Whispers of Childhood Streets

My hometown is a nature lover's paradise, with lush greenery as far as the eye can see. It is also famous for Kovilakam and her colonial history. Nilambur is covered with a large amount of vegetation, making it more scenic. It is located on the bank of Chaliyar river and in close proximity to the Nilgiri Hills and within 100km of the popular hill station Ooty.

Mainly it is noted for the Teak plantation. This plantation is known as Conolly 's plot. It is the oldest teak plantation in the world. Nilambur teak is a unique variety and the most important timber tree in India. Its durability and quality gave it a reputation in the world timber Market. Britishers established this plantation because of these reasons in the mid 19th century. Now it is home to over one million trees.

Kannimara Teak is one of the largest teak trees with a height of 48.75m and a circumference of 6.8m.

To transport these teaks to Kozhikode, Britishers made a railway across the place. This Nilambur - Shornur line is the shortest as well as picturesque broad gauge railway lines in India. 

In recognition of the historic significance of teak to the area, a two-story museum,the world's first teak museum, has been established in Nilambur. The museum showcases the history, cultivation and uses of teak, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable tree.

Nilambur Kovilakam stands as a timeless symbol of heritage and cultural richness, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of regal splendour and artistic brilliance. Its historical significance, coupled with the natural bounty of its surroundings, continues to draw admiration and fascination from all who visited. The family-owned Vettakkorumakan Kovil (which is famous for Pattulsavam festival) is a famous temple in Malappuram.

There is also a small type of tourist places like Skywalk Bunglow Kunnu, Adyanpara Waterfalls, Nedumkayam Rainforest, keralakund.

Adyanpara Waterfalls

         

Skywalk 

Kerala kund 

Nilambur Pattulsavam is a festival organised by the Nilambur municipality and trade organisations. Earlier Kovilakam, the royal family, conducted. the festival. Every year Vettekaran Pattu is held for two weeks in the first week of January. Its history is not much known,but every year the tribal people, who used to live in and around the Nilambur forest,come to pay homage to the royal family. Now it has become a festival and celebration time more than a cultural event. People from every religion participate in these festivals.

The area is rich in forests, and wild animals such as elephants, tigers, monkeys, wild boars, peacocks, and bears roam freely. On one occasion, we even spotted a wild buffalo. A variety of birds can also be seen flying across the sky, building nests, drinking water, and enjoying a refreshing bath in the rivers or along the water's edge.

Since we are close to the Nilgiri range of the Western Ghats, the weather is generally pleasant. During the rainy season, we experience both heavy and light rainfall. When there is heavy rainfall, it becomes very dangerous to go near the river for a bath, as the mountain range is prone to landslides. The water levels in the Chaliyar River rise first, and sometimes the water even enters the land. In the past, summers weren’t very hot, but over the last 2-3 years, the temperatures have been quite high. During winter, the cold isn't severe and we only feel the chill in the mornings until around 7-8 AM.

The people here are incredibly warm and welcoming, always ready to greet others with a smile and make them feel at home. They are not only kind-hearted but also genuinely supportive, offering help whenever needed without hesitation. Their friendliness shines through in their daily interaction.

My hometown is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history and warm hospitality. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff or simply looking for a place, my hometown has something to offer.