Karimba, Palakkad Explained

Karimba (Malayalam: കരിമ്പ) is a gram panchayat located in the Palakkad district, Kerala, India. It is near National Highway 966, with Kalladikode as its largest town. The panchayat includes the villages of Karimba-I, Karimba-II, and parts of Palakkayam and has been recognized with the Nirmal Gram Puraskar for its sanitation efforts. ^[1]

Demographics

According to the 2011 Census of India, Karimba has a literacy rate of 95%, which is slightly above Kerala's state average of 94%. The population details are as follows:

• Karimba-I: Population of 14,887, with 7,211 males and 7,676 females.
• Karimba-II: Population of 11,930, with 5,744 males and 6,186 females.^[2]

Tourism

Karimba is known for its natural attractions, particularly its waterfalls.

• Meenvallam Waterfalls: A series of ten waterfalls on the Thuppanad River, with the lowest waterfall being the most accessible. Visitors can trek 1.5 km to the falls from the nearest road, offering a serene experience amid lush greenery. The best time to visit is post-monsoon, between October and May. The area also features India's first micro-hydroelectric project that is operated by a gram panchayat, making it a unique blend of tourism and sustainable development.^{[3] [4]}
• Atla Waterfalls (Aaral Falls): Situated higher up in the Meenvallam region, Atla Waterfalls offers a picturesque trekking experience through dense forests. Accessible by a 5 km trek or via jeep rides from Kalladikode, this waterfall provides a stunning view of cascading water in an unspoiled environment.

Notes and References

1. Web site: Basic details of Gram Panchayats in Palakkad District . November 11, 2024.
2. Web site: Population finder Government of India . 2024-11-26 . censusindia.gov.in.
3. Web site: Meenvallam in Palakkad offers relief from heat . 2019-07-07 . OnManorama . en.
4. News: Shaji . K. a . 2015-10-02 . Meenvallam waterfalls reduced to a trickle . 2019-07-07 . The Hindu . en-IN . 0971-751X.