World Cup football: Head to Ottappalam to check out a gigantic FIFA trophy

World Cup football fever in Kerala has reached a high pitch, with hardcore fans out in full force to express their admiration for their favourite teams. A giant model of the World Cup trophy has been put up in the valley of Ananganmala mountain in Palakkad. The 28-foot-tall World Cup model at Panamanna in Ottappalam has been impressing football fans and onlookers alike. Besides, an exhibition that narrates the history of many scintillating moments in the World Cup has also begun near the ration shop in Panamanna Ambalavattam. The organisers hope that the huge World Cup model and the exhibition will catch the attention of the world record authorities. 

Former Indian football team captain IM Vijayan recently inaugurated the exhibition that will be held until July 12. The World Cup model was created by Yassir, a native of Panama, a football fan and entrepreneur. The gigantic World Cup model, made from sheet metal and foam sheet, stands 36 feet tall, including its stand. Meanwhile, visitors can visit the area daily from 10 am to midnight. 

The model is decorated with colourful illumination to make it attractive at night. The history of the World Cup, from the first edition, when Uruguay won in 1930, to 2022, when Argentina became champions, could be viewed at the exhibition. 

Tourism spots nearby
The 'trophy' is just about 3-4 km from the renowned Plakkattu Lake, around 6-7 km from the Panamanna Eco-Tourism Centre, and about 10 km from the well-known movie-shooting location Varikkasseri Mana.

How to reach
To reach the location where the trophy is kept, from Palakkad Town, head to Mangalam. Take a right to reach Varode, and take another right and go straight to reach Panamannna. The spot is around 35 km from Palakkad Town and can take up to 1 hour to reach.