’Ice Age: Continental Drift’ - drifting into mediocrity

 Story Dated: Saturday, July 28, 2012 16:47 hrs IST 

Directors: Steve Martino, Mike Thurmeier; Voiceovers: Ray Romano, Denis Leary, John Leguizamo; Rating: **

What do you do when a film franchise has run its course to such an extent that there's no way forward? Simple. You take elements from popular films, try to make the story about something 'familial' and make one more film trying to inject life into the dead franchise even at the risk of drifting all the way into mediocrity and cliches.

This exactly seems to be the formula for the "Ice Age" franchise with the latest part generously taking elements from other popular films even as it seems to forget the fun, emotionality or even the ingenuity of the original.

In the end of the Paleozoic era, the supercontinent Pangaea had begun breaking apart due to the acorn hunting habit of Scrat. Caught in the middle is the 'herd' of Manny and his family, Diego and Sid. As Sid is united with his crotchety grandmother, Manny separates from his wife and daughter.

Drifting on an iceberg, the trio and the grandmother are captured by a pirate captain. As they escape, a crazy and funny chase ensues.

"Ice Age 4" suffers from ambition - the ambition to exist. After two previous forgettable installations, the franchise should have come to an end. Sadly, the studio decided to give it one more run. Though they try their best, it isn't enough and the film drifts towards mediocrity and cliche ending on a whimper one was expecting all along.

The film puts together the usual theme of catastrophic global events and weaves together a lot of nice gags with the best and funniest being reserved for the exploits of our beloved Scrat. Though on their own the gags are funny, the problem is in the attempt to weave them into one coherent whole. In the absence of any real story, the film falls flat on its face.

The film tries to redeem itself with the introduction of a goofy bunch of characters, led by a pirate chimp. But this 'hairy' spoof from "The Pirates of The Caribbean" series isn't enough to raise it high enough, despite introducing a love interest for Diego.

All in all, lot of precious funds were wasted in a film that need not have been made in the first place. Diehard fans, however, will love reliving the antics of their favourite characters.

Pranab thanks people for electing him President
New Delhi: Pranab Mukherjee Sunday thanked people for electing him as the President and assured the nation that he would make earnest efforts to preserve and protect the Constitution. 

"I would like to thank people of this great country for confering this distinction by electing me to the high office," he said after the election results came in. 

"Now they have entrusted me with the responsibility to protect, to defend and to preserve the Constitution as President of the Republic. I will try to justify, in a modest way as I can, to be trustworthy to the people", he said. 

A visibly moved Mukherjee said he had received much more from the people, from the political establishment, from Parliament, from all sections of the people with whom he had come across in his five decades of public life. 

"I received much more than I have given them," he said. 

Noting that he had the privilege of visiting almost all state capitals in the last one month, he said he got overwhelming support and affection despite his introduction was limited to the members of the electoral collegium. 

Mukherjee also utilised the opportunity to thank his rival P A Sangma who had congratulated him for the victory.




Pranab Mukherjee is 13th President of India


New Delhi: Pranab Mukherjee was Sunday elected as the 13th President, marking a new journey for the veteran Congress leader after over four decades of life in active politics. 

Mukherjee, UPA nominee, got 5,64,469 vote value, well beyond the half-way mark of 5,25,140 in an electoral college of over 10.5 lakh when counting of votes polled by the MPs and MLAs of 20 of the 30 states was completed. 

His rival P A Sangma, who was backed by BJP and some other opposition parties like AIADMK and BJD, could manage only 2,57,466 vote value, according to Rajya Sabha Secretary General V K Agnihotri, who is the Returning Officer for the poll. 

Mukherjee, 76-year-old Congress leader, brings to the top Constitutional post a wealth of experience as he has held key positions in the party and government, including holding the portfolios of Finance, Defence and External Affairs. 

He established a clear lead right from the beginning when counting of votes of MPs completed and maintained it across the states, except the BJP-ruled ones. He sprang a surprise in BJP-ruled Karnataka where he got the votes of 117 MLAs against BJP's 103 in the 224-member Assembly. 

Out of 748 MPs, who had voted, he secured 527 votes with a value of 3,73,116 against 206 for Sangma which has a value of 1,45,848. 

Fifteen votes including that of SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav were invalid. Of these, nine were to be in favour of Mukherjee while six for Sangma. 

Voting for the Presidential election took place on July 19. The electoral college for the poll comprises MPs and MLAs.  

As Mukherjee headed for victory, senior ministers, including A K Antony and P Chidambaram, went to his 13, Talkatora Road residence to greet him. 

"He will be a great President. We wish him all the success," Chidambaram told reporters outside his residence.

As expected, Mukherjee won with the backing of UPA partners, including Trinamool Congress which had announced its support only at the last minute. Outside supporters of UPA, including Samajwadi Party and BSP, besides some opposition parties like JD(U) and Shiv Sena also voted in his favour. 

In Kerala, it was a clean sweep for Mukherjee as he got all the 124 votes polled while one was invalid. Sangma drew a blank. CPI and RSP members abstained from voting which has a 140 member Assembly. 

In neighbouring BJP-ruled Karnataka, there has been apparent cross-voting. Mukherjee got the majority votes in the 224-member Assembly with 117 MLAs voting for him. Sangma could get only 103 votes while three votes were invalid. One MLA did not vote. 

The Congress had expected only 102 votes, including that of H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S). 

Sangma, as expected, scored heavily in states ruled by BJP, like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh and Goa. 

Strangely in Jharkhand where BJP shares power with JMM, Sangma got the votes of only 20 MLAs. JMM voted for Mukherjee. 

The electoral college included 4120 MLAs in the states.  

Munnar

This beautiful hill station is noted for its cool climate and tea plantation. This little town boasts of many colonial bungalows, tea factories, wildlife sanctuaries and lakes. Literally meaning 3 rivers, Munnar is situated on the confluence of three rivers - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India.

Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji (Strobilantus kuntianus ) . This flower that bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m. Accommodation facilities are excellent. The altitude is 4000 feet.
Best Season: August to March
Emergency Details: District Tourism Office, Kumily and DTPC Information Centre, Old Munnar

For more information about IDUKKI: [*00012728click here*]
Transport Terminals: Boundaries- North: Coimbatore/ South: Pallivassal / East: Vattavada /West: Kuttampuzha
Location: 133 km from Cochin
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Railway Station (4 Hrs from Munnar)
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (4 hours 30 minutes from Munnar)

Rajamala

Fifteen km from Munnar, the famous hill station of Kerala, is the beautiful Rajamala. The natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragas hylocres), the Eravikulam - Rajamala region is now home to half the world population estimated at around 1300 - of this endangered mountain goat. But the Tahr is only one of the reasons to make a visit to Rajamala. The picturesque beauty of this mountain will make you want to tent here forever!
Best Season: October - March
Emergency Details: For more information about IDUKKI: [*00012726click here *]
Transport Terminals: Munnar (15kms away)
By road: Distance from Munnar to some tourist centres
Goa: 930 km; Chennai: 600 km; Malampuzha: 230 km, Kodaikkanal: 195 km, Kumarakom: 160 km, Top station: 34 km, Anamudi: 20 km.
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam railway station, 142 km away
Nearest Airport: Cochin international airport, 130 km away and in neighboring Tamil Nadu, Madhurai airport, 142 km away

Kodanad

Elephants are an integral part of Indian mythology and culture. They are oftenreferred to as the sons of the 'Sahya'(the Western Ghats). Once a part of daily life, these animals are ornamental and auspicious pieces now. No festival or celebration is complete without rows of caparisoned elephants, replete with silk parasols.
Situated on the southern banks of the Periyar, amid the high ranges, nearPerumbavoor, Kodanad is one of the largest elephant training centres in Kerala. Earlier the animals captured from the Malayatoor forests used to be trained here. Since the ban on elephant capture Kodanad has been reduced to a training centre. The famous Malayatoor Church is nearby.

Muthanga in Wayanad district and Konni in Pathanamthitta district are two other centres. Another spot for elephant lovers is Punnathur kotta, of neighbouring Thrissur district, where 40 elephants of the Guruvayoor temple are groomed.
Best Season: September to May
Emergency Details: Divisional Forest Officer,
Malayattur Forest Division,
Kodanad, Eranakulam Dist.
Ph: 0484 2649052
For more information about ERNAKULAM: [*00121004click here*]
Transport Terminals: Malayatoor, Perumbavoor
Location: About 30 km from Ernakulam, in the high ranges on the southern bank of Periyar river.
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam, 30 kms away
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, 65 kms away 

Vagamon

Have you visited beautiful, green Vagamon Are you thinking, 'In a green country, what's the attraction of yet another verdant spot' Well, the point is Vagamon is not just any other verdant spot. Of course, you can get grassy hills, velvet lawns and cool mountain air in many other places but not the Vagamon kind; not just this exciting blend of religious mysticism and European legacy.

Like a lot of other beautiful things in life, Vagamon too has to be experienced, not read about or its stories merely listened to. What you've got to do is get yourself some means of transport, head straight for Idukki district and then on to Vagamon. Once there, try taking off your shoes, closing your eyes and just listening to Vagamon.

And when you're through with the mystic getting to know session(!), you could take a trek across the chain of three hills - the Thangal hill, the Murugan hill and the Kurisumala, important for Muslims, Hindus and Christians respectively.

And don't miss the nice, little dairy farm of the Kurisumala monks.
Best Season: September to March
Emergency Details: For more information about IDUKKI: [*00012725click here *]
Transport Terminals: Peermede, the famous plantation town, is 25 kms away
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam which is about 75 kms away from Peermede
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 kms away from Peermede

Vandiperiyar

The River Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthuria.
Best Season: September to March
Emergency Details: For more information about IDUKKI: [*00012719click here *]
Transport Terminals: Thekkady, 18 kms away
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam
Nearest Airports: Madurai Airport (Tamil Nadu) and Cochin International Airport

Best time to visit Kerala?

Generally, October to April is the best time to visit Kerala, as the weather is really excellent in these months. If visit is for Ayurvedic treatments, then Monsoon period is preferred which is May to September, as it is the best time for oriental healing and yes, the hotel rates too are minimal during this time.

HOME»TRAVEL»TRAVEL SPECIAL

Staying afloat

Destination/ Adventure/ Kappayam
Sailing through the rough waters of Idamalayar.... unfolding the untold stories of reed cutters.... risk, adventure, rain and more.... a night with them in a reed hut.... 

On a dark rainy October dawn, when anyone in this universe would prefer to snooze down, we set sail.....not in a smooth sea, rather through the rough waters of River Idamalayar. We steered in a country boat to Kappayam with a folk who have taken reed cutting as their livelihood. Their expedition is hard and risky. Isolation and despair haunt them throughout the journey; but they ain't gonna give up as their struggle is for a loaf of bread.

Climate is really unpredictable and no one really expected even a drizzle in the month of October. Shattering all the calculations the down pour became too heavy. Despite the heavy rain, they took board lamenting on the hardships and sufferings that life has stormed on them. Their expedition of reed cutting has a life span of fifteen days, during which each one is a lonely atoll caught between thick forest and wild waters. Loneliness is their only companion and the hues of the outside world exist only in their imagination. By the time the ferry to take them back home comes no one can predict who all'll be left there!

At last when the rain paused for a while the boat started to move on slowly. The boat seemed to have more sacks than people. Apart from rice, vegetables and utensils the sacks were filled with weapons and tarpaulin sheets intended to mount tents. There were men and women among them. Women have accompanied their husbands leaving their little ones home. Some others who have come alone parked themselves as lonely islands of solitude.

All through the journey, two things kept on troubling us- rain and kerosene. It was raining cats and dogs which kept us doused throughout the ride. The boat was functioning on a kerosene fuelled Yamaha engine and the shortage of kerosene badly affected our smooth ride. A burst of uproar came out from the Yamaha engine and the sleepy waters of Idamalayar woke up abruptly. This monstrous sound wave even made the river banks shiver. It kept out the elephant herds and they never came out from the darkness of the woods. Or was it rain that kept them away? The elephants usually come out of the forests to ease their thirst. Had it been summer, there would have been lots of them at the banks!

A thick silver line of fog outlined the dark green forest. Our boat reached near Anakkayamkuthu waterfalls were the waters crashed in to the river. Flocks of Eranda (a type of migratory water bird), were frolicking in from the white foamy ripples which spread all over the river. There was complete silence in the sixteen packed boat except for the roar of the Yamaha engine. In all the eyes staring at infinity, the story of the toil and struggles to make ends meet was writ large. The only mouth which spoke was that of Pankajakshi, better half of Velayudhan. She sat on the edge of the boat and kept on mumbling least bothered about the listeners around.

Our way took a gigantic turn and the background view of the huge wall of the Idamalayar dam faded out from our vision. This place is Eprah. On top of Eprah is Vachumaram, a place on the Athirappalli- Malakkappara State Highway. Eprah evoked in our eyes hopes to see elephants. And our eyes went busy surfing for huge dark creatures darting behind the woods. Above the forests on a farthest point a dwelling caught our sight. 'That is Idamalayar Watch Tower' screamed out Sudheesh, young Forestor of Idamalayar Range. He was accompanied by Siju who hails from Kozhikode. Department of Forests allows no one other than reed cutters to take this route. Passing by Koorkuzhi we reached Vadarmuzhi Allu. 'Allu' sounded interesting; it is a cave which can accommodate not less than ten. Tonight, we are to halt here. My mind made an attempt to imagine this strange cavern, but in vain.

When we reached Venmuzhi the couples among us started to descend. On the banks were small rafts made of reeds. These rafts have been made by them a couple of weeks ago, on their last visit to the atoll. Such rafts made ahead of the visit were found waiting on each atoll. These rafts have to be taken along while on their return journey to Idamalayar.

Venmuzhi atoll holds two to three huts made of reed, all made during the last visit. 'Oh my god it's all flooded, elephants have ruined them.' Mary read from the signs and screamed out. The river has over- flown and flooded the huts. Two of them have been destroyed by elephants too. They have to be mounted again. Some of them got down with sacks in their hands.

Yamaha started to groan again. Charupara arrived and Joseph the oldest in the crew got down. Thus each one was dropped at their atolls, just like people being deported. Ammayipara awaited us along with I.A.P.or I.A.Paulose, Watcher of Forest Department. Before even reaching the banks, Paulose registered his protest for not being there to take him a week before. His shabby attire and dry hair spoke the reason for such a response. This place holds one of Asia's biggest Teak trees and Pillai who guards it went ill. Paulose went to attend Pillai and thus happened to be in this lonely atoll. This stiff man accompanied us in the rest of the journey.

Thalippara surprised us with a fruit similar to papaya. Papaya in a forest? Our faces turned with a question mark. But the answer came in the form of a hut adjacent to it. A man in a traditional loin cloth along with a black lean dog stood there. Mathai, asked loudly at him 'Ossan, got any fish?' Mathai who led us is the brother of Elias, who holds the contract of porting the reed from Idamalayar to Bamboo Corporation Company. 'No', Ossan replied in a word. Ossan was one among those who thronged to Idamalayar during the construction of the Dam. But even after the construction works finished, he choose to stay there making reed cutting his profession. Passing by the last reed stations, Naivara and Kaliman, we reached Kappayam. It started to drizzle again. Water oozing out from high above the hill; caressing the rocks on its way and falling down to form the River Idamalyar was a ravishing scene. Near the source point on the rock is a dwelling. We were told that it was the hut of Soman Mooppan, (Mooppan is the name given to the Head of a tribal clan) of Mannan Clan of Arakkappu Tribal Colony. It is a place of comfort between the small intervals during fishing and reed cutting.

I have never seen a Mooppan before and this strained my patience to reach there as soon as possible. The way to the hut was rocky and we had to leave the boat for a Pondi(a small raft made of bamboo sticks) to reach there. Ramakrishnan of Mannan Clan standing on the other side helped us get on to the pondi. The ride on a pondi is interesting, though it is made of bamboo frame; you will literally be sitting in water, with your ass all dipped in water. The pondi reached the banks. Soman Mooppan in a red T and loin cloth welcomed us. We spent some time with him enjoying his talks. Radio is the only medium of entertainment here. The rhythm of the rain outside and the noise of radio surfing for stations sounded similar. The forest at the end of Idamalayar leads way to Arakkappu Colony. Climbing up the hill is Malakkappara, a small hilly village destined to tailor Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Suddenly the rain became heavy. We took seats in Pondi along with Ramakrishnan. The Pondi swayed as immature feet landed on it. Idamalayar has a depth around 650 ft; which simply means a small misstep can be a great mishap. Pondi reached safe at our boat. Ramakrishnan offered Mathai a bunch of fresh fish hooked to a string.

Next on the do list was reed gathering. The reed rafts gathered by the tribes at Kaliman would be tied to our boat. They were paid Rs.70 for a bunch, which contains 20 reeds. On the whole they looked like a green carpet spread over the waters. Sasi, who has been leading the reed gathering team for years, laid his hands on the Yamaha engine and our boat became surrounded by floating reeds. The reed clusters on both sides of our boat was then tied to it. It took two hours to cover the 24 kms journey from Idamalayar to Kappayam. But this calculation cannot be applied to the return journey. The collection of reeds will delay the trip. And if there are more reeds to be gathered the journey will prolong. It's highly unpredictable- it may take five hours, sometimes two days or even more. Regardless of the heavy rain, the raft started to move taking along the reeds with it. Reed carpets were waiting on every atoll. They were gathered and tied to the 'mother' raft. Like a mother hen gathers its chicks behind its wings the mother raft sailed gathering the reeds from atoll to atoll. To certain atolls where the 'mother' raft cannot sail, Mathai himself swam and gathered and got the reeds tied. The raft became fatter and fatter with reeds all around it.

By the time the reeds were gathered at Charupara the sky turned dark. Next destination is Venmuzhi, there we have to get down. By then Venmuzhi got decorated with cute thatched huts, all made of reeds. The smoke from the huts got spread in the atmosphere. Inside of the house was equipped with panels made of reed for keeping utensils and a bed spread like sheet made by beating reed. Even the clothes line was made from reed. We were fishing in the waterfalls at the backward of the hut to kill time when Mary called us for food. Boiled rice was served hot from big clay pot using a spoon made of reed and coconut shell. The savor of spicy fish curry whetted our appetite had a bellyful. 'Going to Varmuzhiallu is not safe, Allu gets flooded when it rains heavy, we shall halt here tonight' advised Sasi.

Darkness all around. Kerosene lanterns lighted the huts. 'Those days were really terrible when we had no dam here, it was water all around.' Peter started to unfold his stories' The river stretched to 34 kms. The flow was so rapid that it took only one and half hours from Kappayam to Ennakkayam in a reed raft. In between there were cliffs and to take the raft safe to the destination without hitting the cliffs was really challenging. You light a beedi(Indian cigarette) from kappayam and it will be there at your lips till you reach Ennakkallu, little will you notice that the spark has blown out while you were busy sailing!'

Reed cutting as in other parts of the world is not a lucrative business here. Accidents accompany them as shadows. Many have come across elephants when they go deep the forest for cutting reed. Some others have sat with the corpse of their fellow friend for more than two days. When wild elephants trumpet around their huts, what else these poor souls can do other than sit with the kerosene lantern and shiver for life! Mary lost her brother during such a reed cutting expedition. There were steep cliffs after Ennakkayam, the flow was so strong that he lost control of the raft, which fell on to the cliffs and took his life. Narrating the incident Mary's eyes went wet. Almost all in the crew are above their middle ages. 'Younger generation finds this profession unappealing. Considering the risk and physical strain they say such a job will be paid four times more at their place.' Said Varkhey with a sigh. These words brought in me the realization that I am sitting with a set that are largely on the verge of extinction.

Nights are a nightmare. They sleep with the lighted kerosene lamps in their huts. It will burn till day break. They are believed to keep the wild animals away. But their beliefs are at times turned upside down when they hear about incidents of elephant attacks. During such situations they are largely helpless; they could only take a pondi and run (rather sail) for life leaving everything behind. Trusting the kerosene lantern, we spent that night with them, being one among them, pondering on the promises of life and ecstasies of love and little bothered about what is in store for us.

Mathai woke us from sleep. When I became aware of the surroundings I just touched my head to make sure it is in place, thank all, elephants have not landed on us. Had tea and got on to the boat just before day break. Like a floating atoll, the raft sailed away from Venmuzhi. Biding adieu they stood near the hut looking at us till the raft went out of sight. We too gazed at them.

They will now move to the forest for cutting reeds, will go 3 to 4 kms in-to the forests, there they cut reed, carry on their shoulders and gather them along the banks.

It has stopped raining and the forest appeared with a canopy of white fog. The waterfalls seemed to us as white thread laid on a green piece of cloth. I.A.P in his ragged shirt and sleeves folded up started to smoke first sitting and then standing on the front panel of the raft. The smoke of the beedi merges with the fog, or is he taking in the fog too? my doubts knew no bounds. Aikkara Watch Tower was clearly visible as a house above the forest with no contact with the rest of the surroundings. By then the sun became hot and we felt burning under it. The same mouth that cursed the rain cursed the sun also. All took relief under umbrellas, and some fit themselves in the small hollow of the boat. The rain has made the forest even more beautiful. The image of the green atolls shined in the silent waters as if they were admiring their beauty at a mirror. The sound of trees being destroyed came piercing the Yamaha roar. Elephant herd is somewhere around. Since it will take time for them to reach the banks we moved on.

Anakkayayamkuthu found more visible and our country boat turned towards the Idamalayar dam. At last we reached Ennakkallu. Got down and climbed up. Thousand bunches of reeds have been ported. Just turned back and had a look. Swaying and tilting as a half wet strip of paper, reeds remained as a spacious playground. Suddenly some questions popped up in my mind. Will the reed cutters be still in the forest? Will they be safe from the elephant herds?
 Text : T J Sreejith
Photos: P Jayesh
Translation: Soumya Bhushan

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Ernakulam

Thattekkad is in Devikulam taluk of Idukki district. With dense tropical evergreen and deciduous forest and grassland patches, it houses over 500 species of exotic birds. This acclaimed bird sanctuary owes much to Dr. Salim Ali, renowned ornithologist. It is the exotic microcosm of India's bird population that brought Dr. Salim Ali here.

Rare birds like the Crimson-throated Barbet, Bee eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black Winged Kite, Night Heron, Falcon, Grey Jungle Fowl, White-Breasted Water Hen, Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmoth, Rose-billed Roller and Blue-winged Parakeet have made a home here. The place also has extensive plantations of teak, rosewood and mahagony.
Best Season: August to March
Emergency Details: For more information about ERNAKULAM: [*00121005click here *]
Transport Terminals: Devikulam
Location: 58 kms away from Kochi
How to Reach: Nearest Railway Station : Aluva, about 48 kms away
Nearest Airport : Cochin International Airport, about 44 kms away

Shimoga Safari

Text & Photos: Kamal Venkitachalam

We started the trip by breaking a coconut at the Vinayaka temple at the Yelehanka town and left to Tumkur highway and turn left to Bangalore-Mangalore highway, needless to mention. Driving the car through that highway is most of the youngster's dream and I was happy that I am enjoying that time. We (my wife Charumathi- whom I call Charu and our lovely daughter Rachna, whom we call Rachu) left Bangalore, in few minutes of time and then travel an hour an half and visited Shravanabalagola then after seeing picturesque monuments of Halebedu we went to Mudigere.

Since our home stay was booked at Mudigere (Divya darshini – Home stay) we had travelled from Halebedu to Mudigere the distance was 45 kms and the road was bad with uncountable gutters that resembled like cliffs, it was quite challenging drive. My wife Charumathi (whom I call charu) who was always interested in looking at the scenery than driving and she kept on commenting on the beauty and listening to all country and old classic English songs. She managed to buy a book from Shravanabalagola regarding Halebedu, Belur and Hampi. Entire trip she narrated the story of Halebedu, Hampi that we visited as though I am the director for the upcoming movie and she is trying to encash her script. The story was all about Hoyasala's and their magnificent architecture and cheating, murder among their dynasty. Story line has been simple during the grandfather's time (Krishna Deveraya) people were happily living among Muslims and during the grand son's time of Kingdom got ruined by bitter battles.

There was looting, cheating and vandalizing that has been so common even at these times during a riot. But while trip I was more worried about how I could handle the car safely with zig-zag gutters and puddles and potholes on the road and I wished if I had 1000 arms like Karthaveera arjuna king who can drive on Indian roads. Wherein my 4 year daughter and my wife who both are interested in combing hair, make-up and playing with their favorite computer rhyme and games. Most of the time mother and Rachu managed a bonding and kept on teasing me for all fun stories in our life. For them I am free fun packet at no cost. In the car, every facility was there it had lot of toiletries, juices, books, perfumes, food, games than a normal house has. In short it was moving house, my wife was so interested in packing, it had even emergency lamp and mosqueto repeller, that came handy most of the time in our trip.

After passing through fantastic, mystic mountains, valleys, coffee and cardamom estates we have travelled through roads that are more or less like curvy snake that kept on challenging my driving skills. While passing through the estate we hardly found humans walking on the road instead we found lot of cattle who were not happy to give way to our car. Some of them did frowned at us, as if we have spoiled there peaceful grazing and walking time. The stay at Mudigere was simple and elegant, the estate owner, Mr. Venkatesh, did explain the nature and type of work he does.

He did prepare as fabulous lunch (Karnataka style with poori and chilli-bajji) and served food for us at 4 pm that was late lunch for us. Though our stomach was giving all weird animalistic sounds, we did eat quickly as though we had come from Somalian refugee camp. By the time we could catch our nap, Rachu was interested in seeing ducks, rabbits, swans, goat and a variety of dogs (german shepherd and dashhoud). Mr. Venkatesh showed us his estate and the variety of spices, coco, coffee and vanilla plantation that he had. We were interested in seeing all those with keeping a wide eye open and trying to battle with our eyes who was more interested in closing so quickly as though the game is over. Alongside there werehe smarty leeches which were thirsty for blood. I could see living Dracula's in all of them. One of the leeches did manage to reach to bite and suck blood from my thighs. Smart one!!!

But I could not take it out immediately hiding my irritation, keeping a smiling face and nodding to all those comments of Mr. Venkatesh and I was dying to reach the room to pluck it off from my body. It did left a scar on the body. In the evening Mr. Venkatesh showed his house's interior that was built 75 years back with the traditional Karnataka style construction. After house- tour, he showed his collection of air – rifles. I could barely lift one of the guns that could load two bullets and my Rachuwas in fact worried whether I might accidently shoot some-one!! She was more interested in seeing the aquarium and coin collection that he had. His son did serve with homemade wines of Mango, ginger, apple and orange. Each one did taste different but after few glasses of wine I was more interested in reaching heaven by hitting the bed immediately.

After a good night dinner and sleep we were off to Jog falls, en route to Ankola beach that requires a decent 10 hours of drive without break. This stay was a packaged deal with lunch, coffee snack, dinner and break-fast. At the time of leaving Venkatesh gave me a sample pack of cardom, pepper and souvenir of vanilla and coco seeds. It was an education trip for Rachu. The whole place was so wonderful with valleys, mountains and beautiful water fall that looked like a silver string around a lady's hip.

Prior to the trip I did spot on Tyavarekoppa Lion and Tiger Safari which is located about 10 Kms from Shimoga on the way to Sagar. but I was not pretty much sure about my arrival time. Out of the blues we passed the safari to Sagar through NH 206 quickly I could stop my car and woke up my wife who was more interested in day dreaming in an Air conditioned atmosphere hearing on to Eric Clapton songs. I did ask her, 'Would you like to see Lion and tiger safari before she could speak but Rachuscreamed out, go appa go ..ulle aaru irukaa nnnu pakalam in tamil… I also told myself let's see who is in'.

Before I could listen to my wife's comments of how we are able to catch up the drive and distance to cover, I gave my car a nice U-turn and stopped in front of the Tiger and lion safari park. Since I was lazy enough to get out from the driving seat, I smiled at my wife and she understood that it's always her turn to buy entry and camera tickets for the park. Once she bought I rushed into the park as though I would see these big cats next to the gate with a welcoming smile.

After we parked our car in the parking lot, Rachu dragged Charu and hopped in to the bus as though it is going to start immediately. Now my wife smiled at me, meaning it's my turn to buy the entry tickets , she has this weird habit of tit-for-tat, wait my darling, I will give you the chance next time, with great luggage of canon camera bag that has three lens and with numb leg I was limped towards the entry ticket counter and enquired. With a great Kannada accent she did tell me that the bus would not start unless they have a minimum 15 passengers.

It took time for me to understand what she was trying to explain needless to say that I would face a tough time with my Rachu who does not understand that economy of the sanctuary is more important than entertainment. I approached the bus and my Rachuasked me immediately, 'appa ask the driver to start the bus, then as usual I had to lie to her saying the lion and tiger has gone for coffee break and the restaurant is full and one of the tiger got sick and went to the hospital and it would arrive soon', her face turned pale, but she believed my story line decided to wait.

Then I had prayed to all the gods and goddess whom I have known from my child hood days that some more people should arrive so that official bus to park would start. Charu and Rachu caught front seat of the bus so that they would be able to catch up the 70mm screen view of the bus and they would not miss the glimpse of their movement and I was given asle seat where there the place is not comfortable. Twice my charu offered her seat for me to be seat so that I could have a good view and I flattely said no… Deep in my heard I would quickly jump and sit on that window view like a small child but I behaved like a responsible husband who is more interested in wife's silly pleasure.

I know on the other side what my wife would be thinking while offering the window seat that ''Oh God let him not accept the offer of the window seat', like a telepathy I know what she is thinking, I left it a go. Out of nowhere a group of Karnataka youngsters arrived and they bought the ticket and joined us in the bus and few of them did complain why the bus did not leave immediately for the memorable trip they were waiting for. Then the bus driver came and sat on the bus and they waited for the conductor who was waiting for few more members to come and hop the bus to make it to their target. Then I wanted to show her Kannada language skills, and spoke to the driver 'Avaru yavaga baruthare'?. Then he answered 'Dayamadi ondu nimisha nilli', means asking her to wait. She gave me another look and smiled at me, I kept kicking to myself wish I am in Kerala; I could speak to someone in Malayalam where my wife is not fluent and doesn't understand a word of it. Since I am a palakkad iyer and she is from Coimbatore Iyer family but she never managed to learn Malayalam, that was boon for me for some time at typical situations of life. I smiled back, and murmered 'ninaku njan vechittundi'….. nee keralathottu vaa…. She asked what did I say and I replied 'nothing..Just praying for the conductor to come and check the tickets'. Then the conductor came and scrutinized the ticket as though we forged it from the nearby printing press.

He further and punched it as though it is legal document that should not be replaced and produced at any cost. In addition, he ordered people with a commanding voice to people how to sit and I remembered our good old headmaster in a school and how he is use to speak while addressing the assembly or while visiting our class where most of the time our teacher sleeps instead of teaching in Class 8. We obeyed our so called conductor.. sorry … head master in the bus and like a good kids we were clinging on to the grill of the bus and we were all at the edge of the seat as though we are watching the Indi-Pak cricket match and there is one more ball to go and there should be sixer to hit to win the game.

Then bus started and huge gate opened and I could remember Alaadin movie where we will see a door opening with a background music of 'Khulja Zim Zim', then an another door opened and we were off to the park. In few minutes I could see a tiger that just got up from the nap and then there was pin drop silence inside the bus. Few kannada words were muttered by the passengers saying how good the tiger is, others were saying whether the tiger has been fed or not, some of them even commented on the zoological name of tiger as Pantherea tigris, being a zoology student I remembered all those I just wished I should through away that guy out of the bus as he has been enthusiastic cutlet who kept on commenting on the tiger's zoological, ecological influence and impact.

I told myself, this guy does not know how to live the moment that he passes though. Then the driver stopped the bus in such a way I could get enough shots of the tiger with a close distance of 2 meters. I got from my seat and fixed the zoom lens of Sigma 700mm and then requested the conductor to open the door slightly. Initially he denied but looking at the lens, he was impressed and I slowly peeped in to the gap of the door he opened and he held my collar for safety as though I am the rabbit and I would be thrown to the tiger for a snack. My life was at his hands, I told myself, 'you better take the shots or back off', don't be coward, awake your confidence and inner tiger and look at the eyes of the tiger. The tiger did give me impressive looks and naughty looks with great looks. It was awesome moment where I am in close contact with this truly majestic animal whether in wild or captivity, and I have no words to describe that moment, I just lived at that time.

It's always a photographer or a nature lover would feel that moment and get some shots. We did have eye contact, I mean me and the tiger, I was wondering what it should be thinking, whether he should move forward and give me a tight slap for what I am doing … taking pictures with out permission' or the tiger should be saying it to itself that …..Do whatever you want my boy I am yours …. Aaaj ka shaaam there naam….. Kar de dhaaamal….. I clicked maximum number of pictures on my camera of the tiger some got out of focus and some of the snaps were sharp. In fact there was no time to check it out. I was more interested in taking pictures that has facial focus, walking posture, sitting posture, naughty posture, eye close up, mouth close up, whiskers close up etc. Five minutes face to face with a tiger with 2 meters distance… unbelievable.

Oh my god, those minutes flashed so quickly and then the bus driver was interested in moving forward and conductor released my collar and I felt that moment I was the released from the rabbits life to human, I thanked him and he was interested in seeing the snaps and he told me 'Channakide saaar'… after looking at the close ups. I looked at my wife, since Kannada was not cup of tea and she translated, the snaps were fine, with a proud face of language possession skills.

Then in few minutes we arrived at the Lion cage- this time the conductor asked me to get out from the bus and take a shot as though he wanted to give me as food to lion and see how it is going to eat. Luckily there was a cage between me and the 'great king. Immediately through the small window of the bus Rachu screamed 'Appa vegum vaaa… lion onnee chaaapitudium, meaning lion will eat you for lunch', I replied to her that nee kavalapedama iru… Naan ippo varen ... in tamil, meaning 'I WILL BE BACK', in Arnold Schwarzenegger style.

The Lion was more interested in licking and cleaning its legs and was sitting next to the cage. So I got from the bus where I should not be doing as per so called 'rules set by the park staff'. I changed my sigma lens to canon lens of 80mm and inserted the lens decently to the iron mesh and took snaps of the lion and after few of shots of different licking scene that the Lion was uninterested at my site I turned back to my bus. They could spot the tiger that was 40 meters with a glimpse of few second it could reach me but I wanted to show I am also small cat in my heart here I am.. dear … you cannot reach me, before that I would be hop in to the bus.. it would be hard try my boy…

What gave is a stern posture and took my camera again and changed the lens to 700mm and too another shot of the tiger who was more interested in eating grass and I could see it from distance…may be it had stomach pain and trying Ayurveda for its digestive disorder. I hopped into the bus and my wife asked me a good question 'Kamal would you try this daredevil act if your parents are with you', I told her no chance, I would be descent child and I would definitely miss the glimpse of capturing into the camera and would be kicking on to myself and I would listen to my mom's instructions of not doing something smart. In fact my dad would yell at me if I had even tried that. That moment, I did thank god that my great wife who has confidence in me of backing me….

And she has given me permission to get out from the bus and take snaps of the great cats. I just wished she doesn't close the door of the bus and then I had no choice other than to get on to the top of the bus. Then the driver took us to the other side of park there were Chinkara, Sambar deer and peacocks. While looking at the Sambar deer, Rachu shouted at a sambar deer and shouted at it as spotted deer, hearing this my wife correct the names of the deer, no Rachu…… its Sambar deer, it's not spotted deer……. Then Rachu asked Charu 'Amma where can I see 'rasam deer'? We busted out in laughter and our bus proceeded to the exit gate of the park. Then with great feeling and sense of achievement I got off from the bus as though I am going to be new Santhosh Sivan of Photography we preceded to Jog falls prior to Ankola beach. 

Idukki> Chinnar

Chinnar-Whispering woods
The place is regarded as one of the unique protected areas in the whole westerns ghats due to its ecological, floral, geomorphologic and cultural significance. The habitat types arrange from high altitude shola grassland to dry thorny scrub. This is a habitat of the giant grizzled squirrel and white bison. This 90 square km wild life sanctuary situates in the middle of Eravikulam National Park to the south, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is to the north and Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is to the east. The Chinnar River and Pambar rivers are the major perennial water resources in the sanctuary. The spectacular Thoovanam waterfalls lie deep within the Sanctuary on the Pambar River. This breathtaking cascade is a major tourist attraction.

If one is adventure enough they can enjoy the beauty of Vasayappara, which is deep inside in the core area of the Chinnar wildlife sanctuary. Vasayppara can be reached after having a one and half hour trekking after deviating before Chinnarvanam check post. The forest department has been organizing two-day nature camp for students in Chinnar. Free accommodation and food are available. For more information contact: Munnar wild life warden: ph:04865-231587.
Location
18 km north To Marayoor on SH 17 in Marayoor and Kanthaloor panchayathas, Devikulam taluk
How to reach
By road: 60 km from Munnar and Pollachi, two hour drive from Munnar via Marayoor.

Munnar Udumalpet road passes through the sanctuary

115 km southwest to Coimbatore
Contact
Wildlife warden, Forest Information centre Munnar: 04865 231587.

Website: www.chinnar.org
Altitude
Varies from 500- 2300 m above sea level
Best season
Dec to May
Stay
Accommodation is available in three suites at the forest guesthouse for Rs 400 per head

Treetop machans costs Rs 1000 for an overnight stay (including food)

Camping at Vasyappara huts costs Rs 2500 per head (Rs 500 for additional perosn) including food.

Dormitory facilities are available at Chinnar. Rs 110 per head (no food)
Tips
Avoid dark colored dresses

Observe silence

Don't litter
What to do
Trekking: Treks are organized jointly by the forest department and the eco development committees of local tribes

Vasayappara trek takes one night and two days

The lofty Chinnar watchtower gives a panoramic view of the entire sanctuary

A forest guard and tourist guide accompanies visitors
Timing
7 am to 6pm
Entrance fee
Adults Rs 10

Children Rs 5

Wayanad> Soochippara waterfalls

Sentinel Rock Waterfalls, also known locally as Soochipara, is 23 km away from Kalpetta, located at Vellarimala village in Meppadi panchayat. This is a popular picnic spot and trekking area and the pool at the foot of the falls is ideal for a quick dip. The more restrained can have equally good fun just taking in the scenery.

The Sentinel Rock is also ideal for rock climbing. It is a spectacular waterfall where the water cascades down in three steps from a height of about 200 m in Vellarimala, Wayanad, surrounded by deciduous, wet evergreen and tropical Shola forests. Locally referred to as Soochipara 'Soochi' meaning 'Needle' and 'Para' meaning 'Rock', The 15-20 minute drive from Meppadi to Sentinel Rock Waterfalls offers scenic views of some of the best tea estates in Wayanad.

From Elevayal junction there is only 2 km distance to entrance of the falls.

There is counter of Vanasamrakshana Samithi to give the passes.
Ticket fee is Rs 20 and for students it is Rs 10.
For vehicles parking: two-wheeler Rs 5
Cars Rs 20 and for big vehicles Rs 50.

One has to make a walk for one km from the parking area as to reach the falls. There is a pond in its upper side called Cheenikund. The forest has many wilds animals.

Locations: Near Meppadi Wayanad 

Kollam> Thenmala

Thenmala is a serene village at the foothills of Western Ghats which is primarily a forest area. The well-known Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime ecotourism resource of Thenmala. The Wildlife Sanctuary is of about 100 sq. km. enriched with large varieties of flora and fauna.

'Thenmala' in English means honey hills. It is located 72 kms from Thiruvananthapuram.

Thenmala Ecotourism Project) has been formulated in and around Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary with the co-operation of departments such as Forest, Irrigation and Tourism. In order to give flexibility in management for the development of this destination, a separate Society, the Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society (TEPS) has been constituted.

For more details: Visit www.thenmalaecotourism.com
Climate 
The hottest months are March to May and the coldest, December and January. The maximum temperature during daytime in the hottest month is about 39 degree Celsius. The daily temperature varies from 17 degree Celsius to 35 degree Celsius.

Rainfall 
Southwest Monsoon: May to August extends up to September
Northeast Monsoon: late September, October and November
Average rainfall 2600 - 3000 mm
Best Season 
August to May
How to Reach
By Air: Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram (80kms)
By Rail: Nearest Railhead: Kollam (66kms)
By Road: Two hour journey from Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam. Regular buses are available from Kollam, Kottarakkara and Punalur.
Contact 
STD code: 0475

Tourism Information Desk, Thenmala 0475-344800
Thenmala Ecotourism Promotion Society: 0471-2329770
Stay, Lunch and Dine
Tented camping inside adventure zone: 0475-2344800
Hotel Green Valley: 0475-2335134
Treetop Huts at Kattilappara: 0475-2335134
Restaurant: KTDC Restaurant: 0475-2211600

Packages Available
Trekking packages through Eco Development Committee: 0475-2344800
Trained Guides: 0475-2344725
Attractions
Matysafed Aquarium near Adventure Zone. Entry Fee: Rs.5-10 (10am to 7pm)
Deer Rehabilitation Centre. Entry fee: Rs. 5-10 (8am-6pm)
Boating in Wildlife Sanctuary. Rs. 45-75 (9.30am to 4pm)
Leizure zone. Entry fee: Rs.20-30
Musical Dancing Fountain at 7pm (Monday holiday)
Mountain biking. Rs.20
Conducted Tours
From Thiruvananthapuram KTDC (Ph 0471-2330031)
From Kollam DTPC Kollam (Ph 0474-2745625, 1364)
From Pathanamthitta DTPC Pathanamthitta (Ph 0473-2229952/2326409)
From Alapuzha DTPC Alappuzha (Ph: 0477-2251796, 2253308)
From Kottayam DTPC Kottayam (Ph: 0481-2560479)
From Ernakulam DTPC Ernakulam (Ph: 0484-2383988, 2367334)
Local Guides: Ph: 0475 2344725
Tips
Book accomodation early in advance
Plastic freezone

Tags :Kerala, Tourism, Travel, Kollam, Thenmala, Ecotourism

Idukki> Thangalpara

Thangalpara -Stones Spiritual

Thangal Hill or Thangalpara is one among the major attractions in Vagamon, Idukki. After traveling for short distance through the muddy wild path, you will reach Thanagal para. Some time you would feel like traveling through chambal areas. The unique rock formation, sacred to the Muslims located in the Thangal hill.

Near the rock formation lies the tomb (durgah) of Sheikh Fariduddin, a Sufi saint from Afghanistan who lived and died here about 800 years ago. There is also an ancient cave in this picturesque place, and it's an adventurous and thrilling trek through the cave. The place is accessible by jeep, but during monsoons the jeeps may not go up till the rock cluster. It's a trekker's paradise too. It is believed that the saint and his 40 followers came in horse to spot.

In the lower part of the rock is small masjid and there is a small water polls. The climbing up the rock is an uphill task and if the wind blows, that would be more difficult. There are painted white arrows showing the way and at the top a narrow path leads to the tomb huge rock formation. It is believed that the huge rock formation was originally a small stone used by the saint to grind pan, which grew enormously. Abbas Moulavi was reciting Quran sitting near the tomb.

He use to reach here everyday except monsoon. During the annual 'Urus' Festival hundreds of devotees visit this place. The main offering is Ganjusakkar (Sarkarakanji) here. The view from the rock is mind-blowing. On one side are the picturesque hills.
Location
Vagamon, Kolahalamedu
How to reach
By road: 5 km from Vagamon, down the Elappra road. Jeep is good for the road
Best season
Though out the year expect monsoon.
Stay
Vagamon to Peermede
What to do
The darga open to everyone

Observe reverence at the tomb