Muneeswaran Kunnu Wayanad's first eco-tourism destination: What to see, how to reach?
The misty mornings, foggy evenings, cool breeze, and stunning sunsets make the hilltop a visual delight to all at any time of day, according to local people.
The misty mornings, foggy evenings, cool breeze, and stunning sunsets make the hilltop a visual delight to all at any time of day, according to local people.
The misty mornings, foggy evenings, cool breeze, and stunning sunsets make the hilltop a visual delight to all at any time of day, according to local people.
Wayanad: The Forest Department has declared Muneeswaran Kunnu, a misty mountain peak near Thalappuzha in the Thavinjal village panchayath, as an ecotourism destination. This is the first 'Eco-Tourism Destination' under the North Wayanad Forest Division.
What to see?
Nestled in the Brahmagiri Mountain Ranges, the destination is ideal for trekkers and hikers, and an endearing locale for adventure tourism buffs. With its endless expanse of forest in the vicinity on one side, mountain ranges, and tea plantations, the trail offers many natural surprises to visitors.
The trekking path winds through grasslands rich in flora and fauna. Spotting Asiatic Elephants grazing, herds of spotted deer, tigers stalking their prey, or leopards waiting in trees is not uncommon. The ecotourism destination is the first one under the North Wayanad Forest Division.
The misty mornings, foggy evenings, cool breeze, and stunning sunsets make the hilltop a visual delight to all at any time of day, according to local people.
Abode of Gods
According to a Forest Department communique, the serene hilltop was considered sacred by local people. The name Muneeswaran Kunnu is derived from the ancient hill shrine, believed to be hundreds of years old.
Apart from the idols of Hindu gods- Lord Shiva, Lord Sreeram, Goddess Sita Devi, Bhadra Kali- the deities worshipped by the ethnic communities, such as Brahma Rakshass, Gulikan, and Malakkari, also have their space in the sacred shrine. Traditionally, the temple opened only on one day in each month- the day of Thiruvathira, the star of Lord Shiva as per the Malayalam calendar.
How to reach?
Located at 3,355 feet above sea level, the destination is popularly known as the Wagamon of Wayanad, where trekkers wander to enjoy the bliss of nature. The spot is 13 km away from Mananthavadi at Thavinjal panchayath under the Begur Forest Range of the North Wayanad Forest Division.
Visitors can reach Thalappuzha by bus to Iritty in Kannur via Thalappuzha, or by hiring a taxi. Those who want to visit Muneeswaran Kunnu can reach Thalappuzha by boarding the buses plying to Iritty or Kannur through Thalappuzha or by taxi. From Thalappuzha, the spot is accessible by road, a distance of approximately 3 km. Taxi jeeps and auto rickshaws are available for the visitors up to Makkimala, from where the trekking trail to the top mountain begins.
Timing and entry: Visitors are allowed from 7 am to 6 pm. Entry fees are Rs 60 for adults and Rs 30 for children. The entry is restricted to 250 persons per day as per the eco-tourism regulations and guidelines.
Best season: As a spot atop the mountain, the best time to visit Muneeswaran Kunnu is from October to May. During the monsoon, the trek would be tough.
Where to stay?
Those who want to stay near the spot can avail of the homestays and resorts in Makkimala and also at Thalappuzha. There are many budget-friendly lodges and hotels at Mananthavady.
According to Elsy Joy, president, Thavinjal Panchayath, the Muneeswaran Kunnu Eco-Tourism project of the Forest Department is the first tourism destination in the panchayath. Though we have many such spots, all of them are under the control of the Forest Department, she said. adding that the new centre would be an inspiration for the tourism entrepreneurs to launch projects in the panchayat and ensure more jobs for the young generation.