Vayakkara Village, Kannur: Hidden Gem in Kerala
Hey, let’s chat about Vayakkara village in Kannur, Kerala – this calm, green-filled place with lovely river sights, big open fields, and hills nearby that’s perfect whenever you feel like skipping the busy tourist spots.
Oh man, there are those days when all you want is to leave the jammed beaches and constant rush behind, and just find somewhere quiet where life feels easier and you can truly relax. That’s the vibe Vayakkara always gives me whenever it crosses my mind. Some folks spell it Vayakara too, but anyway you put it, it’s this sweet little village tucked away in northern Kerala that not many outsiders know about, and I bet that’s a huge reason it keeps feeling so real and peaceful. It’s sitting in Kannur district, surrounded by greenery as far as you can see, and trust me, that sense of calm washes over you pretty quick once you arrive.
A few things that stand out big time for me are the way Vayakkara has that warm, tight community where people really care about each other, plus literacy rates that are surprisingly high for a rural area like this. It’s awesome if you love nature, since there’s a river close by and hills you can get to without much effort. And if you’re after that genuine Kerala village day-to-day life without crowds shoving around, yeah, this spot could easily become your favorite.
Where Is Vayakkara Located?
Come on, let’s talk about where this nice village is actually chilling out. Vayakkara is nestled right into the Payyanur Taluk part, belonging to Kannur district up in northern Kerala. What gets me hooked every time is how it’s placed alongside the Tejaswini River, and that water just adds this relaxed, flowing feel to the whole place. It covers around 39.7 square kilometers, mostly wide-open countryside with paddy fields everywhere and those easy hills scattered about.
Geography and Nearby Areas
When I think about the land around it, I picture these soft rolling areas full of tall coconut trees moving gently, thick groves making nice rustling noises with the wind, and pretty glimpses of the river glinting down below. Towns like Cherupuzha and Pulingome are really close, and people are beginning to notice their little hill stations, spots such as Chathamangalam Hills and others. Payyanur is the bigger town not too far, around 30 or 40 kilometers maybe, and that’s where you go for markets, shops, or any usual stuff you need.
How to Reach Vayakkara
Getting yourself to Vayakkara isn’t a big hassle really, especially if you’re okay with those twisty village roads that make the trip feel more exciting. The main highway nearby is National Highway 66, close enough to connect north to Mangalore or south to Kochi depending on where you’re from. Trains work great – head to Payyanur or Kannur stations, then it’s simple to take a bus or auto-rickshaw for the last leg. If flying, Kannur International Airport is handy, about 70 to 80 kilometers out. Then regular buses from Payyanur or Cherupuzha put you right in the village center.
Population and Demographics
From the 2011 census numbers, which are still the best we’ve got, Vayakkara had about 18,687 people living in around 4,493 homes. That was roughly 8,986 guys and 9,701 ladies, so women had a small lead. It’s a place that’s grown steadily, with most families into farming or local jobs keeping things running.
Key Census Statistics
To make it clearer, the area is those 39.7 square kilometers, with 4,493 households spread comfortably. Kids under six were around 10.6 percent back then. It’s nice seeing how the stats show a stable community where women are slightly more, and everyone has long family ties.
Literacy and Community Life
I always get impressed thinking about how much Vayakkara values schooling – literacy is 94.45 percent, better than Kerala’s average. Men at 96.2 percent, women 92.8 percent. Good schools help a lot, plus places to meet up. Life has real warmth; festivals bring temple fun and gatherings that make friends closer. Days involve fields, river fishing maybe, or town trips for work.
History of Vayakkara Village
These villages all have stories linking to Kerala’s past, and Vayakkara connects to old trade paths and people moving over time. The name comes from Malayalam words probably, though not everyone knows the full tale.
Origins and Name Meaning
I like imagining the village starting by the Tejaswini River, since rivers meant everything for food and travel then. First folks might have come from central Kerala when land opened.
Migration and Development
Mid-1900s brought more families for the good soil. Roads improved, schools came, life got better. Now it’s old traditions mixed with modern links.
Attractions in Vayakkara
The charm isn’t big sites – it’s the simple nature that wins you over slowly. People come back for that easy joy.
Natural Beauty and Local Spots
Walking by the Tejaswini River gives relaxing views that ease everything. Harvest makes fields golden and beautiful, paths through groves invite wandering. Locals might show birds or fish spots – those chats are gold.
Nearby Tourist Destinations
Vayakkara base means short trips to cool places. Josegiri Viewpoint has misty hills and clouds. Cloud Garden for picnics. Cherupuzha rafting that’s fun but calm. Chathamangalam Hills easy hikes to great views. Kavvayi Backwaters near Payyanur for boat rides among islands. All 10-20 km, easy day stuff.
Challenges Facing Vayakkara
Like any real spot, there are issues locals deal with daily. Makes it feel lived in.
Environmental Issues
River and fields flood or dry sometimes. Waste improving, but remote parts still working on it.
Quarry Violations and Impact
Years ago quarries made dust and noise bother people. 2022 checks helped protect green areas. Now focusing on jobs without harming nature.
Travel Tips for Visitors
If you’re thinking go, some tips I’ve heard help a ton.
Best Time to Visit
October-March nice weather for outside. Monsoon rainy but super green if you don’t mind.
Accommodation and Local Tips
Homestays in Cherupuzha or Payyanur great for real food and talks. Try sadhya on leaf or fish curry. Modest clothes near temples. Local guide finds hidden stuff. Cash handy, signal spotty deep in. Those keep troubles away and let you enjoy.
Vayakkara as a Surname
Fun fact – Vayakara a rare surname, mostly Indian roots. Might tie to places like this. Some in science or business, no big names.
Origin and Distribution
Rare globally, mostly South India spots.
Notable People
Few pros with it, showing village folks do well out there.
Think about sitting by river in Vayakkara as sun sets over green fields – simple stuff that makes trips amazing. Maybe start planning a trip to Vayakkara for real Kerala village feel? Go easy, light pack, let calm in, could be just the break you need.
FAQs On Vayakkara
What is the population of Vayakkara village?
2011 Census had about 18,687 people in Vayakkara, 8,986 men and 9,701 women in 4,493 households over 39.7 square kilometers. Family-focused with farming and education big. Probably up a bit now with better roads and chances.
Where is Vayakkara located in Kerala?
It’s in Payyanur Taluk, Kannur district northern Kerala by Tejaswini River. Near Cherupuzha and Pulingome, around 39 km north Kannur town, NH 66 connects to Mangalore or Kochi easy.
What is the literacy rate in Vayakkara?
94.45 percent strong, above Kerala average – men 96.2 percent, women 92.8 percent. Good schools and community care make learning part of everyday here.
Are there tourist attractions in Vayakkara?
Yes, Tejaswini River nice views, paddy fields walks, nearby Josegiri Viewpoint or Cloud Garden misty hills. Cherupuzha trekking calm spots great for quiet Kerala time away crowds.
What environmental issues affect Vayakkara?
Quarries once dust noise problems, 2022 checks violations. Now more care protecting river green, smart growth keeping village natural beauty everyone enjoys.