Trek to Kodachadri and Hidlumane Falls

 

Kodachadri had been on my mind for a very long time. After having kept it in my bucket list I couldn't go there for various reasons. So finally, the day came, I could make this trek happen in July 22-23. 

Almost every one of us booked our seat in Okha express which starts from Ernakulam Jn at 8.30 pm. I met few of the team members in Ernakulam Station itself.

Day 1

We reached Mangalore Station at around 4 am and proceeded to hotel for refresh. So, we got ready using the basic amenities provided by the hotel. After having rest for some time and a deserved hot tea, we started our journey in a Minibus. It was raining heavily throughout our journey.

Our first destination was Udupi temple. We had pit stop for breakfast.  There was heavy rain when we reached the temple. We had darshan of the Lord through a window with nine holes called the Navagraha Kitiki. After taking the blessings of Lord Krishna, I walked through the corridor. There is a Goshala (Cow Shed) inside the temple complex. Then I came out of the temple.

Udupi Temple

Next to the temple is Madhava Sarovar or pond. 

Madhava Sarovar

Then we headed for Mookambika Temple. There was a little relief from the rain when we reached the temple. I took a special darshan pass for Rs.100. After Darshan, I bought Ladu as prasadam.

Mookambika Temple

It was already 1 pm. After having lunch, we decided to visit Nagara Fort, and this is known as the last capital city of Keladi rulers. This fort was also called Bidanur or Bidnur earlier during the 16th century.

Nagara Fort

Walking to the top of the fort is also scenic and is worth visiting for all nature lovers. 

Nagara Fort

Out next destination was Savehaklu Dam. It was raining heavily when we reached the dam site. Our plan was a walk down near the reservoir. But due to rain we dropped our plan and proceeded to the homestay.

Savehaklu Dam

It was already 8 pm when we reached homestay. We dumped our backpacks in the rooms allotted. Had a delicious dinner.

Day 2

It rained heavily in the early morning. We walked through the jeep road from homestay till the check post. After taking permission, we entered into the wilderness of the forest and walked towards Hidlumane waterfalls which is 5 kms trek through forest.

After few hours trek through forest, we reached Hidlumane where we found a small house with a small shop, and they allowed us to have our packed breakfast and refresh. We met some other groups from there. From Hidlumane, the trek continued towards Hidlumane falls. We then crossed paddy fields and then the trek turned to forest. We walked through dense forest, crossed several water streams and some areas were little slippery. Before Hidlumane falls, there are other two waterfalls.

There was a huge rocky terrain ahead of us and ropes was installed to help trekkers to hike through slippery patch. The narrow path after the rock climb was a short trail that led to Hidlumane falls.

We climbed over a few boulders to get close to the falls. The waterflow was high and some other group members helped us to cross the falls. All our tiredness washed away when we crossed this beautiful waterfall.

Hidlumane falls

Further trek would cover 6 kms to reach Kodachadri Peak. After crossing falls, we continued our trek through forest and then grassland. Soon we reached the road. Walking with greenery and fresh wind makes life easier here. There were many jeeps waiting for the those who want to go to the top.

.

We took halt there for some time and proceeded our trek through jeep track. which soon ended in front of Moola Mookambika Temple of Goddess Aadhi parashakthy.  The jeep service is only till here. One iron pillar of about 32 feet length is placed in front of this base temple, which is considered as the Trisula used by Goddess Mookambika to kill the demon Mookasura. It is considered to be around 2400 years old. 

Moola Mookambika Temple

Next part of the trek is from vehicle parking to Sarvajnapeetham. Rain god had already blessed, and we passed through beautiful landscapes. After two kms of hike, we reached a small place and a temple covered with fog where Adi Shankaracharya is believed to have meditated. We were covered by mist and unable to see any natural beauty around.  

Sarvajnapeetham

After spending some time, we started our descend. We would descend to homestay from peak in a jeep ride for a much-awaited late lunch. The ride gives you bumpy but adventurous off-roading experience.

It was indeed a memorable trek with a 17-member enthusiastic team. When we met at Mangalore station on 22nd morning, we were strangers. But when we said goodbye in the same station after two days, all of us had become good friends.  This was the biggest takeaway from this trip.

Read More

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.

Read More

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. 

Read More

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.

Read More

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.

Read More

Kolukkumala-Kurangani-Top Station trek

The Munnar mountain ranges is one of the most sought after trekking destinaton in Kerala, having borders with Tamilnadu. Kolukkumalai-Kurangani-Tops Station trek is a treking journey of two days and is ideal for both adventure and nature lovers who wish to enjoy the beauty of landscapes and valleys in the backdrop of stunning peaks. The places are actually in Tamailnadu . The trekking route mainly comprises of mountain walking and is considered as moderate difficulty level trekking.

DAY 1

ENROUTE TO MUNNAR

I started my journey from Kochi at around 5.30 AM in my car. The road trip from Kochi to Munnar is merely three and half-hour journey. Enroute is the famous Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. The zigzag road will keep you company for the most of your journey. As you are approaching Munnar, all your senses will be in for a treat courtesy of the expansive tea plantations.  I reached Munnar at around 9.30AM. Parked my car in the parking area which is managed by Munnar Grama Panchayat and they charged Rs.50 for two days.

ENROUTE TO KOLUKKUMALAI

Started our jeep safari to Kolukkumalai at around 10.30 am. The jeep passed through a narrow road amidst tea estates. Enroute we had a pit stop at view point.

We reached Suryanelli at around 11.30 AM. Then off road journey from Suryanelli to Kolukkumalai through private property of Harissons Malayalam Ltd. We had a short stop at Kolukkumala view point.  Kolukkumalai Hills, which is the highest place for tea plantation in the world lies at an altitude close to 8,000 feet. You will get great views of Bodinayakanur town and top station valley from this view point. The tea factory is just 1.5 kms from view point.

We reached Kolukkumalai tea factory at around 12.30 PM. Upon reaching, we had a cup of tea from the factory outlet and visited the tea factory. The tea factory tour will enable you to see how the leaves are finally makes way to the cups. You will be shown how tea is withered, rolled, fermented, dried and sorted.

Tea factory and surroundings

The Kolukkumalai tea estate was set up by the British back in the 1930s. Instead of the mechanised crush-tear-curl method, tea leaves are handpicked and then put through controlled drying processes of withering and fermenting. 

KOLUKKUMALAI TO KURANGANI

From  Kolukkumalai walk downhill, alongside the Kulirumalai Gorge to reach Korangani village. Started our descend at around 1.30 pm . Initial trial goes through shola forest. The route was small and full of greenery.

KURANGINI CRATER

Then the trek goes along Korangini crater. The zig zag trial was enjoyable through grass land. Passing through the narrow path of grass land, it’s a wonderful journey enjoying the pictorial beauty of  the valleys.

Grass land trek

The trail is a treat for the eyes as you soak in the views of lush green vistas and the beautiful view of top station valley.  We had our packed lunch under one lonely tree.

Rolling hills and the valley lend a surreal  feel to the breathtaking scenery and we had a frequent pit stop for photography.

The next day the trek continues to Top station which is based at an elevation of 6,000 feet. We could see the top station trail path .  The sight was inspiring.

Top station trek path

Then the trek goes through Kolukkumalai edge overlooking Body hills. You will get a clear view of Theni, Bodynaykur village and Kodaikanal mountain ranges.

You can see  incredible vibrant colors - the deep blue sky and the mountains covered by green mat. As all the goodness sinks in, you are sure to lose yourself.

The rest of the trek was through the small shola forest.

At around 6.30 pm, we reached Kuragani village. It was a 12 km walk to Kuragani village. Kurangani is a small village located in the foothill of Kolukkumalai Mountains. Again we had a 3 kms jeep ride to reach the camp site.

Village and surroundings

CAMP AT KURANGINI

The package of treks from Kolukkumalai to Kurangini and then to Topstation is arranged by Top Station Eco Torusism. The package includes stay at campsite of Kurangini with dinner,  breakfast and packed lunch for the second day. Hall and tents are available in different sizes at the camp site.

DAY 2

It was around 6.30  AM. After a restful night sleep, I was already jumping to start my day. After an energetic black tea, we visited the view point. It is a sight to behold the formations of different shades on the hills during sun rise.

ASCEND

Had our breakfast and started our trek at around  9.30 AM. The initial trial was through mud jeep road path till a small village called Central station.

Soon we reached in Central station which is situated at the bottom of the hills. Took rest for sometime before starting steep hike through grasslands to the Top station.

at Central station

We could also see the trail down the hill from the top of Kolukkumala to Korangini which we took yesterday.

ClLIFF-EDGE WALKS

It was an awesome experience by walking through the edge of the grassland, marveling the beauty of vibrant surroundings and rock structure.

Had our packed lunch near a big rock on the way. The final stretch was a steep climb without any proper trek route. This trial is considered as the most famous and challenging trail in this area.

Finaly we reached top station view point at around 3.30 PM. The 12 km hike from Kurangani village to Top Station through Central village is a journey to be cherished.  From the view point, you will get a breathtaking view of the Top station valley, Kolukkumalai and Meesapulimala Peak.

Top station view point

On the whole it’s a physically demanding and laborious trek , with a different experience of steep climbing, shola forest, grasslands and villages. However, it is an effort worth taken in every sense. 

Read More