Dream Of An High School Student - Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Vagamon, The Switzerland of Kerala
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“Where is it” “How to go to there”…..These were the questions asked by my friends when I posted some spectacular pictures of my trip to this lovely place two years back after visiting wonderful Vagamon!
Vagamon is a lovely hill station in Kerala having unique charm and attraction. This mind-blowing holiday destination is located in Kottayam – Idukki border. It has a cool climate all over the seasons and this in fact attracts most of the travelers
Vagamon is Unexplored Hill station in Kerala and not crowded by Tourists in comparison with other locations. The place is also less urbanized with limited number of Hotel options.
Vagamon is also famous for Trekking options (suggested not to explore during the rainy season) Jeep Safari and Paragliding Activities.
Vagamon. The name itself sounds romantic! We had heard about this place few years ago when we were browsing some travel journal. The place looked enchanting with rolling hills and coffee estates.
You should make a trip to this beautiful place sooner than later. Before it gets crowded and becomes another Ooty.
Reaching Vagamon itself is an unprecedented affair. The wandering street to Vagamon is cut in strong shake fixed with pine woods.
Climate.?
In summers the highest temperature around 35 Degree Celsius and the lowest temperature is around 22 Degree Celsius - Feb to May
* Rainy season - June to September
* Pleasant weather - Oct to Jan
* Idle time to spend to explore is 1 Night Stay you just want to visit the Sightseeings.
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Vagamon itself is an unexplored location. But there are be some attractions which top's the list of unexplored areas and some of them are as follows..
1) Paragliding
Vagamon is widely popular for activities like rock climbing, paragliding, and trekking. The price of paragliding in Vagamon is approximately Rs.3500. There are additional charges regarding extra pieces of equipment and services like Go-Pro cameras and video recording.
Situated at the hills of Kolahalamedu, forming part of south India‘s second highest peak namely the Amruthamedu. There is a 10 km long ridge of 3,000 feet in height from top to bottom. This site has steady winds blowing in the south western direction throughout the season. Para gliders from different parts of the world have experienced this astonishing adventurous place and is known for its safety and professional support from Fly Vagamon Para glider's club based in Vagamon which organizes and conducts annual Para-gliding event from Sept to Jan and March to May every year. The club offers training to newcomers to experience and realize the thrills of flying.
Why waiting.? Open the wings of freedom and make your dream true of flying in the air!!! Life is either a daring adventure or nothing..
2). Marmala Waterfall
Marmala Waterfall is a waterfall which is located a few kilometres away from Erattupetta, in Kottayam district, Kerala. It is exactly 8 km from Teekoy n is en-route Vagamon, a slight deviation only. Marmala waterfall is about 40 meter in height, plunging into a 12-meter deep pool and feeds the River Teekoy. The water was less at this time of the year and we could go upstream to the main fall through the rocks itself. But dat would be highly dangerous during monsoon months.
Marmala waterfall is one of the top place to visit in Vagamon. The waterfall merges with the Meenachil River about 60 meters in height, falling into a 12-meter deep pool. Marmala is a celebration for your senses, supported by Mother Nature.
The majesty of the waterfalls is the first thing you notice, but even more enjoyable is the exciting adventure to reach the waterfalls. Jeeps ride through the small trodden paths or you can stroll through the picturesque streets. Spend a day at the waterfall and feel the bliss of rhythm of falling water, birds singing, and nature all around.
3). Barren Hills
Barren Hills is a famous attraction with vast stretches of lush green meadows and is a treat to the eyes. The sunset view that it offers draws people in large numbers. Because of its terrain, the hills are famous for trekking, paragliding and rock climbing, making it a perfect attraction for adventure seekers.
4). Pine Forest
This place has nothing for you to see but a lot to feel. 'Walking into the woods' is a popular English phrase and going to the Pine Hills, you will actually walk into the woods.
The huge forest cover of Pine trees make up for a lovely sight. You can spend as much time here. Most visitors find this place relaxing and use their time here to relax in the lap of nature or stroll down the hill, it's a beautiful experience being so close to nature.
Made amid the British Raj, the backwoods still stands overlooking the captivating valley. The Maramala Falls and this are the twin most prominent attractions of Vagamon.
5). Idukki Dam
The Idukki Dam over the lovely Periyar River is a geometric wonder. The development of the dam which is a twofold bend curve floats individuals everywhere throughout the nation and enrolls itself as one of the Vagamon goal. Neglecting a scene that equivalents to a painter’s creative energy, this place is an absolute necessary visit for anybody and everybody who respects nature.
History :
The idea of constructing a dam for power generation was first conceived in 1919 in a report submitted by Italian engineer Jacob to the Travancore government, which was rejected. As per history, Shri Chemban Karuvellayan Kolumban, the head of 'Oorali' race during 1922, showed the way to the Malankara Estate Superintendent W.J.John and his friend AC Thomas Edattu, who were on hunting trip to forests near the present Arch Dam. Upon hearing the legend of Kuravan and Kurathi Hills, Thomas impressed by the sight of water flow between the mountains; suggested the spot suitable for an Arch dam. In 1932, W.J.John submitted a report to the Government of Travancore on the possibility of constructing a dam at Idukki for Power Generation.
In 1935, assembly member Shri.K.A.Narayana Pillai brought the Idukki project to the attention of Government of Travancore. Italian engineers Angelo Omedayo and Clantheyo Masele conducted a study in 1937 but things didn't go forward.
6). Vagamon Lake
Nestled in between three green hills, Vagamon Lake is a slice of haven tucked in the valley of Vagamon. Boasting of picturesque surroundings and lush greenery, the lake is a popular attraction that draws a lot of people, visiting Vagamon. Besides, the hills surrounding it boast of glossy green grass carpet which is always blooming with vibrant flowers. Popular for picnics and leisure outings, you can also enjoy boating in the lake. Especially popular among photography enthusiasts and solitude seekers, the region around the lake offers peace and calm like no place else. In addition to that, the lake has been used for shooting purposes and if you are lucky, you might also spot your favourite actors here.
The Vagamon Lake is definitely not a gigantic one however is sufficiently huge for sailing, paddling, and comparable water exercises. It’s one of the most noteworthy appraised Vagamon places of interest.
7). Thangal Para
It is considered as a standout amongst the most hallowed spots for Muslim travellers around this zone. A little supplication focus has been built for the explorers and sightseers. An extremely quiet place for the explorers and vacationers. It is extremely fascinating to stroll over the slopes.
History :
There is something magical about the hills. The rolling greens, the cloud kissed peaks – they urge you to walk up to the top. And as you start walking up and breathe in the clear, unpolluted air, you feel relaxed, free from the mundane daily routine. There is no reining in the joy of being high up among the clouds.
Thangal Para at Kolahalamedu near Vagamon is one such place where peace reigns. Though a place of worship, you can explore it at your own leisure. Let’s start off with a bit of legend.
It is said that about 800 years ago, Husrath Sheikh Fariduddin Baba, a Sufi saint came here with followers. He stayed on and his teachings were widely accepted. The huge rock you see near the darghah, it is said, was the rock on which the Baba used to grind his paan (betel nut). There is a small perennial water source between the cracks of the rocks that does not dry up even in the harshest summer.
One of the three hills around Vagamon, the view from the top of Thangal Para is nothing short of mesmerizing. The roads winding up and down the lush greens, the clouds gathering around you. You feel you are just one step away from attaining Nirvana. On a clear summer day, you can see the Kurisumudi peak and the Murugan mala. But then, the clear sunny days are a rarity during the monsoon.
As you stand on the top of the hill, you will realize how and why the saints and the monks prefer the silence of the hills to commune.
Reaching Thangal Para :
Thangal Para is about five kilometers from Vagamon. Take a deviation from down the Elappara route and you will reach the darghah.
8). Green Meadows
This is a standout amongst the most notable staying place in Vagamon. Green Meadows Vagamon is located among rolling hills, 9 km from Idukki Dam. Green Meadows Vagamon has a cottage in a 90 acre property. The cottages are surrounded by hills and valleys. This is an ideal hideout for honeymooners and people who long for a relaxation. All accommodation have a private balcony with lovely mountain views. Green Meadows is 15 km from Pine Forest and Vagamon Bus Station. It is 18 km from Kurisumala Church. The Greens Ayurveda is an eco friendly Ayurvedic center located in Green Meadows, Vagamon in Kerala. This is an ideal hideout for honeymooners and people who long for a relaxation. It also offers to creative individuals, a serene natural setting to pursue their creations of art.
9) Kurisumala
Kurisumala is a standout amongst the most prominent places of interest in Vagamon. Typical shoes are not suggested for trekking here. Trekking shoes will be a decent choice. Generally it can take up to 45 mins to achieve the tough which is relatively 1.5 kilometers. The trek won’t be a simple one as there are a lot of rocks. Since it is a pioneer put, its supporters originate from different piece of the nation to scale the slopes with wooden crosses.
Kurisumala is a popular Christian pilgrimage, it is flocked by followers specially during the Good Friday week. Its followers come from various part of the country to climb up the hills with wooden crosses.
10). Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary
Found 10km far from Vagamon, Ulipooni compensates for an ideal excursion spot. It is far from the uproarious horde of the city, you may get the chance to spot wild animals here. It is a serene sentimental goal, a great place to go through multi day with your family or mate.
It is away from the noisy crowd of the city, you might spot couples boating here.
It is a peaceful romantic destination, a good place to spend a day with your family or spouse.
So come along and explore this beautiful Vagamon!
Also comment your personal experiences on exploring unknown hidden gems in India, down here at the comments section. See you in next week with another hidden gem!! Untill then, it's bye from The Gallivanter, Giri.
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