Kollengode
Nestled at the foot of the Nelliyampathy mountain ranges, Kollengode is a serene village in Palakkad district, located near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Once known as Venganad, the region later came under the rule of the Kollengode royal family, vassals of the Zamorin. Today, it remains a destination that blends history, natural beauty, and cultural significance, even earning a spot on the travel bucket list of Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra.
For those traveling from Thrissur or Palakkad, the journey to Kollengode includes passing through the Kuthiran tunnel, South India's longest six-lane road tunnel. The village is surrounded by a variety of scenic and historically significant sites, making it an ideal travel destination. Visitors can explore Seetharkundu Waterfalls, known for its breathtaking views but requiring caution due to strong currents during the monsoon. Chulliyar Dam, built on the Gayathri River, offers stunning panoramic vistas, particularly during the rainy season.
Adding to Kollengode's unique attractions is the Chinganchira Karuppuswamy Nature Temple, located inside a massive banyan tree, where devotees offer goats and chickens as votive sacrifices. Another fascinating stop is Chellappan Chettan's tea shop, a decades-old establishment that retains its vintage charm, playing nostalgic Malayalam songs from the 1960s. The Vamala Bala Murugan Temple, perched on a hilltop, provides sweeping views of the Nelliyampathy mountains and lush paddy fields, while the Malampuzha Dam and its ropeway offer visitors a chance to enjoy an aerial perspective of the region's rugged beauty.
For film enthusiasts, Kollengode and its surroundings have served as shooting locations for numerous Malayalam movies. Kava, often referred to as the 'gateway of rains' in Kerala, is another picturesque site with trekking trails and vast landscapes that have been featured in popular films. Despite its growing popularity, Kollengode remains an unspoiled treasure, showcasing Kerala's rural charm and natural splendor.
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