Tag: hill station

Nelliyampathy hills, also spelled Nelliampathi is a hill station 60 kilometres (37 mi) from Palakkad, state of Kerala, India. It is surrounded by tea and coffee plantations. Pothundy dam, built in the 19th century, is the entrance to Nelliyampathy. Seethargund, according to beliefs is the place where Lord Rama, Laxmana and Seetha rested during their exile. Another attraction of Nelliyampathy is Kesavam para viewpoint. A viewpoint called Seethargund is situated 8 km away from Nelliyampathy.

The tropical evergreen forest called ‘Sholas’ are a dream destination for any nature lover especially to the Wildlife enthusiast and the Botanist. Nelliyampathy once famous for its Oranges is now betting its fortunes on Tea, Coffee and even Horticulture. Other traditional spices are also grown and the breeze has an irresistable fragrance that can rejuvenate you. The cool breeze and the lingering mist provide a congenial climate throughout the year.

From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy hill ranges are a sight to behold. The height of the hills ranges from 467 m to 1572 m. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy.

On the way up, those interested in bio farming can take a close look at the privately managed farms and also vast expanses of tea estates managed by different plantation companies. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also well known for its orange cultivation.

The Pothundy Dam is a picturesque locale with facilities for boating and is a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamilnadu.

Hotels and resorts are located at various points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at Palagapandi estate. The estate has a quaint bungalow, built during the period of the British rule in India, and has now been converted into a private owned resort. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a base by those interested in trekking.

Not far away from Palagapandy is Seetharkundu where one can have a fantastic valley view, and a 100 m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian gaur, elephants, leopards, giant squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

Nelliyampathy is well connected to the nearby towns and the winding road uphill gives a fantastic view of Pothundy Dam below. The numerous small waterfalls and little brooks enroute complete the green landscape.