TRAVEL
driving back to Kochi. The Chembra peak, the highest hill in Wayanad, is near Meppady town. Trekking to the top of this peak takes almost a day. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chambra, is said to be breathtaking. The Edakkal Cave in the Ambukuthy mountain, is not a cave in the real sense. It is only a cleft. The rock wall inside contains some interesting carvings. The Kuruva Island consists of 950 acres of ever green forest on the tributaries of east flowing river Kabani. It is uninhabited with rare species of birds, orchids and herbs. It is 40 km north west of Sulthan Bathery. Lakkidi, one of the highest locations in Wayanad, commands a picturesque scenery. The Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary, 16 km east of Sulthan Bathery, is located very near to the Karnataka border. This sanctuary is the biggest abode of wild animals in Malabar.
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When we stepped into the Pookot Lake area, it began to rain and we had to run for shelter. We were content buying a few local items like spices, coffee etc from the shops there. The lake is a natural fresh water lake surrounded by green mountains. Boating facilities are also available. The rains followed us even as we went up to the Banasurasagar Dam. This is the largest earth dam in India. The topography here is such that many islands are formed in the upstream of the dam when the dam is full. We spotted a lone motor boat heading for the shore as the rains came pelting down. After a night’s halt in Calicut, we drove back to Kochi in our Xylo. The spacious utility vehicle from Mahindra proved to be a faithful friend to us as we drove hundreds of miles in one of the most scenic spots of Kerala. God’s own country? Well, I am beginning to get hooked on to that line!
September 2012 / Car N Style / 63