Watch Kerala’s Hidden Cricket Gem: A Forest Field That Looks Like the Amazon Takes the Internet by Storm
Watch Kerala’s Hidden Cricket Gem: A Forest Field That Looks Like the Amazon Takes the Internet by Storm
Tucked deep within the lush greenery of Kerala’s Thrissur district lies a cricket ground so stunningly secluded and enveloped by nature, it could be mistaken for a scene straight out of the Amazon rainforest. Nestled in Varandarappilly, this forest-shrouded field recently shot to viral fame after a drone video captured its surreal setting — an emerald oasis where cricket and wilderness coexist in perfect harmony.
The footage, shared by Instagram content creator Sreejith S, offers a breathtaking aerial view of the Palappilly ground, hidden inside the sprawling Harrisons Malayalam Plantation. The video, captioned “This is not Amazon rainforest,” showcases a game of cricket unfolding amid a sea of dense trees and thick foliage, with the natural canopy rendering the ground almost invisible from above.
Since its upload, the video has struck a chord globally, amassing over 37.6 million views. The reaction online has ranged from disbelief to admiration, with some commenters marveling, “Looks like a foreign postcard,” and others dreaming aloud about playing there just once in their lives.
A Viral Wonder in the Wild
Social media quickly lit up with awe-struck responses. “Absolutely breathtaking. Some might even think it’s AI,” wrote one user. Another chimed in humorously, “Who’s going in after the ball once it flies into the jungle?” For many, the video sparked a deep sense of wonder and nostalgia — a longing for the kind of childhood cricket that existed off the beaten path.
Sreejith, humbled by the overwhelming appreciation, later shared, “This vid blew up, but definitely it’s not my favorite drop. Hoping my real gems get this kind of love someday! Insta algo’s wild! Huge thanks for all the support, kind words, and endless likes, comments and DMs — you all make this journey epic!”
The Story Behind Palappilly’s Green Marvel
The beauty of the Palappilly cricket ground isn’t just visual — it’s steeped in history and community spirit. Set within a 100-acre rubber plantation that dates back over a century, the five-acre field was originally developed by the Harrison Malayalam company for its plantation workers. Fringed by tall trees and six striking gulmohars, the ground is hidden so well that even nearby residents were surprised by how magical it looked from above.
Accessible only via a narrow, tree-covered path, the ground remains a quiet local treasure. Its well-used pitch bears the marks of countless games and village tournaments — a sign of its enduring role in bringing the community together through sport.
A Hidden Jewel in ‘God’s Own Country’
The Palappilly ground serves as a vivid reminder that some of the most enchanting places are not found on tourist maps or travel guides — they’re discovered in the everyday lives of people, preserved by nature and community alike. While Kerala has long been celebrated for its backwaters and beaches, this forest-cradled cricket field adds a new chapter to the state’s list of hidden wonders.
Whether you’re a traveler, a cricket fan, or just someone browsing social media, this unexpected gem proves that sometimes, the most unforgettable places are the ones waiting quietly to be found.
