Are you looking for a destination that offers a blend of nature, culture, and heritage? If yes, then you should consider visiting Ottapalam, a town in Palakkad district of Kerala. Ottapalam is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant festivals. It is also a popular location for Malayalam movies, as it has many heritage buildings and picturesque landscapes.
In this article, we will explore the best places to visit in Ottapalam, the culture and heritage of Ottapalam, and some useful tips and FAQs for travelling to Ottapalam. Read on to discover why Ottapalam is a natural and cultural retreat in Kerala.
Places to Visit in Ottapalam
Ottapalam has a lot to offer to the visitors, from historical forts and temples to stunning waterfalls and hill stations. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ottapalam on your next exotic trip:
Varikkassery Mana:
This is a traditional Kerala-style mansion that dates back to the 19th century. It is one of the most famous and well-preserved manas (manor houses) in Kerala. It has been featured in many Malayalam movies, such as Devasuram, Aaraam Thampuran, and Raavanaprabhu. You can admire the architecture, the paintings, the antiques, and the gardens of this mana. You can also learn about the history and culture of the Varikkassery family, who were the feudal lords of the region.
Jain temple:
This is a rare and ancient Jain temple that is located in the heart of Ottapalam. It is believed to be over 500 years old, and is dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Parshvanatha. The temple has a beautiful idol of Parshvanatha, made of granite, and adorned with jewels. The temple also has a museum that displays various Jain artefacts, such as statues, coins, manuscripts, and paintings. You can visit this temple to experience the peace and tranquility of Jainism.
Dhoni waterfalls:
This is a spectacular waterfall that is situated in the Dhoni hills, about 15 km from Ottapalam. It is a three-hour trek from the base of the hill to the waterfall, but the view is worth the effort. You can see the water cascading from a height of about 100 feet, creating a misty and magical atmosphere. You can also enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forest, which is home to many birds and animals.
Kottayi Kovilakam:
This is another heritage building that showcases the traditional Kerala architecture. It was the residence of the Kottayi family, who were the rulers of the area. The kovilakam (palace) has a unique design, with a central courtyard, a pond, a temple, and a performance hall. The kovilakam also has a collection of rare musical instruments, such as the veena, the mridangam, and the chenda. You can visit this kovilakam to witness the cultural and musical legacy of the Kottayi family.
Pariyanampatta temple:
This is a Hindu temple that is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, the son of Shiva and Vishnu. The temple is famous for its annual festival, Pariyanampatta Pooram, which is held in February or March. The festival is a grand celebration of music, dance, and elephants. The highlight of the festival is the Kala Vela, a ritualistic performance of folk art, in which a huge wooden chariot is decorated with colorful cloth and carried by the devotees. You can visit this temple to experience the religious and cultural fervor of Ottapalam.
Meenvallam waterfalls:
This is another stunning waterfall that is located near the Thuppanadu village, about 25 km from Ottapalam. It is a series of 10 waterfalls, with different heights and volumes. The highest waterfall is about 20 meters high, and the lowest one is about 5 meters high. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the waterfalls, and also indulge in some adventure activities, such as trekking, rappelling, and rock climbing. The waterfalls are also a great spot for picnics and camping.
Chathanur viewpoint:
This is a scenic viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the Palakkad district. It is located on the way to Nelliyampathy hill station, about 30 km from Ottapalam. You can see the green valleys, the blue mountains, and the winding roads from this viewpoint. You can also spot some wildlife, such as deer, monkeys, and peacocks. The viewpoint is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the nature.
Lakkidi railway bridge:
This is a historical bridge that was built by the British in 1862. It is one of the oldest railway bridges in India, and is still in use. The bridge spans over the Bharathapuzha river, which is the second longest river in Kerala. The bridge is a marvel of engineering, as it has 13 arches, each of which is 5.18 meters high. You can visit this bridge to see the architectural and historical significance of Ottapalam.
Parambikulam tiger reserve:
This is a wildlife sanctuary that is located in the Western Ghats, about 65 km from Ottapalam. It is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, and is home to many endangered species, such as tigers, leopards, elephants, gaurs, and lion-tailed macaques. You can explore the reserve by taking a safari, a trek, or a boat ride. You can also stay in the eco-friendly cottages or tree houses in the reserve. The reserve is a paradise for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Nelliyampathy hill station:
This is a hill station that is located in the Nelliyampathy hills, about 40 km from Ottapalam. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, as it offers a refreshing and serene atmosphere. You can enjoy the scenic views of the tea gardens, the orange orchards, the misty mountains, and the valleys. You can also visit some of the attractions in the hill station, such as the Seethargundu viewpoint, the Kesavanpara rock, the Pothundi dam, and the Raja’s cliff. You can also indulge in some adventure activities, such as trekking, camping, and paragliding. The hill station is a perfect place to escape the heat and the crowd of the city.
Culture and Heritage of Ottapalam
Ottapalam is not only a natural paradise, but also a cultural and heritage hub. The town has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the ancient times. It has been influenced by various religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, Islam, and Christianity. It has also been a part of various kingdoms and dynasties, such as the Cheras, the Zamorins, the British, and the Travancore. Ottapalam has also produced many eminent personalities, such as poets, writers, musicians, actors, and politicians. Here are some of the aspects of the culture and heritage of Ottapalam that you should know:
Ottapalam film festival:
This is an annual film festival that is organized by the Ottapalam Film Society, in association with the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. The festival showcases the best of Malayalam cinema, as well as national and international films. The festival also hosts seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and interactions with film personalities. The festival aims to promote the art and culture of Ottapalam, and to create a platform for film enthusiasts and filmmakers.
Malayalam cinema:
Ottapalam is a prominent location for Malayalam cinema, as it has many scenic and historic spots that are ideal for shooting. Many Malayalam movies have been shot in Ottapalam, such as Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha, Bharatham, Sargam, Manichitrathazhu, and Classmates. Ottapalam has also given birth to many famous actors, such as Mohanlal, Mammootty, Suresh Gopi, Jayaram, and Asif Ali. You can visit some of the movie locations in Ottapalam, such as the Varikkassery Mana, the Lakkidi railway bridge, the Pariyanampatta temple, and the Kottayi Kovilakam.
Varikkassery Mana:
This is one of the most iconic and well-known manas in Kerala, as it has been featured in many Malayalam movies. The mana is a traditional Kerala-style mansion, with a central courtyard, a pond, a temple, and a performance hall. The mana was built by the Varikkassery family, who were the feudal lords of the region. The mana has a rich history and culture, as it has hosted many eminent guests, such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Swami Vivekananda. You can admire the architecture, the paintings, the antiques, and the gardens of this mana. You can also learn about the history and culture of the Varikkassery family, who were patrons of art and literature.
Kottayi Kovilakam:
This is another heritage building that showcases the traditional Kerala architecture. It was the residence of the Kottayi family, who were the rulers of the area. The kovilakam has a unique design, with a central courtyard, a pond, a temple, and a performance hall. The kovilakam also has a collection of rare musical instruments, such as the veena, the mridangam, and the chenda. You can visit this kovilakam to witness the cultural and musical legacy of the Kottayi family, who were renowned for their musical talents and patronage.
Pariyanampatta Pooram:
This is one of the most famous and colorful festivals in Kerala, which is celebrated at the Pariyanampatta temple. The festival is held in February or March, and lasts for seven days. The festival is a grand celebration of music, dance, and elephants. The highlight of the festival is the Kala Vela, a ritualistic performance of folk art, in which a huge wooden chariot is decorated with colorful cloth and carried by the devotees. The festival also features other events, such as the Tholpavakoothu (shadow puppetry), the Kathakali (classical dance), the Panchari Melam (percussion ensemble), and the Kudamattam (umbrella exchange). You can visit this festival to experience the religious and cultural fervor of Ottapalam.
Jainism:
Ottapalam has a significant Jain population, and a rare and ancient Jain temple. The temple is dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Parshvanatha. The temple has a beautiful idol of Parshvanatha, made of granite, and adorned with jewels. The temple also has a museum that displays various Jain artefacts, such as statues, coins, manuscripts, and paintings. You can visit this temple to experience the peace and tranquility of Jainism, and to learn about the history and philosophy of the religion.
Kerala cuisine:
Ottapalam has a delicious and diverse cuisine, that reflects the influence of various cultures and religions. The cuisine is mainly vegetarian, but also includes some non-vegetarian dishes, such as fish, chicken, and mutton. The cuisine is based on rice, coconut, spices, and vegetables. Some of the popular dishes in Ottapalam are puttu (steamed rice cake), kadala curry (black chickpea curry), appam (rice pancake), stew (coconut milk curry), idiyappam (rice noodles), avial (mixed vegetable curry), sambar (lentil and vegetable soup), payasam (rice pudding), and halwa (sweet confection). You can taste the authentic and mouth-watering Kerala cuisine in Ottapalam, and enjoy the flavors and aromas of the region.
Kathakali:
This is a classical dance form that originated in Kerala, and is one of the most expressive and elaborate art forms in the world. Kathakali is a combination of music, dance, drama, and costume. The performers wear elaborate makeup, masks, and costumes, and enact stories from the Hindu epics, such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The performers use gestures, facial expressions, and eye movements to convey the emotions and actions of the characters. You can watch a Kathakali performance in Ottapalam, and appreciate the beauty and skill of the art form.
Ottapalam history:
Ottapalam has a long and rich history, dating back to the ancient times. It was a part of the Chera kingdom, which ruled over most of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It was also a part of the Zamorin kingdom, which was one of the most powerful kingdoms in South India. Ottapalam was also a part of the British Raj, and witnessed many freedom struggles and movements. Ottapalam was also a part of the Travancore state, which later merged with the Cochin state to form Kerala. Ottapalam has also produced many eminent personalities, such as poets, writers, musicians, actors, and politicians. You can learn about the history of Ottapalam, and see the monuments and landmarks that reflect the past of the town.
Ottapalam Travel Guide
If you are planning to visit Ottapalam, you should know some useful tips and advice for travelling to the town. Here are some of the subtopics that will help you plan your trip to Ottapalam:
How to reach Ottapalam:
Ottapalam is well-connected by road, rail, and air. You can reach Ottapalam by the following modes of transport:
By road: Ottapalam is about 35 km from Palakkad, and about 100 km from Coimbatore. You can take a bus or a taxi from these cities to reach Ottapalam. You can also drive your own car or bike to Ottapalam, as the roads are well-maintained and scenic.
By train: Ottapalam has a railway station that is connected to major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Chennai, and Bangalore. You can take a train to Ottapalam, and then take a rickshaw or a taxi to your destination.
By air: The nearest airport to Ottapalam is the Coimbatore International Airport, which is about 90 km away. You can take a flight to Coimbatore, and then take a bus or a taxi to Ottapalam. You can also take a flight to the Kochi International Airport, which is about 120 km away, and then take a bus or a taxi to Ottapalam.
Best time to visit Ottapalam:
The best time to visit Ottapalam is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. You can enjoy the natural beauty and the cultural festivals of Ottapalam during this time. You can also visit Ottapalam from June to September, when the monsoon season brings a refreshing and green atmosphere to the town. You can avoid visiting Ottapalam from April to May, when the summer season is hot and humid.
Where to stay in Ottapalam:
Ottapalam has a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels and homestays to luxury resorts and villas. You can choose the one that suits your preference and budget. Some of the popular places to stay in Ottapalam are:
Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort: This is a premium resort that offers a holistic and rejuvenating experience. The resort has spacious and elegant rooms, with modern amenities and traditional decor. The resort also has a spa, a swimming pool, a yoga center, and a restaurant. The resort specializes in Ayurvedic treatments, such as massages, therapies, and detox programs. You can stay at this resort to relax and revitalize your body and mind.
Varikkassery Mana Heritage: This is a heritage homestay that lets you experience the charm and culture of the Varikkassery Mana. The homestay has cozy and comfortable rooms, with antique furniture and paintings. The homestay also has a garden, a pond, a temple, and a performance hall. The homestay offers authentic Kerala cuisine, and also organizes cultural programs, such as Kathakali, music, and folk art. You can stay at this homestay to feel the history and heritage of Ottapalam.
Vision Nature Resort: This is a nature resort that is located in the Nelliyampathy hills, about 40 km from Ottapalam. The resort has cottages and tree houses, with scenic views of the mountains and the valleys. The resort also has a restaurant, a conference hall, and a children’s park. The resort offers adventure activities, such as trekking, camping, and paragliding. You can stay at this resort to enjoy the nature and the adventure of Ottapalam.
What to eat in Ottapalam:
Ottapalam has a delicious and diverse cuisine, that reflects the influence of various cultures and religions. The cuisine is mainly vegetarian, but also includes some non-vegetarian dishes, such as fish, chicken, and mutton. The cuisine is based on rice, coconut, spices, and vegetables. Some of the popular dishes in Ottapalam are:
Puttu and kadala curry: This is a breakfast dish that consists of steamed rice cake and black chickpea curry. The rice cake is made of rice flour and coconut, and is cooked in a cylindrical mould. The curry is made of black chickpeas, coconut, onion, tomato, and spices. The dish is served hot, with banana and papadum.
Appam and stew: This is a lunch or dinner dish that consists of rice pancake and coconut milk curry. The pancake is made of fermented rice batter and coconut milk, and is cooked in a round pan. The curry is made of coconut milk, onion, ginger, garlic, and vegetables or meat. The dish is served hot, with pickle and chutney.
Idiyappam and avial: This is a snack or dinner dish that consists of rice noodles and mixed vegetable curry. The noodles are made of rice flour and water, and are pressed through a mould and steamed. The curry is made of coconut, yogurt, green chillies, and various vegetables, such as carrot, beans, potato, and drumstick. The dish is served hot, with coconut oil and curry leaves.
Payasam and halwa: This is a dessert dish that consists of rice pudding and sweet confection. The pudding is made of rice, milk, sugar, and cardamom, and is garnished with nuts and raisins. The confection is made of wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and nuts, and is flavored with cardamom and saffron. The dish is served cold, with banana and milk.
What to buy in Ottapalam:
Ottapalam has a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts that you can buy to remember your trip. Some of the things that you can buy in Ottapalam are:
Musical instruments: Ottapalam is famous for its musical instruments, such as the veena, the mridangam, and the chenda. You can buy these instruments from the local shops or the Kottayi Kovilakam, where they are made and displayed. You can also learn how to play these instruments from the experts and the artists.
Jain artefacts: Ottapalam has a rare and ancient Jain temple, which has a museum that displays various Jain artefacts, such as statues, coins, manuscripts, and paintings. You can buy these artefacts from the museum or the temple, and learn about the history and philosophy of Jainism.
Spices and tea: Ottapalam is surrounded by spice plantations and tea gardens, which produce some of the finest and freshest spices and tea in the world. You can buy these spices and tea from the local markets or the farms, and enjoy the flavors and aromas of Ottapalam.
Folk art and paintings: Ottapalam has a rich and vibrant folk art and painting tradition, which is showcased in the festivals, the manas, and the kovilakams. You can buy these folk art and paintings from the artists or the venues, and appreciate the beauty and skill of the art form.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions or concerns about Ottapalam, you can find the answers in this section. Here are some of the frequently asked questions and their answers:
What to wear in Ottapalam?
Ottapalam has a tropical climate, which is hot and humid for most of the year. You should wear light and comfortable clothes, such as cotton, linen, or silk. You should also wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. You should avoid wearing synthetic or tight clothes, as they may cause irritation or discomfort. You should also respect the local culture and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious places.
What to pack for Ottapalam?
You should pack the following items for your trip to Ottapalam:
Clothes: You should pack light and comfortable clothes, such as cotton, linen, or silk. You should also pack some warm clothes, such as a jacket or a sweater, if you are visiting the hill stations or the wildlife reserves. You should also pack some traditional clothes, such as a saree or a kurta, if you want to participate in the festivals or the cultural programs.
Shoes: You should pack comfortable and sturdy shoes, such as sneakers or sandals, for walking and exploring the town. You should also pack some waterproof shoes, such as boots or flip-flops, for visiting the waterfalls or the monsoon season. You should also pack some socks and slippers for your convenience and hygiene.
Accessories: You should pack some accessories, such as a backpack, a water bottle, a camera, a phone, a charger, a power bank, a map, a guidebook, and a first-aid kit, for your safety and comfort. You should also pack some toiletries, such as a toothbrush, a toothpaste, a soap, a shampoo, a towel, and a tissue, for your personal care.
Documents: You should pack some documents, such as your passport, your visa, your ID, your tickets, your bookings, your insurance, and your emergency contacts, for your security and verification. You should also make copies of these documents and keep them in a safe place.
What to avoid in Ottapalam?
You should avoid the following things in Ottapalam:
Drinking tap water: You should avoid drinking tap water in Ottapalam, as it may be contaminated or unsafe. You should drink bottled water or boiled water, and check the seal and the expiry date before buying or drinking. You should also avoid ice cubes, juices, or salads that may be made with tap water.
Eating street food: You should avoid eating street food in Ottapalam, as it may be unhygienic or spicy. You should eat at reputable and clean restaurants, and check the ratings and reviews before ordering or eating. You should also avoid eating raw or undercooked food, such as meat, fish, or eggs, as they may cause infection or illness.
Littering or polluting: You should avoid littering or polluting in Ottapalam, as it may harm the environment or the wildlife. You should dispose of your waste properly, and use the dustbins or the recycling bins. You should also avoid using plastic or non-biodegradable materials, such as bags, bottles, or wrappers, as they may clog the drains or the rivers. You should also avoid smoking or drinking in public places, as they may offend the locals or the authorities.
What are the safety measures in Ottapalam?
You should follow the following safety measures in Ottapalam:
Follow the rules and regulations: You should follow the rules and regulations of Ottapalam, such as the traffic rules, the dress code, the timings, and the permissions. You should also respect the local customs and traditions, and avoid any offensive or inappropriate behavior.
Beware of the wildlife: You should beware of the wildlife in Ottapalam, especially when visiting the waterfalls, the forests, or the reserves. You should not feed, touch, or disturb the animals, such as elephants, tigers, leopards, monkeys, or snakes. You should also keep a safe distance from them, and follow the instructions of the guides or the rangers.
Carry your essentials: You should carry your essentials, such as your passport, your visa, your ID, your tickets, your bookings, your insurance, and your emergency contacts, for your security and verification. You should also carry some cash, as some places may not accept cards or online payments. You should also carry some medicines, such as painkillers, antiseptics, bandages, and anti-allergens, for your health and comfort.
Seek help when needed: You should seek help when needed, such as in case of an emergency, an accident, a theft, or a harassment. You should contact the local police, the hospital, the embassy, or the helpline, depending on the situation. You should also inform your family, friends, or hotel, about your whereabouts and your condition.
Ottapalam is a natural and cultural retreat in Kerala, that offers a blend of nature, culture, and heritage. You can visit the best places in Ottapalam, such as the Varikkassery Mana, the Jain temple, the Dhoni waterfalls, the Kottayi Kovilakam, the Pariyanampatta temple, the Meenvallam waterfalls, the Chathanur viewpoint, the Lakkidi railway bridge, the Parambikulam tiger reserve, and the Nelliyampathy hill station.
You can also follow the useful tips and FAQs for travelling to Ottapalam, such as how to reach, best time to visit, where to stay, what to eat, what to buy, what to avoid, and what are the safety measures.