Kannur- One of my Favorite Place in my Life

The scintillating beauty of Cannanore could not be described in mere words. Wait a moment does anybody understood the place Cannanore. If not I will let you know more about it. The resplendent beauty of the mind-blowing Cannanore took me to ancient days of Kerala. Cannanore is another name or old name of Kannur, the northern district of Kerala. Kannur is the only place where one could find the ancient and unfortunately rare art forms. From school days I am fond of art. There was not a single event in the arts festival that I haven’t participated. Twice I have won the over championship trophy. Along with art, I love animals and also love to explore the richly populated forests areas. My craze towards trees and animals is perfectly reflected in my home. Every nook and corner of my residential is occupied with wide varieties of plants and trees. Also, I like to pamper domestic animals mainly dogs and cats. Maybe all these features propelled me to visit the alluring district. I was quite sure that my parents won’t send me alone to Kerala to enjoy the magnificent beauty of the astounding place. Hence I surfed on the internet the different ways to enchant the beguiling charm. Finally, I got the result; the most efficient way to arrive in Kerala is by availing of the tour packages. At first, I thought of purchasing the group packages so that I could accompany my friends. But I changed my decision and selected family packages so that I could make my parents happy and proud of me. It is being only a year I have joined the company, I was not that financially stable. Hence I surfed for the cheapest tour packages that inculcate all the mind-blowing destinations of northern Kerala especially Kannur.

Our maiden journey to Kannur or Cannanore

Even though the Malayalam language is familiar to us but Kerala is known to be an unexplored destination for us. From the above sentence don’t think that we are not Malayalee. We are basically Malayalee, due to job opportunities and for a better lifestyle, our ancestors migrated to Madras, now formally known as Chennai. Since then we really became foreigners. Once in 3 or 4 years, we used to visit the ‘god’s own country’. That’s all! Through our neighbors we heard many unknown features of Kannur since then it became my lifetime dream to enchant its splendid beauty. To make our journey more economic we purchased the tour packages at cheap prices from Geogeo Holidays

Traverse to wild home – Aranmual wildlife sanctuary

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As mentioned earlier my affection towards wild animals propelled the tour guide to change the itinerary. The smallest wild home yet encompassed with unseen wonders of nature, Aranmula wildlife sanctuary sprawled in an area of 50 sq.kms will definitely captivate your minds. The moment I grabbed the entry pass I took out my camera as well as binoculars and started to lure the magnificent beauty of each and every fauna and flora. Some the species especially rare ones say barking deer, sloth, sambhar and so on whereas staring at me when I clicked the photos without asking their permission. The wild elephants that were commuting to the Cheenkannipuzha River to quench thirst looked at me with an angry face. The moment the elephants left the place we again continued with our exploration. While enjoying the beauty of the unseen dense forest suddenly we heard some sound. At first, we startled how could sound from loudspeaker could be heard in the forest. Our tour guide then told that it is an awareness programme conducted by the authorities for the natives as well as the visitors to share the importance of conserving nature and its resources. By the time my dad shared my interest in planting to our tour guide. He later discussed with the speaker and provided an opportunity for me to share my experience and hobby with the public.

My first ever trekking that to Katti Betta

Not only the scenic place of Aranmula wildlife sanctuary attracts hundreds of travel enthusiast but also the tallest peak called Katti Betta positioned in the midst of the forest will surely lure your minds. Katti Betta is one of the captivating factors that turn the tourist destination into a fabulous tourist destination. When ascending to the summit we are able to witness the unseen astounding beauty of nature. Over there we captured the amusing images of birds flying high in the sky in a particular fashion. Along with common birds like crows, pigeons and sparrows the region shelters many rare and endangered species of migratory birds. My camera was filled with beautifying images of birds and their various styles.

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Monsoon was the perfect time to visit

The right time to visit the sanctuary is followed to the monsoon season and our tour guide really appreciated our decision. He also told us that if we had visited the wild home during monsoon season, the venomous reptiles would have attacked us. Scorching summer days are another option to explore beauty.

After enchanting the marvellous beauty of the scintillating wild home we moved to one the temple (I exactly do not remember the name) to watch the live performances of the ancient art form called Theyyam, still practised in various parts of Kannur. Theyyam lasted for a few hours. Even though we did not completely understand the song, we really enjoyed each and every segment of it. An epic story from the holy book of Hindu is linked with the art form. According to the locals, the main performers get some messages about the specific people while practising Theyyam. After spending one more day over there we returned back to our hometown.

 

Some intriguing facts related to Chavittu Nadakam- the ancient art form of Kerala

Could anyone tell which is the first image that runs into your mind when you hear the name Kerala for the first time? I think it would be the breathtaking hill stations enveloped in mist and fog. The green carpets of tea, coffee and spice plantations add beauty to the deep funnel-shaped valleys situated at an average altitude form the surface. Or is it the enormous collection of various types of fauna and flora. It would be hard for anyone to accurately tell the specific factor that lures thousands of thousands of travellers from various parts of the world. The calm ambience and picture-perfect landscapes always surpass the fascinating natural resources abundantly bestowed by the almighty to the only state called Kerala situated on the bottom sector of the democratic country, India. Describing the marvellous ambiguity of serene Kerala in a single essay would be a little tedious job. Just as the natural resources captivate travellers to purchase the tour packages at cheap prices for their family to Kerala. In the same way, the ancient and undistinguished art forms also grab people not only from foreign countries but also from neighbouring cities such as Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai. Out of the many art forms, many dance and music of olden days are unfortunately vanishing form the state. The unawareness of the importance of art forms, ignorance of protecting the ancient traditions played a significant role in the disappearance of the mind-blowing art forms. Chavittu Nadakam one of the outstanding art form of Kerala once attracted many national and international tourist to marvel their hearts. The typical dance steps and the unique tone make Chavittu Nadakam a fabulous art form in the state. To know more about it fascinating features about Chavittu Nadakam scroll down the following paragraphs and absorb the valuable facts related to it.

Some unknown facts about the ancient Christian art form, Chavittu Nadakam

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Just like every religion, even the Christians have a unique art form called Chavittu Nadakam. There would be no wrong if one says that ancient art forms especially Chavittu Nadakam gave a new identity to Christianity in Kerala. In colloquial language ‘Chavittu’ means a stamp or huge steps and ‘nadakam’ means drama. Hence Chavittu nadakam means a drama where artists stamp the floor according to the musical beats. There is no proper when and where did the Chavittu Nadakam originate. Some say that during the 16th century a few traders from Portuguese arrive in Kerala and found that the Hindu religion had their own art form called Kathakali. It played a vital role in grabbing many people to their community. Therefore the Portuguese traders together with some local people gave birth to the eccentric and fabulous art form called Chavittu Nadakam. Some say that even before the arrival of European traders the Christians of Kerala practised Chavittu Nadakam. But to them, historians have to say a few steps of the drama resembles the European opera.

 Chavittu Nadakam not only concentrates to Biblical stories but also to…

The amusing composition of dance and song called Chavittu Nadakam mainly portrays the famous stories from the holy book the Bible such as the popular fights between David and Goliath, and so on. Along with it they also inculcate some well-renowned war stories of those times such as the war between Alexander the great and David, Charles the great and many more. The early stages of the drama the artisans mainly focused on the themes such as adventure stories and incidents from the spiritual books. But in the following centuries, they started to emphasize the stories such as Komala Chandrika, Njanasundhari, Karlsman, Sathyapalan and Anjelica. The songs used in the drama are a combination of two languages namely Malayalam and Tamil and sung by the performers itself.

The exquisite attires used for the gorgeous drama attracts many art lovers

Normally the Chavittu Nadakam is performed on the open stages but on rare occasions, it is played in the interior parts of the church. The artisans perform the drama on the wooden planks and when they performers stamps on it; it creates a huge sound and hence the drama was baptised as Chavittu Nadakam in colloquial language. The glittering attires were once imported from the European countries resembled the royal kings and queens of those nations. Along with royal costumes they performers also use eye-catching ornaments.

Kerala Chavittu Nataka Academy – the home of Chavittu Nadakam

Chavittu Nadakam is mainly practised in the southern regions of Kerala especially Thrissur, Ernakulum, Kollam, Alleppey and so on. In order to protect the marvellous art form, Chavittu Nadakam is widely practised and trained in the Kerala Chavittu Nataka Academy. It was established in the year 2005 and trains hundreds of art lovers. It is the perfect place to learn the various aspects of the Chavittu Nadakam. Many art enthusiast flocks to the academy to learn its various factors by purchasing the tour packages from the prominent travel operators. As part of conserving the ancient art form the state government of Kerala included in the school and college youth festival. Day by day our world is changing and many things such as ceremonies and different types of rituals and functions are also being altered. The rituals and functions which prolonged for several days have now been cut short into one or two days. Similarly, Chavittu Nadakam has also been altered into an art form of 2 to 3 hours. Initially, the stage was occupied with more than 100 participants and now been limited to nearly 75 members.

Witnessing the ancient art forms will help you to study the unique culture and traditions of the particular region in depth. To learn more about the Chavittu Nadakam many travel enthusiast from various corners of the world tour to Kerala by availing of family tour packages from Gogeo Holidays. They are one of the leading travel planners in the state. They draft the packages by inculcating fabulous tourist destinations of Kerala. You can buy the cheapest packages from them either through offline or online mode. To clarify all your doubts regarding the packages contact their customer support team without any hesitation.

Whichever the season be; Madayipara always shines with bright varied colours

There would be no one who does not like to inhale the aroma of the beautiful flowers. Watching the blooming of varied coloured flowers in the vast area of land will definitely soothe your tired souls and revitalize your mind. There was a time when the majority of the land in the nation was occupied with various types of trees and flowering plants. The aromatic smell and mind-blowing beauty of the flowers attract the birds from different locations and enhance their pollination in a good manner. Such scenic activities really added charm to the untouched beauty of nature. Words are insufficient to express the ambiguity of nature and also its stunning varied activities. Most of the people who feel to take a short break from their busy schedules must definitely choose the most astonishing and abundantly blessed Madayipara situated in Kannur district of Kerala. Hundreds of flower enthusiast and nature lovers with their family gush to the captivating tourist destination with their dear ones by availing of tour packages at cheap prices. It would be hard for any environmentalist to describe the scintillating beauty of Madayipara in mere words. Hence stroll down the following paragraphs and collect the valuable information from the following paragraphs.

Madayipara

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Whether it is small or large there would be no one who hasn’t seen garden at least once in their whole lifetime. But has anyone ever visited a floral area where its colour changes according to the season? If not, avail of tour packages from prominent travel operators and visit the stupendous Madayipara and enjoy its charming beauty. The most popular flat hillock, Madayipara situated in the lush green area of the northern district of Kerala, called Kannur, grabs travellers from different parts of the world. Like any other destination, it would be hard for any traveller operator to tell the exquisite time to visit the marvellous destination. During the summer the auspicious land will be decorated with bright golden grasses that reach up to the knee length. Followed to summer the monsoon will be dotted with lush green shades of awe-inspiring leaves. The outstanding region will be painted with crimson red during the chilly autumn and it will bloom with a compilation of sapphire, white and bright yellow flowers in spring. Famously known as the ‘land of flowers’ Madayipara is also renowned as a perfect foot hillock of the most popular Western Ghats. The captivating tourist destination is embodied with 300 species of flowering plants and 150 types of birds. Along with these natural wonders, you can also spot the insect-eating plants, semi-aquatic plants and aquatic plants. According to the geographical features the vast land could be categorised with wet phase and dry phase of grasslands. Besides the flowering plants, you can also fill your digital camera’s memory with alluring images of cashew plantations. Apart from the fabulous flowers and serene nature, Madyipara is also famous for some outstanding features.

 Some noteworthy attractions of Madayipara

Sprawled in an area of 700 acres Madayipara is also famous for historical events. To escape from the invasion of foreign rules a strong fort was built by the Vallabha King belonging to Kolothu dynasty. Without understanding its historical prominence the fort was destroyed. But its ruins will surely take you to the ancient pages of history. Apart from the ‘land of flowers’ the region is also known as Malik Ibn Dinar Mosque. The famous pilgrim centre was constructed by the popular Muslim preacher called Malik Ibn Dinar. Hundreds of devotees from various regions arrive at the third largest mosque of Kerala to offer their prayers and seek god’s blessings. The region is also well-renowned for sheltering the temple dedicated to goddess Kali called Madayikavu and Vadakunnu temple with presiding deity of Lord Shiva. The 10-day long temple festival of Madayikkavu temple steals thousands of hearts of travellers. While traversing the awe-inspiring lanes of the Madayipara you will come across of another historic instance called ‘Jew’s pond’. Even though it was constructed during 605 BCE and 490 CE the water from the hand-held shaped pond quenches the thirst of not only the local residents but also the countless tourists who flock to the region during scorching summer days. When you get deeply immersed in the interactive conversation with local communities they will rewind your minds to the olden days. During ancient times, Madayipara was an administrative centre for the Ezhimala kings. The flat hillock several times acted as a platform for many coronation ceremonies with watchtowers on 4 different locations. Climbing the zigzag stairs of the watchtower will offer you to the splendid panoramic view of the lush green surroundings.

 How to reach Madayipara?

To enjoy the emerald beauty of the countryside purchase the train tickets to the nearest railway station, Pazhyangadi railway station and hire private or public transport services to Madayipara. The nearest airport to the captivating tourist destination is Calicut International Airport and Kannur International airport. From the airport, you can hire private taxis at affordable rates. To enjoy the majestic beauty of Madayipara popularly called as ‘tulips of the garden’, do not forget to carry binoculars and high-resolution camera with you.

 To know more about the fascinating features of the luring destination, Madayipara avail of tour packages at reasonable rates from GoGeo Holidays in Kerala. They provide the services by including all modern amenities to you and your family. They will accommodate you in one of the classy hotels. As they give prime importance to the customer’s opinion, they are ready to customise the packages. To make your trip into a remarkable one they will add some sort of adventure events and also fun games. To clarify your queries regarding the tour services contact their customer support team working 24 X 7. Or you can also send messages either through WhatsApp or email. To avoid the last moment rush garb the packages as soon as possible either through online or offline mode. So, hurry up.

7 Delightful Things You Could Look Out for at E3 Theme Park of Wayanad in Kerala

Wayanad is already blessed with nature, whether it is pristine rivers, verdant hills, dense forests and mesmerising waterfalls. To this fascinating list is added the recently launched environment-friendly park known as E3 Theme Park, which is Wayanad, near Neelome. Also, the engaging family tourist spot can be reached from a 20 km drive from Manathavadi. The delightful things that are offered to you in this eco-friendly park are very diverse and fascinating as they could engage you for an entire day. Even the very concept behind the three ‘E’s that this nature park portrays are Environment, Entertainment and Education. The very approach in which the entire park is set up is also commendable, as they are very much in sync with the dignified surroundings and is certainly built without harming the environment. Given below are the delightful things you could look out for at E3 Park Theme Park of Wayanad in Kerala.

Tribal Village

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This concept is nothing new to a tourist destination like that of Wayanad, which has got a sizeable number of tribal populations. However, at this portion of the park, you could get to watch a live performance of tribal dance and if you wish to try a step along with them, you may do so. The dancers will be seen performing in a primitive kind of hut built in the premises of the park. Adjacent to them has located an art gallery where you could watch the ancient household equipment made from bamboos and woods. Nearby them is yet another place known as Herbal Museum that should not be missed. Pot making in the traditional charkas is yet another interesting thing to do here.

 Action Zone

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While sightseeing in this park, you are getting that wonderful opportunity to burn out some calories that you could have gained by consuming those traditional Kerala meals. At this place, various indoor activities are being set up, such as net cricket, mini basketball and many more. Your entire family can have so much fun here, and it is not only the kids. Indulging in all such fascinating things at such a cheap price would truly be economical, even the engaging 12D shows. Henceforth, including E3 Theme Park in your tour packages would turn out to be one of the best decisions that you would ever take on this vacation.

Aviary

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It’s a happy time for all the bird lovers out there! Macaques, parakeets and Gala cockatoos will be spotted to be flying around freely in these large enclosed spaces. And you could have a walk alongside the wooden walkway built from one end to another. You may feed these spectacular birds and capture that in photos. Some of you might be wondering whether you are vacationing in either Thailand or Malaysia, where these sorts of aviaries are a popular crowd puller. However, this particular aviary in Wayanad could is only of its kinds in the entire state.

 Dino World

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While trekking through the Dino World, you would feel like this is straight out of a scene in the popular Jurassic Park movie serious. Moving statues in the shape of dinosaurs are installed most suitably in the wild spaces of the park. Only if you are looking at them closely, you will be able to figure it out that they are artificial creatures, as they even make spooky sounds when they are moving. Visitors could touch and take photos just beside these live looking statues that even close and open their eyes. Never skip getting into the Fossil Hunting museum of this Dino World.

Moss Garden

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The very first thing that could catch your attention would be adorable fountains set up in the garden. When you are continuing your nature walk, you would meet up to various unique breeds of plants and flowers grown here in the Park. If you are wishing to know more about them scientifically, you may enquire about them with the staffs working there, they would be very pleased to explain it to you. In addition to that, there is even a life-like statue of an elephant on the side of a lake, on the top of which are grown few shrubs. Furthermore, walking in the shelters of large trees could refresh you and could tempt to live your lives more efficiently, by being much closer to nature.

Boating

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Even though the water body present within the premises of the E3 Park is not that vast as its popular counterpart in Pookode, a peddle-boat riding across the large pond will really be worth it. Green spaces are the things that you are going to find all across you. In addition to that, some unique trees are grown on its banks, which can only be found in these regions of Wayanad. At the end of this artificial lake is built an artificial waterfall. If you have got tired by doing all these activities, you may energize yourselves by eating out some mouth-watery dishes at the restaurants functioning here.

Adventure Zone

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The things that you find here are indeed going to make your adrenaline rush. At this zone, you will be introduced to some thrilling activities such as Zip-lining, Archery, Rifle Shooting, Rock climbing, magnetic fall and Rappelling. Also, the zip-ling made available to the tourists visiting here are around 300m long, so you may catch a glimpse of the dense vegetation and greenery beneath you. Adventure enthusiasts are going to have a great time here by trying out all these by sparing such a lower price. Moreover, places like them are quite rare in Kerala. So you are not supposed to miss them even though you are visiting along with your family.

Location: Vellamunda, Vanjode Post, Neelome, Wayanad, Kerala – 670731.

Opening Hours: 9.30 am to 5.00 pm

Entry Tickets: Rs.550 for adults and Rs. 450 for children and senior citizens

 Engaging places like these that are set up with the concept of Responsible Tourism are quite many in touristy regions of Wayanad in Kerala. If you are travelling to them along with your family, you are going to witness and experience yet another side of nature that can be found nowhere else other than the enchanting state of Kerala. So while you are planning to travel to these splendid locations, never skip making a call to Gogeo Holidays. The popular tour operator had created diverse tour packages on which you could sojourn to various locations most meaningfully, yet enjoyably. They will let you know about the preferable tourist places, accommodations facilities and notably an appropriate travel deal based on your preferences. To book them you may ring up or chat with them online.

V-Pra Kaayal Floating Park: A Perfect Family Getaway from Kannur in Kerala

Being on anything that floats could fascinate many of you. So what will it be if an entire park is set on such floating surfaces across a huge water body?? Sounds cool, right? Here in the outskirts of Kannur, in Chemballikund near Pazhayangadi is situated the Floating Park of Vayalapra or otherwise known as V-Pra Kaayal Floating Park. It has been set up across the backwaters of Vayalpra in the most sustainable manner without harming the unspoiled nature flaunted in these parts of the district. Lately, they had become one of the sought-after travel destinations North Kerala with everything that could impress the tourists coming along with their families. So planning for a family getaway to the scenic location on your vacation would make your day!

The intact wooden floating bridge

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The long wooden bridge built across these Vayalapra backwaters is the most highlighting feature of this family picnic spot in this coastal region of Kannur district. Being maintained as an eco-friendly destination, you could find hundreds of 350 meters long walkway. Most notably, the timber woods used here are of teak. If you had got tired of walking such distance, you may get seated on the benches built by its side. Furthermore, from the small outlets set up by its sides, you may purchase some snacks and have it together along with your family. Have that familial banter at the place and feel more closed to one another that had got lost at some point of your busy lives.

Gaming zones

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At the other end of this wooden walkway is where all those fun and excitement do happen. The amazing gaming zone with the backup of the latest technologies equipment is a unique zone to be watched out for. As such kind of provisions is very rare to find in any public parks of Kerala. However, it is not only the kids who are entertained here but the entire members of your family. Also, to try them out, you will be required to pay a small price. Most highlighted games of the zone include virtual car racing, billiards and many more. Dropping into these spots on your family getaway by including them your tour packages, will be worthy of it.

Various sort of boating to self explore

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The shallow waters just beneath the wooden walking bridge offer ample potential for diverse boating experiences, especially with its vast expansive area. You may do kayaking by feeling closer to nature, as you are not disturbing the very being of these backwaters. Anyhow, for the tourists coming along with their families, the most preferred option would be that of the paddle boats, where around 4 of the members would be directing the sail. Nevertheless, the most unique feature of the sailing options of the park is that of the smaller version of ancient vessels known as Pathemari. This miniature setting of had until now turned many heads and had tempted them to sail in them in the peaceful backwaters of Malabar.

Scenic view to soothe your mind

When strolling across them, you could get to view some alluring sight of the locations in a pretty soothing way. The calming backwaters and the sight of some country boats rowed on them could enliven you. From these 120 hectares of serene waters, the cool breezes would be hitting you from all sides to vent out all the humidity. In addition to that, you would be able to catch a glimpse of various rolling hills that are a common sight in the northern districts of Kerala, yet they are pleasing to look at. Moreover, during the late evening, the whole picture changes, as with the proximity with the sea, the place would offer you the mesmerising view of the sunset, other than the lovely ambience set by the decorations of LED illuminations. All of these together could offer you perfect scenery at a rustic location that is just perfect for family hangouts

Play area for the kids to have fun

The point where the other end of the wooden walkway meets in the places meant for the younger ones in your family. With numerous rides and activities around them, they are going to feel bound to be jumping with utter joy. They could have fun on those Bouncy trains, net cricket, and baby boating. Also, the children’s park is equipped with many thrilling rides, just like found in amusement parks. At yet another section, children may get engaged in Bungy trampoline and even elephant ride. Older ones of your family are not going to get bored when their kids are playing in these parks, as they could endure their skills in Gun-shoots, Archery and Human Gyro. Meanwhile, for the older kids, they have Zorb Rollers, Bull ride and Colombus boat.

Time for some shopping from the stores in the bridge

Family hangouts would be incomplete with those shopping times. So once you had visited these rustic places of Kannur, never skip purchasing those unique mouth-watery delicacies. Even otherwise, the Malabar regions of Kerala, constituting of Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasargod are known for its tasty snacks and its unique flavours. Also, you could buy those fruits and vegetables dipped in salty waters at a cheap price. Furthermore, some of the outlets would also sell unique handicraft products made from Kannur and its neighbouring parts. If at all you had missed your shopping sessions here, you may pull over your vehicle in front of any recognized handicraft shops, although you had got over with your tour packages.             

The above-mentioned features described here are more than enough for any fun-loving family to head to this beautiful floating park. An entire day can be spent here, to have a quality time together on your next family getaway during the holidaying in Kerala. When travelling with the tour packages of Gogeo Holidays, you could make all of your wishes true. They would not feel any sort of troubles while sojourning to a new travel destination, as you are with your family and safety should be deemed as a serious concern. Book their travel deals today and avail their services at incredible rates you had never thought of.

Vellikkeel: A Lesser-Known Eco-Tourism Centre of Kannur in Kerala

Spending a day out with your family could bring you happy, no matter whichever place you are a, whether it is your home or a beautiful family picnic spot. Nevertheless, if the chosen spot for your family picnic is Vellikkeel in Kannur, the things you are going to experience would something exceptional. The picnic spot is an Eco-Tourism centre that has been set up at the marshy areas at the base of a small hill by the Tourism Department of Kerala. Vellikkeel is situated around 17 km distances from the Kannur, away from the hustles and bustles of everyday stressful life. In addition to that, in this recently renovated Eco-tourism centre, the visitors could get engaged in numerous exciting activities. All characteristics make the perfect ingredients for labelling Vellikkeel as a full-fledged family tourist spot.

Scenic views around

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The small hills bordering the water bodies is a common sight when are travelling to the coastal regions of Northern Kerala.  Vellikkeel is situated at one such scenic location, where there are both the marshy areas meant for the purpose of rice cultivation and small hills surrounding them at a distance. You could also get to spot several fishermen folks catching fish in the most traditional methods.

 So when you are visiting eco-tourism park along with your family, you could adore the natural beauty of this lesser-known destination. Even being at such tranquil destinations could rejuvenate you. Henceforth, Eco-tourism Park deserves to be visited once booking any reliable tour packages. Furthermore, the path that takes your family to the Vellikkeel Park is also brimming with lush greenery on either side of the road and those occasional small bridges across the offshoots of major rivers flowing through these regions of Kannur.

Peddling amid the Mangrove creeks

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Boating across the mangrove creeks spread on a larger part of its area is one of the most highlighting factors made available for the tourists visiting the park. Your family could also go paddling on these water bodies to experience that rustic beauty of these coastal hamlets. When approaching closer to the mangrove vegetation, you could even touch the rooted outside the surface waters. The mangroves found in some parts of Vellikkeel are fruit-bearing. Like the mangrove vegetation grown at different locations of Kannur. Astonishingly, the district is known for its least disturbed mangrove covers and also being the largest in the state.

Moreover, the sailing would also be enjoyable and create excitement for the kids in your family. You could catch a glimpse of varied sort of migratory birds flying across you and perched at the brims of those narrow village paths. Hence the location can be cited as an ecologically significant location. Even otherwise, the chirping of birds could be only sounds that are going to break the silence of the picturesque location.

Savouring those mouth-water dishes

Tourists who are coming to the Ecotourism park could also relish traditional recipes of Kerala at the eatery set up in its premises. They would serve you with all sorts of seafood and mouth-watering recipes cooked from the fish caught from the lake. Each member of your family may order for their favourite seafood cuisine, which they would love to eat on this one-day trip. So there is nothing wrong in making some corrections in your tour packages, as the food menu ranges from snack called Uruliyappam to the spicy non-vegetarian dishes such as traditional fish curry, puttu (yet another steam cooked rice cake) flavoured with crabs and squids. You may have them by sitting on those specially arranged seating by watching the beauty of the place. This is going to satisfy both your tummies and your soul. In addition to that, the aroma emerging out from the food court serving the local dishes would make you hungry, just like the food streets adjacent to the Marina beach in Chennai.

Nature-walk amid the lakeside

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Further, the later parts of the day can be spent at beautifully paved walkways on the banks of this tranquil lake, by taking a nature walk. Your entire family will feel refreshed after venturing out for such a relaxing evening stroll. Once proceeding to some distances, the views of the silent rivers flowing in these virgin lands of Kerala would be seen right in front of you. The first one that you notice flowing elegantly below the bridges is the Vellikkal River. Then at some points, they will be merging with Pazhayangadi River and finally to the Vallapatanam river.  That major river and a crucial source of drinking water for the entire Kannur district join the Arabian Sea near Azhikkal Ferry at Azhikode.

In the walks, you will inevitably rush into the locals indulged in fishing by plying in the traditional country boats. Shrimps, crabs and other small fishes are the most common catches for them. If you are interested in those activities, you may readily enquire them about their fishing and other cultivation methods. Adorable benches and long swings where 2 or 3 people can sit together are installed at the banks of the lake for the visitors to take rest. Later the day can be ended on a good note by watching a pleasurable sunset from these walkways. Unlike the horizon spotted at the sea, where you could gaze the sun getting veiled very gracefully behind the mangrove bushes that are going to look darker in the twilight.

 The above-described eco-tourism centre is one such beautiful destination that can be preferred by families for a day out, also if their liking is on boating and relishing those spicy dishes. However, if you are more of a ‘mountain person’ and wishing to take your family for an engaging adventurous trip, Kannur has in store for you with such numerous options to pick out from. You may explore them and get astonished. However, that venture is not supposed to end up there. Instead, travel with Gogeo Holidays, who would arrange engaging family trips to such sort of beautiful locations. Book their family tour packages and have that fun and excitement.

That Awesome Trek to Vellarimala of Kozhikode in Kerala with Family

It’s damn true that one could not resist those gooseberries and slices of mangoes dipped in those salty waters and watching the enjoyable sunset moments in the famous Kozhikode beach. On the previous day, we did pull over our vehicle at some parking areas and were walking through those aromatic streets known as Mittayi Theruvu that directly translates to ‘Streets for chocolates’ in the local language of Malayalam. Aah…, then most notably, after returning from the top-notch tourist destinations of Wayanad, which are the neighbouring district and the gateway to the place if travelling from any other parts of Kerala. We were holidaying in the plateau district for an entire week and we did not really feel like returning, as everything was so nice and fun. Each tourist spots of the place were just the perfect ones to choose for a family vacation, just like we had felt and experienced.

1_iqbecoRY-dNS7RHqyWvuGwThis happened when we were to go back to Chennai after our holiday in Wayanad. But luckily, we had one more day left on which we planned to do so something thrilling and exciting. With this motive, we contacted our tour operator and suggested the awesome place, Vellarimala. From the Kozhikode city, the hilly region is at a distance of around 50km en route to Wayanad, but at the bordering village of Thiruvambady. Moreover, we were also happy for the fact that we were again going back to the hills that were similar to those of Wayanad via those alluring forestry yet well-paved roads. Quite surprisingly, our guide was a native of Nellipoyil which is only a few distances from our major destination, so he could direct us efficiently those wild paths. At many instances, we felt that we were fortunate to have booked this particular one from other tour packages. Or otherwise, we would have had to grope for yet another local guide all of a sudden. Proceeding to those dense forest covers of Vellarimala could have been indeed hazardous.

Vellarimala is a reserved forest area, so anyone who wishes to enter and trek to these regions should get permission from the State Forest Department prior to trekking. Our guide made all of those legal formalities easier for us, as before getting to the place we never knew that it was a restricted area and without their permission, encroachers would be imposed with fines. He also informed us, these particular hills are also known as Camel’s hump mountains. We were trying to figure them out that why were they called so. Eventually, while we were moving nearer to the major destination, we got to know about its solution.

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The cab in which we were journeying from the downtown of Kozhikode was halted at a point called Muthappanpuzha. I guess that was the base camp of this challenging trekking station situated towards the Sahayadri ranges and sharing its border with Meppadi of the neighbouring district Wayanad. Every time, when I get to hear the name of ‘Wayanad’ it would consistently bring a smile to my face. I still exactly don’t know why it is so. It might be my love and concern I do have for the travel destination, other than my hometown Chennai. So once crossing the entry points of the place, we started our trekking. We were well equipped with all the required essentials like some refreshments, as obviously there will not be any stores in the middle of dense forests even if we were to pay a heavy price. Furthermore, along with them, we had even carried a portable tent so that we could camp at any safer spots.

We continued our trekking across the forestry paths through dense jungles. For many distances, we only got to jaunt via numerous thick bushes with wildflowers and really tall trees. Also, moving in those trails with the occasional chirpings of some birds and squirrels were indeed rejoicing and gave that sheer ambience of wilderness. I guess, even the sunlight was not able to hit the grounds, such as the density of shades provided by those huge trees in this forest covers. In between the walks, we got to rush into several small streams gushing through the slippery rocks and making their own ways. They truly accentuated the very beauty of Vellarimala in rather an elegant way. Nevertheless, the most stunning of them was near Anathenni. I knew it earlier that Aaana in Malayalam meant elephant and just when I was about to clarify this to our guide, he replied that long back even an elephant had lost it balanced and got slipped across these rivulets, and was named so.

After moving across the charming small streams, we got to meet some north Indian couples who were also travelling by their Kerala tour packages. From that point, all of us were trekking together until we reached a viewpoint. When glancing from that point, some valleys could be seen at a distance. Fortunately or unfortunately, the misty fogs did veil those panoramic views. Anyhow, those miniature versions of clouds high up the sky were now right in front of us!! That did bring an ethereal feel in all of us, especially the kids were getting so thrilled that they started literally jumping out of joy. Sadly, the youngest lad of our family did fell and later he was to be carried off in shoulders, as he had bruised knees. In the time being, we asked the honeymooning couple to resume the journey and assured that we will be joining them later.

Once giving the naughty one with the first aids, we also continued. Then we were in front of the slanting waterfalls of Olichuchattam. It was indeed a unique shape that we had never seen before. The beautiful cascading falls were the first point to be captured in every high-definition cameras coming through this way. We had our limitations to spend much time in this particular spot as the guide was warning us that, they are frequented by wild elephant herds passing by to drink waters. Besides, we had a bruised kid with us who cannot be tempted much. He might become more dangerous than the largest land animal if the former is irritated more. Later in the trails, at Ketanpara we spotted some more footprints of animals. Some other travel groups were busy clicking its images in their cameras, so did we.

Then the most exciting part of this entire trip was Vavul mala. They are known to be the highest hill of both these forest region and also in the whole Kozhikode district. It was almost late evening and perfect for sunset by the time we reached there the time. The views from the point were inevitably breathtaking and spectacular. All nearby regions could be seen in a bird eyes view and by this time, our lad was gradually recovering and started moving with his legs again. In addition to that, a cool breeze was hitting our face bringing out that beautiful sensation of roaming high up the hills. These views were had relieved all our exhaustions of covering those risky forestry paths. So finally, after moving some distance downhill, we got to find some plains. Few colourful tents were already hitched there. We started assembling ours and rested the later hours of the day at that mesmerizing hilltop.

The risky and adventurous trip was made simpler due to concerns and supports provided by our ever-reliable tour operator Gogeo Holidays, who had been accompanying us from the moment we stepped our foot in this God’s Own Country and also for our Wayanad trip. Thank You Gogeo!