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Perfect spot for picnics

The complete beauty of Paniyeli Poru, near Perumbavoor, still remains to be discovered

SERENE AND SCENIC Paniyeli Poru is a perfect weekend escape

A canopy of trees, sweet warbling birds, crystal-clear water of a lovely river. This is Paniyeli Poru, a serene, scenic picnic spot. It forms part of the Periyar River and is located at Paniyeli, Vengoor near Perumbavoor. This little-known destination is fast attracting tourist attention. This place is now a favourite location for filmmakers, with many Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu film shot in its backdrop.

It is not very clear how the place got its name. `Poru' in Malayalam means `fight.' The people of this place say that the name is from the usual fight that used to break out between raft-rowers who frequent the river, carrying bamboo, all strung together like rafts, from the forests of Edamalayar. Or the wild streams that tumble over rocks and fall into the gushing river might also have suggested the name.

Surrounded by trees, chirping birds and the sound of the river as it flows by makes it a perfect weekend escape. Mangroves are formed on several strata of rocks. These rocks are the perfect place for visitors to relax.

Of course, they must be extra careful while trying to step between the strata of rocks. From here there is a panoramic view of the hills on top of which is situated the famous shrine of St. Thomas and the imposing Western Ghats.

The Periyar flows from east to west through Malayattoor and Kalady in the north and Edamalayar and Perumbavoor in the south. The reserve forest area here comes under the jurisdiction of the Divisional Forest Office, Malayatoor. The forest headquarters is at Kodanad, nearly 10 kilometres from Poru.

The water here is a veritable death trap. Though the water may not be very deep at most places there are strong undercurrents that can sweep you away. Many have lost their lives after being swept away and crashing against the rocks. Efforts are on, with the initiative of the Vana Samrakshana Samithy, to form rescue teams and guides. On holidays, two policemen from the Kuruppampady police station, nearly 15 kilometres away, are posted at this place to curb anti-social activities.

There are no houses around except for a small shop that also doubles up as Poochakkara Rajan's residence. It is therefore advisable that tourists carry food packets and drinking water. Rajan also provides this service if he is contacted well in advance. Despite all these limitations tourists flock to this place, especially during Sundays and holidays.

The future

The 75-lakh master plan charted out by the District Tourist Promotion Council gives Poru a prominent place. The plan envisages a tourist circle that conneacts Poru, Kodanad, Iringole Kavu, etc. in Perumbavoor and its suburbs. "A comfort station, police aid post, a walkway, canteen etc. are some of the facilities we have planned for the development of Poru," informs Saju Paul, MLA. Long-term plans include a water theme park, artificial lake with facilities for boating, rescue team consisting of locals, a nominal entry fee and a security check post, Mr. Paul adds.

For details on this place and its facilities contact Rajan at telephone number 0484-2648856, DFO, Malayatoor 2649052.

How to get there

Paniyeli Poru is 55 kilometres from Kochi. The nearest railway station is Aluva that is 35 km from this place. Poru is 20 km away from Perumbavoor, the nearest town. From here take a left deviation from the MGM School Junction, Kuruppumpady, on the busy Aluva-Munnar (AM Road) road. There are bus services from Perumbavoor to Paniyeli on half-hour duration. One has to walk at least a kilometre to Poru after alighting the bus at Paniyeli. Jeeps and motorcycles can take you up to Poru. The roads to Poru are not tarred and in very bad shape. It is better to leave the cars and scooters and trek all the way.

SURESH KUMAR

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