Thirunelli, a quaint village nestled in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India, is a place of great religious and cultural significance. It is home to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to be one of the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India. While Thirunelli is a popular pilgrimage destination, it is also surrounded by a number of picturesque places that are worth visiting. This article will provide an introduction and overview of the top places to visit near Thirunelli.
Introduction to Thirunelli
Thirunelli is located in the Brahmagiri hills, near the Karnataka border, and is surrounded by lush green forests, rivers, and waterfalls. The temple, which is believed to have been built by Lord Brahma himself, is the main attraction of the village. It is situated on the banks of the Papanasini River, which is considered to be holy and is believed to have the power to wash away sins. Thirunelli is also known as the “Kashi of the South” and is a popular destination for people who want to perform the last rites of their ancestors.
Overview of Places to Visit Near Thirunelli
While Thirunelli is a spiritual destination, it is also surrounded by a number of scenic places that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top places to visit near Thirunelli:
Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is a bird watcher’s paradise and is located about 17 kilometers from Thirunelli. It is a rugged terrain with steep cliffs, deep caves, and thick forests. The area is home to a variety of birds, including the Great Indian Hornbill, and is a great place for trekking and camping.
Brahmagiri Hills
Brahmagiri Hills, which is located about 10 kilometers from Thirunelli, is a popular destination for trekking and camping. The hills are part of the Western Ghats and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and tigers.
Soochipara Falls
Soochipara Falls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is located about 25 kilometers from Thirunelli. The falls are a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff and is surrounded by lush green forests. The area is a great place for swimming, picnicking, and trekking.
Kanthanpara Falls
Kanthanpara Falls, located about 22 kilometers from Thirunelli, is a smaller waterfall that is surrounded by lush green forests. The area is a great place for swimming and picnicking.
Meenmutty Falls
Meenmutty Falls, located about 29 kilometers from Thirunelli, is a three-tiered waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff and is surrounded by lush green forests. The falls are a great place for swimming, picnicking, and trekking.
Kuruva Island
Kuruva Island, located about 40 kilometers from Thirunelli, is a group of islands on the Kabini River. The islands are covered with dense forests and are a great place for trekking, bird watching, and boating. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Bremen)
In conclusion, Thirunelli is a spiritual destination that is surrounded by a number of scenic places that are worth visiting. Whether you are a nature lover, a bird watcher, or an adventure seeker, there is something for everyone near Thirunelli. So, the next time you plan a trip to Wayanad, make sure to include Thirunelli and its surrounding areas in your itinerary.
Places To Visit Near Thirunelli
Thirunelli, a quaint village located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, is home to the ancient Thirunelli Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu. Surrounded by lush green forests, hills, and rivers, Thirunelli is a perfect destination for nature lovers and pilgrims alike. In this article, we will explore some of the must-visit places near Thirunelli.
1. Thirunelli Temple
Thirunelli Temple, also known as Sahyamala Kshetram, is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. The temple is believed to have been built during the time of Lord Brahma and is dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu. The temple is situated on the banks of the Thirunelli River, amidst the scenic beauty of the Brahmagiri hills. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, and it is believed that performing the final rites of the deceased here ensures their salvation.
2. Pazhassi Raja Tomb
Pazhassi Raja Tomb is the final resting place of the famous Pazhassi Raja, who was a brave warrior and the king of the Kottayam dynasty. The tomb is located in Mananthavady, which is about 32 km from Thirunelli. The tomb is surrounded by a beautiful park, and it is a popular tourist spot. The Pazhassi Raja is remembered for his brave fight against the British, and his tomb is a symbol of his valor and sacrifice.
3. Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam, located in the Brahmagiri hills, is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It is situated at an altitude of 1740 meters above sea level and is home to a variety of birds, animals, and plants. To reach Pakshipathalam, one has to trek through the forest for about 6 km. The trek is challenging, but the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere make it worth the effort. There is a cave at Pakshipathalam, which is believed to be the abode of several saints and hermits.
4. Soochipara Waterfalls
Soochipara Waterfalls, also known as Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is a three-tiered waterfall located in Vellarimala, which is about 22 km from Thirunelli. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and tea plantations, and the view from the top is breathtaking. The waterfall is a popular spot for picnics and swimming, and it is a must-visit place near Thirunelli.
5. Banasura Sagar Dam
Banasura Sagar Dam, located in Kalpetta, which is about 60 km from Thirunelli, is the largest earth dam in India. The dam is built across the Karamanathodu River, a tributary of the Kabini River. The dam is surrounded by lush green hills and forests, and it is a popular spot for boating and water sports. The dam is named after Banasura, the legendary king of the region, and it is a must-visit place near Thirunelli.
6. Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Sulthan Bathery, which is about 100 km from Thirunelli, is a must-visit place for wildlife enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and bison. The sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is a popular spot for trekking and wildlife safaris. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Gangtok)
7. Edakkal Caves
Edakkal Caves, located in Ambukuthi Hills, which is about 120 km from Thirunelli, are a must-visit place for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts. The caves are believed to be around 7000 years old, and they have several carvings and inscriptions on their walls. The carvings depict scenes from the Stone Age, and they are a testament to the rich history and culture of the region.
Conclusion
Thirunelli is a beautiful and serene destination that is surrounded by natural beauty and historical significance. The places mentioned above are just a few of the many must-visit places near Thirunelli. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a pilgrim, Thirunelli has something to offer for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Thirunelli for an unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, Thirunelli, a small village located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India, is a place that is not only rich in culture and spirituality but also offers a variety of picturesque places to visit nearby. The Thirunelli temple, surrounded by the lush green Western Ghats, is a significant pilgrimage center for Hindus and a must-visit.
A short drive from Thirunelli, you can reach the serene Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The trek to Pakshipathalam is an adventure in itself, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
For those who love waterfalls, the Soochipara waterfall, also known as the Sentinel Rock Waterfall, is a perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of nature. The three-tiered waterfall, surrounded by dense forests and rocky terrains, is a popular picnic spot and offers a refreshing experience.
If you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, the Banasura Sagar dam, the largest earth dam in India, is a perfect spot. The dam is surrounded by the Banasura Hills, and the Banasura Sagar lake offers a variety of water sports activities, making it an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts.
In summary, Thirunelli and its surrounding areas offer a variety of experiences for all types of travelers. From spiritual journeys to adventure activities, there is something for everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Kerala, make sure to add Thirunelli to your itinerary and explore the beauty of this hidden gem. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Houston)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to ‘Places To Visit Near Thirunelli’
1. Where is Thirunelli located?
Thirunelli is a small village located in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. It is situated in the Brahmagiri hills and is known for its ancient temple, the Thirunelli Temple.
2. What are the popular places to visit near Thirunelli?
Some of the popular places to visit near Thirunelli include the Pakshipathalam bird sanctuary, the Soochipara waterfalls, the Banasura Sagar dam, and the Edakkal caves. These places offer a range of activities such as trekking, bird watching, and sightseeing.
3. How do I reach Thirunelli?
Thirunelli is well connected by road and is located about 32 km from Mananthavady, the nearest town. The nearest airport is Kozhikode International Airport, which is about 120 km away, and the nearest railway station is Kozhikode Railway Station, which is about 115 km away.
4. What is the best time to visit Thirunelli?
The best time to visit Thirunelli is between September and May, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The monsoon season, from June to August, is also a good time to visit as the area is lush and green, but some of the roads may be closed due to landslides.
5. What are the accommodation options near Thirunelli?
There are several accommodation options near Thirunelli, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Some popular options include the Vythiri Resort, the Blue Ginger Spa and Resort, and the Wayanad Wild Resort. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.