Natural greenery is a foundation here

March 2008 we had done a memorable tour to Nelliyampathy .The height of the hills ranges from 467 mts to 1572 mts. From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy hill ranges are a sight to behold. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy, which itself has plenty of interesting sights to offer.

The Pothundy Dam is a picturesque locale with facilities for boating and a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamilnadu.

Privately owned hotels and resorts are located at various points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at Palagapandi estate. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a base by those interested in trekking .So whenever anyone goes to Nelliyampathy dont miss this trekking ride and that too in a crowded Jeep. The jeep trekking is amazing one. As we moved deeper into the forest, forget that the path became narrow; it was nothing but ditches as deep as 2 ft and boulders. Not to mention that it was an uphill climb.One moment we were climbing up at somewhat 70 degree, followed by a climb-down at a similar angle. At one place, we couldn’t find any track; instead we were climbing a rock face. Throughout this terrific drive, we were holding on to whatever we could to prevent our heads from hitting the top of the jeep. Nevertheless, we were all laughing hysterically and singing a song made for the occasion

Not far away from Palagapandy is Seethakundu where one can have a fantastic valley view, and a 100m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian gaur, elephants, leopards, giant squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers.Evergreen forests and orange plantations are the other attractions you will enjoy as a part of our Nelliyampathy hill tours.

Nelliyampathy is truly an experience that would overwhelm the senses with its magical charm and beauty. Do indulge in a Nelliyampathy hill tour and see for yourself what this wonderful destination is all about.

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