This Kerala Hill Station Is Known As Poor Man’s Ooty

The Nelliyampathy mountain ranges, with clouds caressing them, present an attractive sight from the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district of Kerala. These mountain ranges rise from 467 metres to 1572 metres above sea level. The view of these ranges brings a cool relief from the heat of the Palakkad plains. To reach Nelliyampathy, one must travel from Nemmara via the road leading to the Pothundi Dam. After navigating for some time, one reaches the top. Nelliyampathy is also known by the nickname ‘Poor Man’s Ooty.’ The name Nelliyampathy means the place of the Nelli deity. The indigenous people of Kerala believed their gods resided in mountains and trees. Among them, those engaged in agriculture worshipped only mother goddesses. The place name Nelliyampathy originated from the deity who resided in the Nelli tree.

Pothundi is a small dam with facilities for boating, making it a suitable place for a leisurely stop during the journey. As one ascends the road to Nelliyampathy, the scenic view includes glimpses of the Palakkad plains, paddy fields, and coconut groves. From some points, one can see the vast view of the Palakkad Gap, a natural pass opening from Tamil Nadu to Kerala. The path to the top is lined with plantations on both sides. At the summit, one can see tea estates belonging to various companies.

Nelliyampathy is also famous for its orange orchards. There are numerous private hotels and resorts here. Some farms on either side of the road to Palkapandi Estate offer accommodation. The place is suitable for those interested in long-distance hiking. Seetharkundu, a nearby attraction from Palkapandi, features a beautiful waterfall. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty by travelling from Palkapandi to Maampaar either by jeep or on foot. Near Palkapandi, there are tea, cardamom, and coffee plantations interspersed with natural forests. The area is a habitat for wildlife such as bison, elephants, leopards, and Nilgiri langurs. Another highlight of Nelliyampathy is its bird diversity, making it a paradise for bird watchers.