assembled for a friend’s marriage. Having devoured a sumptuous lunch, we set out in a
couple of cars for Thusharagiri, renowned for its waterfalls. The road was narrow and winding, mostly uphill. The area was sparsely populated, and houses were few and far between. Soon, we arrived at our destination. Thusharagiri, situated about 50 kms away from Kozhikkode, is a scenic waterfall, being preserved as an eco tourism project by KTDC. A breath- taking view of hill ranges, entirely embellished with greenery, with clouds hovering in the vicinity of their summits, and the river bubbling at their base- greeted us through a hazy mist, from the parking zone. Eager with anticipation, we entered the eco tourism region excitedly. A tiny stream, originating from large boulders and rushing down signalled the beginning of the waterfalls. Thereafter, we crossed a portion of the stream by stepping over rocks of varying sizes. At the first stage of the waterfalls, some of us decided to get our feet wet and waded into the water at the base. The mighty water thundering down from a great height was an awe-inspiring sight. As we ventured closer, the white foam sprayed into our faces, eliciting
delighted squeals. The rocks bordering the water are worthy of an ascent, for the surefooted
and the adventurous. After drinking in the magnificence of the place to our heart’s content and plenty of snaps later, we resumed our walk. Soon, we came across a towering tree, on the banks of the fast- flowing stream. The trunk was extremely tall, and hollow right through. If you glanced upwards, crouching inside the spacious interiors of the tree, the sky was visible at the top. The circumference of the tree was large enough to accommodate four people comfortably. It was an intriguing experience. This was followed by a steep climb to the second stage. Flanked by dense vegetation on both sides, we enthusiastically undertook the arduous journey to the top. There were rough steps cut into the hillside, at some places. To view the descending water we headed right from an intermediate flat landing. The path was rather narrow and hence precarious. At the end, we encountered a wide, bouldered slope, leading down to the water, separated from the land by railings. Cautiously, we climbed down and joyously beheld the water flowing majestically, amidst the rocky hills. The hurrying water on one side and the diverse flora on the other, constituted a panoramic view. We captured the beauty in our minds, as well as our cameras.
The energy- sapping trek uphill had worn down many of us. We squatted on the rocks for a brief rest and gulped down water. Our thirsts quenched and feeling refreshed, we retraced our path along the narrow hillside. Those who were on their second visit to the place, warned us that the climb to the remaining stages was even steeper and would consume much of time and energy. As most of us had trains to catch, we concluded that returning to the city would be wise. Feeling ecstatic, we embarked on our return journey. The descent was swifter than the ascent. The flowing water gathered into an enclosed lake of sorts, in close proximity to the first stage. We paused for a final view of the furiously rushing water nearby. Sitting on the edges of the rocks, we dangled our feet in the water and enjoyed its chillness. The cool water had a soothing effect, both mentally and physically.
Reluctantly, we bid adieu to the charming waterfalls at thusharagiri and boarded the cars
for our trip back to Calicut city. Memories of the place fresh in our minds, we resolved to
return there at the earliest opportunity and enjoy its beauty in full.
