Nestled in the forest fringes, Kattathippara in Pathanamthitta district is noted for its scenic view and strong winds that have wooed many tourists.
It is located at Allunkal in the Aruvappulam grama panchayat on the Konni-Kokkathodu road.
The ride to Kattathippara is an experience on its own as you go past towering trees, green grasslands and gurgling brooks. The historically-significant Kallely Oorali Appooppan Kavu is a must visit spot en route.
Once you climb to the top of Kattathippara, you can watch the sunrise and sunset in all its beauty. From the peak, you can also see Medappara, Pappinippara and Kudappara. Several tourists flock to Kattathippara to experience this picturesque hilltop.
Windiest place
Kattathippara is the windiest place in the district. Though there was a plan to generate electricity from wind here, it did not materialise. This place is also home to rare medicinal plants and trees.
Tale of revenge
There are several folklores linked to Kattathippara that seek to explain how the rock got its name. One among them is the tale of the vengeful young woman.
Long ago, a kattalan and kattalathi (a man and woman who were forest dwellers) lived here. A merchant used to frequent Kokkathodu to buy forest produce from them. The merchant, who got instantly enticed by the woman's beauty, murdered her partner to claim her on his own. He later married the woman and the couple started living near the forest fringes.
Though the woman feigned love to the merchant, she wanted to seek revenge for her partner's death. Her thirst for vengeance grew stronger with each passing day. Once merchant was climbing down a hill using a woody vine to collect honey. Realising that this was her moment to extract revenge, the woman cut off the vine making him fall to his death. The chilling story of a vengeful Kattalathi has given the rock the name Kattathippara, according to local legends.
Even to this day, one can see several honeycombs near the rock. There is also a Girivarga tribal colony nearby.
How to reach
Kattathippara is located at a distance of 16km from Konni. It is situated within the limits of Karippanthodu forest station. When you reach Kokkathodu junction, you will see a steep climb. From here, you need to travel through the forest to reach Kattathippara.
Tourists can visit this spot only with the permission of the forest department.