Road trip to Kuttalam

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, has many places that can be easily accessed over a long weekend. I was keen to go on a long drive in my Wagon R and so me and my friend decided to head to Kuttalam in the Kerala - Tamilnadu boarder.

The objective of the trip was to explore the road to Thenmala, Chenkotta and Kuttalam. The route offers an ideal option for those seeking solitude. You can find several temples at regular intervals and you will come across some of the most stunning landscapes.

Our Itinerary:
Thiruvananthapuram - Nedumangad - Palode - Kulathupuzha - Thenmala (73 kms) - Chenkotta - Kuttalam

I started early from Thiruvananthapuram so as to beat the city traffic. My friend joined me from Nedumangad . A little into the drive, I discovered that both of us are music lovers especially good old Malayalam songs, since both us are almost in the same age group.

First spot on the way was the Kulathupuzha Sastha temple, dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. But we skipped this to cover during our return journey as we had to reach Kuttalam by afternoon. After having some snacks from the roadside eateries, we again started our drive to Kuttalam. You will love the atmosphere and surroundings in this route.  Just as we made our way up the ghats it started drizzling. I opened the window of the car to let the cool breeze blow right into the car.

Our next stop was at Pallamvetti Mahadeva temple. People from far off places who do not have children come here with dresses for babies which are tied onto the branches of trees.

Our next stop was Saddledam Dam - the boating centre of Thenmala ecotourism centre and is located at Pallamvetty. Since monsoon season was over, there was less water in the Dam. The Dam premises has a unique scenic beauty and hillocks of high lush evergreen forests.

We had pit stop to take photograph of the newly constructed 13-arch flyover for Punaloor - Chenkotta Meter Gauge.   Punalur-Shencotta metre-gauge line is the century-old flyover along the Western Ghats near Thenmala.

By now we were driving along the hill road.  Good road condition and pleasant weather made our drive enjoyable.  The picturesque lush green surroundings is sure to mesmerise you. You will come across many monkeys in this area, jumping on the branches of trees, sitting along the road and grabbing food bags from tourists.

Finally, we reached near our destination for the day, Shencotta. Kuttalam is just 7 kms from Shencotta. Exceptionally picturesque drive with dense vegetated fields and accompanying river streams resulted in frequent halts for photography.

You will love the atmosphere and surroundings of this spot. Our  lunch was on our way to Kuttalam, a typical Non Veg Thali which offers locally sourced cuisine  in a very relaxed atmosphere. Chicken was highly featured in the menu. After having lunch, we again started our drive to Kuttalam.

We were lucky to see the majestic Kuttalam waterfalls.This is the most important spot in the region. As the monsoon season was over, water was flowing in a narrow lane.

Kuttalam waterfalls

And I walked towards my car bidding adieu to the place, where I vowed to come again.

We were lucky to see the beautiful view of  sun rays shining on the top of the hills during sunset on our way back to Shencotta.

The green drive and the pretty roads will leave you awed, while the idyllic beauty of the journey and the destination will make you cool.

Unexplored Devkund Waterfalls, Maharashtra

Devkund waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near Tamhini Ghat, part of Western Ghat mountain ranges in Maharashtra.

ENROUTE TO BHIRA

Started our journey from Dadar, Mumbai at around 6 am in a private bus. En route we had a pit stop at Pali for breakfast. Just half an hour travel from Pali, we reached Bhira Dam which is also the source of the Kundalika river. Kundalika river is famous for its White Water Rafting and I still remember that day, when I went rafting two years back !.  And a walkable distance to the Bhira Village -  the starting point of trek.

STARTING POINT OF THE TREK

Started the trek at around 10.30 AM. The route was small and full of greenery.

We have to cross a river  full of rock patches. As the monsoon season was over,  water was flowing in a narrow lane.

A major portion of the trek route involves walking through the dense forest beside the river.

Spotted an old abandoned house on the route. It is a sight to behold for the wholesome greenery around.

A PIT STOP

Rolling hills and water body lend a surreal  feel to the breathtaking scenery and we had a pit stop here.

The trek path is also scenic and is worth visiting for all nature lovers. Spotted worms, wild flowers and beautiful structure of trees .

Then we reached a vast area . The trail is a treat for the eyes as you soak in the views of lush green vistas and the majestic peaks of Thamani Ghat.

It’s a fascinating and rewarding trek as it takes you along the river.

We had a pit stop near a rivulet for photo session. And the trek continued after crossing the stream.

The rest of the trek was through the dense forest.

We were almost near  the waterfall.  Refreshed myself with water. Then a five minute trek through the rock patches  to reach the waterfalls. Spotted a man fishing.

UNVEILING THE HIDDEN SECRET

At round 1 PM, we reached in front of the water fall. The first sight of the fall was very thrilling. The water fall of  Devkund is amazing and is located inside the forest. The greenery coupled with the water fall makes it a picnic spot.  It was mesmerizing to see water plunging from atop the mountain.

It was an absolute treat playing in the cool natural pond with crystal clear water.  Diving in the pond and getting under the gigantic waterfall provided much relief from the October heat. We spent around one hour for a bath and photography.  A bath below the water fall  was a rejuvenating experience.

LUNCH TIME

After taking some photos,  we bid goodbye to this secret waterfall and started descending at around 2 pm.  Soon we reached  the base village. Had a delicious Maharashtrian lunch - Rice, Dal, pickle, pappad, bhaji etc.

BEAUTIFUL BHIRA DAM AND SUNSET

It was around 5.30 PM and we had decided to visit Bhira dam to enjoy the sunset. Andharben trek also finishes here. Beautiful Thamani Ghat surrounded by lush green vistas in the background and the dam make this area  one of the most beautiful landscapes.

Soon we started our return journey . It was a day very well spent and will be cherished for a long time.

Jungle Safari And Trekking Into The Wild at Konni Forest, Kerala

I was on the lookout  for an adventurous  trip  to enjoy the monsoon in Kerala. That was when I heard about Konni Tourism.

Konni, a forest village in Pathanamthitta district, in the Indian state of Kerala, situated on the banks of the Achencoil River is popular as the place for the purest breath of fresh air in Kerala.

Started off  from Ernakulam South Railway Station at around 5 AM in Vanchinad Express.  We reached Chenganoor station at around 7 AM.  An hour's bus journey from Chenganoor will take you to Pathanamthitta and from Pathanamthitta,  a 10 km journey to Konni.  Finally we reached Konni at around 9 AM.

KONNI ECOTOURISM

Konni Ecotourism offers various activities to visitors. A visit to Elephant Training Centre, trek to Kattathipara, Jeep ride in Konni Reserve Forest, Bowl Boat Riding at Kallar river - all in a day will give you unforgettable memories.

The Elephant Rehabilitation Center has many facilities including elephant viewing and elephant feeding. The center has elephant cases in various sizes and are built with strong woods. The trainers train the young and baby elephants. Visitors can make a close watch of these elephants and their behaviour. It is very interesting to watch the feeding of the baby elephants and their movements.

You also have an option of an Elephant ride with extra payment.

JEEP SAFARI

Took entry ticket for jeep safari and started our maiden journey into the wild of Konni forest. En-route we had breakfast. We crossed the famous Achencoil River. We had a pit stop near a rivulet for photo session.

A SMALL TREK

Soon we reached Kattathipara tribal village. Our plan was to trek to the Kattathipara viewpoint to enjoy the scenic beauty. The climbing gets trickier when we are  close to the peak. The trekking path was very tough.

THE VAST MOUNTAIN RANGES

Beautiful view of mountain ranges covered with meadows is a sight to behold. We were blessed with rain from the top of the peak.

Soon we reached the village and continued our safari. Our lunch was arranged in a house and we had to cross a small stream to reach the house. After lunch we continued the safari.

THE TEMPLE IN THE FOREST

In the middle of the forest, we found a 2000 year old temple (Kurichi Siva temple) which was identified by Archaeological Survey of India.  We were informed that there are many other temples also in the forest.

THE POND IN THE FOREST

There was a pond beside each temple. Recently Forest Department identified 24 Munira within the forest, thus proving  that there was life inside the forest long back.  It is possible that either people were attacked by enemies or vanished in natural calamities.

We continued our ride through the wilderness of the forest. There are various types of medicinal plants, herbs and small streams inside this forest reserve. We were on the constant lookout for elephants, bison's, deer, monkeys and birds but no luck.

En route there were few areas used for farming. I was excited to see the technique used to prevent elephants from destroying the farm produces. One cracker covered in a plastic cover is placed between two  pieces of rock  connected by a small chain. When an elephant touches this chain, the top piece of rock will fall ,thus causing the cracker to burst. This will drive the elephant away.

Soon we reached Nellikkapara Kotha view point. You will get a clear view of Kattathipara and other surrounding areas.

TOWERING TREES

Spotted different kind of trees and species. It was nice to see the trees entangled with each other, creating a sort of natural art installation.

EXOTIC FRUITS

Spotted red colored fruits (Moottil pazham in Malayalam language) which were used by the tribals. The colorful fruits were a delight to watch. The pulp inside the fruit is really sweet.

Soon we came out of the forest area. The 8 hour and 30 kms off road experience in the dense forests, which has the purest breath of fresh air in Kerala was memorable. Out next destination was Mannera water falls.

CELEBRATE EVERYTHING

A bath below the water fall  was a rejuvenating experience. But beware of leeches. I got a bite of leeches. Remember not to remove the leeches from your body. Instead if you put salt on the leech, it will automatically get detached from your body.

The Mannera falls up close.

Our final place in the chart was bowl boat riding or coracle rafting at Adavi Eco-tourism. In local language it is called Adavi Kutta Vanchi  ride. It is located  5 kms from Mundomoozhi which is 13 kms from Konni. Situated on the banks of Kallar river, Adavi has about 5 km river frontage.

Riding time is restricted from  8.30 am to 5.30 pm.  A ride of 30 mins for 4 persons will cost  Rs.400.

The ride is a great experience where we get the feel of nature with  no sound other than that of the jungle .

Of course, Konni is a  perfect getaway for all of you who want to breathe in fresh, clean air amidst the lush green woods with added flavor of adventure in the monsoon.

Unexplored Monsoon Wonder of Kharghar,Navi Mumbai – Pandavkada Falls

Pandavkada Falls is a seasonal waterfall located in the Kharghar hills, a suburb of Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. With the height of 107 metres, it is a plunge of  waterfall pouring water on the rocky surface which depends upon the amount of rain.

How to reach Pandavkada Falls :

You can catch a local train to reach Kharghar. Then you need a private vehicle or take Auto rickshaws to reach this place.

Landscape view of the waterfalls, milky lines in the vast green canvas welcomes you as soon as you reach the place. Enroute you can stop by small river.

There are no barricades around the falls. Few accidents had happened in the past and so the entry to the falls is blocked by security. Enjoy the sight of waterfalls, take pictures of the surroundings and carry memories in your heart.

If you are enthusiastic , you can trek to the nearby Kharghar Hills which is a part of the Sahyadri hill ranges of the Western Ghats.

This is not a popular  tourist destination but nature lovers will find this place wonderful. From the top of the mountain, you will get a fantastic view of the surroundings. Rolling hills and paddy fields make for a picture postcard setting, gathering clouds lend a surreal feel to the breathtaking scenery.

What else near Pandavkada Falls:

Kharghar Valley Golf Course : This is just in front of the central park. A nice place for shutter-bugs.

Central Park:  On the way back if you still have the appetite and energy, spend a leisurely evening in Central Park. Central park is quite big, well maintained with a  scenic view and lot of slides, swings etc  in the play area for children. From the top of the Amphitheatre you can have a great view of the golf course, hills and glimpse of Pandavkada falls. There is one artificial water body. Ample car parking facility is available at the entrance of the Park.

It is perfect place to those who  want to get away from the  hustle and bustle of city life. Feel the greenery, take a long walk  and cherish the cool breeze .

Summer Waterfall Trek to Canyon Valley, Khandala

On the way from Mumbai to Lonavala, there is a ghat section near Khandala with hills on one side and deep valley with waterfalls on the other.  Ulhas river originates from this valley and thus called as Ulhas valley or Canyon valley or Tiger valley.

With a height of 320 feet, Canyon Valley Waterfall happens to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls located close to the city and is the only waterfall seen during summer.

Canyon valley trek surprises you with its features. Unlike other treks,  you descend first , cross the river and then ascend . Descend is from Lonavla and the trek ends at Khandala near Kamat restaurant.

ENROUTE TO LONAVALA

We started from Mumbai by Indrayani Express and reached Lonavala at around 8.00 AM. Our meeting point was near ticket counter at Lonavala Station. There were participants from both Mumbai and Pune.

THE TREK

After a brief introductory session and breakfast, we headed towards the valley. After 45 minutes of walk we reached the mouth of the valley. The trek starts with a sudden descend.

There were small crystal clear water ponds on our way and we took few minutes break to click photographs.

Then the group continued the walk through rocks by climbing and jumping.

And then the first rock patch appeared and all of us crossed it without major hurdles.

The next rock patch was a little difficult. We passed the bags and then the participants crossed one by one. Volunteer's helped others to descend. Those who have already crossed got an opportunity to take some rest. It was somewhat difficult for the first time trekkers.

Finally we reached the base of the valley. We walked towards the waterfall. The continuous sound of the waterfall started hitting our ears in the silence.

The water is mixed with  sewage from Lonavala,  so not really clean and refreshing. But visiting  this ones all season this waterfall  is worth visiting. There was a big pond under the falls and most of us  jumped into it. After a nice bath, we opened our food packets. That was our lunch for the day.

It was around 1.00 PM, we started our ascending. This was new in this particular trek.


There was a stream and water pond to pass and  hardly one person can walk through the edges by catching the rocks. The beautiful view of the water stream was worth spending the time just looking at it and relaxing.

Then we continued our climbing. There was one small waterfall and we filled our bottles.  After 3 hours of trek, we reached the top of the valley. After few minutes of rest, we moved towards the highway to take a rickshaw to Lonavala.

Surely, Canyon valley trek is one of the most exciting trek I ever had .

Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar Falls (literally meaning The Sea of Milk in Marathi and Konkani) is one of the world's most exquisite falls. Located on the Mandovi River in the Indian state of Goa, on Goa’s border with the state of Karnataka, it is 60 km from Panaji. It is located inside Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary.  Dudhsagar Falls is listed as India’s 5th tallest waterfall and is 227th in the world at 310 m.

Day 1:

We arrived at Pune by  train at around 11:40 AM and after a quick lunch we set off to explore the streets  nearby till 3:30 PM. We had a small round of introduction and after that we boarded the Pune- Goa train by 16:20 PM

Day2:

At around 3 AM we reached Dudhsagar station. There is no halt for the train in this station, but railways take a  one minute halt before getting go ahead to cross the bridge right below DudhSagar Falls  and  all of us managed to get down within a minute . We waited there for some more time because it was too early to see anything. 

We started our walking journey on the railway track surrounded by rainy forest all around.

We were already listening to the sound made by the waterfalls as we were getting closer. After a 30 minute walk, the board "DudhSagar Waterfalls" greeted us. 

The Dudhsagar Waterfalls Station Board

While crossing the board, I saw the majestic view of the mighty Mandovi river cascading down the hills in layers after layers. That was the first sight of the fall and it was very thrilling.

First glimpse

Soon, we reached in front of the Falls.  Words are not enough to express the feeling while standing in front of Dudhsagar Waterfalls.  Thousands of gallons of water falling from 310 meters (1017 feet) proving true to its name Dudhsagar , ”Sea of Milk”.  It was really mesmerizing. 

There is also a legend associated with this waterfall. It is believed that a beautiful princess lived in the forest  (near present day Dudhsagar Falls) in a palace. She loved and enjoyed bathing in a lake nearby and used to drink "sweetened milk" from her "golden jug" after finishing with her bath. One day while enjoying her jug of milk she found herself being watched by a prince, who was standing amongst the trees. She poured the jug of milk in front of him to form an improvised curtain to hide her body while the maids rushed to cover her with her dress. It is said that it is that sweetened milk that cascades down the mountain slope as Dudhsagar Falls to this day as a tribute to the virtue and modesty of the princess.

We captured many photos and decided to go further to view the entire waterfall.  To reach to the waterfall viewpoint, you need to walk 2km from Dudhsagar Waterfall Bridge towards Kulem. On the way to this view point we came across two back to back tunnels.  After a 2 km walk, we reach the waterfall viewpoint.  Dudhsagar waterfall view from this point is simply amazing .

We bid goodbye to the glorious fall and started trekking towards KULEM station. The 12 kms trek through the jungle and the railway track was thrilling. Enroute there was a stream to cross .

Soon we reached Kulem station by about  3 pm and had lunch. At 4.30 pm, we boarded the train. The train passes through Dudhsagar falls. Your camera should be ready to take the photo of this beautiful waterfalls.