Are you looking for a unique and offbeat destination in Kerala that offers you a blend of nature, culture, and adventure? If yes, then you should definitely visit Pathanapuram, a small town in Kollam district that is known for its spice and rubber plantations, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Pathanapuram and its surroundings, and how to plan a memorable trip there.
Whether you are a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Pathanapuram. Read on to discover the amazing things to do in Pathanapuram and why you should add it to your bucket list.
How to Reach Pathanapuram
Pathanapuram is well-connected by different modes of transportation, such as air, train, bus, and car. You can choose the one that suits your convenience and budget. Here are the details of each mode:
By air:
The nearest airport to Pathanapuram is Trivandrum International Airport, which is about 80 km away. You can take a flight from any major city in India or abroad to Trivandrum, and then hire a taxi or a cab to reach Pathanapuram. The taxi fare will be around Rs. 2000, and the travel time will be around 2 hours.
By train:
The nearest railway station to Pathanapuram is Kollam Junction, which is about 40 km away. You can take a train from any major city in India to Kollam, and then take a bus or a taxi to reach Pathanapuram. The bus fare will be around Rs. 50, and the travel time will be around 1 hour. The taxi fare will be around Rs. 1000, and the travel time will be around 45 minutes.
By bus:
Pathanapuram is well-connected by road to other cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. You can take a bus from any major city in Kerala, such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, or Alappuzha, to Pathanapuram. The bus fare will vary depending on the type and distance of the bus, but it will be around Rs. 200-500, and the travel time will be around 3-5 hours.
By car:
If you prefer to drive your own car or rent one, you can also reach Pathanapuram by road. The road conditions are good, and the scenery is beautiful. You can follow the NH 66 or the NH 183 to reach Pathanapuram from any direction. The distance and time will depend on your starting point, but it will be around 100-200 km and 2-4 hours.
Some tips on how to find the best deals, book tickets, and travel safely and comfortably are:
Book your flight or train tickets in advance to get the best prices and availability
Compare the fares and timings of different airlines, trains, and buses online before booking
Check the weather and traffic conditions before starting your journey
Carry your valid ID proof, tickets, and other documents with you
Pack light and carry some snacks, water, and medicines with you
Follow the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols while traveling
What to See and Do in Pathanapuram
Pathanapuram is a place where you can see and do a lot of things that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable. You can explore the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance of Pathanapuram and its surroundings.
Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Pathanapuram, with their descriptions, locations, timings, entry fees, and photos:
Spice and Rubber Plantations:
Pathanapuram is famous for its spice and rubber plantations, which are the main sources of income and livelihood for the locals. You can visit the plantations and learn about the cultivation, processing, and uses of various spices and rubber. You can also buy some fresh and organic spices and rubber products from the local shops and markets. The plantations are open from 9 am to 5 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 100 per person.
Kallada River:
Pathanapuram is situated on the banks of the Kallada River, which is one of the major rivers in Kerala. The river offers a scenic and serene view of the town and its surroundings. You can enjoy a boat ride or a cruise on the river and witness the beauty of nature and wildlife. You can also indulge in some water sports and adventure activities, such as kayaking, rafting, fishing, and swimming. The river is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and the boat ride or cruise fee is Rs. 200-500 per person.
Western Ghats:
Pathanapuram is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats, which is one of the biodiversity hotspots in the world. The Western Ghats are home to a variety of flora and fauna, and offer a stunning and spectacular view of the hills and valleys. You can go for a trekking or hiking expedition in the Western Ghats and explore the rich and diverse ecosystem. You can also visit some of the waterfalls, lakes, and dams that are located in the Western Ghats, such as the Palaruvi Waterfalls, the Sasthamkotta Lake, and the Thenmala Dam. The Western Ghats are open from 6 am to 6 pm, and the trekking or hiking fee is Rs. 500-1000 per person.
Chitrakala Bhavan:
Pathanapuram is also known for its cultural and artistic heritage, which is reflected in the Chitrakala Bhavan, which is a museum and art gallery that showcases the works of various artists and craftsmen from Pathanapuram and nearby areas.
Places to Visit Near Pathanapuram
Pathanapuram is not only a destination in itself, but also a gateway to some of the other amazing places that are located near it. You can visit some of the nearby places that offer you more attractions and activities, such as waterfalls, backwaters, beaches, temples, forts, and markets. Here are some of the best places to visit near Pathanapuram, with their descriptions, locations, timings, entry fees, and photos:
Thenmala:
Thenmala is a small town that is located about 20 km from Pathanapuram, and is famous for being the first planned eco-tourism destination in India. Thenmala offers you a variety of attractions and activities, such as the Thenmala Dam, which is a scenic and serene spot for boating and fishing, the Thenmala Eco Park, which is a lush and green park that has a musical fountain, a butterfly garden, a deer park, and a lotus pond, the Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a rich and diverse sanctuary that has a variety of flora and fauna, such as elephants, leopards, deer, monkeys, and birds, and the Adventure Zone, which is a thrilling and exciting zone that has a lot of adventure activities, such as rock climbing, rappelling, mountain biking, archery, and rope courses. Thenmala is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 100-500 per person.
Palaruvi Waterfalls:
Palaruvi Waterfalls is a stunning and spectacular waterfall that is located about 30 km from Pathanapuram, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kerala. Palaruvi means “stream of milk” in Malayalam, and the waterfall lives up to its name with its milky white water that cascades from a height of about 300 feet. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and hills, and offers a refreshing and rejuvenating experience. You can enjoy a dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall, or take a trek to the top of the waterfall for a panoramic view of the scenery. The waterfall is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and the entry fee is Rs. 25 per person.
Kottavasal Sastha Temple:
Kottavasal Sastha Temple is a sacred and ancient temple that is located about 40 km from Pathanapuram, and is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is also known as Sastha. The temple is situated on a hilltop, and is believed to be the place where Lord Ayyappa rested during his journey to Sabarimala. The temple is famous for its architecture, sculptures, paintings, and rituals, and attracts devotees from all over the country. The temple is open from 5 am to 8 pm, and there is no entry fee.
Kollam:
Kollam is a major city and a district headquarters that is located about 40 km from Pathanapuram, and is one of the oldest ports and trading centers in Kerala. Kollam is also known as the “Land of Cashews” and the “Gateway to the Backwaters” of Kerala.
Kollam offers you a plethora of attractions and activities, such as the Ashtamudi Lake, which is the second largest lake in Kerala and a popular destination for houseboat cruises, the Thangassery Lighthouse, which is a 144-feet tall lighthouse that offers a splendid view of the Arabian Sea and the city, the Thirumullavaram Beach, which is a serene and beautiful beach that is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, the Neendakara Port, which is a fishing harbor that is famous for its seafood and fishing activities, the Achankovil, which is a tributary of the Kallada River that flows through the Western Ghats and forms several waterfalls and rapids.
Pathanapuram is a hidden gem in Kerala that offers you a lot of amazing things to do and see. You can experience the natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance of Pathanapuram and its surroundings, and have a memorable and enjoyable trip. Whether you are looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway, or an exciting and adventurous escapade, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Pathanapuram.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Pathanapuram today and discover the wonders of this place. If you need any help or information, feel free to contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is accurate and updated as of the date of publication, but may change without notice. Please check the official websites or sources of the attractions and activities before planning your trip.
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