The longest mud bridge in India, Kuzhal Paalam is not just a bridge but a mud bridge. These days you see such engineering marvels, as far as civil engineering works are concerned, in times like these, to still have a mud bridge in existence and operational makes it a major attraction for Kerala tourism.
The Kuzhal Paalam Vellilamkandam or mud bridge is very important not just in Kerala but also entire India primarily for being the longest mud bridge followed by the fact that it connects Mattukatta Ayyappankovil panchayat along with Vellilamkandam Kaanchiyar Panchayatu. The mud bridge falls on the Kattayam Kattappana road and it the bridge attracts tourists who mainly come to visit the Ayyappankovil area.
The mud bridge in a way serves as a connecting link for pilgrims and tourists who come to visit the Ayyappankovil Sree Dharma Sastha temple. Pilgrims come to offer their prayers at this temple that has seen the face of demolition seven times. Presently undergoing renovation and plans laid out to make the temple one of its kinds sitting submerged in the water with some intricate engineering, the temples proposed renovation plan seem very exquisite.
Even while it was in ruins the devotees still visited the temple that was located at the original spot. Today though the property is part of the KSEB officials in charge of the dam expansion work the temple complex remains attracts both tourists and pilgrims. Travelling through the mud bridge is exciting and exhilarating. For those on a four wheel drive, crossing the bridge is definitely an exciting ordeal.
Interesting part about the bridge is that it is one hundred and fifty meter long and it was completed in the year 1980. A renowned KSEB engineer Mr. Yohannan was responsible for the completion work of the mud bridge.
During the monsoon season the bridge fills up with the water from the lake.. During the monsoon season the surrounding beauty of the bridge is an absolute treat to watch. The distant view of the hill, the local villagers trying to catch fish with their make shift fishing nets , the cloudy weather and the picturesque ambience make the area perfect for those out on a tour seeking a no end destination.
Under the soil bridge there is a huge ring which serves as a passage for water from other side to flow out. The flow of the water ends up at the Periyar River and Idukki reservoir. From the distant cardamom hills you will find the Vellilamkandam river originating and the rich flow of water through- out the year would make the bridge appear beautiful. With global warming and sporadic weather changes the water flow has reduced. The deforestation in the nearby forest area too has led to the reduced water flow from the bridge. The mud bridge is a must see for those seeking adventure and excitement.