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The Attappadi Tribal Taluk is a relatively new administrative division carved out of the Mannarkkad Taluk in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India, in February 2021. It’s nestled in the Western Ghats, making it a land of scenic beauty and tribal settlements. Here’s a comprehensive look at Attappadi Tribal Taluk:
- Location and Administration:
- District: Palakkad
- Headquarters: Agali town
- Area: 735 sq km (284 sq mi)
- Predominantly inhabited by the Irular, Muduga, and Kurumba tribes
- A Tribal Haven:
- Attappadi Tribal Taluk is the first tribal taluk established in Kerala, aiming to empower the tribal communities and improve their socio-economic conditions.
- The region is home to three indigenous tribal groups:
- Irular tribe: Known for their expertise in honey collection and traditional medicine.
- Muduga tribe: Skilled in hunting and gathering, and have a rich knowledge of medicinal plants.
- Kurumba tribe: Particularly adept at making bows and arrows, and have a deep understanding of the forest ecosystem.
- Natural Beauty:
- Attappadi boasts breathtaking landscapes amidst the Western Ghats.
- The Attappadi Reserve Forest, covering 249 sq km, is a protected area with diverse flora and fauna.
- The Bhavani River, a tributary of the Cauvery River, flows through the region, adding to the natural charm.
- Places of Interest:
- While the primary focus of the taluk is on tribal development, there are places offering a glimpse into the tribal way of life and the natural beauty:
- Attappadi Hills: Offers stunning vistas of the Western Ghats.
- Honey collection demonstrations: Witness the traditional methods employed by the Irular tribe for honey collection.
- Tribal art and craft markets: Support the local communities by purchasing unique handicrafts.
- While the primary focus of the taluk is on tribal development, there are places offering a glimpse into the tribal way of life and the natural beauty:
- Getting There:
- Attappadi Tribal Taluk is accessible by road from major Kerala towns and cities. However, the terrain can be hilly and require caution while driving.
- The nearest railway station is Palakkad Junction, about 80 km away.
- The nearest airports are Calicut International Airport (CCJ) and Coimbatore International Airport (CBE), both approximately 100 kilometers distant.
Overall, the Attappadi Tribal Taluk serves a significant purpose of empowering tribal communities while showcasing the beauty of the Western Ghats and its indigenous cultures.