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Kariyathumpara

Kozhikode, Kerala, India
Kariyathumpara is a breathtakingly beautiful landscape that has recently gained immense popularity as the "Switzerland of Kerala." Located on the way to the Kakkayam Dam, it features vast green meadows, rolling hills, and the crystal-clear waters of the Peruvannamuzhi reservoir's catchment area. Th e unique charm of this place lies in its "sunken forest" appearance, where tree stumps emerge from the water against a backdrop of emerald hills. The area is dotted with natural springs and small cascades that flow into the reservoir. Unlike typical waterfalls, the water here flows gently over smooth rocks, forming shallow, safe pools that are perfect for a family dip. The grass is exceptionally green, and the air is crisp and clean. It is a favorite spot for film shoots and wedding photography due to its romantic and serene ambiance. You can often see local cows and horses grazing in the meadows, adding to the pastoral beauty. The destination is part of the Western Ghats, ensuring a rich ecological experience. There are no permanent residents in the core tourist area, preserving its pristine nature. The silence of the hills is only broken by the sound of the wind and flowing water. It is an ideal spot for those who want to escape the digital world and connect with nature. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons—lush and full during the monsoon, and mystical with receding water levels in the summer.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    4 to 5 Hours
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    Place Type:
    Hills & Reservoir
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    Entry Fees:
    Small Entry Charge: There is a combined entry fee for Kariyathumpara and Thonikadavu, which is approximately 30 INR per person. This fee is collected by the local Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Forest Protection Committee). Parking charges are 10 INR for bikes and 30 INR for c...
    Small Entry Charge: There is a combined entry fee for Kariyathumpara and Thonikadavu, which is approximately 30 INR per person. This fee is collected by the local Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Forest Protection Committee). Parking charges are 10 INR for bikes and 30 INR for cars. The funds are used for keeping the area plastic-free and for the salaries of the local guards.
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    Timing:
    9:00 AM to 6:

    00 PM: The area is open for visitors during daylight hours. The best time to arrive is either 9:00 AM to see the morning light or after 3:30 PM for the evening glow. It is closed after dark for safety. The place is open on all days of the week, thoug...
    9:00 AM to 6:

    00 PM: The area is open for visitors during daylight hours. The best time to arrive is either 9:00 AM to see the morning light or after 3:30 PM for the evening glow. It is closed after dark for safety. The place is open on all days of the week, though it can get quite busy on Sunday afternoons.
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    Special Events:
    Monsoon Mist Festival: While not a formal event, the local community celebrates the arrival of the monsoon when the meadows turn a vibrant green. Photography contests are frequently organized by local groups to capture the beauty of the region. During the Christmas and Ne...
    Monsoon Mist Festival: While not a formal event, the local community celebrates the arrival of the monsoon when the meadows turn a vibrant green. Photography contests are frequently organized by local groups to capture the beauty of the region. During the Christmas and New Year season, the nearby resorts host small cultural nights for guests. The village of Koorachund holds local church and temple festivals with traditional music.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    The Water Meadows: Capture the green grass meeting the blue water with hills in the background.

    Sunken Tree Stumps: These provide a surreal, artistic element for creative photography.

    The Winding Road: The ...
    The Water Meadows: Capture the green grass meeting the blue water with hills in the background.

    Sunken Tree Stumps: These provide a surreal, artistic element for creative photography.

    The Winding Road: The road leading to the spot offers a great perspective for travel-vlog style shots.

    Grazing Animals: Photos of horses or cows in the meadow add a beautiful pastoral touch to your gallery.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Meadow Walk: Simply walk barefoot on the soft, lush grass of the meadows.

    River Bathing: Enjoy a safe and refreshing bath in the crystal-clear, shallow water pools.

    Photography: This is a paradise for shutterbugs; the reflections in the water are perfect for landscape shots.

    Picnicking: Carry a mat and some snacks to enjoy a quiet lunch under the shade of the trees.

    Horse Riding: Occasionally, local villagers offer short horse rides across the meadows for a small fee.

    Bird Watching: The reservoir attracts various water birds and forest species.

    Short Treks: Explore the nearby hillocks for a light trekking experience.

    Dipping Feet:<...

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    Scenic Beauty: Famous for its meadow-like appearance and the "sunken trees" in the reservoir. It is widely considered the most photogenic spot in Kozhikode.

    Safe Water Play: The shallow and calm water pools make it famous among families wi...
    Scenic Beauty: Famous for its meadow-like appearance and the "sunken trees" in the reservoir. It is widely considered the most photogenic spot in Kozhikode.

    Safe Water Play: The shallow and calm water pools make it famous among families with children who want to play in the water safely.

    Movie Location: Several popular Malayalam movies have been filmed here, showcasing its ethereal beauty.
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    Architecture:
    Landscape-centric Natural Design: There is very little artificial architecture in Kariyathumpara, as the focus is on preserving the natural meadows. The entrance features a small, traditional Kerala-style gate and a ticket counter made of wood and tiles. A narrow, winding...
    Landscape-centric Natural Design: There is very little artificial architecture in Kariyathumpara, as the focus is on preserving the natural meadows. The entrance features a small, traditional Kerala-style gate and a ticket counter made of wood and tiles. A narrow, winding concrete road leads through the hills, designed to minimize impact on the terrain. Small bamboo gazebos and stone benches are placed at vantage points for tourists. The most striking "architectural" element is the natural arrangement of boulders and the way the reservoir water weaves through the valley. Nearby, in Koorachund, you can see modern eco-villas and homestays that use local stone and large glass windows to offer views of the hills. The dimensions of the meadow area are sprawling, covering several acres of open land. The check-dams in the vicinity are simple masonry structures used for water management.
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    How To Reach:
    By Air: Calicut International Airport is 62 km away. Hiring a pre-paid taxi is the easiest option.

    By Train: Kozhikode Railway Station is the nearest railhead (45 km). You can take a bus to Balussery and then another to Koorachund.
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    Near Tourist Places:
    1. Kakkayam Dam (15 km), 2. Thonikadavu (2 km), 3. Peruvannamuzhi Dam (25 km), 4. Vayalada Viewpoint (12 km), 5. Balussery Kotta (20 km), 6. Urakkuzhi Waterfalls (16 km), 7. Janakikkadu (30 km), 8. Kozhikode City (45 km), 9. Tusharagiri Falls (35 km), 10. Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary (10 km).

Tourism Tips

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    Health & Safety: The water is shallow but the rocks can be slippery; move with caution.

    Packing: Bring a picnic blanket, sun hat, and plenty of water. Wear comfortable sandals.

    Cash: The nearest ATM is in...

Reviews

Note:-

Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.

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