Kalliyana Pally,

KALLIYANATHA PALLY ,Kalliyana Pally, Korome Mosque, Makkiyad Mosque
 
Kalliyana Pally is the oldest mosque in Wynad and the Mopla colony round it consisted of people whose ancestors came from Kadathanad (part of Kurumbranad Taluk).

The date when the mosque was originally built cannot now be ascertained: but as Edachana Nayar and Alancheri Nambiar were chieftains appointed by the Kottayam Raja after he conquered the Vedar rulers, it may be presumed that the Sheik appeared in Wynad during the Kottayam supremacy. Every religion tends towards the same goal and the Hindu and the Mussulman joined in venerating the saintly Sheik a sign of the spirit of the times when all religions were tolerated.




This is a mosque, the proper name of which is Kalliyana Pally, derived from Kalliyanam marriage and so called in commemoration of the day on which the site of the mosque was granted by the Nayar at whose house there was a kalli- yanam ceremony on that day.


The Legend

Once upon a time, as the story goes, a Sheik was found by the Kurichiyans of the locality seated on a rock near a stream in the Perinchola forest with two tigers, one on either side. The Kurichiyans reported the discovery at Chovvel Edam, the house of Alanchery Moopil Nambiar, who proceed-
ed to the spot with his neighbours. The Sheik was not to be seen but the next day the Nambiar again went in qiiest of the Sheik, who was then found on a hill. On being asked who he was and what he wanted, he said he had no special object in visiting the place and that he was a traveller. It struck the Nambiar that there was something saintly in this personage and desirous of testing him, he asked the Sheik if he could cure a lady in his house who had been ailing for six years and who was also blind. The Sheik asked for water to be brought and the Nambiar supplied milk. The Sheik repeated certain mantrams (in- cantations) over it and on the same being administered to the lady, she recovered her health and her eye-sight.

The Nambiar asked the Sheik what he could do for him, when he applied for sufficient ground to build a mosque and he pointed out the junction of the three desams (Edavaka, Ozhakodi and Edachana) as the place he desired. Edachana Nayar, Alanchery Nambiar, Vadikolla Nambiar and Mechilatan Nayar came to the spot and formally made a gift of the site to the Sheik, who then disappeared suddenly.

A few days afterwards, the Sheik re- appeared with a few fakirs, who built a mosque, which was an unpretentious affair at first, but in course of time, the Nayars of the locality finding that offerings to the mosque resulted in the accomplishment of their desires granted more lands.

The Sheik and all the fakirs died, the last of them handing over the deeds relating to the mosque-site and the lands to a woman known as Kakka Pathu who was living with her husband in the neighbourhood. They went to Nadapuram and handed the deeds (cadjans) to a Mopla named Ekoten Tharuvayi, who came to Wynad and erected a substantial building. He thus became the proprietor and his descendants are the present trustees of this mosque


 
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Wayanad .The Plantation History

THE PLANTING INDUSTRY

Coffee.
 In the first half of the nineteenth century Manantoddy was a military station and the troops were cantoned on the hill on which the Travellers' Bungalow once standed. Near Pazhassi Kudeeram, at Hospital Kunnu. District Medical Office(DMO) was operated till 2005-07 I was astonished the size and shape and buety of this old building whenever I go there for my official things there. sadly Before 5 years this magnificent building was abolished by local authority to avail more space for the District Hospital.  On my child hood this building known as TB and we  boys will go there in the noon intervals of our nearby school where I studied my primary education. This bungalow was the mess house of the officers of the detachment. The Officer in command appears to have planted coffee experimentally on this hill employing his men for the work, and the tree flourished on this fertile soil.

In 1820 or thereabouts, a partner of Messrs. Parry & Co., was on his way from Madras, across the peninsula to Calicut, and went up the Kuttiyadi ghat on a visit to their coffee estates on the Baba Budan Hills in Northern Mysore. He stopped with the officers of the detachment and in course of conversation, when the visitor remarked on the difficulties of travel to the distant coffee estates, one of the officers pointed out to him the flourishing coffee plants on the Manantoddy hill just behind the mess. He was greatly impressed with the growth of the trees and the quantity of the crop, and on his return to Madras sent Mr. King to purchase Grass hills near Manantoddy and experiment on coffee cultivation. He built a bungalow on the hill near Manantoddy Feryr(probably Changadakkadavu) and opened about 75 acres of land for coffee.(Bishop house hill) This was the first attempt, which however ended in failure. Mr. Pugh from Ceylon, an experi- enced planter then visited Manantoddy and established the first coffee estate known as the Pew estate. The exact year is not known, but it was between 1830 and 1840. North Wynad then became a planting centre with all the paraphernalia of a European club and a race course. There is another version that it was Major Glasson who opened the first Coffee Estate in Manantoddy in 1840. The account given here was furnished by Dr. Hewston, an old resident of Manantoddy.


Tea
Tea began to be planted on various estates in Wynad from 1892 forward. It had existed before then 
Opened in 1876 by the English Cooperative Society and the Scottish Cooperative Society, the fields were planted with select China and Assam hybrid varieties of teas. Visible even now are the mining shafts, where once gold was explored. Assambrook Ltd was incorporated in the year 1947. It was formerly known as Brooke Bond Estate Ltd. and changed its name to Assambrook Estate Ltd. in 1969; and then again in the year 1982 it got its present name to Assambrook Ltd. In the year 2000, the company declared a lock-out at its Mananthavady Group comprising of Talapoya,Cherakara, Tatamala & Jessie Tea Estates .
 
 
The Parisons Group has acquired this tea plantations.
The quaint old Bungalows have been renovated for Eco-Tourism. An old Planters Club equipped with a well-stocked library with facilities for both indoor and outdoor games.

Tea is now confined to South Wynad; but lands are now being taken up for tea planting also in North Wynad, which in course of time, will recover its past glory, with the many advantages incidental to the in- troduction of this valuable industry into this at present deserted part of Wynad. The technical names found on the labels of tea packets are the names of each
of the leaves of the shoot of the tea plant. The bud at the extreme end is the tip or the " Flowery pekoe," the two next "Orange pekoe," the two next "Souchong," and the next two "Congou".

Pepper
Wayanadan pepper is one o the special item of pepper which is dignified from other sets of pepper from all over the world. It flourished in North Malabar, and on the failure of coffee, the planters tried it in Wynad. It was first grown there in the sixties and Mr. Powell took charge of a South Wynad Estate with bearing pepper on it in 1875. For some years, it throve, and the disease that is doing so much damage first attracted attention in 1900. Since tea has turned out successful, pepper is merely tolerated by the planter and not encouraged.

Rubber.
 Ceara rubber was planted ex- perimentally a good many years ago. In 1889 there were full grown trees in Cherambadi and it was then thought that it would not yield any latex in Wynad. No one thought of doing anything with it until 1903 when an expert deputed by the Govern- ment made experiments and demonstrated that the trees would yield rubber. In 1904 Mr. C. E. Abbott tapped a number of trees in Moovatee and Poothram Shola Estates near Vayitri (South Wynad). Getting a fair yield he made an experimental ship- merit, which sold for six shillings per pound. Tapping experiments were made in Rasselas and certain other estates when it was abundant- ly proved that latex existed in the trees. But the method of tapping then recommend- ed was an unsound one, and so many trees died under the process that it was discontinued. A new method has been since discovered
giving good results, and it is proposed to plant Ceara extensively. It grows freely but must be protected from wind.

Para Rubber (Havea Brazileinsis) is also being planted on some estates and though the growth is slower than in the low country it does well when carefully planted and cultivated.



" The Planter has brought into cultiva-
tion land which but for him would have
been unproductive at the present day;
he has tilled the desolate mountain -tops ;
he has turned the hill fastnesses in-
to fruitful gardens ; he has made the
fever-poisoned valleys to rejoice in health
and plenty. By his labours, and at no
mean expenditure of British lives and
 
British gold, tracts of jungle which half a
century ago gave but a scanty gleaning of
gall-nuts and wild honey, to-day produce
harvests worth over a million and a half
of money."
The above published in the Madras Mail,  sums up the situation admirably. European enterprise has contributed materially to the prosper- ity of the country and the planting indus- try is giving work to hundreds of labourers, who in these days of over-population, would otherwise be starving. The country is being opened up year by year and the millions of English money spent here will not be in vain.

Other posts related to  Wayanad in this blog
 
 
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Wayanad History

As  a local Young man I thought Wayanad covered with   full of forest and there may be a minimal human interaction and so historical importance will be less. But  when studied and  I reached the bottom, I feel it is so vibrant and  there are a number of tales to tell by these mesmerising hills.
We got evidence  from Edakkal cave- prehistory
Then numerous  narrations under Pazhassi and British rule- written history
I think most important3  books on modern Wayanad  are Logan’s Malabar Manual 1887,T.K.Gopala Panikkar’s Malabar and Its Folk 1900 ,C. Gopalan Nair,  Malabar Series : Wynad, Its Peoples and Traditions (1911).I depend  mainly these three books.
 
Logan’s Malabar Manual (1887) has inspired many of his successors to study the customs, traditions and the economy of the area in great detail. The most notable of these were Malabar and Anjengo (1905) by Evans and Innes; Malabar Gazetteer (1908) by C.A. Innes; and A Descriptive Memoir of Malabar (1906) by Lts. Ward and Conner.

Local writers were also inspired by Logan’s example to write on Malabar. The pioneering work in this vein was T.K.Gopala Panikkar’s Malabar and Its Folk (1900

A work, more in line with Logan, was that of Rao Bahadur C. Gopalan Nair, Deputy Collector, Malabar, published with a foreword from Mr.R.B. Wood, ICS, then Collector of Malabar. The book, Malabar Series : Wynad, Its Peoples and Traditions (1911) attempted a detailed study of the political and social history of the place, its people (both the rulers and the ruled) and a study of the beginnings of plantation in Wynad. The most valuable portion of this book is an anthropological study of the tribals and a good summary of the various non-tribal communities of Wynad. The author, who was posted at Mananthawady (Manantoddy, as it was then called) as the Deputy Collector, reveals the instinct of a social scientist in his analysis of the symbiotic relationships in this remote part of Malabar which had known peace only for a generation, after the bloody Pazhassi wars.


POLITICAL HISTORY

Wynad stands unique in its political history. This was the only taluk in Mala- bar which never bowed its neck to the Mysore yoke and which defied the British power until its ruler fell, fighting against thetroops of the East India Company. This ruler was the Kerala Varma Raja of Pazhassi Kovilagam (Pazhassi palace) of Kottayam dynasty and his history is practically the political history of Wynad from 1786 to 30th November, 1805.

Hyder Ali's hordes were devastating Malabar in 1766 and the rulers of Kottayam(North) had fled for safety to Travancore where the child Kerala Varma was living* with his relations. Wynad remained undisturbed until 1773, when a Mysorean army passed through the country by the Tamarasseri ghat on its way to Calicut.

In 1780 on the outbreak of the second Mysore War, Ravi Varma the senior Raja, returned from Travancore with his nephew Kerala Varma and assisted the beleaguered English factors at the seige of Tellicherry with an army of 2,000 Nayars, and in 1786 when Ravi Varma visited Tippu Sultan inCoorg, he the Sultan exacted from him a deed of relinquishment of all his rights over Wynad.

The Kottayam family had then three
branches :

1. Kizhekke Kovilagam Eastern Palace.

2. Patinhare Kovilagam Western Palace.

3. Thelcke Kovilagam Southern Palace.
 
PAZHASSI RULE

Wynad was under the sovereignty of the Western branch of which Kerala Varma was the head. Heresented the action of the senior Raja and refused to submit to the Mysoreans with whom he was engaged in desultory warfare from 1787 to the beginning of the Third Mysore War in 1790. On 4th May of that year, Robert Taylor, chief of the English settlement at Tellicherry granted a cowle to Kerala Varma Raja that the English East India Company would assist and protect him and do every thing in their power to render him independent of Tippu if he would enter heartily into  the war against the Sultan. The war was waged, and under the treaty of peace dated 18th March, 1792, Malabar was ceded to the Company by the Sultan of Mysore. It was a disputed point whether Wynad was included in this cession and it was not decided until the arrival of Lord Mornington in India in 1798, when it was finally settled that Wynad had remained part of Tippu's dominions.
East India Com pany

As soon as the treaty of Seringapatam was signed in 1792, the East India Com pany appointed Joint Commissioners for the administration of Malabar. They committed the initial mistake of entrusting Kottayam to the Kurumbranad Raja, who had no influence in the country, and Kerala Varma Raja, who was all-powerful in Kottayam, promptly showed his contempt for both the alleged authority of his uncle the Kurumbranad Raja and the regulations of the East ndia Company by stopping all collections of revenue in the district and by taking the law in his own hands against erring Moplas.

Efforts were made by the Company to surprise the Raja in his palace at Pazhassi, in Kottayam Taluk, but the Raja had a secure retreat in the wilds of Wynad. The troops sent against him were hamper- ed by difficulties of transport and lack of supplies, and a series of minor revers- es culminated on March 18, 1797, in a detachment of 1,100 men being cut to pieces in the Peria pass. The Governor of Bombay and the Commander-in-Chief visited Malabar to investigate the state of the District and cancelled the agree- ment with the Kurumbranad Raja; peace was restored through the good offices of the Chirakkal Raja, Kerala Varma being- paid Rs. 8,000 a year as pension.
In 1799, after the fall of Seringapatam, Wynad had been ceded to the British but Kerala Varma Raja resisted all attempts of the Company to take possession of the country and persevered in hostilities until 1805.
 
Baber, Sub-Collector
 
On November 30th of that year, Mr. Baber, Sub-Collector of North Malabar Division surprised him in his retreat in the neighbour- hood of the Pulpalli forest and had the "infinite satisfaction " of reporting to Govern- ment that he had " the good fortune to come up with the Cotiote Kerala Varma Raja alias the Pyche Eaja and with the assistance of Captain Clapham and 50 Se- poys and 100 Kolkars 1 to chastise this rebel chieftain by destroying him and five of his followers." The rebellion died a natural death afterwards.

The following extract from Mr. Baber's letter 2 dated 31st December, 1805, to the Collector of Malabar explains the events immediately preceding the Raja's death and contains the writer's views as regards the Raja's character. To the student of Wynad history it is interesting reading.

" Having said this much of the plan of
operations that had been adopted, I now
come to those which terminated the career
of the Pyche (Palassi) chieftain."

" I before said that one of my objects
by getting in the inhabitants of Pulpally
was to obtain accurate information
of the rebels. This I did not think prudent
to commence upon too early lest they
should take the alarm. I preferred trying
all my persuasive means to gain their con-
fidence and to wean them from their
connections. For this purpose I had them
before me and took every opportunity of
representing the folly of countenancing
a body of men so truly contemptible, and
who had no other end than to involve
them in one common ruin. I pointed to
them in the strongest colours the power
and lenity of the British Government, and
at last, what with exhortation and occasional
presents, had succeeded in inducing several
of these, who had been of most essential
service to the Raja's party, to send their
Paniyars (Paniyar agricultural labourers) out
in quest of information. I took the pre-
caution of swearing all whom I employed
to secrecy. With many agents, I could not
fail of success in some one of them. On
the 30th ultimo, three of them at last
brought me intelligence of the Pyche
(Palassi) Raja and all the rebel leaders,
with the exception of Palora Jamen (Pallur
Eman) being then in the opposite side
of the Kangara river, a short distance in
Mysore, and this so unequivocally that I
determined to act upon it. I accordingly
requested of Lieutenant-Colonel Hill to
assist me with 50 Sepoys and an Officer,
with which force and about 100 kolkars,
half Captain Watson's Police, half my own
locals, I marched at nine o'clock at night ; and
such was the secrecy in which we set off that
our guides even did not know my intention
until the moment we took our departure.
Previous to this I had deemed it expedient to
make a feint to divert the attention of the
rebels (who I thought it probable might
have their spies in camp) by detaching
70 of my kolkars, under the Sheristadar,
under the pretext of going in pursuit of
Palora Jamen who was reported to be in
the Komanpany Mala in the South-eastern
direction, while they had secret instructions
after marching half-way to this mountain
to strike off eastward to the Kallir Mountain
and there lie in ambush near to paths to
cut off the retreat of any fugitives who
would, in most probability, go off in that
direction in the event of our party coming
up with the rebels.

" Such was the nature of the country that
although we kept marching the whole
night we did not reach the Kangara river
until seven the following morning. Here we
divided ourselves into two parties, and pro-
ceeding along the banks, observed a vast
number of huts, all of them bearing every
appearance of recent habitation : we continued
marching until nine o'clock, when the
detachment being fatigued, a halt was pro-
posed. We accordingly halted, and having
taken some refreshment, we again started,
with the determination of tracing every
jungly path : so fully pursuaded was I,
as well from the earnestness of our guides
as the consideration that this was a part
of Mysore that our troops had at no time
penetrated or perhaps even thought of
doing, that the rebels must be concealed
in some parts of these jungles. After
proceeding about a mile and a half through
very high grass and thick teak forests
into the Mysore country, Charen Subedar
of Captain Watson's armed police, who
was leading the advanced party suddenly
halted and beckoiming to me, told me
he heard voices. I immediately ran to the
spot, and having advanced a few steps, I
saw distinctly to the left about ten persons,
unsuspecting of danger, on the banks of the
Mavila Toda, or Nulla to our left. Although
Captain Clapham and the sepoys as well
as the greater part of the kolkars, were
in the rear, I still deemed it prudent
to proceed, apprehensive lest we should
be discovered and all hopes of surprise
thereby frustrated. I accordingly ordered
the advance, which consisted of about
thirty men, to dash on, which they ac-
cordingly did with great gallantry, with
Charen Subedar at their head. In a
moment the advance was in the midst
of the enemy, fighting most bravely. The
contest was but of short duration. Several
of the rebels had fallen, whom the
kolkars were despatching, and a running
fight was kept up after the rest till we
could see no more of them. Just at this
time a firing was heard to the right;
we accordingly returned, when we saw the
sepoys and kolkars engaged with a fresh
body of rebels, who proved to be of
Ooongan's (Kungan's) party, but who fled
after a few shots had been fired at them
and though pursued, were seen nothing
more of. From one of the rebels of the
first party to the left, whom I discovered
concealed in the grass, I learnt that the
Pyche (Palassi) Raja was amongst those
whom we first observed on the banks of
the Nulla, and it was only on my return
from the pursuit that I learnt that the
Raja was amongst the first who had fallen.
It fell to the lot of one of my Cutcherry
servants, Canara Menon, to arrest the flight
of the Raja, which he did at the hazard
of his life (the Raja having put his musket
to his breast) and it is worthy of mention
that this extraordinary personage, though in
the moment of death, called out in the
most dignified and commanding manner to
the Menon, " Not to approach and defile
his person ". Aralat Cootty Nambiar, the
only one remaining of those rebels pro-
scribed by Colonel Stevenson and a most
faithful adherent of the Raja made a most
desperate resistance, but at last fell over-
powered by the superior skill of one
of the parbutties (pravritti) in Wynad ;
four other followers of the Raja were
also killed, two taken prisoners together
with the Raja's lady and several female
attendants. There was no other property
discovered, but a gold Cuttaram (Katharam
or Kattaram dagger) or knife and a waist-
chain ; the former I have now in my pos-
session, the latter I presented to Captain
Clapham. And from the accounts of the
Raja's lady, they had been reduced to the
greatest distresses in particular for the last
ten days. The Raja's body was taken up
and put into my palanquin, while the lady
who was dreadfully reduced from sickness
was put into Captain Clapham's. Finding
any further pursuit of the rebel useless,
we made a disposition of our forces and
returned to Chomady which we reached
about six in the afternoon without having
met with any further occurrences on the
road. The following day the Raja's body
was despatched under a strong escort to
Manantoddy, and the Sheristadar sent with
it with orders to assemble all the Brahmins
and to see that the customary honours
were performed at his funeral. I was
induced to this conduct from the considera-
tion that although a rebel, he was one of
the natural chieftains of the country, and
might be considered on that account rather
as a fallen enemy. If I have acted injudi
ciously, I hope some allowances will be made
for my feelings on such an occasion.

" Thus terminated the career of a man
who has been enabled to persevere in
hostilities against the Company for nearly
nine years, during which many thousand
valuable lives have been sacrificed and
sums of money beyond all calculation
expended.

" Notwithstanding that every effort of
moderation and lenity was pursued towards
the Kaja, nothing could get the better of
his natural restlessness and ferocity of dis-
position, which, aided by the evil counsels
of his advisers, impelled him to the most
desperate acts and produced an infatuation
which rendered him insensible to the dictates
of humanity or reason. His annihilation
became necessary for the stability and
security of the Government and its subjects.
While this severe necessity existed, the re-
collection of the services he has performed
during the infancy of our Government can-
not but inspire us with a sentiment of
regret that a man so formed should have
pursued a conduct that should have thrown
so insuperable a bar to all kinds of accommoda-
tions. To temporise further than was done
would have been to yield, and to have
yielded would have afforded a precedent
which might have been fatal to the British
Government in India.

"But it will not be necessary for me to
enlarge to you who are so well acquainted
with this chieftain's history, on the leading
features of so extraordinary and singular
a character. The records in England and
India will convey to posterity a just idea
of him."

Mr. Baber admired the great qualities of the Raja and remarked that the inhabitants entertained towards the Raja " a regard and respect bordering on veneration which not even his death can efface." These words were prophetic; more than a century has passed and his name is still cherished by the people as the Saktan 1 Raja.
 
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Mananthavady District hospital

Mananthavady District hospital
There is a discussion going on  about upgradation of this hospital. My personal 2 cents;
The author is a resident of Mananthavady, studied and worked in Calicut Medical college for 10 years,worked in all Govt. Hospitals in Wayanad,including DH Mananthavady, and  worked in superficiality PVT hospitals in Calicut.  
Upgrading to a Medical College  will make only negative  impact on health scenario in Wayanad. strange? I will explain.
The Negatives
1. Tons of investment for infrastructure. Highly uneconomic to plan and execute.
2.Huge amount of running cost,compared to return.  We need at least 10 specialities and 2-3 superspecialities. Each  Department will hold at least one Professor.,2 or 3-Asst professors and 3-4 lectures.Now think about salary.One lac to 1.5 lac is spent for each doctor as salary and benefits.. When taking an average, (200 X one lac)=Rupees two crore will be  spent for salary for one month for doctors only. Nurses,Paramedicals, Administrative  and others will be paid around the same figures in total. Reserve 4 crore for salary only.
3.Medial College is designed for teaching. But unfortunately they are notorious for patient care and most importanly delay of service. Take examples of Medical Colleges of Thrissur,Alleppy and Kottayam. Patients are considered only  as student's subjects. They will not get proper attention and care,but will get experiments from young house surgeons and medical students, even from Nursing students. None of the real and qualified doctors will be  available after 1 pm for anything. In case of any failure in treatment,they can hide any malpractice  in within the shield of Academic Teaching. But in the other side, teaching  quality is too poor. Literally none of the so called Professors will teach correctly and perfectly. No researches or presentation of papers  is taking place. Students are  gained knowledge from their books and experiments from poor patients. The patients will suffer ultimately with delays or negligence.  Only thing will correctly occurs  may  be "Private Practice" of doctors.
5. Do you think this Goverment Medical colleges will provide good opportunities for admission  for middle and poor class? No. Our system is like that. Thrissur based tution institutions control the admission. Outstanding students are exemptions, MBBS entrance is a distant dream to an average studentin Kerala.  90% of existing MBBS students are from financially well families. Thanks for the Entrance system and coaching malpractices.
4.Already Kerala is saturated with Medical Doctors. Proliferated  self financing colleges  producing more and more graduates. About 2000 freshers are coming out from Kerala and another 2000 from outside. Where they will work? within 5 years they will be surplus and unemployment will prevail. Remember, only less than 3000 post are there in entire Kerala. They will go out side country or go to private hospitals.
5. Estimated that about Rs.36 lac  been spending by government for each MBBS student to make him as a doctor. Govt Medical colleges will become only a  producer  without any return or benefit. Only 50 or 100 MBBS doctors in an year will come out of from this proposed medical college.They will not  work  in govt service. There will be no vacancies too. Private sector will be happy as they will  get good and  free supply of young doctors without any cost or worry.
7.So this FACTORY will not give anything in return to general public who given their share as taxes.
Poor man will suffer more, Govt will shed millions of money  in sea.
8. Presently,in District hospital we are getting a qualified and EXPERIENCED Care from doctor freely. Medical College will destroy this two factors too.
9. Medical Colleges are no more considered as the highest care giving institutions. It was before 20 years ago. Now Corporate hospitals and private hospitals in cities has all facilities and top class patient care. If anybody having some money  in pocket will definitely  prefer   private hospitals than a Medical college.

Need to improve the system.  Then how?
1.Develop the infrastructure and facilities of the District hospital. Make like RCC and Sree Chitra Institute  where we will get excellent care under Govt.
2.There is an impression that Govt Hospitls are only  for  poor peoples and economically and sociologically backward classes. Here is the problem. Its for general public. But upper class people will not come to the hospital for treatment.  If asked they will say   about lack of service or medicines, unhygienic and smelling wards  etc. So  better to stay in a private hospital. Okay,  Its a fact but they are not bothering about other poor people who is suffering all those things. We have to come forward to question  and  find a solution. The comfort which we expect in private hospitals should be bring to the government sector. politicians, Government employees and business men in Mananhavady should  use the service of government sector. Then only we know what is required more and when real questioning happens, authorities will allow sufficient funds.

4. with good administration,We have good example of a Government hospital working properly as a model. Eranakulam General Hospital, It is like almost a private hospital. All facilities available,neat and clean good administration. Punalur Taluk Hospital is another example.
5 Allow more specialities and superspecialities. As salary(and designation as a doctor in Govt) is attractive we will get enough doctors. Number posts of doctors and other staffs should doubled or tripled so that there should be 2 shifts for Outpatient's Clinic.OP should work in evening up to 9 pm in night.  Number of Nurses and Technicians should increased as per workload. Peripheral  hospitals, PHCs ams CHCs should be modernised. Extra care for Mobile units  in  Tribal areas with all facilities should be strengthened. 
6. More facilities and equipments should be installed. All services can be connected to a Hospital Information system(HIS).Computerised patient registration and HIS will provide correct and updated patient history of all details with one or two mouse clicks.   Radiology and  lab services will be better and fast.  The overall cost is less (= a doctors salary), but benefit is huge. Digital Xray,CT, MRI,US , Auto analysers, daily monitoring in ICU or in ward,patient record library etc ..all should connected. Workload  will be very less in this system.  Aadar number  and health insurance card also connected to this system so that It can be used  for other government schemes and projects.
 7. Surrounding area of District hospital should be developed. Attach the  land of Govt.UP school,(As it already destroyed by wrong policies)village office, sub registrar office, Vet hospital, RDO office, PWD office,IB, DYSP office,DMO office  and build good quality buildings with parking facility. These offices can be moved to Mini civil station. The vast area behind DMO office and Pazhassi tomb Can be used for modern buildings.
8.Hygiene and sterility  Is very important in hospital  and Govt workers Cannot achieve his level due to various reasons. Cleaning should be outsourced to a modern Firm using completely by machinery.Half of the all salary to the present workers( calculate 100 attenders X 20000 average= 20 Lacs per month ) is enough for this
9. Nursing service also should have some revamp.More staff and training in modern equipment.
10. Digitised queue for OP and and online reservation system in Pay wards and consultation/surgery etc. Can be archive by making a website with  nominal Initial cost.
11. I think we can achieve all these with a quarter of fund  otherwise used for a medical college.And this is the practical way implemented easily by a economy like Kerala.
In short I tried to explain we need a good Tertiary care hospital under government, but not a medical college.
Thank you

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VALLIYURKAVE SHRINE,MANANTHAVADY

It  is festival time in my homeland.Valliyoorkavu utsavam. Everybody might have enjoy.
 
 

The pictures are taken from the historical book of CN Gopalan Nair, first publshed on 1911.That was the only kind of book that gives some glimps of old Wayanad rather than Malabar Manuel. I read the MAlabar Manual in my age 30 and regreted of been late. My birth place is Mananthavady and Wayanad is a favourite to me always. But negleted the histoy and thought there is full of forest, and any historical importance will be minimal.I think we all study the local history more importantly from childhood curriculam.

I also regret I been studied sceince, and duze preciuos years in Medical College Calicut. I think I enjoyed a few months learning Arts in parellal college as an art student for BA.


Valliyoorkavu Melekkavu.


THE VALLURKAVU SHRINE
It is located 2 km from Mananthavady on bank of R.Kabani. In my childhood Valliyoorkave festval was the grand Celebration of all wayanad.I saw hundreds of Tribal population on the last 3 days of the festival.I noted noe of them entered in Melekave due to some strange reason. we. with our family members visited this Shrine frequently and they lies deep in my heart as golden specs.
I remember all the years the festival and annual exam in school came together and we boys could not enjoy the full freedom of celebration.


Now my friend Prajith VM posted a new photo in FB,thanks for his effort.


The following brief account of the above
shrine appears in the Malabar Gazetteer :

"About two miles from Manan toddy on the banks of the river is the Vallurkavu, the famous fish pagoda, dedicated to Durga a,nd supposed to have been one of the four shrineserected to protect the Tirunelli temple. The Carnatic carp and other fish in the pool of the river adjoining the temple are sacred, and to feed them is a method of acquiring merit. This fact points to a Dravidian origin of the temple. Possibly it was at one time a temple of the Valluvars, a servile caste of labourers and fishermen. Thousands of pilgrims come for the temple festival which is held in March."
 
 
 
FROM GOPALAN NAIRS BOOK OF WAYANAD
 
Local tradition points to a quite different
origin which, as will be seen from the
following account, is traced to Kotungallur
(Cranganore) in the Cochin State.

Nalveettil Nambiars (lit., Nambiars of four
houses) are the Velichapads (oracles) attached
to the Cranganore temple. They lead an
itinerant life and live on the offerings
they receive from the Hindu houses. In
their perigrinatioiis they carry with them a
sword, which as an emblem of the deity,
serves as an easy passport for their livelihood.
In the olden days, two such men arrived
in Wynad, with the object of visiting the
holy shrine at Tirunelli. One morning they
left Maiiantoddy for the temple, but having
missed their way found themselves in a
thick jungle. The heat of the sun was
intense and the stream in the vicinity tempted
them to take a plunge therein. They per-
formed the usual puja to the sword, took
light refreshments and leaving the sword
in the adjoining ant-hill, rested in the
delightful shade of the thick foliage of trees
and were soon in the arms of Morpheus. When
they awoke they found the sword missing
and a search was made with no effect.
Meanwhile a Kurichiya boy who was grazing
his cattle brought the happy tidings that
a sword was seen suspended on a creeper on
the adjoining hill. The pilgrims hastened to
the spot and tried to take hold of the sword.
It would not leave the creeper in spite
of their efforts and they noticed the sword
rising higher and higher in the air the
moment they attempted to touch it. In
appealing terms they addressed the sword
and repeated several times the words
" Valliyur Amma " x (0 Mother ! disentangle
thyself from the creeper). These entreaties
were not responded to and the pilgrims
left the place in sad disappointment. The
matter was reported to the local chieftains,
Edachana Nair and Vemoth Nambiar, on
whose visit to the place, the sword was
found in the same position. They attempt-
ed to touch the sword and it dropped
down, sticking fast in the ground.
 
The
miraculous incident was reported to the
Raja of Kottayam, then the ruler of Wynad.
The Raja's visit to the spot was followed
by oracular utterances from a Velichapad
(oracle) in the following terms : " I desire
to settle in the locality in three different
places and in three different forms : first
as " Vana Durga " in the place where the
sword fell, as " Jala Durga " in the pool of
the adjoining stream and lastly as " Bhad-
rakali " in the middle of the above two
places and a temple should be erected
with the four eaves of the roof projecting
into the four oceans." The Raja express-
ed his utter inability to undertake the
construction of a temple in the manner
indicated ; whereupon the goddess declared
that no edifice was then necessary and
she would prefer to remain exposed to
the sun and rain.
 
 After this incident, the
Raja made arrangements for the daily
puja, which was entrusted to Cherangote
Nambidi, Edachana Nair and Vemoth Nambiar
who were appointed Managers. The three
centres specified in the divine message are
to this day held sacred and none ventures to
pollute their sanctity either by hunting in
the adjoining jungle, being the abode of
Vana Durga (i.e., Durga of the forest) or
fishing in the stream below, wherein the Jala
Durga (Durga of the water) is supposed to
reside. The ant-hill on which the sword rest-
ed prior to its disappearance, is known as
Maniputtu (Puttu ant-hill) where puja is
performed during the days of the annual fes-
tival. Just in front of the Maniputtu is the
Kali's shrine which remains closed, except
during the fourteen days of the festival.
 
 
OPPANA.
As a boy , I was atrracted some othe rituals too.There are small valliyurkaus in earest villages of MAnanthavady .I saw from near places of valliyur kavu temple, on the last days of festval a brach of tree PALA being  brougt to main temple It is here that during the last three days of the festival the Cherangote Nambidi (priest) exhibits to the public the exact form of the goddess, as appeared to him in a vision, hence the name "Oppana" by which the exhibition ceremony is termed. It is interest- ing to note that people from all parts of the Taluk, nay from the plains also, throng to the temple with the most anxious expecta- tion to have a look at the " Oppana," the prevailing idea being, that one blessed with the sight of the deity in this form will be free from all epidemic diseases during the year.

Other posts related to  Wayanad in this blog
 

 
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Old Pictures of Wayanad

Trying to  present old photos and pictures about Wayanad. The pictures are taken  from the historical book of CN Gopalan Nair, first publshed on 1911. That was the only kind of book that gives some glimps of  old Wayanad  rather than Malabar Manuel


Valliyoorkavu  Melekkavu.
 
 
THE VALLURKAVU SHRINE 
It is located 2 km from Mananthavady on bank of R.Kabani.

Thirunelli  Temple
Located 22 km from Mananthavady
 
 

Kalliyanathu Pally Wayanad
Persent   in Korome 

 
 
 
 
Deputy Collectors office, Now functioning as Forest Rest house near Sub Treasury,Mananthavady.
 

Mananthavady Panchayath board,1942
 
 
 
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Hot spots of Wayanad one must Visit in a life time



Wayanad is a famous hill resort in North Kerala. Wayanad is not a single city or town. It applies to the name of a district. There are many famous travel spots in Wayanad. Wayanad is known for its Spices, Climate, peaceful vacations,Waterfalls and Wildlife .

As born in Wayanad, I discovered most of all attractions in my journey of my life. Still I think more things  are missing or to have a re visit. This list is hot spots inside our District. 


This is the list of places to visit for an average Man. I have given my ratings according to my observations and importance.


FAQs

CURRENT ROAD CONDITION - BANGLORE TO WAYANAD? 


We are planning to Wayanad for 2 days on May 1st and 2nd. 


1. Is this the right time to visit it? 


2.We will be leaving to Wayanad from Banglore in our own vehicle. How about the road conditions? Which route will be the better one? 


3.Any precautionary measures to be taken ?? 


4.Are there any places that we could visit on the way? 

ANS :
There is no bad time to visit Wayanad. If you love greenery and lush vegetation visit in between May to December. Monsoon itself gives an enjoyable stay and rain tourism is promoted from June 1 to Sep 30. June is very good where other parts of country is burned with heat, Wayanad offers cool rain and mist. but Wild life sightings may reduced because all the animals have gone inside park as they get enough food and water. 


December has and January are coolest nights and warm days with full swings in tourist activities. 


February and march is little hotter compared to other districts in Kerala, but still less than 3-4 degrees. Chance of wildlife sightings are in its peak. family goers can avoid this months as numerous school and college children flows to tourist spots as a part of their excursion programs, making overcrowded weekends. But still if you choose a resort or home stay, this months are awesome. 


April is little hot, and expect sudden rain in the late afternoon. 


May is refreshed with early rain, fantastic beauty of rejuvenated earth and climate. calm environments. 


To summerise: 
Summer lasts from from mid-February to mid-May. The tropical sun is really hot and temperatures can go up to 35°C in the afternoons. 
The monsoon is in place from mid-May until early September. The North-East Monsoon winds bring heavy showers. 
Mid-October to early February can be termed a mild winter in the hilly areas, which can get cool and misty. The weather, however, remains hot and tropical on lower ground. Heavy rains occur from the last week of September until until early November, due to the retreat of the South-East monsoon. 


When in Wayanad, carry an umbrella no matter what time of the year it is. You can be caught in a sudden shower in summer, or can be used for sun. Beware the Kerala sun coupled with high rate of humidity can be unforgiving in the summer months. 


The temperature averages around: 
22°C - 34°C daytime, 22°C - 26°C at night in summer seasons of March, April 
20°C - 28°C daytime, 18°C - 25°C at night for the rest of the year 


Temperatures may drop down to 10°C or sometimes even little below during Winter seasons (November, December) in Hilly areas of Western ghats, especially at popular hill-stations, which results a misty days and freezing nights coupled with light cold showers. 


The best road is from Bangalore is Mysore- Gundulpet-Kalpetta NH212. The Highway will close at 9.pm to 6.am, plan your journey according to that .  
The only route  open 24 hrs is  through Mysore-Thithimathi- Kutta-Tholpetty -Mananthavady. 
Best road I felt is Mysore-HD Kote Handpost-Kabini- Bavali- Mananthavady. Excellent tarmac, beautiful sights and full of wildlife. Mysore-Hunsur- Nagarhole- Kutta has same story. Beware,Both roads are closed in between 6 pm to 6 am. 


If you own a car, better to enter from one of the road and exit via any of the other, thus Wayanad can be covered in a round trip. Kilometers are almost same,and worth for the sights. 

 A sample trip (for 3 days):




 Lakkidi/View Point ; Visited several times. Score:  8/10    


Lakkidi is located at the crest of Thamarassery Ghat Pass, which features over 9 hairpin curves that start at Adivaram (downhill). This town is situated at a height of about 2,296 feet above the main sea level.

NO admission fee..Recently there is a parking ban in the ghat road. So you can park the car at a parking area just before the ghat starts. Walk on  the road and enjoy the beauty of the entire valley with fresh air and mist.Really you can touch the clouds when it bombard with Wayanadan hills. The air is so pure and healthy and cold and rejuvenate your lungs.The entire Calicut District is visible and you can trace about the major roads and towns by the help of street lights after dusk. You can spend long hours as nobody will disturb you there, A better idea is have a little walk downhill if your driver can pick from there. The area is totally safe from wild animals except from monkeys. Do not feed monkeys and it is not advisable to go very close to monkeys for selfies. The Alpha male which is the group leader may get irritated if you try to feed some little ones.Even after dusk the roads are full in activities. A 24 hr shadow police checkpoint  is functioning there and its safe to have a walk along the road. Do not tempted with the gooseberry pickles and some snacks items from local make shift vendors as it may contain repeated use of acids and preservatives.


AT DUSK.



On rainy times(June July august and October) you will be completely covered by a cloud as in an aero plane, and visibility is  reduced. You cant get the scenery, but this t feeling is  amazing  and think you are lucky as you are literally inside a cloud. Use blinkers and switch on the fog lamps.



As a responsible tourist , please discourage the  makeshift shoppers, as it  make the scene more polluted.

 It is further 5 km away from the nearby town of Vythiri that has steep mountains and dense forests. Lakkidi View Point offers beautiful views of the cliffs and valleys surrounding the region.

There are many expensive hill resorts at Lakkidi that provide accommodation near tea and coffee plantations. Lakkidi is also famous for the Chain Tree, which is a large chain bound ficus tree situated near the destination.

If your children and grand children want to see this little creatures please dont give them food. They can search their food in jungle.

U can find numerous ice scream vendors  all along the way. Please  do not  endanger their life and your kids health  by giving them  fast food and  ice cream,
Visiting time:  24 hrs
Best Season: Almost all, greenery is its peak on May to November.
Road Condition: Excellent.




Chembra Peak ; Not Visited . Score:  7/10

A perfect place to trek that will take you to the tallest of the Wayanad hills and is at a height of nearly 6,900 feet.

The Chembra Peak trek is a popular choice among amateurs, while trekking in Wayanad, as it is considerably well known and safe as the district forest office keeps a close watch with their guides. They also offer trekking equipments on rent for tourists.

The trek to the Chembra peak is a straight route through green meadows. The initial phase might take you by surprise as the slopes from the foot are surprisingly steep. It takes some time for a trekker to adjust to the terrain but once he does, the rest is cakewalk.





The lush green slopes of the Chembra hill are rich in flora and fauna. Blessed with natural beauty, a trek along the slopes of this hill will provide you an opportunity to witness unprecedented natural beauty.

The trek uphill requires a trekker to cross seven hills before reaching the Chembra peak. It takes a maximum of three hours for even a leisurely paced trekker to reach the peak. The Chembra peak has many wonders hidden in it such as the heart shaped lake called Hridaya Saras where overnight camping options are possible at the peak. The trek and peak are beautiful, mostly because the area is (almost) plastic-free and the entrance fee is quite high (Rs. 750 for a maximum group size of 10, with a daily limit of 200 visitors; start early in peak tourist season). The forest officials and  forest protection group members ensure your climb is risk-free and educating. The views during the climb are great and the heart-shaped lake up top is a thing to behold and cherish.  I would suggest , go by bike Bike can go upto first view point.You have to trek in 4 hrs , its a rule. Guides will be there in full trek at every point.They won't allow you to stop at one place for more time. Even at top also , You can spend around 45 mins, because reaching till pick takes 1.5 hr. Keep some snacks and 1L water per person, there is no way you can get water from the top. Have the snacks at the top, keep the plastic wastes with you, you can dispose at the base camp.



Best Season: July to January. Recently entry is regulated by authorities, check  for closure during summer to prevent Forest fire. Months of February ,March, April, May :  Beware of Closure.
Trek Distance: 9 kms
Difficulty Level: Easy

             
    




Chembra Peak is one of the tallest mountain peaks in the district of Wayanad, which is 2,100 metres above the main sea level. Trekking and mountain climbing are popular activities here. Temporary camps have been set up on the top of this peak for providing accommodation to mountain climbers. This peak lies 14 km west of Kalpetta town and is also located close to Meppadi town. Buses ply from the bus stand at Kalpetta to Meppadi often. Get off at Meppad mosque and take an auto to reach the base of the trek. The distance to the base is about 7kms and the autos can charge you upto Rs.100 for the distance. A small road takes you through Fathima estates..

The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) offers sleeping bags, canvas, log huts, guides and trekking equipment. From the top of the peak, trekkers can see the entire Wayanad District. Prior permission is required from the Forest Range Officer at Meppadi for trekking at Chembra Peak.





Pallikkunnu Church; Visited two times. Score:  6/10



It is a prominent religious centre situated north of Wayanad. It is a Latin Catholic Church which is called Our Lady of Lourdes and was constructed by a French priest, Fr. Jefreno, in 1908. This church is situated at Meenangadi which is around 14 km from Kalpetta. An annual festival in the month of February is organised at this church that attracts several travellers coming to Wayanad.




Puliyarmala Jain Temple ; Visited one time. Score:  5/10                   





The Puliyarmala Jain Temple is situated in Kalpetta and is dedicated to Ananthanatha Swami. This temple is just 6 km away from the main town of Kalpetta and is popularly known as Tipu Fort. It was the same place where Tipu Sultan used to store ammunition. This temple was shifted from Kalpetta to Puliyarmala in 1931 by Mandappa Gowder.

The temple architecture is influenced by the traditional Dravidian style with beautiful carvings on the entrance doors. It is mainly a 13th century temple that features a raised platform made of granite and carved square pillars that hold the stone slab roof.





Banasura dam : Score: 7/10

                   





Banasura Sagar Dam is situated 15 km north west of Kalpetta. It is the second largest earth dam in Asia and the largest in India. The dam has been constructed on Banasura Lake, situated amidst the Banasura Hills. It is believed that these hills were named after the demon king Banasura, who was the son of king Mahabali.

It is a popular picnic spot which offers boating and other recreational activities. The dam was built using big stones and boulders. This dam site is also considered to be an ideal trekking point. Tourists can visit this dam during the monsoon season, when small islands can be seen in the dam reservoir.

It was constructed under the Indian Banasura Sagar Project that was started with an aim of supporting the Kakkayam Hydro Electric Power Project. This project also aimed at contributing to the drinking water and irrigation requirements of the locals during the hot summer season.






Soochipara Falls : Not Visited . Score:  5/10                  





The Soochipara Waterfalls, famously called Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, is located near the town of Meppadi. Surrounded by huge hills and dense forests, it falls from a height of 100 feet to 300 feet. There is a pool below this waterfall, which is suitable for bathing, river rafting and swimming.

There are few tree top huts located near the Western Ghats Valley, adding to the beauty of this waterfall. Soochipara Waterfalls is situated at a distance of 22 km from Kalpetta and is known for rock climbing and nature walks. Nature walks are the best way to explore the destination and see deer and other wild animals near the waterfalls.

It takes 30 minutes by taxi to reach the falls from Meppadi, which has beautiful tea plantations and dense forests.

 

 

Edakkal Caves : Visited two times . Score:  8/10                  





The Edakkal Caves feature a crevice of around 96 feet in length, 30 feet in depth and 22 feet in width. There is a fissure at this site that was created due to splitting of a rock. This fissure and rock walls feature carvings of animal and human figures of the pre-historic period.

The caves are located around 25 km from Kalpetta and about 3 km from Ambalavayal. The trekking trail to these ancient caves from Edakkal extends around 1 km. These caves can be best visited in the morning and can be easily reached from Sulthan Bathery, which is around 16 km away.

Trekking is possible through Ambukuthi Hills to travel to these Edakkal Caves. The trekking route is covered with coffee plantations and takes around 45 minutes to climb up the hills. There is a ticket office situated on the hill top from where travellers can buy entry tickets. An iron gate at the entrance leads inside these caves, which take tourists to the pre-historic period.

There is a telescope near these caves that are used for seeing the surrounding valley. The Edakkal Caves were discovered in 1895 by the Superintendent of Police of Malabar District, Fred Fawcett, when he was going on a hunting trip.

These caves also comprise three different sets of petroglyphs that are more than 7,000 years old. It is the sole place where tourists can see Stone Age carvings in South Asia, with few of them belonging to the Mesolithic and Neolithic Age. Recent findings state that these caves were once related to the Indus Valley Civilisation, where tourists can see around 400 signs, including ‘a man with a jar cup’.

Timing: Morning 8 am  till 5 pm

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary : Visited two times,Score: 8/10                    






The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Spread in a vast area along the borders of Both Taminadu and KArnataka state from south to north wayanad. Muthanga and Tholpetty, are the accessible points to this sanctuary to public. Both are tiny villages along with Major roads connecting  Karnataka state. Muthanga is located at around 16 km on NH 212 from Sulthan Bathery, while Tholpetty is situated north of Wayanad, near Thirunelli along  Mananthavady to Coorg road.  It is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in the state which covers an extensive area of about 344.44 sq km and is close to the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in the state of Karnataka.

Established in 1973, this sanctuary was previously a place of shelter for Pazhassi Raja at the time of rebellion against the British rule. It was also brought under Project Elephant in 1991-1992. There are various mountain peaks inside this wildlife sanctuary, out of which the main is the Karottimala. This peak is situated at a height of around 3,800 feet above the main sea level.

The other important mountain peaks inside the sanctuary have altitudes ranging between 2,100 feet and 2,600 feet. This sanctuary receives heavy rainfall from the last week of May till September. Around 1/3rd of the entire sanctuary is covered with trees, like eucalyptus, silver oak, rosewood and teak.

It is also home to wide range of shrubs such as Randia uliginosa, Helicteres isora and herbs including Sida cordifolia, Rauvolfia and Ageratum conyzoides. The sanctuary is inhabited by different animal species, such as elephants, deer, big cats, monkeys, sambar, Malabar squirrel, panther, langurs, bonnet macaques, bison and bear, among others.


Prior permission is required from the forest authorities for visiting this sanctuary, as the entire outer zone is a restricted area. The inner zone entry is mainly allowed to wardens and researchers, which is around 25 km wide.
The sanctuary is best visited between June and October, during the monsoon season. But the dry  season also hold its charm by sighting wild animals is more common..

 Note: 

Timing: 7:00 am - 8:30 am
3:30 pm - 5:30 pm



  Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary : Visited two times,Score: 8/10                  







Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Wayanad Sanctuary, is located in Wayanad, Kerala and is on the way from Mysore to Sulthan Bathery. so you can easlily plan your journey as a pit stop en route to the other destinations. There is no hotels or accommodation available. Beware that night travelling is banned in this road and the road opens only at 6 am and closes at 9 pm. The Sanctuary is spread over an area of around 344 square kilometres and one can find animals like sloth bears, sambhar, elephants, monkeys, tigers, reptiles, deer, panthers, etc. There are many species of rare birds in this sanctuary as well.


The Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is most famous for its project elephant site, where herds of elephants are seen roaming freely, frolicking in the mud and the water near the water holes.


Various species of deer, monkeys, birds etc also inhabit this spce. The trees and plants in the sanctuary are typical of the South Indian moist deciduous forests and West Coast semi-evergreen forests. An ideal destination to watch herds of wild elephants, the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is contiguous with the protected area network of the Nagarhole National Park and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in the neighbouring State of Karnataka and Mudumalai of Tamilnadu. The sanctuary is also a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Western Ghats, Nilgiri Sub-Cluster (6,000 km square), including all of the sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.



Spread over a vast area, Muthanga is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere region. The vegetation is predominently moist deciduous forest with smaller streches of swamp, teak forests, bamboo and tall grass. amidst such fertile and varied flora, this region hosts several rare herbs and medicinal plants. With numerous watering holes, Muthanga has a large population of pachyderms, and has been declared a project elephant site. Other animal species include Leopards, Gaur, Sambar, Cheeta, Barking deer, Hanuman Lengur and Slender loris. the reserve is also home to a small population of tigers. In addition there is also profusion of birds, butterflies and insects.

The best months to visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary are the months of June to October. An ideal destination for those looking out for some adventure as well as nature enthusiasts!
Distance: Kalpetta: 42kms. Sulthan Bathery:17km. Mananthavady:59kms.
Open: for safari through the santuary 0700 – 1000, 1500 – 1730. 
Contact: Wildlife warden (04936) 271010 Bathery

Safari in Muthanga

Entry fee for adult is Rs 10 and for child is Rs 5
Charge for still camera is Rs 50 and video camera is RS 150
The entrance to Muthaga is 15 km from Sulthan Bathery towards Mysore
Note: No prior permission is required to visit the park, but inpeak season, entry is limited to a number of vehicles only .

Tip: you can use your own four wheeler or SUV inside the park with a forest guide.Guide charge RS 100Jeep entry charge Rs 50. Or if you have small car, You can hire a jeep from Muthanga for Rs 300

  Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary: Visited two times. Score:  7/10



Set off on a wildlife safari in the untamed land of Tholpetty Sanctuary, also known as Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. Lolling in the Western Ghat region of Kerala, it is spread over an area of nearly 345 sq km and has a variety of exotic flora and fauna. 


There are two timings for entry, from 7am to 9am or 3pm to 5pm. At this sanctuary you may spot a number of animals such as Gaur, Dholes, Cheetal and Jackals, to name a few. If you are lucky, you may also spot the Bengal Tiger.

The flora particularly consists of deciduous forests mostly found near the western coast. The plantations of coffee and tea are also present, which fills the sanctuary with their aroma. The best time to visit this beautiful place is during the month of October till the end of the month of May.


Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the famous wildlife reserves in the district of Wayanad. Auctually its a part of Wayanad wildlife sanctury,but falls in Mananthavady division It is famous for its night camping(with special permission) and a watchtower, which is located above a lake. This lake is also the main source of water for the wild animals inhabiting the sanctuary. The sanctuary is part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and is situated about 15 km north of Mananthavady.


It is well-connected with Nagarhole in the state of Karnataka by road. This sanctuary is home to numerous animal species like jungle cat, bison, tiger, etc. There are more than 900 elephants in this wildlife sanctuary, which is considered to be the same place where Pazhassi Raja fought the British. The ideal time for visiting this sanctuary is between September and May.


Tholpetty: Situated along northern ridge of Wayanad(bordering coorg district of Karnataka) Tholpetty is much similar to Muthanga in terms of flora and fauna. The best season to visit both sanctuaries is between Nov and May.

Distance: Kalpetta: 59kms. Sulthan Bathery:66km Mananthavady:24kms 

Contact: Asst. Wildlife Warden, Tholpetty. (04935) 250853

Admission Fees: INR10 (Indian)

INR100 (Foreigner)
INR100 (Guide)
INR50 – INR150 (Vehicle entry)
INR25 – INR150 (Camera)


Safari in Tholpetti
Entry fee is Rs 50 per vehicle
Rent for jeep us Rs 300
Entry fee per hed Rs 10
Camera Rs 50, Video camera Rs 150, Guide fee Rs 100Timings
7 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 5 pm.

Our Tip: you can use your own four wheeler or SUV inside the park with a forest guide.Guide charge RS 100.Jeep/suv entry charge Rs 50. Or if you have small car which is not allowed to enter the sanctuary, You can still hire a jeep from Muthanga for Rs 300


If you are not interested in safari still it will be worth to travel along this road from kattikkulam to Tholpetty- Kutta,on a firs class road for sighting of animals. You can travel to Nagerhole National park which is very near and have more options for safari.


Note: that in some weeks of the year,in March and April, the sanctuary may closed for tourists in fear of wild fire. In dry season most of the greenery is lost in Nagerhole and Bandipur sanctuaries and wild animals tend to migrate to Wayanad in search of water, where plants and trees get more rain. this make an increased sightings of animals along the route. Similarly in June- July, the safari may not permitted due to heavy downpour in Kerala.


Thirunelli Temple : Visited Several times,Score: 7/10                    






Thirunelli Temple is more than 3000 years old and is located near the famous ‘Papanasini River’ in the Wayanad District. The main deity in this temple is Lord Vishnu, whose idol is present in Chaturbhuja form, which means having four arms. There are around 30 granite columns surrounding this temple. Connected via bridge, the Papanasini River water is used for various rituals inside the temple.

A pond called Panchatheertha can be seen south of this temple and is believed to be the point where five rivers met. This temple lies in the forest region of Brahmagiri and is often regarded as Kashi of South.

This temple has been designed according to the traditional architecture style of Kerala, with tiled roof in the inner sanctorum and granite lamppost at the temple entrance. The famous festivals celebrated at this temple are Navratri, Shivaratri, Puthari, Chuttuvilakku and Shree Krishna Jayanthi.

 

 

Begur Wildlife Sanctuary : Visited one time. Score:  8/10                  






The Begur Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Mananthavady, which is about 20 km from the main town of Wayanad. This wildlife sanctuary is located next to the Western Ghats and houses various trees that possess medicinal value. It is also inhabited by numerous animal species like elephants, boars, deer, tigers, leopards, panthers and so on. There are large numbers of bird species that can be easily spotted in this wildlife sanctuary.

The ideal season for visiting this wildlife sanctuary is between December and May, which attracts animals and birds towards the water holes that get filled during monsoon.

 

Karapuzha Dam : Not Visitied . Score: 6/10

                   




Karapuzha Dam is considered to be one of the biggest earth dams in India, which has been constructed on the Karapuzha River. It is an ideal place for watching aquatic birds that frequent the reservoir, which is surrounded by partially submerged hills and green islands. This dam can be visited throughout the day except dawn as the visibility is poor.

 

Wayanad Heritage Museum : Not Visitied . Score: 6/10

                   




 

Ananthanatha Swami temple:Not Visited . Score: 6/10

                    




Just a six km drive from Kalpetta is Ananthanatha Swami temple popularly called as Jain Temple. The temple is dedicated to Ananthanatha Swami and is also called as Tipu’s fort. According to legends, Tipu had used this place to store the ammunitions and so it’s known as Sultan’s Battery. The temple place was built during 13th century and was the hub of commercial activities. The place though is losing its physical aesthetics still it preserves the charm.


Chain Tree : Visited several times. Score:  5/10                    






Chain Tree, a prominent excursion destination, is a chained ficus tree situated about 15 km from Kalpetta. The mountain terrain leading to Wayanad was discovered by a British engineer with the help of a tribal guide, Karinthandan. The British engineer killed this guide so that he could take all the credit of finding this place.

It is believed that the soul of the murdered guide used to haunt this place. According to local lore, the spirit was chained by a priest to the tree, thereby earning the place the name Chain Tree. Tourists must beware of the many monkeys passing through the roadside that lead to Vythiri from this Chain Tree.

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Kuruvadweep : Visitied two times. Score:  7/10                    





Kuruva Island is also popularly known as Kuruva Dweep, which lies on the banks of the tributaries of River Kabini. This island is a famous picnic spot which is located away from the main towns of the district.

Situated around 17 km from Mananthavady, it is inhabited by rare bird species, herbal plants and orchids. This island covers a large area of around 950 acres of evergreen forest.

It is also famous for its bamboo canopy which provides a glimpse into the natural treasure of the confluence of the rivulets. This island is close to the Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to varied wild animals and birds. Boating facilities are provided by the District Tourism Promotion Council.

 

Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary :Visitied two times. Score: 8/10                     






Pakshipathalam Bird Sanctuary is situated around 7 km north-east of the Thirunelli Temple. This sanctuary is located nearly 1,740 metres above the main sea level and is known to be inhabited by varied species of birds. It also features moist deciduous forest, steep hills and streams that make it ideal for trekking and picnics.

Tourists can trek to Pakshipathalam from Wayanad to watch some of the rare species of birds. There is also a watchtower at Pakshipathalam from where views of the entire bird sanctuary are available.

Visitors have to take special permission from the Forest Department to travel to this bird sanctuary. The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) also arranges guides, vehicles and camping equipment on rent.

Rocky hillocks and deep rock caves are the best places in Pakshipathalam for birdwatching. It also houses Garudan Kavu and Bhuthathan Kavu that attract large number of travellers coming to Pakshipathalam. Visitors are not allowed during the months of February through May, due to the danger of summer forest fires.

 

Pazhassi Raja tomb :Visitied several times. Score:  7/10 

                   



Pazhassi Raja Tomb is a famous memorial of the lion of Kerala or Pazhassi Raja. He is known for organising guerrilla warfare against the British in Kerala. His mortals are kept inside this memorial, which is located at Mananthavady.

In 1805, Pazhassi Raja was cremated after his death during the warfare against the British East India Company. He died in an encounter at Mavilanthodu, which is near Pulpally that is around 1 km away from the main town of Mananthavady. Pazhassi Raja is considered to be the last king who revolted against the British after the death of Tipu Sultan.

 

Pookat lake : Visited several times. Score: 5/10                    






Pookot Lake is situated amidst a beautiful forest in the wooded hills of the Wayanad region. It is mainly a fresh water lake which is considered to be an ideal picnic spot. Tourists can engage in boating at this lake; however, swimming is prohibited at this site. Other important tourist facilities available at this lake include a children’s park, a fresh water aquarium as well as spices and handicrafts emporium.
This lake covers an area of around 8.5 hectares, with a maximum water depth of over 6.5 metres. It lies 3 km south of the main town of Vythiri and is known for its pleasant and cool weather.  The shops located near this lake offer various types of bamboo and wood artefacts along with tea, spices and coffee.

Natural honey that is collected by the tribal people is also available at these shops. There is a small hatchery for Mahseer fish near the Pookat Lake.

Thrissilery Shiva Temple :Visited one time. Score:  6/10

                

Thrissilery Shiva Temple is situated at about 19 km from Thirunelli, on the main Mananthavady-Mysore Highway. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has an intrinsic link with the Lord Vishnu Temple at Thirunelli. Travellers coming to Thirunelli Temple to pay homage to their ancestors also visit the Thrissilery Temple.

Papanasini water flows through this temple, which houses a small shrine of Jala Durga. The water never dries and it is believed that the shrine was installed here by Parasurama, who was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. From Thirunelli, taxis or auto rickshaws can be hired to reach this temple, which is 4 km away from Kartikulam.

Banasura Hills Treck:Trecked  one  time. Score:  7/10 


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Banasura Hill is the second tallest mountain in the Wayanad district of Kerala, India. The hill is named after Banasura, a mythical character of Indian legends

 





 

Karlad Lake : Not Visited . Score: 6/10                  






Karlad Lake is located in Thariode, which is around 16 km away from Kalpetta. This is the second largest freshwater lake in the state, which is quite popular among nature enthusiasts for its peaceful environs.

The 7 acres land surrounding this lake is a popular picnic spot, where boating can also be done. This lake is surrounded by dense bamboo groves that are perfect trekking trails for reaching the Pallikkunnu Church.
Banasura Sagar Dam is situated around 3 km away from the Karlad Lake. There is a Karlad Tourism Centre at this place which comprises a facilitation centre, dormitories, a heritage village and a restaurant.

 

Sulthan Bathery Jain Temple:Visited several times. Score:  7/10


This Temple is one of the most important amongst a series of ruins spread across the state of Kerala that testify to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region. Believed to have been built in the 13th century, it served as a Hindu shrine, an important centre for commercial activity and eventually as a battery (ammunition store) for Tipu Sulthan's marching armies.

Apart from this temple, there are other significant jain remnants in Wayanad. The temples at Punchavayal and Puthenangadi are the best known of these. With their beautifully carved pillars now partly ruined, and the area rather derelict, these sites exude a peculiar airomystery. The temple is 24 Kms. away from kalpetta, 12 Kms. away from Sulthan Bathery and 41 Kms. away from Mananthavady.

 

Bathery Mahaganapathi Temple:Visitied one times Score:  4/10


Bathery Mahaganapathi Temple, situated at Sulthan Bathery, is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is commonly believed that Sulthan Bathery was previously known as 'Ganapathyvattom' because of this temple. Besides, Sulthan Bathery was also known as Purakizha during the reign of the Kulashekara kings.



Valliyoorkavu :Visited several times. Score:  7/10



 Bhagavathi Temple is situated in the tribal region of Wayanad District and is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathi. This temple is just 3 km away from the village of Mananthavady.

An annual festival in March is conducted at this temple, during which folk art forms like Kalamezhuthu are performed by the tribal people. Locals also perform tribal dances with native percussion instruments.


Korome Mosque/ Varambetta Mosque:Not Visited . Score: 6/10: 




 IT is a famous religious centre in Wayanad District which is around 23 km from Mananthavady. It is one of the oldest mosques in the region which is more than 300 years old. The mosque was built in  traditional architectural style with wood carvings. Uroos festival is celebrated annually at this mosque, which is attended by all the communities in the region.


              
 This mosque is also situated close to Maithani Palli and Juma Masjid that are prominent Muslim religious centres in Wayanad
 

 

Paingatteri Agraharam :Visited one times Score:  4/10



It is an ancient settlement of Tamil Brahmins which is situated at a distance of around 7 km from Mananthavady. The houses present in Agraharam have been declared as a heritage site.

These houses are built in rows that give a clear picture about the classic architectural style of Tamil Brahmins. The Tamil Brahmins living in Agraharam are said to have migrated from Thanjavur in the state of Tamil Nadu.

These Brahmins arrived here as cooks of the Kottayam Dynasty and later on settled in the district of Wayanad. There are many small ponds and temples situated inside Agraharam that attract numerous tourists.

 

Pulpally Seethadevi Temple :not Visited Score:  6/10


 Pulpally Seethadevi Temple is a famous religious attraction located at Pulpally, which lies within the Wayanad District. This shrine houses an idol of Goddess Sita, along with that of Luv-Kush, Lord Ayyapa, Lord Subramanya, Lord Ganesha, Lord Thalachiluan, Lord Vettaikaran and Lord Naga. It is one of the very few temples in India that is dedicated to Luv and Kush, the sons of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.

The ruined Jain Temple (Janardhana temple) is situated inside coffee plantation, 5 km from Panamaram near Punchavayal junction/ 29 km from Sulthan Bathery. Located in Wayanad, Kerala.

 

Boys Town. Visited several times. Score: 5/10

                  

Boys Town is located approximately 15 km from Mananthavady and is famous for its herbal garden, sericulture unit, permaculture centre and nature care centre. These centres are managed by the Wayanad Social Service Society, which was established in 1974. It was established to develop community health, co-operative credit unions, skill development, housing as well as agriculture and animal husbandry.

 Boys Town is also famous for its Gene Park that was started as an Indo-Danish Project to promote herbal gardening.

 

 

Jain temple Panamaram: visited Twice. Score 7/10
These ruined Jain Temples (2 in number - Janardhana temple, Vishnu temple) are situated inside coffee plantation, 5 km from Panamaram near Punchavayal junction.

Phantom rock 




Phantom rock is a skull shaped rock, which has an eerie similarity to the face of Phantom. In the local area it is popularly known as Cheengeri Mala. Those who are adventurous enough can climb to its upper part. The surroundings of this rock have potential scenic locations. The scenic surroundings near the phantom rock make it a potential tourist trekking and camping location. The surroundings have lot of greeneries and rocks.LocationNear Ambalavayal, 2.3 kms
How to reach By road: Buses are available from KalpettaStayStay at Ambalavayal.

Botanical Garden at Periya


Titan Arum, native to the equatorial rainforests of Sumatra in Indonesia, bloomed at Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary (GBS), in what is believed to be the first flowering of the rare plant in India.


If you are a interested in botany, this private farm is a gem. dont ever miss. It located 3 km  near to Periya town, and belongs in a region  of Keralas only evergreen forest patches. A  permission may be required, from the  entrance, and a crowded  noisy  group is not invited. 


Other Points





Language





In Wayanad , language has no barrier, and it is the only area in Kerala where both Tamil and Kannada is widely understood. Most people understand basic English but cannot speak the same fluently. Most of population are able to communicate in English and in 'broken' Hindi. So dont afraid about talking.
Costs


Kerala is generally an expensive destination when compared to elsewhere in India.But Wayanad still holds cheap and best Value for money accomadation and transport.


Budget tourists normally require Rs 1,000 per day for a decent stay including food. They can depend ordinary restaurants or road-side hawkers (called Thattukadas) for their food which costs less than Rs 50. Middle class tourists must keep around Rs 1,400-Rs 2,000 per day a stay in pretty good hotel and for food in standard restaurants. For rich, Kerala is a destination that costs normally beyond Rs 4,000, but service will be up the mark..



Eat


Malayalee cuisine is distinctly different from food elsewhere in India. The major difference that one can easily notice are dominance of rice as staple food and popularity of non-vegetarian dishes. Unlike other parts of India, the Kerala society do not emphasis on any religious dietary taboos or restrictions. Thus various beef and pork dishes take a key position in cuisine without any societal taboos. Seafood gets a lion's share in typical Malayalee cuisine and lavish use of coconut (in form of coconut oil, coconut milk, powder or paste) gives a distinct taste. Since spices are abundant, one can find its lavish use in most of dishes, making many fiery hot. Pepper, Cardamon, Cloves, Ginger, Chilies are common to most of the dishes.


Food in Wayanad tends to include a variety of spices and most of them may be extremely fiery.But try for change. You can select a wide range of north India food too because of the touristic demand, even in small town restaurants. Bakery and icecream parlors are so popular. Do not buy fruits from Wayanad, because of its unnatural prices comparing to other states. Still Wayanadan Bananas and some tropical fruits are cheap.


Non-vegetarian 

With multiple cuisine styles for almost all kind of meat, Wayanad is a paradise for non vegeterians at cheap cost. While Chicken, Duck, Beef, Mutton are the most popular among non-vegetarians, pork and lamb meat are taken as special festive cuisine. Its not uncommon to see rabbit, pigeon and quail meat based cuisine in some parts of the District. All meat are normally marinated heavily with spices before cooking, mostly turmeric, chilly powder, pepper, salt, ginger-garlic paste, garam-masala etc. Pan stir frying (roast), deep fried and curry boiled are some of the popular cooking styles. Kerala is one of major state in India, which is extremely beef friendly, with no social/religious taboos attached to it. Beef is the most popular meat, followed by chicken and used widespread. Unlike nan or chappathies, try Kerala paratha (porotta) - a famous milled wheat weaved fried (or toasted) bread orignated from Malabar, popular throughout Kerala. its taste is quite awesome along with non veg dishes.




Alcohol


Tourists must be aware of the state laws.



WARNING: Kerala Excise and Narcotics Law stipulates that possessions of Alcohol/liqour by an adult (above 18 years old) more than 3 Litres, standard Beer Bottles more than 6 in number and 1.5 litres of toddy are illegal and can be punished by hefty fines or even jail term. Drinking inside moving vehicles or in presence of a child below 15 years old is also punishable offence. Drinking in public or encouraging others to drink in a public place is a serious crime, punishable for a 6 month term.


Recently, all bars of the state barring those operate in 5 star hotels have been closed down. As a result, there are only 30 Bars currently operational in entire Kerala state.


However as part of curbing, all erstwhile bars were converted into Beer and Wine Parlours as part of substituting from hard liquor to wines and beer. So in wayanad, these are more popular now, Its prefectly possible to find several parlours serving various types of wines (majority of them serves only Indian made Wines, while few serves foreign imported wines) and various branded beers.


Restaurants are not allowed to serve liquor, unless they operate within the same 5 hotel facility having a bar licence. Sale of beer or any beverage with alcohol content, are not allowed in any retail stores. Bars are also subjected additional service and luxury taxation, as part of government strategy to curb drinking. However despite of higher costs, one can find the drinking culture on higher note. Pub culture do not exists in Wayanad.


Retail sale of liquor is restricted to exclusive Government run retail network stores under Kerala State Beverage Corporations Limited (popularly known as Beverage Shop or Bevco) stores. One can buy most of liquor brands as well as beer for use in private. Ideal for budget conscious, due to comparative lower rates. However, there is usually a very large queue in front of it and you have wait a long time to get the item.


All bars and Bevco stores are closed on the 1st and 2nd day of every month, as well as on major public holidays known as Dry days. Except a very large queue on eve of such dry days, as part of stocking bottles.

So Its better to stock some of your spirit along with your vehicle, within the allowed quantity and rules,is the perfect way to answer this issue. Remember, f you stay in a resort or a good hotel, there re some loop holes to bring the stuff if money can speak. 


Locally made palm toddy called as kallu is tempting to try, but be aware that some people become sick due to bad brews. Even if you don't try toddy, having food from these toddy shops is a good idea, to taste some of the best distinctive food styles.


Other Tips




  • Though Wayanad does not have many touts or so-called Guides, a few people from outside state (especially Tamilnadu) do encounter this problem at some tourist centres. e Do avoid them completely as many nowadays are small time thieves and crooks from other states who look for prey. Hence avoid them completely and say a firm NO. 

  • Strikes, protest processions and hartal (voluntary closure of activities as protest) are common in Kerala, considering its high political awareness and socialist leanings. Tourists may get suddenly caught in hartals or road blockades due to protests which may make you stranded in airports or railway stations. All political parties announce the date and details of protests much in advance in leading dailies. So regularly follow leading English dailies , and keep buffer days. 

  • Kerala is much safer than other parts of India, it doesn't mean that it is the world's safest place. Kerala has its share of criminals. Pick pockets in buses, festival grounds and city shopping areas may occure but less frequently. Don't trust your hotel cleaning staff with your costly belongings. Also women are advised not to walk in revealing costumes. 
  • Use bottled water, as tap water is not so safe even though it's purified, and stay in decent hotels even if you have to shell out some extra money. However recently homestays have been safe. 
  • Kerala Police force is one of the most efficient police units in India and the least corrupt. Most of the police officials are well versed in English and Hind, Tamil or Kannada and 95% of police stations are computerised. Most of the towns in Wayand do have a very strong police network and its not difficult to find a police station.Police are very Touristic friendly, and non biased. 
  • Kerala is well reputed for its high medical assistance. For any urgent medical attention or ambulance services, call 102. 
  • Tourists are more likely to be expected in smart causal clothing. Its not uncommon to see tourists in sleevless vests and shorts, which is indeed tolerated. However it would be adviced to dress conservatively when visiting rural places or temples. 

  • Wayanad is perfectly matched for celebrate Honeymoon and a favourite location. Select high quality hotels for stay.The legal age for consensus sex is 18 above. That also means they are not necessarily be married . Any attempt below the age, is considered as a crime and can lead to life imprisonment. Though consensus sex is legal, often police charge such as prostitution/adultery, or inform parents for further actions. Prostitution is illegal and punished under charges of immoral traffic which could land up in jail upto 5 years. Police often raids small cheap lodges, where such prostitution are more likely to happen. But standard hotels, homestays and resorts are virtually insulated from such kind of raids. 
  • Identity proof is a must for a stay for all members including children. Adhar card is widely accepted for this purpose. 



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