PANIYELI PORU - KERALA

Paniyeli Poru is in Ernakulam District of Kerala state in India.

Its an amazing sight of Periyar river flowing thorugh rocks and between dense rain forests. The vast view of distant green hillocks and the tranquility around the place is really great.

                Mid November to End of May is the good time to visit as the water flow will be reduced during this time thus exposing the rocks and whirlpools.  ‘Paniyeli Poru’, near Vengoor, Perumbavoor, has natural water falls, small rivulets, offshore surrounded by rich flora and fauna, where the visitors can rest etc. There are no restrictions, but the visitors must be cautious. The strong water currents and deep vortex formed between the strata of rocks and mangroves can be dangerous. 

            The name ‘Poru’ ( means fight in Malayalam) was derived from the old custom of raftsmen fighting with the unruly waves, deep vortex, to sail out from the area. The raft forms after bamboo cut from the ‘Edamalayar’ forest, tied as logs. It was the old practice of bamboo cutters, to carry logs to destination like ‘Kalady’ & ‘Malayattoor’, through river ‘Periyar’.

Although the dense forest on the shore of ‘Periyar’ is devoid of wild animals, deer, pig, and python can be seldom seen. Leeches are also rampant along the pathway leading to ‘Poru’. The milky waterfall at ‘poru’can be seen from the distant shore. It is risky to reach there by crossing over the strata of rocks and mangroves. Even during hot summer, when water level falls, it is dangerous to cross over the strata of rocks, unless vigilant. It is advisable to enjoy the beauty of water bursting, by sitting on the shore. Beware about the strong under currents, before stepping into the water.The slippery rocks and pebbles may lead to danger. 

Kodanad is the only elephant rescue and training center in Kerala specialized for rescuing and training stranded baby elephants from the forest regions across Kerala. Kodanad also offers elephantsafari to visitors. Elephants are made ready with a specially constructed wooden saddle on top, designed to make the riding comfortable and safe. At Kodanad, the old 'Kraal' is still maintained and is used to house elephants. The Kraal is a tall structure made of wood compartments that can accommodate up to 4 elephants. The 'mini zoo' shelters wild animals which have become unfit for survival in the local forest and some inmates of the zoo are very rare species.