a beautiful experience with coracle ride in the dam reservoir, enjoying the backdrop of majestic hills and nature all around.

It was indeed a beautiful day with trek, coracle ride, photography sessions and songs. Million thanks to the team who made the trip a memorable one.

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Vagavanam Trek, Idukki

Vagavanam is near to the famous hill station Vagamon, which is located in Idukki district, in the Indian State of Kerala.

We started our journey from Kochi in the early morning. Had a pit stop at Thodupuzha for breakfast. From Moolamattom onwards, the journey uphill having narrow roads and curves, was not at all comfortable. We stopped our car before reaching Vagavanam and collected our packed lunch. Reached Kerala Forest Department office at Ottamarapara, which is 8 kms from the Junction. There was a small shop selling honey and tea dust and we decided to purchase those when we return.

Kerala Forest Department arranges  windy walk trekking at Kuvalettam. Total trekking distance would be around 7 kms, which can be covered within 3.5 hours.

After taking entry ticket for Rs.155/- and completing formalities by filling form , we started out trek with our guides. Initial trek was through tar road, then we deviated to mud jeep road. Since this was rainy season, the road was slippery. We stoped at the foothill of the first hill, and had group introduction to know each other and resumed our trek.

Walking with greenery and fresh wind makes life easier here. We could see Vagamon in a distance.

We reached the top of the first hill. We could see a herd of elephants way down the hill.

It is all about walking up and down through the grasslands and enjoying the heavy wind. Few areas were slippery, rocky patch, so one needs to be careful while climbing. The journey is also scenic and is worth visiting for all nature lovers. Its beauty enhances during the monsoon season.

We trekked further until we reached the final hill which is the last point in windy walk trekking. Other side of the reservoir is Kulamavu. From the peak, we could get the beautiful views of catchment area of Idukki reservoir.  We rested for a while, had packed lunch, took pictures and started return trekking. 

It was around 3 pm, when we returned to the starting point of the trek. Next up in our chart was a bath in the nearby Kallattupara waterfalls. It was not a big waterfall, but water was cold and a bath beneath the falls, gave a lot of relief to us. After bath, we had a pit stop near the reservoir and shared our experience in this trek.

Kallattupara waterfalls

A beautiful challenging one-day trial with a mixture of greenery, rain, grass land and heavy wind. 

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Trek to Moodal Mala, Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary

I already had a couple of treks to  Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary but trek to Moodalmala is a new trek path opened recently by the  Kerala  Forest Department. This is one of the highest trekking point in Peechi WLS. 

Our reporting point was Forest Office, Peechi, near Thrissur , Kerala ,  at 9 a.m.   After getting the required permission from  the Forest office, we started our trek at around 9.30 a.m accompanied by two  forest guides. We walked through the jeep road until we reached the mouth of the forest. This is the real starting point of the trek. After a small introduction of group members , we started our trek.

Initial trek was a hike through dense forests, and we took halt in regular intervals. On the way, our guide showed us different trees and plants and shared his deep knowledge about those trees and plants.  After a steep hike, we reached  a viewpoint, and we could see Kochi Coimbatore National Highway and the  Kuthiran Tunnel.

We took halt in the  open rocky area and we were greeted by picturesque views and gusty winds.  I found a comfortable spot to sit and relax. From this spot, we could see the  reservoir at a distance.

Then we resumed our trek downwards through the  thick forest without any proper route. We passed through Elephant passage route known as Anathara. We had a pit stop near a rivulet. Had our packed lunch and some of us  filled our water bottles too. Rest of the trek was beside the reservoir.

There was a surprise waiting for us.  It was amazing to see  many  wild dogs just on the  opposite side of the reservoir. They were seen heading to the  water to catch their meal. 

We waited there to click few  photos as they moved to the  forest after taking their meal.

 

Then we resumed our trek and returned to the  Forest office.  This is one of the best one-day trip in Peechi WLS.

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A Spiritual Adventure To Agasthyakoodam

When I was standing at the top of Kathirumudi mountain a year ago, I got the magnificent view of Agasthyakoodam. Since then it was a wish that I had kept in my mind to reach  the top of Agasthyakoodam and take the blessings of Agasthya Muni.

I booked my seat in December for the 3 days Agasthyakoodam trek which started on 12 th Feb, I started my preparations both physically and mentally. With a simple mission of being fit I started walking each morning. And was extra cautious in my diet to maintain my health. Usually season pilgrimage to Agasthyakoodam starts in January for two months. This year there was no season  to Agasthyakoodam due to Covid 19 and only special pass entry is allowed.

Finally the day came. On 11th February evening four of us started from Ernakulam in a private car. Ended our day with a sound accommodation at Rohini International, Vithura.  Had a good sleep.

Day 1 : 12 February 21 - All geared up for the trek. 18 km from Bonakkad  to Athirumala Base Camp.

Had breakfast and assembled at Vithura at around 7.30 am. It is around 14 kms from Vithura to Bonakkad. There is a check post on the way  - Kanithadam checkpost and one need to take permission to enter the area. From there, the hill range starts. There are few hairpin bends  on the way to Bonakkad.

The trek starts from Bonacaud picket station. After checking the entry pass, photo id and Covid Negative certificate , we started our trek at around 9.30 am with packed lunch. It is only after we vow to respect the forest and its inhabitants that we gain entry to one of the important parts on the Western Ghat ranges.

The Agasthyakoodam  is valued by scientists for its unparalleled biological diversity, as it is home to more than 300 rare birds and over 2000 medicinal plants. found nowhere else. The rivers, Karamanayar, Neyyar and Thirunelveli  originate from this place. This place is also lush together with Chenthuruni, Peppara, Neyyar and  Kalakkad Wildlife Sanctuaries. The peak is located within the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

The initial stretch from the picket station  is through thick deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. There are five camps in between Bonacaud Picket Station and Athirumala base camp, around two kilometers apart.  We stopped some time at the gushing Karamanayar  river  and had an energizing bath and a well deserved lunch.

Karamanayar river

I walked through the forest and meadows gurgling with small rivulets. After crossing lathimotta camp, Karamanayar river and Vazhapaithyar camp , we reached Attayar camp. From here the trek becomes slightly more challenging due to the rapid ascend into open grasslands. I fell into a rhythm, enjoying the simplicity of walking.  A little further ahead of the Attayar Camp, you get the first glimpse of the towering Agasthyakoodam Peak. This stretch is dangerous as there is a chance to see  wild animals.

Once you cover the grasslands, the final stretch to Athirumala involves a vertical climb through evergreen forests.  We could hear the sound of a Sloth Bear in the distance all along the way.

And the humble signboard welcomed us to the Athirumala Base Camp .

 It would be anywhere between 5 pm by the time we reached the base camp. Upon reaching, the authorities verified our pass. Dumping my luggage, I  straight dashed off for a Kattan Chai (black tea).

Athirumala base camp has four sheds covered by metal  sheets in blue color and another small area for cooking.  The site was protected from wild animals by a moat and has all basic amenities  for bath and toilets in decent condition .

There is a small river flowing beside the camp site. There was no power connection to the camp site and it was fully dependent upon solar energy. As per the camp rule, all lights will be switched off at 9 pm. By 8 pm, our dinner was ready. The staff were so friendly and they served us hot vegetarian food - rice, sambar and pappad.

They supplied mat and common shed for multiple teams.  I realised how cold it was outside before crawling into my sleeping bag. And heavy wind began to drum a beat on the metal sheet. I was warming in my sleeping bag.

Day 2: 13 Feb 21 : Today was the day to accomplish our goal to reach the top of Agasthyakoodam. 6km from Athirumala Base Camp and back.

When I stepped out of shed, I saw the magnificent view of Agasthyakoodam. The sky was clear.

A view of Agasthyarkoodam from the base

Named after  Agasthya, the most respected Vedic sage of Hinduism,  whose final resting place was on its peak, Agasthyakoodam or Agasthyarkoodam, was declared as Biospeare reserve on March 19, 2016.  The peak of Agasthyarkoodam can only be reached by trekking to it

There is an interesting mythological story about this place. During the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati,  all the Gods, the great sages and many other creatures traveled to Mt. Kailasa. . As a result of this huge gathering, the northern part of the land plunged. Lord Siva summoned Agastya and bade him to go south, to restore the balance of the earth.   Accordingly, the Rishi then traveled south. Alas, Agastya established his residence on the south, and never went back to the north. With his presence in the south, the weight of his ascetic merit served to restore the balance of the world.

When I tried to zoom the middle portion of the mountain, I could see Agasthya, In the end, our devotion makes one place holy and we could see the divine everywhere.

Freshened up with the super cold water, got ready with packed lunch  and at around 8 am, with the hope of good weather, a group of 29 enthusiasts, headed to the terrain of Agasthyakoodam which is a trek uphill. It is located at an elevation of 1868 meters from sea level, each of us along with guides was ready to conquer the challenges of terrain and make spectacular memories along the way. 

To keep our luggage light, we carried  only water bottles, snacks and a cap for sun protection apart from our packed lunch.  The gradient is moderate plus to difficult through dense forest, bamboo covers and steep rocky climb.  Rivulets and small waterfalls doted the way. 

When we  go up, we could see the camp site as a blue spot below amidst the greenery.

After around 1.5 kms, the forest cover thins out into a rocky bamboo trail. You will also be greeted with majestic views of the Agasthyakoodam peak  along with mesmerising views of the valley down below.

At around 2.5 kms, the trail opens out into a large rocky area with a narrow stream cutting across the middle and the Agasthyakoodam peak now standing intimidatingly on your right.

Cross over the stream and climb up the other side across a ridge to reach another wide open area called ‘Pongalappara’ . I stepped carefully over the rocks.

One could say this is from where the actual climb starts as the rocky plains now merge yet again into a narrow bonsai forest trail with almost 2 kms left towards the peak.  This place is known as Muttidichanmala. It is an oasis of green amid  the mountains surrounding it.

The trail now climbs over three vertical rock surface, one after the other. The ropes provided here help you to an extent to make this part of the climb  which ultimately lead to the topmost point.

It is customary to go barefoot in the final rock patch,  So I  climbed  barefoot..

Finally at the top!!! By 12 pm, we reached the top of Agasthyarkoodam.  This is the place I really wanted to visit for the past several years and I consider this as a major highlight in my life. 

This is the perfect spot for peak viewing. The citadel with its monastery looks spectacular with a fine line of clouds and the summit of the five peaked mountain range- Pandavan Mala- as a backdrop. Another popular views from the peak are Peppara and Neyyar Dams. We were engaged in clicking pictures. I just sat there for few minutes. It was awe inspiring.

A small patch of forest in the middle of the peak is home to the revered shrine of Agasthya Muni, well protected from the strong winds. Then  I offered prayers and that was enough to fill my heart.

Murti of Agasthya Muni at the top of Agasthyamalai hill

After taking the blessings of the Hindu seer, we started our descend. The descend being almost as adventurous as the climb. We took a halt near Pogalapara. Had an energizing bath and took rest for some time till other team members reached. That night, I had a tasty meal of homemade food -  rice, sambar, kuttu curry and pickle.

Day 3: 14 Feb.21-  Back to Bonakkad…End of the trek 

Started our trek back to the Bonacaud Forest Check Post by 8 am in order to avoid the harsh sun later on during the trek. The return journey is via the same trail used to reach the basecamp on day one. And I reached the Picket station by 1 pm. Without a second thought I can say it is one of the best and most relaxed trek I had till date and will be cherished for long.

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Absorb The Beauty of Western Ghats at Kathirumudi Near Thiruvananthapuram

It is necessary to heal our body and mind to enjoy  life in its fullest while travelling. Therefore, I reached Thiruvananthapuram on Saturday night and checked into my hotel for the next day's trek to Kathirumudi, which is situated in Agasthya mountain ranges located in Thiruvananthapuram district, in the Indian state of Kerala.

In the next morning,  five of us gathered at  Thampanoor, and started to Kappukad in a car at around 6.30 am as the sun was rising. Had a pit stop for breakfast. It was a Diwali day and most of the shops and hotels were closed.

As per the itinerary, our reporting  at Kappukad Elephant Rehabilitation Center was at 8.00 AM. You will also get bus from  Thambanoor KSRTC Bus stand to Kottur. Kottur is an important place  and is situated 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram.  Kappukad which is the base of this trek, is 2 km far from Kottur.  

Reached Kappukad at around 8.30 am. Those who had reached earlier got an opportunity to  walk around the Elephant Rehabilitation Center. It was around 9 am, when rest of the group had arrived. On arrival, we finished formal registration process and moved to the starting point of trek which is about 5 kms from Kappukad. We stopped our car in between where underground water was collected and which flowed through a small pipe. Most of us emptied our water bottles and collected fresh herbal water from the pipe.

We kept our luggage in the car and carried lunch packet and water bottle in a small bag. After a brief introduction, we started our trek along with two guides.

The trek is a moderate plus hike and  the trek winds up in a gradual ascend through thick shola forest,  rock structures, narrow paths and grass lands that open up for beautiful views. You will also come across plenty of small insects along the trek trail.

Kathirumudi is situated in the south of Agastyakoodam hill range in the Western ghats. The Agastya Mountains are rich in biodiversity and is home for many indigenous creatures.

Then we reached a vast area fenced with rails, from there, we got the majestic view of the Agasthyakoodam mountain on the left side.

Finally we reached the summit of Kathirumudi, which was a rock structure. From the peak, we could get the most beautiful views of Agasthya hills, Neyyar and Peppara lakes. This is the only place you can enjoy the view of these three wonderful places.

We saw Agastya hill and Pandava hill from the distance. From here we got a breath-taking view of the entire mountain range. The rolling hills covered with clouds looked blue from a distance.

A little  area of the peak was also covered with lichens, mosses and ferns.

We trekked further crossing four small peaks with ups and downs, till we reached  a small stream. Had packed lunch while sitting  near  the stream. Earlier there was a water tank, later destroyed by elephants. We  rested for a while, took pictures and started descend.

A difficult descend, we had to stop every now and then to rest.  It was around 3 pm,  when we reached back to the starting point of the trek. The overall trek distance is 10 km. Next up in our chart was a bath in the nearby waterfalls. We walked in bare foot till the waterfall area which is around 1 km from the parking area. It was not a big waterfall, but small streams coming down over rocks looked serene. We sat on tbe rocks near the descending point of water, and relaxed for a while. Water was cold and a bath  beneath the falls, gave a lot of relief to us. 

After a  bath, we started our return journey. We stopped at Kottur for a tea and review of the trek. A beautiful challenging one day trial with a mixture of shola forest,  rock structures, narrow paths and grass lands. 

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Walking with the Wild at Silent Valley National Park

On a cold Saturday morning, I started  my drive from Shoranur to Pathiripala. The journey to the Silent Valley National Park had begun. I  had already discussed  with Mr.Anil to join with him to Mukkali  from his house at Pathiripala.  To reach Pathiripala at the crack of dawn, I started at 5 am. We started off from Pathiripala at around 6.00 am and our route was Kongad-Mannarkad-Mukkali. The road was bad and less traffic. After Mannarkad, we took a small break. Since we had to drive through ghat road, we restricted our break to only 10 minutes. It was the first time I was travelling in this route.

The drive winds through ghat road and hair pin curves. Our drive ended at parking area of  Silent Valley National Park Information Centre, Mukkali at around 8 am. After breakfast, we, a gang of 20, started from Mukkali to Panthamthodu camp site in a mini bus at around 9 am. Our guide Mr.Ameen showed us the final tribal settlement on the way.

Final tribal settlement on the way to Silent Valley

It was around 11 am, when we reached Panthamthodu camp, a single storey building beside a stream.  It was a 13 km journey through the forest and it was quite an off-road experience. There was no power connection to the camp site and it was fully dependent upon solar energy..

Dumping my luggaage, I had straight dashed off for a Kattan Chai (black tea). Our first activity was a Jeep safari through the reserve forest till Sairandri watch tower.  The road is unpaved and terrain making the ride very bumpy.  We passed through an Arch gate and  from this place onwards, the core zone of the Silent Valley National Park starts. The majestic Arch forms an object of great beauty in the midst of the forest.

The sanctuary in itself was picturesque with a variety of flora and fauna along the way. We crossed many water falls on the way.

We were lucky to see so many species of colorful butterflies. It covers 10 kms from the camp site to the watchtower.

Watch Tower

The Silent Valley is called "Sairandhrivanam"  by locals. You will get panoramic view of the entire valley from the top of  watch tower. You can watch the river Kunthipuzha which runs like a silver line below.

view of river Kunthipuzha from the top of watch tower

Then trek down to dam site on the Kunthipuzha, which is 1.5 kms away from the watch tower. I walked most part of the way till we reached Kunthipuzha , crossing small streams, or rather beside larger streams.

The river is characterised by its crystal clear water.  Our walk ended near to the broken metal suspension bridge. Kunthipuzha , a picturesque stream, making its way under verdant banks, sheltered by trees that dipped their boughs into the murmuring waters. The river with its green colored water looked beautiful.

We were lucky to spot few lion tailed macaque's on the way. 

Meanwhile, it started raining. We reached back to the  campsite at around 4 pm and had lunch.  It was fresh, homely food with a decent selection of vegetarian food

We gathered on the upper floor of the building at 7 pm with tea and snacks - Ada. Everything served was hot and fresh. There was knowledge session by Mr.Ameen and Mr.Akhil, fun filled activities and talks. It was a great get together, a time to relax and get to know new members.

By 10 pm, our dinner was ready. The staff were so friendly and they served us hot vegetarian food. Mr. Ameen said that 4 hour sleep in Silent Valley would  freshen us  and that  all of us  would  wake up at 5 am. We could hear the sound of stream flowing nearby. I drifted off to sleep.

Day 2

We woke up at 5 am justifying the words of Mr. Ameen last day.  I had my tea. What a glorious morning to be alive.  Had a morning walk till 250 year old mango tree known as grandmother tree. We could hear the cripping of birds on the way.  Had breakfast at 7.30 am.

PARUVAKULAM TREK  

With the hopes of good weather, a group of 20 enthusiasts, who were not scared to have leech bite, headed to unexplored terrain of Silent valley.  Each of us along with guides was ready to conquer the challenges of terrain and make spectacular memories along the way.

Started our trek at around 8 am. First few kms walk was through jeep road. Then deviated to forest path. We crossed coffee plantations which is run by a trust. Then a steep hike through thick forest.

It was all very scenic and I enjoyed every minute. We passed through many waterfalls on the way. In the middle of our walk, we sat on a rock for a rest. Then we reached an open area. We could see the hills coverd grass lands. We reached the top of the moutain.

We sat on the top of the mountain. We could see peaks in different heights and shola forests in between. Overhanging the green meadows and the dark woods and pinnacles with multiple color trees made the whole area beautiful. Soon a fine mist  covered the whole area. I took several photographs  and could not wait to see how they turned out after being developed.

We started back through different route. It started raining. We walked through the  thick forest and there was little light.  We saw an elephant dung on the way. Suddenly our guide asked us to keep silent. There was one single elephant standing few meters away and our peace and tranquillity shattered. We walked fast in silence. We crossed so many streams on the way and found leeches in water.

It was around 3 pm, when we reached back to the camp and freshened up. Again, we were served tasty lunch with variety of foods. All were ready for  a review at 4'o  clock. We bid goodbye to the camp site at around 5.30 pm.

When we reached back to Mukkali, Park authorites gave a gift - a honey bottle - to each of us. Our return route was Mukkali-Mannarkad-Ambalappara-Pathiripala. When I drove my car to Shoranur through darkness,  scenes from the trip raced through my mind. A two day camping at Silent Valley had been an escape from the never ending complications of daily life

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