If you are a nature lover wanting to enjoy some greenery, head to Aalappad-Pullu-Manakodi bund road at Cherpu in Thrissur district. The road runs three kilometres through thousands of acres of paddy fields and offers a bunch of goodies to those who are out to enjoy nature.
What to see
Stand on the bund and you can see the sun rising or setting on the fields. Hundreds come here to soak in this view. The area is also a playground for migratory birds and it is a paradise for birds as well as birdwatchers. Many also come here for breathing the fresh air or for exercise.
Market place
Along with a spurt in local tourism, the sale of various kinds of merchandise has also increased. You can see shops vending various kinds of eggs, snacks, fish and other goodies. The fish stalls that sell local fish are a big hit with tourists.
Click away
Those who are inclined towards photography select the spot for photos, wedding videos and so on. The number of such people increases during early mornings and evenings. If you have shutter-happy fingers, you can catch a lot of spectacular nature in your lens.
One very positive aspect of the place is that locals and merchants spend considerable time and energy to plant and nurture medicinal plants on either side of the road. Many people also plant trees here in the memory of departed souls.
Flip side
The place is also a haven for those who dump wastes and those who waste their lives using drugs or intoxicants. The lack of street lights and the absence of law enforcers is a great boon for such people. The bottles and meat that are dumped in the fields attract dogs and create problems for farmers. Even though the place has good potential for tourism, the activities of anti-social elements have kept the number of visitors at bay. Lack of signboards and traffic lights are also issues that discourage tourists.
Where?
Cherpu is about twelve kilometers south of Thrissur town. It is well connected by road. Frequent buses will take you to Cherpu.
