Pookulam Falls

Pookulam, in Idukki district, is a breath-taking sight. The gushing waters were christened by the local Tamil residents as Pathandivarathu Aruvu, the aruvi that carries milk. They could not have been more correct. For, the clear white waters of the aruvi resemble milk flowing down the mountain edge. Pookulam aruvi is a tributary of Kooramparathodu and joins the river Periyar.

Visualise yourself in a jeep inching towards your destination along a mountain path. The heart skips a beat when from afar you hear the sound of falling waters. Up close, it bursts into a roar. The heart stops. So does the jeep.

Pookulam falls can be spotted even from afar. But to experience the thrill, you have to get to the bottom of it all. There is a serpentine pedestrian path connecting the mountain top to where it falls. But be wary, for that careless step you take may send you hurtling down to the depths. Once here, forget the rest of the world.

For a cool shower, simply stand beneath the falls. Or get drenched in the rising spray. But be careful, lest you slip on the smooth rocks and fall. For the less adventurous, there is a shallow pool nearby where a refreshing bath can be had. After the bath, set out to explore.

A walk through the plantations is most invigorating, especially when the gurgling brooks and a thousand bird calls make you want to sing out loud. Walk past big cedar trees and stone idols of various gods worshipped by the local people, mostly Tamils who work on the plantations. Atop the hills are a few estate bunglows, remnants of the British Raj.

Any bus from Kumily to Anavilasam will take you to Pookulam. Jeeps and taxis are also available at Pullupara. Though there are local tea shops, it is better to carry food. Accommodation can be had at Kumily.

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