Vellagavi Village: Where Going Barefoot is the Norm

Discover the secrets of a village in southern India where the residents never wear shoes or slippers. Step into Vellagavi, a remote and captivating destination with a unique cultural tradition that has puzzled outsiders for years.

Vellagavi Village (Source: sarathythetraveler.com)

Have you ever heard of a village where no one wears footwear? Vellagavi, an isolated village in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India has astounded many people with its unique practice of not wearing any footwear. This small village of 1320 inhabitants lives by its own customs, rules, and beliefs that no one from outside can fathom. In order to preserve their culture, the locals forgo the use of shoes or slippers of any kind and even hold weddings without the bride or groom being shod. The remarkable ecosystem of this tranquil village is genuinely something worth experiencing.

With over a hundred families living there, the village likely has a strong sense of community and cultural traditions. The practice of not wearing footwear in Vellagavi is likely a cultural tradition that has been passed down for generations. The villagers view wearing footwear as being out of touch with nature and their cultural identity. As a result, they punish anyone who is found wearing footwear in the village.

The lack of roads in the village and the difficult trek required to reach it may also contribute to the villagers' commitment to their cultural tradition of not wearing footwear. The rugged terrain and lack of infrastructure may make it difficult or impractical to wear footwear, further reinforcing the practice.

Tree at the Entrance of the Village

It is not uncommon for religious or cultural traditions to dictate certain behaviours or practices. In Vellagavi village, the presence of a large tree at the entrance to the village may be seen as a sacred or significant site by the residents. As a result, they have a religious belief that prohibits them from wearing anything on their feet beyond this point.

This belief may be tied to the villagers' cultural tradition of not wearing footwear. By not wearing anything on their feet at the entrance to the village, the residents may be showing respect for the sacred tree and the religious beliefs of their community.

The presence of the tree at the entrance to the village also serves as a reminder to the residents of their cultural tradition and the religious beliefs that underlie it. It reminds the community to uphold this tradition and maintain a strong connection with nature and their cultural identity.

The inhabitants of the village are following their unspoken rule; no matter how sweltering it is, no one dares to adorn footwear. Their shared superstition states that should anyone go against this tradition, their deity will be filled with rage.

Temple When you Enter the Village

In addition to its unique tradition of not wearing footwear, Vellagavi village is also a popular destination for trekkers. The village's isolated location and rugged terrain make it an attractive destination for those looking for a challenging trek.

However, the path leading to the village is narrow and can be challenging to navigate, making it suitable only for experienced trekkers. The steep and uneven terrain can be dangerous, and one wrong move could result in injury.

Therefore, it is essential for trekkers planning to visit Vellagavi village to be cautious and take necessary precautions. This may include bringing appropriate gear and supplies, staying on the designated path, and being aware of the potential risks.

Despite its remote location and the inherent risks it brings with it, Vellagavi village is a beautiful place to explore.

The moment you arrive in the village, you'll be stunned by the majestic temples that stand at its entrance. Scattered between the houses and towards the end of the area, there are no less than 25 different temples – a true spectacle! Nature appears to fill every corner of this mesmerizing village.

However, despite the beauty of the village and the presence of many temples, there are also challenges that the residents face. The lack of basic amenities, such as roads, electricity, and access to clean water, can make daily life difficult for the villagers.

This lack of infrastructure and basic amenities may be a result of the village's isolated location and its small size. It may be difficult for the village to attract the attention of government officials and services, leading to a lack of investment in infrastructure and amenities.

A Location That Trekkers Love

Vellagavi Village (Source: Tripoto)

Temples In vellagavi Village (Source: Tripoto)