Kerala's viral 'Amazon' cricket ground: Are you a tourist tempted to play a game?

A lush green cricket pitch nestled amid hectares of dense forest. Thrissur's Palappally cricket ground, amid the multi-hectare Harrison Malayalam Estate, has been viral on social media ever since a drone-shot Insta reel of the pitch, titled 'This is not Amazon Rainforest', caught the eye of netizens.Anyone who loves being in nature would be tempted to play a game on the ground in the sixth ward of Varandarappilly Panchayat. Interestingly, the ground was allocated by Harrisons for the children of the estate workers to play football. Jalal MB, Palappally member, says, "Around three years ago, the Janata Cricket team from the region spoke to Harrison and began playing cricket here. The ground has an extremely refreshing ambience, and thanks to the trees, you don't feel the hot climate either. Many teams from Palappally and other areas often come to play here."

A 'wild' ground
While the ground is undeniably tempting with its 'wild' appeal, visitors should know it's located within the Palappally Forest Range, which falls under the larger Chalakkudy Forest Division. Jalal, who is also a supervisor at the estate, says, "There is regular elephant presence in the region. Last summer, during a tournament at the ground, we had to quickly alert the players around noon to evacuate as a herd of around 35 elephants approached and passed through the area. While no untoward incidents have ever occurred on the ground, nearby regions have witnessed elephant attacks." 

Who can play here?
Unlike many cricket grounds or turfs in the state, Palappally has no formal 'slot booking' process. "Anyone is welcome to come and play here. If a team wants to play, we can arrange an opponent team as well," says Jalal. 
How to reach
From Amballur Junction, take right in the Varandarappilly route. Once you reach the old Pillathode Bridge, take the road adjacent to it. Palappally ground is just about 25 metres from here.