The ever-enchanting Pooyamkutty, which was picturized as the home town of the protagonist of Mohanlal-starrer blockbuster Malayalam movie ‘Pulimurugan’, is just a 90-minute drive from the Kochi city.

This small town in the Ernakulam district is the ideal quick getaway to be far away from the madding crowd and get rejuvenated. The old Munnar-Aluva road used to cut through Pooyamkutty, which boasts of thick forest and roaming elephants.

Swim with caution
If you want to get a feel of the wilderness, take a dip in the tranquil river and see the elephants move around with measured steps, then stay at the budget homestay near the old Munnar-Aluva royal pathway. The stunning cascade Kandanpara is at a walking distance from the homestay.

Pooyamkutty is popular among travellers because of its rivers with crystal clear cool water, mammoth trees with perfect canopies and thick reed bamboo forest.

The main attraction of Pooyamkutty is that the tourists can swim in the river as the water body is shallow in many areas. But one shouldn’t throw caution to wind while taking a dip in the river. It is noteworthy that Pooyamkutty is the perfect destination if you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city life for a day or two.

Straight out of a painting
In the Malayalam flick ‘Pulimurugan’, there is a scene in which the main character, essayed by Mohanlal, speeds through Chappath in Pooyamkutty in a lorry. Many shots in another Mohanlal-starrer film ‘Shikkar’ were also canned at the bamboo forest of this captivating place. The charming Manikandanchal is on the other side of the bridge. The forest area with majestic trees looks like it is out of an exquisite painting and the lush green meadows look impressive, to say the least. A drive through this mesmerizing place would be a dream come true for many travellers.

A safe retreat
The homestay near the old Munnar-Aluva road is a safe cocoon to curl up and enjoy the magical effect of wildlife. The entire facility could be taken on rent for a family get-together or social gathering. It is safe to stay at the homestay as the electric fence would keep the wild animals at bay. The guests can also stay put in top floor rooms that offer great view.

You can reach the Kandanpara falls from the homestay after walking for a while through the narrow forest pathway. The river on which the waterfall is located flows calmly and you would be able to see, if you are lucky, elephants in areas above the cascade. What makes the place unique is that one could have a breath of fresh air, walk through the forest paths and spend quality time with family members or friends. Moreover, you would be busy clicking engrossing pictures of birds of all hues if you have quality camera and lens. Another interesting fact is that you can drive your vehicle through the forest pathways like a wildlife safari ride.

While stepping into the river water, be careful and listen to the instructions given by the local residents as they know the danger lurking in the river. Don’t go deep into the forest as the chances of coming across wild elephants are pretty high. While returning from Pooyamkutty, you can visit the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary and Bhoothathankettu.

Pooyamkutty is 62km (roughly 90-minute drive) from Aluva in Ernakulam district. For more details about the homestay, contact: 9745816360.

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