The Kasaragod District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) has launched efforts to develop Edakkanam in Balal panchayat as an adventure tourism destination. The hill, at an altitude of around 4,000 feet above sea level, is expected to boost the tourism prospects of the district and attract more thrill-seeking tourists.
With the owner of a private land expressing willingness to hand over land for the tourism project, decks have been cleared for its implementation. A team of officers under District Collector Dr D Sajith Babu and DTPC officials inspected the site for the proposed project recently.
A thrilling climb
There are several spots ideal for adventure and monsoon tourism in Balal panchayat which is part of Vellarikundu taluk. Edakkanam is 5.50 km from Maloth. The route is along a steep path. The main attraction of Edakkanam is a view of the greenery and the Ranipuram mountains.
The area has good potential to be developed as a trekking path. Ranipuram is accessible through the forest from Edakkanam. It involves a 6.50 km trek along jungle paths. Another trek of 12 km would take visitors to Kottanchery hill.
Edakannam can be reached from Maruthoth on the Hill Highway by travelling 3.7 km, while Pullody is just 2 km away.
DTPC's hill plans
Realizing the tourism potential of Edakkanam, the DTPC has planned a project for the area. The work on setting up facilities would start depending on the availability of land.
Apart from Edakkanam, tourism projects are planned also at Kadavathumunda, Kottancherry, and Achankallu with private participation.
The challenge facing the authorities is lack of government land near forest areas in the district. Moreover, the Forest Department has imposed restrictions on visitors at places like Kottanchery.
Another proposal to increase tourist footfall is to widen the hilly track from Konnakkadu to the forest. In such areas, necessary facilities will be arranged for tourists as soon as private land is made available. A detailed master plan will be prepared soon for the purpose and submitted to the departments concerned, said DTPC secretary Biju Raghavan.
