THE morning felt quite different from the previous days. We were heading to new places, and there was a sense of excitement in the air. With fingers crossed and hearts full of hope, we set out on our journey.
Hanging Bridge
Our first stop, on 22 Oct 2024, was Aruvikkarai hamlet, near Mathoor village, where the famous Mathoor Hanging Bridge stands tall and proud. As seen in the picture, the bridge stretches across the valley at a height of about 115 feet and runs for nearly one kilometre. Built in 1966 across the river Parazhiyar, it is said to be the longest hanging bridge in Asia.
Our first stop, on 22 Oct 2024, was Aruvikkarai hamlet, near Mathoor village, where the famous Mathoor Hanging Bridge stands tall and proud. As seen in the picture, the bridge stretches across the valley at a height of about 115 feet and runs for nearly one kilometre. Built in 1966 across the river Parazhiyar, it is said to be the longest hanging bridge in Asia.
The bridge carries a trough canal that supplies irrigation water from one hill to another. This canal is about 7 feet high and 7.6 feet wide, supported by 29 strong pillars. The structure is both impressive and functional. It was built under the leadership of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thiru K. Kamaraj as a drought relief measure and to support agriculture. Standing there, we admired not only the engineering but also the vision behind it.
Children Home
Children Home
From there, we moved to the Mentally Challenged Home at Kotticode, run by the CSI Kanyakumari Diocese. We visited the school and spent time interacting with the lovely children. Their smiles were pure and touching. We shared moments of laughter and warmth, and later had lunch together with the children. It was a humbling and meaningful experience that stayed with us.
Waterfalls
Afterwards, we travelled to the famous Thirparappu Waterfalls. As shown in the picture, many people were enjoying the cool water cascading down the rocks. The surroundings were lively and refreshing. The sound of falling water, the mist, and the greenery made the place special. We bathed in the waterfall, and it truly became one of the most wonderful experiences of the day.
Once refreshed, we geared up again and stopped at a roadside shop. There, we sipped hot tea and tasted local snacks. The simple food, served with warmth, added to the charm of the journey.
Western Ghats
Western Ghats
Our journey then took us uphill towards the Western Ghats. The view was breathtaking. Blue mountain ranges stretched far into the distance, covered with thick greenery. This region is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site because of its rich flora and fauna. The calmness of the hills and the beauty of nature filled us with peace.
At the top stood a beautiful church — the Peruncilambu CSI Church. As seen in the pictures, the church looks majestic against the backdrop of the mountains and sky. Its white structure and blue highlights blend gracefully with nature, making it a place of quiet reflection.
Kotticode Church
Finally, we reached Kotticode CSI Church, where we were warmly welcomed by the pastors. Each of us was honoured with a shawl. We, the IFE group, sang a Telugu bhajan during the brief worship service. Later, we had dinner at the pastor’s quarters inside the church compound. The fellowship, food, and shared prayers brought the journey to a peaceful and joyful close.
It was a day filled with learning, service, nature, and faith — truly a memorable journey. We extend our sincere thanks to CSI Kotticode and our field visit supervisors, Rev. Dr. David Joseph Raj and Dr. I. Sobana, of Kanyakumari Theological College.
~ BRUCE K. THANGKHAL
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