Kerala was on my travel list for quite a long time, but somehow or the other was not able to make it till this time. When anyone thinks of Kerala places like Munnar, Thekkady, Alleppey, Wayanad etc first comes to our minds. Kerala has many unexplored lesser known places with unspoiled natural beauty. Why not start with such a different location?
Researched a little and below was created my own travel plan. Athirappalli and Vazhachal two famous waterfalls on the edge of Sholayar forest ranges. So i decided to stay in Athirappalli and visit the forest areas of Sholayar district. Arranged for a vehicle from the resort and decided to visit till Valparai covering the Sholayar Dam, Malakkappara Tea estate etc.
From Valparai, the road goes through dense wild jungles after Malakkiparai. Route is as follows: Valparai-Malakkiparai 22 km-Sholayar 24-Vazhachal 5-Athirapalli. The scenic beauty is amazing and it is a photographers delight, though we could not devote much time taking snaps due to time constraint.
Returned back to Kochi and stayed in a Homestay for a day. I would suggest to at least stay for a couple of days in Kochi to visit the nearby places. I visited the beach and had the privilege of watching the local arts like Kalaripayattu and Kathakalli dance.
