The Exotic Tropical Fruit Shops of Puliyarai
The climb to the top of the Western Ghat mountains begins at this village. It receives copious rainfall during both the monsoons and hence is full of lush greenery and rich agriculture. I am talking about the village of Puliyarai that connects the village of Shencottai in Tamil Nadu with Thenmala in Kerala. It basically connects Tenkasi district of Tamil Nadu with Thenmala, Punalur and Kollam of Kerala. It is a very popular pit stop for people traveling on this route. The reason being the exotic tropical fruits that are sold here.
This whole region in the Western Ghats is known for its locally grown exotic tropical fruits. Plantation owners in the region both in Kerala and Tamil Nadu grow exotic fruits like dragon fruit, mangosteen, pomelo (locally known as bumblimass), star fruit, passion fruit, plums, custard apple, cherries, berries, soursop, rambutan, longan, java plum, malay apple, rose apple, jelly fruit, strawberry, durian, jack fruit, beach fruit and many more. In addition, there are many fruits that grow wild in the mountains nearby. They are wild guavas, wild mangosteen and wild bananas.
The best fruit season is between May and November, but you can be rest ensured to get exotic fruits all round the year. In addition to these exotic tropical fruits, you will find many varieties of fresh locally grown vegetables too. So, if you are a sucker for tropical fruits like me, do not miss the opportunity to drop by these exotic fruit shops at Puliyarai if you happen to be in the vicinity. Some of these fruits are the best gifts you can give to your body and to your family’s health.
