As we arrive at the end of the Thamarassery Ghat road at Lakkidy, a cold, inviting wind embraces us, beckoning us into the captivating allure of the hill district with its diverse ethnic population and distinct culture. En Ooru, or My Village, is the state’s first tribal heritage hamlet and theme park. It is conveniently located 4 km past Lakkidy on NH 766, perched atop a hillside next to the Veterinary University.
Where is En Ooru?
En Ooru is located in Wayanad, Kerala, on a hilltop close to the Veterinary University. It’s a cultural sanctuary that unites the ethnic traditions of Wayanad’s principal tribes.
Best Time to Visit En Ooru
Throughout the day, you can explore and fully immerse yourself in the tribal culture of En Ooru, which is open to guests from 9 am to 4.30 pm. The ideal time to go would be in the pleasant weather that is characteristic of Kerala.
At “En Ooru,” an endeavor to unify the ethnic cultures of Wayanad’s major tribes, visitors can immerse themselves in the customs, artwork, music, medicine, and architecture of these many ethnic groups. Paniya, Kuruma, Kurichya, Adiya, Oorali, Kattunaikka, and Oorali Kuruma are some of these communities.
Tribal domain
We are in the true tribal realm now. Tribal youngsters operate the premium and regular Jeeps that transport you to the mountaintop, and they also act as admission guides. From the main entrance to the entry point of the heritage village, one can either take one of the vehicles provided by the organization or hike uphill for two kilometers over a winding route. The Department of Scheduled Tribes Development, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, has designed a three-phase project, two of which are finished.
Visitor access to the project began on June 3, 2022. The project, which took place on 25 acres of land, cost the state government about Rs 10 crore.
You’ll be able to escape the bustle of the city thanks to the picturesque valley and the gracefully designed community that blends in with the surroundings. The 10 tribal houses also host daily music and dance performances by different tribal tribes. The main draw of the center is a group of men from Paniya tribes performing on a Thudi, an indigenous percussion instrument, with rhythmic dance.
At the center, groups of tribal artists from different settlements showcase their tribes’ distinctive artistic forms on a daily basis. The guests are greeted with an outdoor theater, a tribal market, a tribal cafeteria, and an exhibition hall.
Owned and Operated by Tribal Communities
The first tribal historic village is special because it is run by 26 tribal chieftains from the surrounding tribal hamlets, which are dispersed across the panchayats of Vythiri and Pozhuthana. The Charitable Societies Registration Act of 1980 governs its registration. The president of the society serves as the sub-collector, and the district collector de facto chairs the advisory council.
Entry Fee for En Ooru
Even though adult admission tickets are Rs 50, child tickets are Rs 20, and the jeep service costs an extra Rs 30, this is an affordable place for anyone interested in learning more about tribal heritage and culture. The indigenous people receive a portion of the money that tourists spend here, and this contribution will undoubtedly rise after the third phase is finished.
How to Reach En Ooru?
En Ooru is 4 km away from Lakkidy and is accessible via NH 766. Traveling down the Thamarassery Ghat route is a fascinating experience, providing a view of Wayanad’s rich cultural diversity as well as scenic splendor. There are amiable guides at the gate, including young tribal people, who will lead you to the top of the hill.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you may also walk 2 kilometers uphill from the main entrance to the heritage village’s entry point.
Cost of Jeep Ride in En Ooru
In En Ooru, a jeep ride only costs 20 rupees every ride, making it a reasonably priced and practical way to go around the community. Furthermore, each person must pay an entrance charge of 50 rupees to gain access to the village’s cultural events and attractions.
The vibrant cultural legacy of the tribal groups of Wayanad is exemplified by En Ooru. It’s a rare chance for guests to fully immerse themselves in the customs, music, artwork, and way of life of the Paniya, Kuruma, Kurichya, Adiya, Oorali, Kattunaikka, and Oorali Kuruma tribes. The property is owned and run by the tribes themselves.
Plan your trip to En Ooru and have a cultural tour of Kerala’s tribal interior. Explore the customs that have endured over time and take in the splendor of tribal life surrounded by the natural world. Anyone interested in discovering Kerala’s cultural variety should make a trip here.
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Also Read : Exploring Banasura Hills: A Trekker’s Paradise in Wayanad