Wild, exotic fruit goes viral, draws tourists to Kerala's Thusharagiri to taste it

'Muttipazham' is a name that often figures in stories narrated by parents and those who had the privilege to live in Kerala's villages or in areas closer to forests. The red-coloured fruits that resemble grapes are a wild, exotic variety that grows on the tree trunk, like Brazil's jaboticaba. It's known as 'muttipazham' as it grows mostly around the base of the tree. Now, at Kerala's Thusharagiri eco-tourism centre in Kozhikode, the 'muttipazham' or Baccaurea courtallensis tree has bloomed in abundance, making for a beautiful sight for tourists visiting here.

The trees can be found around the three renowned waterfalls of the region - Erattumukku, Mazhavil Chattom, and Thumbithullum Para, and also in Thonikkayam. Many tourists are coming here to click pictures near the two trees at a private property here, owned by a resident named Kunnel Jose. The fruits have thick, red-coloured shells, and the fruit inside tastes sweet and sour.

In the Karnataka region, too
In the Karnataka forest region near Thusharagiri, the fruit can be spotted in many regions. The spot where it is ripe is just about a kilometre from Pulingothu. The fruit is also known as 'kunthapazham,' 'moottippuli, and 'moottikkaippan.' In the past, the fruit was mainly consumed by tribal people and hunters. It's only recently that people in the hilly regions here have come to understand its health benefits.

The season
The flowers of muttippazham bloom around December-January. The fruit is mostly consumed by monkeys, bears and squirrels. The fruit is also sold in many parts of Kerala and Karnataka, for around ₹150 per kg. Many people also approach forest officials to request saplings.

The spot
Kunnel Jose's private property near Thusharagiri, where the fruits can be found, is just about 55 km from Kozhikode Town, before reaching the eco-tourism centre. The area has leeches, so exercise caution while venturing into the land for photos or videos.