Valiyaparamba Backwaters ,Islands

It is one of the scenic backwater stretches in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is a favoured backwater destination that offers enchanting boat cruises to its visitors.Valiyaparamba is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises. Valiyaparamba,a hinterland separated from the mainland, is a noted fishing centre in the district and is just an hour’s drive from Bekal – one of the most enchanting beaches of Kerala. The Bekal fort which stands on a headland that runs into the sea offers a spectacular view of the surroundings.

The sun light coming through the tall palm trees is weak. It is becoming yellowish. We are waiting for the darkness to come. In Kawwayi back waters, Janardanan’s boat is waiting for the evening. We are not at all tired even after spending the whole day in the surface of the back waters. We can see the Arabian ocean beyond the island, looking through the palm trees. The setting sun became red. The birds that had gone seeking for their preys have started returning to Valiaparamba. The storks started rattling on the palm trees. Parting the waves the water birds searched for a place to stay in the mangrove with their pairs. The dusk is becoming purplish.

Muhamad Kunhi is like that. If he likes you he won’t leave you. ‘After the dusk I will show you a mirracle in Valiyaparamba. After that you can decide whether to stay here for today or not.’ We couldn’t refuse Muhamad Kunhi’s invitation. This M.Sc Zoology fellow is a senior assistant in K.S.E.B. He is from the island, the host of Valiyaparamba.

In the visiting card which was printed instantly, there are two more degrees. We got down from the boat and sat in the waiting shed on the shore. This place is called Pandyala Sea shore. Kunhi prepared our seats by cleaning the parapet of the shelter with his hands. Near by there is a tea shop. We had black tea and biscuits from there. ‘If you had informed them about your arrival before hand, they would hace prepared every thing for you.’ Kunhi was not satisfied even after feeding us well. Kunhi is like that. If he likes you his affection will over flow.

We waited for the miracle that Kunhi told us about.. He pointed his finger towards the mountain far away from the shore on the east side. Ezhimala. The largest naval base in Asia. Ezhimala stands head high beyond the sea face where the Arabian oceaan allows Kawwayi lake to enter in to the Idanadu. Like an elephant pushing his trunk forward while standing in the water for a bath. Surroundings became darker. The rattling of the birds stopped. Ezhimala and Kawwayi lake got immersed in darkness. On the surface of the lake you can see the reflection of the moon . On the vallies of the mountain you can see lights like fire flies.

While looking at, the miracle opened up on Ezhimala. The fire flies on the valley slowly started to come up towards the peak of the hill. Ezhimala reflected in the Kawwayi lake like in a mirror. The mountain and the river became one. When the light from the light house spread, the lake and the river disappeared. Only the bright light. The Deepavali of Valiayaparamba. We were confused, whether to stay or not. Muhamad kunhi asked. Who can leave Valiyaparamba in this night of miracle?

Location:Valiyaparamba, about 30 km from Bekal, Kasaragod, north Kerala.Valiyaparamba is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort that offers enchanting boat cruises.
Valiyaparamba,a hinterland separated from the mainland, is a noted fishing centre in the district and is just an hour’s drive from Bekal – one of the most enchanting beaches of Kerala. The Bekal fot which stands on a headland that runs into the sea offers a spectacular view of the surroundings.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route, about 46 km from Valiyaparamba.
Nearest airports: Mangalore in Karnataka State, about 50 km from Kasaragod; Karipur international airport, Kozhikode, about 200