Paniyeli, the beauty of Periyar
Paniyeli Poru is the spot where we can see the waters of River Periyar splashing, swashing, fighting, and dividing into tributaries. It is a famous tourist destination in Ernakulam District and is located in River Periyar in Vengoor Grama Panchayat of Koovappady Block Panchayat, around 23 km away from Perumbavoor in the district of Ernakulam. From Perumbavoor, this place can be reached via Kuruppumpady, Manakkapady, Vengoor, Kombanad, Thekkekavala. Paniyeli Poru with its foaming, crystal clear water is a dream travel destination though it has hidden dangers.
Among the tourists who come here to enjoy the beauty of the forests, students and youngsters form the majority. Danger lurks in the smooth and slimy rocks, strong undercurrents, and the deep abyss. There are forest guides giving safety instructions and helping the travellers, but some obstinate people do not listen and do things against what they say. Around 100 deaths has been reported to have happened in this place. Where the river passes amidst the rocks, there are deep and strong undercurrents though it looks as calm as still.
Nonetheless, this small beautiful spot of Periyar, surrounded by trees, rocks; river as cold as snow, gushing onto the rocks; is mesmerizing. Since there has not been much intervention from mankind, the stream is least polluted. This, along with the chorus of the birds in the forest, make Paniyeli Poru a place which cannot be missed out. Poru is visited daily by hundreds of visitors including foreigners. In Paniyeli, the face of Periyar is one of splashing and spurting over boulders. Some of the panoramic views that attract us are the River Periyar full of rocks, small islands, and the rapids.
There are potholes in the river. In the strong river currents, big boulders settle on top of the rocks and form potholes. The boulders move inside the pothole making the hole big. In the rainy season, when the river fills up, these potholes won’t be evident. These can be seen clearly only in summer. A trip by the river, between the rocks, and the islands will be an amazing experience. As already mentioned, huge rocks, always wet and slimy, and strong undercurrents, make this place a treacherous one. In spite of that, Paniyeli Poru is undeniably attractive.
This is an ideal place for spending time with family, children, and friends because of the natural beauty it offers in all 3 tributaries of River Periyar ferociously uniting under the clouds and surrounded by dense forests. The Kodanad Elephant Kraal and Abhayaranyam Wildlife Park are near this place and so, travellers can visit all these places at one stretch. Kodanad Park will be a great entertainment for kids. It is advisable for those who are planning to visit Paniyeli Poru, Kodanad, etc to carry their own food and water.
