It is almost impossible to miss the 'Uravappara' hills when you are in Thodupuzha. Just outside the town, it stands tall and dark. And every Sunday, hundreds make a beeline up this hill to offer their prayers at the Lord Subramanya temple situated on the top.
The temple perched on the top of the hill is also known as the 'Malayala Palani'. There are two ways to reach the top of the hill. One is for the very devout – up a long winding flight of steps. The other is for those who prefer drive it up. The road is narrow and winds through a small estate. It could be a tight squeeze if more than two big vehicles came face to face. And the difficulty people face to reach the temple maybe one of the main reasons that the temple remains closed on all days except Sundays and other special days.
However, there is more to Uravappara than just being a place of worship. It has a connect with the Mahabharata legend. It is said that the Pandavas along with their wife Draupadi came here during their days of exile. They are said to have stayed here for a couple of weeks. The huge rocks that you see piled up on the top of the hill, they say, is where the second Pandava, Bhima, set up his kitchen table. And the small perennial water source on the top of the hill, which is now a pond with flowers, was where he drew water for their use.
But, what makes a trek up Uravappara special is the spectacular view it offers. You get a bird’s eye view of Thodupuzha, which is known to be the gateway to the high ranges. Up in the hills, the wind keeps whispering in your ears. To one side, you see the town and on the other, for as far as eyes can see, the rolling hills, one stacked behind the other.
If you are in Thodupuzha, it is an ideal spot to drive up to, sit and relax in the evenings with your loved ones. Keep a flashlight and umbrella handy, for you will need both after sundown.
