Thulasipaara

You know what it is to smell a flower. To get the smell of something. To smell a rat or something fishy. But know what it is to smell a village?

Especially in the high ranges? With its green grass full of dew drops, majestic hills, rocky, narrow paths, bellowing cattle drinking by the brook, crowing cocks, bleating lambs, children fishing in shallow ponds, palm-leaf thatched huts, rustic folks who talk so loud even when standing so close etc, these and more, nature offers you at Thulasipaara.

Thulasipaara is roughly 4km from Erattayar in Idukki District and is accessible by road from either Ernakulam or Kottayam. There are regular KSRTC and private bus services to Erattayar. Villagers here believe that Thulasipaara got its name from the presence of a tulsi plant on a huge rock where their forefathers used to light the traditional oil lamps to escape from natural calamities. Though the tulsi plant is no more there, the huge rocks stands testimony to the belief of the villagers.

For those on the wild side, Thulasipaara offers great scope for trekking. Nalumukku and Chelakkara are two such places. Start early if you want to return before sundown. For those inclined to take a morning stroll, ambled down to the quaint tea stall here and have your fill of appam and green peas curry. And over a glass of tea, lose yourself in the conversations of the simple folks there and be one among them. A journey from Erattayar to the Idukki dam site is a great experience.

During rainy season, the entire area is covered with water. And a variety of fishes of various sizes and shapes can be flipping about in the cool, crystal clear waters. Unfortunately, its bad news for anglers – for; fishing is banned here. Those violating the rule may only be fishing in trouble waters. Food and accommodation are available at Erattayar.

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