ARUVIKACHAL – MILKY FALLS IN HONEY VILLAGE

One of the highest waterfalls in Kerala gushing down from a height of 235 feet, Aruvikachal is located in Poonjar Thekkekkara village in Kottayam district on the fringes of Western Ghats. The waterfall is at its best after the monsoon and last for six to seven months. The falls can be approached by walking a couple of kilometers from Patampuzha Junction.

There are many little known scenic spots around Aruvikachal. The 3500 feet high Muthukora Mala is located near the waterfalls. It is a major trekking spot in the vicinity as one can reach Kootickal on trekking through Muthukora Mala. Another trek route exists to Anangumpadi. Other attractions around Aruvikachal include the scenic hill spots of Muttanallu, Puliyallu and Ummikunnu which offer excellent views on clear days. Adivaram is the base to Kurisumala, where a road is being laid. There are small and seasonal cascades around this place like Irukanni, cattle shed falls and Vettukallumkuzhi. The circular church at Adivaram has been designed by the renowned architect, the late Lari Baker. Kunnoni, near Poonjar and on the way to Adivaram has Stone Age remains dating back to over 4800 years. The famous Poonjar Palace is located only 7 km away from Aruvikachal.

Another unique feature here is that traditional honey collection is a major activity in this village. Nearly 40 families in the panchayath are engaged in honey collection and 30 families are engaged in the craft of making honey jars from coconut shells making Patampuzha a honey village. Visitors can watch the method of honey gathering and process of purifying it and making of jars.

How to access:
The Aruvikachal Falls is located 2 km uphill from Patampuzha Junction on Pala – Erattupetta – Poonjar – Mundakkayam Road. The waterfall is located 7 km from the nearest town of Poonjar. From Poonjar, good highway leads to Erattupetta, Pala and thence to Kottayam and Kumarakom. The waterfall is located nearly 60 km from the District Headquarters - Kottayam. The tourist centre of Vagamon is located only 25 km from the waterfalls. Through the Patampuzha – Mundakkayam Main road, the place is linked to Thekkady also.

From Patampuzha, there is a small panchayath road for 1.5 km towards waterfalls. A last remaining stretch of 500 m will be laid out in the future and can be accessed now by hiking or on four wheel drive.