Kottayam: The scintillating countryside of Malarickal is all set to welcome visitors to its village – water tourism festival that celebrates nature in all its glory. This year, the visitors won’t be able to see the iconic water lilies as paddy cultivation has re started in the fields. Meanwhile, the organisers vow that the visitors could instead enjoy the splendid greenery around the fields. The tourism fest is from 14 to 16 January.
The cultural fest
The organisers have arranged cultural meetings, arts festival, Padayani, boating, folk song concerts, field walking to learn about the unique agricultural practises, boat racing, gatherings and tug of war competitions as part of the festival. Besides, the Kerala Folklore Academy too would arrange various cultural programs to entertain the visitors.
Food fest
Meanwhile, the local food festival where you could taste some of the authentic dishes has already begun. The food festival was inaugurated by Thiruvarppu panchayat president Ajayan K Menon. You could enjoy the local flavours at the food stalls of Kudumbasree and Malarickal Eco Tourism and Water Lily Park. The food festival is until 31 January.
Organisers
The water tourism festival is jointly organised by Thiruvarppu panchayat and Meenachilar-Meenantharayar-Kodoorar river re-linking project. Besides, Malarickal tourism society, J Block, Thiruvaikari farming committees and the co-operative banks in Kanjiram, Thiruvarppu and Chengalam too would be associating with the tourism festival.
How to reach
At the Illickal junction in Kottayam, turn left to the Thiruvarppu road. You could reach Malarickal via Kanjiram Boat Jetty road after the Kanjiram bridge. If you are coming from Kumarakom side, then turn right to the Thiruvarppu road at Illickal. Phone: 9447366841, 9388623020.
Schedule
14 January
5 pm – Inauguration of the cultural meeting by Minister VN Vasavan
7.30 pm – Padayani presented by Othara Devi Vilasam Kalalayam Padayani group
9 pm – Musical concert
15 January
2.30 pm – Boat race
5 pm – Tourism seminar
7 pm – Thiruvathira
8 pm – Drama
8.30 pm – Folk songs
16 January
3 pm – Gathering of the officials associated with the river re -linking project
4.30 pm – Tug of war
5 pm – Closing ceremony
Inauguration – Thomas Chazhikadan MP
7 pm – Arangunarthal
7.30-9.30 pm – Musical Concert
