Historic Site
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Lakkidi Gateway (Chain Tree)
The Chain Tree of Lakkidi Gateway in Wayanad, Kerala, is a large Ficus tree bound by heavy iron chains, marking the crest of the Thamarassery Ghat pass. According to historical accounts and local folklore, the tree holds the bound spirit of Karinthandan, a Paniya tribal chieftain who guided British engineers through secret mountain paths in the late 19th century. After discovering the vital trade route, the British officer murdered Karinthandan to claim sole credit, giving rise to persistent hauntings and spectral encounters along the mountain highway.