Date: 20th June 2010
No place has generated as much interest in me as Kalashamala. This is mainly due to the fact that the trip materialized after many cancellations for various reasons. Our source of information for this place happened to be an article in the supplement of a local daily newspaper viz. ‘Mathrubhumi’ which was published some months back. The day we finally undertook this journey turned out to be a sunny day in the midst of monsoon.
As there was a possibility of rain we decided that travelling by bus would be a better option rather than riding on a two wheeler. Accordingly friend Mr. Davis and I took a bus for Kunnamkulam from the Shakthan Bus Stand at about 10.30 a.m. While in the bus, we discussed the tour spots lying scattered and where exactly were they located. The time taken in covering all these places was important as we had only part of a day left at our disposal. We reached Kunnamkulam by 11 am. We made enquiries at the bus stand as to directions to reach Kalashamala. Though there was a bus going directly to Kallazhi Kunnu (another name for Kalashamalaa) scheduled for 12:45 p.m. we took an immediately available bus going to Chowannur on the Kunnamkulam-Vadakkanchery route and engaged an auto rickshaw to cover the further three kms. to Kalashamala. Narimada Kunnu where we reached at around 11:45 am is a small hill, offering a good view of the vast green expanse lying yonder. Just below the view point is the ‘narimada’ meaning tiger’s den. There was a bunch of boys also on picnic there who wondered whether we were from the press to publish an article on the site (what a wonderful thought!).
Atop the Narimada there is a tree precariously moored at the side of the hillock which looked so photogenic amidst the surroundings that I couldn’t resist taking a snap of it. There was nothing much to see around at that particular spot and the hot sun was making it difficult for us even to sit down and enjoy the scenery. The sunset view from this spot is said to be very much enjoyable and we decided to keep it for the next time for want of time. While wandering around we heard the calls of peacocks but could not locate them. The grass growing all along the hill was very much inviting. I could have rolled over it. But something restricted me from doing so. After lunch which we took at the hill top we came down the hill to take a narrow pathway leading to the ‘Chola Vanam’ lying close by. Very soon we found ourselves in the midst of a small forest. The small stream flowing along the thick bunch of bushes was so inviting that I removed my footwear to feel it caress them which was truly an invigorating experience. Just across the stream there is an old temple undergoing some renovation work. There is a ‘kutcha’ road leading to the junction where we had turned for Narimada. The short walk up the graveled and untarred path presented greenery both sides and while walking along this path we again heard the calls of the elusive peacock. Enquiries made at Chowannur junction revealed that there are a few more sites around worth visiting and having decided to cover them next time on a two-wheeler, we waited for the return bus to Kunnamkulam.
Getting There:
Bus Fare up to Kunnamkulam Rs. - 14 per head
Bus Fare up to Chowannur Rs. - 4 per head.
From Chowannur Auto charge Rs. - 20 one way.
Just a Reminder:
Kalashamala comprises several caves and burial grounds spread over a vast area. Ideally, riding on a bike is more convenient for covering all the locations. Rainy season is best as the greenery around is a treat to the eyes.
