Iruvanjippuzha

Iruvanjippuzha or Iruvazhanjippuzha is situated near Mukkom in the Kozhikode district of Kerala. It is a significant tributary of River Chaliyar, which meets at Koolimadu near Cheruvadi. Its main tributary is Chalippuzha, which converges with it about 3 km to the north of Thiruvambady town. The annual Malabar River Festival recognized as the most significant Kayak event in Asia, takes place on the Iruvanjippuzha River. The Malabar Kayaking Championship is a thrilling event that attracts kayakers from around the world to compete in the rapid waters of Iruvanjippuzha and Chalippuzha at Kozhikode.

The Scenic Journey of Iruvanjippuzha River

Iruvanjippuzha originates from the scenic Vellarimala mountain range, with Mukkam serving as the primary settlement and marketplace along its course. During high tides, water from the Chaliyar River enters the two-way stream, causing a change in the direction of the flow near the Chaliyar. The Chendamangallur region is prone to flooding during the monsoons, with overflowing of the river being a common occurrence. In 2012, the area experienced severe flooding due to landslides.

The banks of Iruvanjippuzha are home to several villages including Anakkampoyil, Thiruvambady, Mukkam, Kodiyathur, Chennamangallur, and Cheruvadi. This majestic river serves as the backdrop for the famous romantic novel Naadan Premam by the renowned author S. K. Pottekkatt. The banks of Iruvanjippuzha have also been used as a filming location for several movies, including the Malayalam film Kilichundan Mambazham, which had some scenes shot on its picturesque banks. The river has also been referenced in the movie Ennu Ninte Moideen, which depicts the tragic death of B. P. Moideen who drowned in the Iruvanjippuzha River.

Visit Iruvanjippuzha

Iruvanjippuzha is easily accessible by road and there is no fee to visit this beautiful river. The best time to visit the river is after the monsoon (November) and before the beginning of summer (March). The nearest railway station is Calicut Railway Station (28 kilometers) and the closest airport is Calicut International Airport (24 kilometers). It is highly recommended not to visit Iruvanjippuzha during monsoon as the river overflows and is dangerous.