NELLIYAMPATHY LOCATED IN THE TOWN OF PALAKKAD

NELLIYAMPATHY

LOCATED IN THE TOWN OF PALAKKAD

Nelliyampathy is located near the town of Palakkad in Kerala, close to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The Nelliyampathy hills and mountains form a part of the Sahyadri ranges in the Western Ghats. The varied heights of the peaks give the region a distinct look. Covered with valleys and green forests, the mountain range of Nelliyampathy has many tea, coffee and cardamom plantations. Steep ways through farms and tea estates lead to Nelliyampathy, making it ideal for a drive. Picnic spots like Porthundy dam which offer boating and a rare geographical formation like Palakkad gap, also attract people to this hill station. With an altitude of 1572 m, the Nellikota mountain ranges are highest in the region. Other important peaks are Vela Vanchan, Mayanmudi, Vellachimudi and Valiyavana.     The resort at Palagapandi Estate, the highest point of Nelliyampathy holds relics of a gorgeous past. A bungalow of British origin and an estate covered with vast plantations make it the perfect place to hang out. The adjoining areas also provide a great way to spot wildlife. Giant squirrels, Indian gaur, leopards and elephants along with many varieties of birds are abundant in adjoining areas. Mampara is a great trekking point and is reachable by jeep. Trekkers can also visit Kaikatty which has a community hall that serves as a base for the same. The hills of Nelliyampathy also make it a great spot to get a good view of the Sholayar pass. Another famous holiday spot is Seethakundu with a 100m waterfall. Parambikulam, Malampuzha Gardens, Raja's Cliff and the wildlife sanctuary are other places of interest here.The weavers’ community and the local handloom at Koothampully also draw a lot of tourists. The beautifully woven handloom was famous with the royalty of Mysore. Paddy farms, bio farms and orange cultivation make Nelliyampathy a great eco destination. Privately owned hotels and resorts provide many interesting staying options. The best time to visit Nelliyampathy is from September to May. Nelliyampathy is well connected by bus to several cities in South India. The nearest rail station is at Palakkad and the nearest airport is at Coimbatore which is well connected to the rest of the country.                                                       Prof. John Kurakar