PAMPAKUDA: Nature has been benevolent to Pampakuda. Aruvikkal waterfall, which has a height of around 100 feet, is arguably the highest in Ernakulam district. However, the beauty of this tourist spot is yet to be exploited fully. Recently, some developmental works were carried out at Arruvikkal to woo more tourists.
During June-October the waterfall attracts a large number of visitors as the amount of water increases due to rains.On Saturday and Sunday, families visit the area. Majority of the visitors come from Ernakulam, Idukki, Thrissur andKannur districts. Local people use Aruvikkal waterfall as a backdrop to shoot wedding videos.
“The steps at Aruvikkal waterfall were built six years ago. It is a major tourist destination for the people in and around the area. During monsoon the waterfall is more beautiful and attracts large number of people. As the renovation works are over more tourists may come to Aruvikkal,” said Joy, a Pampakuda native and the security guard at the waterfall.
The District Tourism Promotion Council has given a facelift to Aruvikkal waterfall by spending `20 lakh. Under the project lamp posts were erected, dressing rooms and toilets were built. The rainbow bridge beneath the waterfall too was renovated. Now, Pampakuda panchayat officials are planning to rent the area adjacent to the waterfall to people who want to hold small functions.
“We expect to attract more tourists to the area and hence, carried out the beautification works. Though it is the highest waterfall in Ernakulam district, its potential is yet to be tapped. We hope that the tourism department will market Aruvikkal waterfall in future,” said Pampakuda panchayat president Eby N Elias.
Another area here which has tourism potential is Uzhavoor canal, which is a tributory of Piravom river. The canal is 10-15 metre long and 10ft deep. If infrastructure facilities are built, the place can be effectively used for boating. The two cross bars across the canal will have to be lifted for the purpose. According to the estimate made by the panchayat around `20 lakh will be needed for the project.
“The water level in the canal remains the same through out the year. The tourists can enjoy the beauty of the forest along the sides of the canal. Another attraction is Onakkoor devi temple, which is near by,” said Joseph, a Pampakuda native.
