Kattakkada Blooms as a Marigold Paradise in Kerala!
Nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram district, the enchanting town of Kattakkada has cast a bewitching spell on travelers for an extraordinary reason. The town has transformed into a symphony of colors, with resplendent marigold flowers painting the landscape in shades of radiant yellow and fiery orange. The picturesque Pallichal panchayat has orchestrated a breathtaking spectacle, cultivating marigolds across 26 acres in 13 captivating locations as part of the ente Nadu ente onam initiative.
This year, Kattakkada boasts an expanse of 50 acres adorned with marigold blooms. While the fame of floral carpets or Athappookkalam often graces the states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Kattakkada has emerged as a vibrant contender. These intricate carpets, an integral facet of the Onam festivities, typically demand an influx of flowers from neighboring regions. However, this year, the town has woven its own narrative, crafting these captivating displays from their very own blossoms.
“Marigold Magic: Kattakkada Blooms as a Floral Paradise in Kerala!”
Mallika, the president of Pallichal grama panchayat, shared, “We have harnessed the potential of previously unused wastelands for this cultivation. This endeavor embodies the spirit of unity and collaboration, providing employment to 250 workers for an entire month.”
What began as a project on a modest 10 acres of land has burgeoned into a flourishing canvas that spans an impressive 50 acres, a testament to the town’s dedication and perseverance.
Kattakkada derives its name from the revered Kattaal Devi Temple, with “kattaal” translating to “Wild Banyan Tree” in Malayalam. Situated 22 km from Kerala’s capital, Trivandrum, this charming town resonates as the district’s second-largest marketplace for hill products. Among its myriad attractions, the Neyyar Dam and the Agasthyavanam Wildlife Sanctuary (a mere 10 km from Kattakkada) beckon to travelers seeking nature’s embrace.
The town enjoys convenient accessibility through the Trivandrum Central (18 km), Balaramapuram (10 km), and Neyyattinkara (13 km) railway stations, welcoming wanderers with open arms to experience its marigold-bedecked paradise.
