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toursandjourneyworld · 2 years ago

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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN OOTY 2 DAYS

Best Places to Visit in Ooty in 2 days

Welcome to this blog best places to visit in Ooty in 2 days. I was delighted the moment I embarked on my expedition to Ooty. It started with a journey on the illustrious Nilgiri Mountain Railway, which is commonly known as the Ooty Toy train.

Toy train to Ooty

The Toy train runs from Mettupalayam to Ooty via Coonoor and covers 46 km in 5 hours. Initially, the Toy Train was pulled by a steam engine but now a diesel engine is used for the purpose. The train is operated by the Southern Railway and is the only operational Rack Railway in the country. It has a braking system inbuilt in the rail tracks which makes it unique. This braking system protects train from reverse movement on steep climb or a free fall on slopes.

The train passes through the picturesque Nilgiri Mountains and lush green forest. I was getting something new to see every 100 meters of travel. The entire area was full of green trees with the casual appearance of tea plantations or a hamlet hanging on the hill slopes.

The scenery from the train’s window was so beautiful that I desired the journey could have continued for a couple of more hours. The only noise I was able to hear in the valley was coming from my train’s engine. Every thing else in the surrounding was composed and content.

I was casually browsing through the toy train schedule and was surprised to see that the train takes 4 hrs 50 min to reach Ooty from Mettupalayam. However, the return journey from Ooty takes only 3 hrs 35 min. Then I realized that it is because of the great altitude of the Nilgiri Mountains that makes the trek more demanding for the trains to climb.

Ooty Botanical Garden-Introduction to best places to visit in Ooty in 3 days

Once at the destination, I headed straight to the hotel room to dump my baggage, catch some refreshments, and quickly move around the city. The city is so beautiful and merely walking on the street is delightful. My first point of attraction was the Botanical Garden.

The Garden has a variety of flower and plants. It is spread across 55 acres and is divided into five sections such as Italian Garden, Fern House, Lower Garden, Nursery, and a Conservatory. This garden is a must-visit point of attraction for plant and flower enthusiasts.

St Stephens Church

St. Stephan Church is famous for its architectural beauty and immense religious importance. The church has equally beautiful interiors. It is said that the timber used in the church was brought from Srinangapatna, which is 140 km away from Ooty.

Doddabetta-highlight of places to visit in Ooty in October 2 days

Doddabetta Mountain is beautiful and the highest peak in the Nilgiri Mountains. It has an observatory at the top with two telescopes available for the public. One can have magnificent views of hills, plantations, forests, tea gardens, and small hamlets from this tower.

Wax World (Art Gallery and Museum)-Funtime for Kids in palces to visit in Ooty in 2 days

If you have spare time and have had enough of natural beauty throughout the day, you may visit Wax World in Vannarapettai on Kotagiti Road. It is an art gallery and museum. Operation timing is 9:30 am to 7:30 pm and is open on all seven days. It also has beautifully carved wax statues of prominent figures.

Ooty is also famous for authentic homemade chocolates. I saw a wide variety of chocolates from dark chocolates to strawberry flavored ones, from coconut to mango flavors.

Ooty Lake-Prime attraction of best places to visit in Ooty in 2 days

Ooty Lake is an artificially created water body and gives visitors and locals some escape from the city life. Eucalyptus trees surround it and the shores are full of green bushes. It has a nominal entry fee and is open for visitors from 9 am to 6 pm on all seven days.

Also read Bangalore to Munnar road trip

Pykara waterfall and Lake

Pykara River creates Pykara fall, which converts into Pykara Lake at a short distance from the waterfall. It is situated in the north of Oort and amidst the green shola forest. This lake is the result of a dam built on the Pykara River for power generation. Boating is allowed in this beautiful lake.

My visit to the best place around Ooty

Now comes the most memorable part of my trip to Ooty. The Avalanche Lake. The Lake has derived its name from a landslide that occurred in 1823. The Lake was formed because of that avalanche and is 28 km away from the City.

I started early from my hotel room and was out of town in barely after 15 minutes of drive. Soon I was on a road amid beautiful hilly terrain. The moment I left the city, tea vegetation started following my car on both sides of the road. There were settlements seen occasionally with colorful homes on the slopes of hills like below.

This gave an indication that if the approach to Avalanche Lake is so striking then the destination must be extraordinarily beautiful. I got to a forest department checkpoint a few km away from the Lake. Vehicles are not allowed beyond this point as the Lake is situated deep inside the protected forest. The buses are available at fixed intervals and cost 200 INR per person and a Jeep is available for 2000 INR per trip. The jeep can comfortably accommodate six persons.

I boarded a bus with ten other tourists. The bus stopped after a few km for sightseeing. It was for visitors to take a few good photographs. You need to reverse below photograph 180 degree to see what my camera saw that day. 🙂

Avalanche Lake

The bus traveled leisurely for another 20 minutes. Finally, we reached the central reservoirs of The Avalanche Lake. The lake runs across hills for several kilometers. Therefore, it is vital to see it from the best perspective. I was mesmerized for a few seconds after I disembarked from the bus. I had never seen such a spectacular expanse of striking landscape ever in my life. The Lake looked incredible with blue sparkling water.

The Upper Bhawani Lake

Set amidst a magnificent setting and lush greenery, this lake is a delight for nature lovers. This is the most significant and beautiful location of the expansive Avalanche Lake. It is called the Upper Bhawani Lake. The island in the middle of the lake added splendor to the water body. However, it disappears during monsoon rain when the water level in the lake increases. So, one needs both, the clear sky and the island to experience and capture the real splendor of the Lake.

The upper Bhawani Lake is out of bounds for visitors. Therefore, one cannot go near the water body or touch and feel it as we can do in Nainital Lake or other lakes in the country. The vehicle would halt at this viewpoint barely for 20 minutes before returning to the forest check-post. Therefore, those 20 minutes were the most prized moment of my journey to Ooty.

Emerald Lake-Most beautiful among best places to visit in Ooty in 2 days.

Emerald Lake is situated in the silent valley between Avalanche Lake and the City. The name Emerald comes from the village located near the lake. This waterbody also has a dam that has created a huge water reservoir. Similar to the upper Bhawani Lake, this lake is also out of bounds for visitors. The beauty of the place needs to be admired from a distance only. The expanse of the lake is enormous and an individual cannot assess the real size or spread of the lake. We can only google and see satellite images to check the actual spread of the lake.

The Emerald Lake is famed for the scenic sunrise and sunset views. Good to see a variety of fish in the lake and birds around the place. The lake is surrounded by tea gardens where visitors can buy unprocessed tealeaves.

I choose to return via Coimbatore Airport. This called for a three-hour road trip from Ooty to Coimbatore. It was equally a great experience as the road again took me to Nilgiri Mountains, tea plantations, and dense forests. En-route this temple on the right side of the road surprised me with its unique Shiva Linga shape, so I got down from my vehicle carefully holding my camera.

#best places to visit in ooty #places to visit in ooty #Best places to visit in Ooty 2 days

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whatsonmedia · 2 years ago

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Top 6 Restaurants in India: visit to get an Indian taste!

The locals hold each of these in the highest regard. Continue reading for reviews of the top 6 restaurants in India. And that were chosen for their outstanding service, ground-breaking chefs, responsible sourcing, and innovative ingredients. There are many different Indian foods and dishes available in India restaurant and every state and region has a few unique traditional foods check below: 1. Indian Accent, New Delhi One of the most coveted restaurants in India and New Delhi is Indian Accent. Indian cuisine is masterfully created by chef Manish Mehrotra to keep its original charm while also incorporating a touch of modernism. Indian Accent is the spot to go for a memorable supper because of its butter chicken kulchas, melt-in-your-mouth Naans, delectable daals, and superbly prepared, creative desserts. Moreover, other outstanding dishes on the menu include tandoori bacon prawns, soft-shell crab with tomato chutney, and pig belly tikka, but don't forget the wasabi and cucumber Raita, raw and ripe mango Daulat ki chaat, and of course, the unique Indian Accent Kulfis. And finally, finish it off with some carrot Halwa crumble and whiskey ice cream, then sip some sparkling wine or one of Indian Accent's classic cocktails. Location> Indian Accent, The Lodhi, Lodhi Rd, CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003, India Website> indianaccent.com 2. The Table, Mumbai While transforming to reflect the expanding bounty available at the restaurant's namesake farm in Alibag, the food at The Table has stayed fairly consistent. The cuisine at this restaurant draws its influence from several nations, giving Chef Divesh Aswani the freedom to tinker with regional specialties, update age-old recipes, and try out new ingredients. Items like the boneless chicken wings, the Table salad (all of whose components are sourced from the restaurant's farm), the yellowfish tuna tataki, and the avocado toast with sourdough from sibling company Magazine Street Kitchen are among the dishes that have established themselves as menu staples. Location> The Table, Ground Floor, Kalapesi Trust Building, Apollo Bunder Marg, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400039, India Website> thetable.in 3. Bomra's, Goa Bomra's, Goa's best-kept Burmese secret, is located in the country of fish curry and feni. A short distance from Fort Aguada Road in Candolim, this casual dining establishment has gained quite a following. Although the restaurant mostly serves Burmese food, it also features elements from China, India, Laos, and Thailand. Bomra's is an outdoor restaurant operated by chef patron Bawmra Jap that features a straightforward but distinctive style. Bawmra Jap takes great satisfaction in obtaining the freshest produce from Goa's markets, and he is renowned for being a master at cleaning all that fresh fish. There is a fantastic assortment of seafood on the menu. Some of the locals' favorites include the red snapper, black pomfret, and mussels, and a very intriguing tomato salad is the ideal side dish. The pork and pomelo salad is a delicious way for meat eaters to start their lunch, while the tender tuna has been known to make grown men cry with happiness. Location> Bomra's, 247, Fort Aquada Road, Candolim, Goa 403515, India Website> bomras.com 4. Toast & Tonic, Bengaluru This Bengaluru favorite celebrates everything regional while keeping an eye on what the rest of the world is eating. Manu Chandra, the chef, never stops innovating. The components are of the highest quality, including bandel from Kolkata, Naga chillies, perilla seeds from Shillong, chocolate from Pondicherry and coffee from Coorg and Chikmagalur, tea from Munnar, and pork from Tamil Nadu. The majority of what is served on the plate is homemade, including the slices of bread, sauces and garnishes, sausages, and meats, including the crisp soft-shell crab from Bhimavaram, the soft eggs and fresh andouille sausage on sourdough toast with green mustard spread, and the smoked Bandel and gin mustard hollandaise. Location> Toast & Tonic, 14/1, Wood Street, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025, India Website> toastandtonic.com 5. Megu, New Delhi While maintaining genuine Japanese flavors, Megu reinvents traditional Japanese cuisine. Sumibi aburiyaki, a creative grilling method that employs bold ingredients imported from Tokyo's Tsukiji market and unique bincho-tan charcoal, is used to cook all dishes. The lavishly designed rooms give guests a feeling of glitz and grandeur. Start your lunch with a fresh hikiji salad, which features cherry tomatoes, edamame, and seaweed all tossed together with sweet sesame sauce. The tofu caprese, the sushi and sashimi plate, the pan-seared lobster, and the Wagyu beef on a hot stone. For vegans, the crispy asparagus covered in rice crisp is a must-try. The berry, mango, and strawberry trademark sorbets, the yuzu tart, or the wasabi cheesecake are great ways to finish your dinner and leave a taste of Japan on your palate. There is a sizable wine list with more than 600 labels, as well as 60 different varieties of the strong and delectable sake from Japan. Location> Megu at the Leela Palace, Africa Avenue, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi Website> theleela.com 6. Trishna, Mumbai When December rolls around, Trishna is always crowded with diners eager to get their fill of butter garlic crab, Hyderabadi dal, and of course, fish koliwada. Regulars who like the top-notch seafood served here throughout the rest of the year insist that their crab be brought out before it is cooked as they sip the first of many beers. Newcomers frequently ponder whether the location is just hype. All of their skepticism is dispelled with the first bite of neer dosa with fish in green masala. Location> Trishna, 7, Saibaba Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001, India Website>trishna.com Read the full article

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anselmmak · 2 years ago

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"Kodaikanal the princess of hills"

Kodaikanal,It is one of the most visited hill stations in South India. It competes with the likes of munnar which is also called the kashmir of kerala and ooty which is the queen of hills and yet the beauty and charm makes its travelers come back here for the vibe the place shares.

Kodaikanal is located in tamil Nadu state a most of the people here are of different villages as the place is mostly hills and have all its residents who are old fashioned and usually cater to the tourists who come from different countries all over the world as well as India.

Kodaikanal is mainly known for its Jungle honey and homemade chocolates of different types which are sold widely on the roads and is one of the major attractions in every town in Kodaikanal. There are alot of animals that are famous for being spotted on the ghat sections of the hills which include the famous 'Bison', 'deers', and the 'giant red squirrel' which looks like a cub. I would highly recommend people to visit Kodaikanal for its forest grown carrots as well.

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exploring2gether123 · 4 years ago

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ROAD TRIPS ARE YOU PLANNING?

Road-Trips lover have you ever planned a Road trip Yes or No?

Road trips are the most exciting kinds of holidays it is one of the best ways to satisfy your craving for adventure. India has a platter of beautiful landscapes and road trip options that will make you want to hit the road immediately.

In India, there are many beaches in Goa Palolem include canyoning, kayaking, and scuba diving. and, Morjim is one of the most secluded beaches in North Goa. It is a great place to spot a large variety of birds and Olive Ridley Turtles, hillocks, and good food. Morjim was also known as mini-Russia due to a large concentration of Russian immigrants. It is located on the northern bank of the Chapora River estuary and is a fairly quiet place owing to the nesting ground of the endangered species. Late night parties and loud music is banned here.

So let’s start the exciting tour of road tripsMumbai to Goa:

After watching the movie Dil Chahta hai, and believe me, this exactly or even better than others shown on the moon. This road through the Western ghats of an amazing view of the paddy fields coconut trees and beautiful beaches where you can hold and so in some explosive naturals beauty. popular stopovers on the way another rankala lake, panhala fort, and jyotiba Temple. Mostly unspoiled, the beaches are often flocked with foreign tourists. It is popular for white sand, a long stretch of serene beach, palm groves, and beach shacks. Also known as Paradise Beach, Palolem is considered the safest beach for swimming.

Delhi to Leh:

If you plan for Delhi to Leh road trip, on visiting one of the most beautiful places in the world it has to be Ladakh, and a road trip to Leh is on every bikers bucket list. The spectacular view of the Himalayas can lead you to gaze out of hours. The rugged landscape and the Snow clad mountains make it one of those road trips with the best views. The most common route from Delhi to Leh is via Manali the distance is a little more than 1000km and popular stopovers on the way are Manali, Jispa, and Rohtangla.

Delhi to Leh via Manali is approximately 1100 km, Leh to Delhi via Srinagar is approximately 1200 km. A round trip to Nubra valley is roughly 250 km, Pangong Lake is roughly 300 km. A journey to Tso Moriri via Chumathang and back to Leh would be roughly another 500 kilometers. you couldn’t explore Leh at its best if you aren’t visiting the famous Nubra valley in the city. There are a lot of tourist attractions in Nubra Valley to keep you entertained for a day. A super-tall statue of Lord Buddha (Maitreyi Buddha) would remind you of the preaching of peace. In this exciting Leh road trip, you visit spectacular locations. Covering a dstance of 434 km, this trip lets you understand the true majesty of Mother Nature’s creations.

Guwahati to Tawang:

Guwahati to Tawang is a beautiful destination in Arunachal Pradesh. It’s a natural Paradise for your road trip to Tawang will be filled with views of gorgeous hills, valleys, and reverse. Tawang has a beautifully unique combination of Buddhist and Tibetan culture and in the inner line, a permit will be required to visit Arunachal Pradesh.

Ahmedabad to Kutch:

Kutch Nahi Dekha to. Kuch Nahi Dekha this road trip will be through the rugged and welcoming side of Gujrat. The best route from Ahmedabad to Kutch is via NH 947 where you’ll be passing bhiram and maliya to reach Bhuj. This distance is about 400km and popular stopovers are Li’l Rann of Kutch, Morbi, and Mandvi. Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch road trip, check out Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch by road cost, route map, attraction to cover, and other important things.

Chennai to Munnar :

A road trip is for those enjoying the natural beauty. It is a beautiful hill station and full of tea and spice plantation. distance is approx 583 km and popular stopovers on the way.

It best route for a road trip to Munnar from Chennai is to take a drive via Dindigul and Udumalai and reach Munnar. The distance is almost 620km and it takes around 11 hours to reach Munnar. You can also go via Villupuram, Trichy, Theni, Bodi Ghat, and then Munnar.

From flavored tea, coffee to spices to all the essential oils, Munnar is the hub of shoppers. You can buy some Elaichi flavored tea or freshly ground coffee from the local plantations. There are homemade chocolates too that attract kids.

Route for to Munnar from Chennai is to take a drive via Dindigul and Udumalai and reach Munnar. The distance is almost 620km and it takes around 11 hours to reach Munnar. You can also go to Villupuram, Trichy, Theni, Bodi Ghat, and then Munnar. You can avoid the monsoon months and take a trip during the summer and winter seasons. On the way, you can see some beautiful waterfalls and backwaters.

https://exploring2gether.com/road-trips-are-you-planning/

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abeautykid · 4 years ago

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Why Opt Make Our Moments?

Make Our Moments is a venture that aims to offer the best touring experience for honeymoon tours to Kerala. Many couples are happy with our packages. Traveling is a pleasure when you opt Make Our Moments. Each and every traveler is revered and important. Therefore as a travel partner, we have different Kerala honeymoon packages that can be customized to guarantee what you search.

Why Is Munnar popular for honeymooners?

Munnar hill station is a hot spot for the honeymoon couples due to its constant cool and foggy climate and stunning places. The attractive sightseeing places in Munnar include Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Echo point, and Tea Museum. You can enjoy and buy homemade chocolates and freshly powdered tea in Munnar. And activities like trekking, hiking, mountain biking, boat riding, etc. are available here. Apart from activities, this is also a fantastic destination to laze around. The spice tea resort in Munnar is mostly advised for honeymoon couples.

Nature Lovers Paradise – Thekkady

Thekkady is the best place to enjoy the honeymoon trip and it is the best place to explore the alluring beauty of nature. Periyar national park is home to thousands of wild beasts and birds. This is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. You can enjoy bamboo rafting, boating etc. from Thekkady lake amid the forests. Thekkady also has spice plantations of cardamom and pepper as well as tea and coffee estates. You can buy a variety of spices from local spice shops to give gifts to near and dear ones. And before you go, try the elephant rides into the forests

Romantic Experience In Houseboat!

Enjoy an enticing houseboat ride in the backwaters in Alleppey and Kumarakom. Guests will be taken around the lagoons and streams among the forests and the outskirts of rural Kerala in the daytime. And in the night, houseboat will be held at one place in the water where the guest can lounge above the water. The boat provides Kerala traditional meals for the guests. Kerala cuisines, barbeque facilities, etc will be offered inside a houseboat. This Kettuvallam aka houseboat made of bamboos and coir is very much attractive and has all the basic facilities for home. Rooms are equipped with air condition. Travelers can enjoy the scenery of forests, mountains, and village areas on the backwaters of Kerala.

Exquisite Beaches!

Kerala has several popular beach destination in Alleppey, Mararikulam, Kovalam, Cherai etc. Kovalam is the most loved beach among these, with three adjacent beaches and bays. The lighthouse beach is the most crowded one in Kovalam. Cherai has a wonderful beach surround by long coconut trees and this place is a mix of sea and backwaters. In these palm backed attractive beaches, you can enjoy sunbathing, beach sports, watch sunrise and sunset. You can select beaches according to the mood of your trip. If you want to relax you can select the less crowded beaches and if you’re seeking for adventures, you can choose the crowded one with whole facilities. Kovalam is the best feature for adventure, Varkala is perfect to laze out, and the Marari beach in Alleppey is the serene of them all. There are several resorts that have great facilities and has a beach view in Kovalam and Cherai.

#kerala

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providenthousingprojects · 5 years ago

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Weekend Escapades Near Coimbatore

If you are in Coimbatore, and if you are a wanderer at heart, you are reading the right blog post. This small town is unbelievably close to some of the best travelling destinations in our country such as Ooty, Coonoor, Masinagudi, Palakkad, Mysore, Munnar, and Wayanad. Quench your wanderlust by exploring some of the most exquisite places in South India, every weekend.

Coonoor

Breathe in the fresh air and immerse in the immaculate nature in Coonoor, a hill station located around 68 km away (2 h 23 min via NH181) from Coimbatore. Blessed with a cool climate and luscious greenery, Coonoor is a great weekend getaway for nature lovers. Lamb’s Rock, Dolphin’s nose, Sim’s Park, Law’s Falls are some of the places you can visit in

Coonoor.

Ooty – Nilgiris

No one needs an introduction to this serene destination. Ooty is known for its beautiful climate and stunning nature. Often compared with the climate of Europe, Ooty is a favourite location of filmmakers. Homemade chocolates, cheese, and aromatic tea gardens make Ooty/Nilgiri Hills one of the most favourite weekend getaways near Coimbatore. Just 84 km away from Coimbatore, it only takes around 2 hrs 30 minutes to reach Ooty.

Pollachi

Just 44 km away from Coimbatore, this small town is abuzz with activities. Close to multiple wildlife sanctuaries and waterfalls, Pollachi is an adventurer’s dream-come-true. It offers safaris, trekking and picnic opportunities galore. The religious shrines in here are also famous. There are places in this tiny town where you can spend a night at a treehouse.

Mudumalai National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, Masinagudi

Located 113 km away (3hrs 18 mins drive) from Coimbatore, Masinagudi is beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats and Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary is set on the Mysore-Ooty highway. Nature lovers would instantly fall in love with this national park for its dense forests, rich wildlife, and beautiful birds. You can indulge in a day of trekking and birdwatching at this lovely wildlife sanctuary.

If you are lucky, you will get to see some of the rare birds such as crested hawk eagle, crested serpent eagle, hornbills, woodpeckers, red crest, mynas, owls, barbets and parakeets in here. And if you are really lucky, you will be able to spot the Indian elephant, especially tuskers as they generally keep to themselves.

Mysore

This glorious city makes for a great weekend escape for many reasons. Not only is it rich with history and heritage but also is known for its multiple tourist destinations such as its well-kept zoo, Chamundi Hills, and Karanji Lake to name a few. Around five hours (195 km) away from Coimbatore, this trip is worth every penny, we guarantee. Go during the Dasara to experience the majestic Mysore Palace in all its glory.

Coimbatore can be one of the best towns to settle down, if you’re looking to get away from the urban metro life.

Provident Housing gives you that perfect residential property of choice, whether you’re looking to invest for the future, buy a holiday home or if you’re looking to move in right away. Check out our ready to move in Provident Green Park

#Weekend Escapades Near Coimbatore #Wildlife Sanctuary Masinagudi

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traveldiariesme-blog · 6 years ago

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Must visit Places in Munnar Tour Package

Munnar, located in Kerala is a beautiful town in the majestic Western Ghats. This little hill station is breathtakingly beautiful and we cannot even portray it in a single canvas and everything here is exciting, the mist, mountains, the lush green tea gardens, waterfalls and even the wildlife sanctuaries.

Munnar has become one of the best sought after honeymoon destinations in India and its nicknamed as ‘Kashmir of South’. For the ones who are looking for a perfect and quiet getaway Munnar is an ideal choice and there are various packages that offers Munnar Tour Packages at an affordable rates.

Things to see:

Attukal Waterfalls

This mystically beautiful waterfall is located near to the Munnar town and its a main hub for all the adventure seekers and trekking lovers. It’s been one among the major waterfalls in Munnar. Monsoon would be the best season to visit this place as the falls will be at its best view during this time. And never miss out to take a dip and bath in the bottom of the falls.

Tata Tea Museum

How can we not talk about the tea gardens when it comes to Munnar. Those lush green valleys and tea gardens are the first thing that crosses our mind. This museum showcases almost everything about tea plantations and its processing starting from the early days. So it's better to visit this museum during the show timings so that you will get to know more about the tea plantations. You will also get a chance to purchase tea from there.

Wonder Valley Amusement Park

Want to take your eyes off from the nature and have some fun and adventure, Wonder Valley Amusement Park is a must see then. This is the one and only amusement park in Munnar. Kids would love this park as it has so many rides that fulfills the mind of little ones and for adults so many adventure things like rock climbing, bungee jumping, trekking and so much more are waiting for you.

Top Station

Top Station is one of the major attractions in Munnar. Plan a trek to this highest point and embrace the panoramic beauty of Munnar and also never forget to catch up the magnificent sun rise from here. The starry sky before the sun rise is breathtaking and one must get up early to be a part of this amazing view.

Top Station is very easily reachable as it is very near to the Munnar Town, buses and cabs are available all the time.

For the shopaholics Munnar won’t disappoint you either. There are many shops that offers spices like cardamom, ginger, pepper and cinnamon and of course how can you leave Munnar without getting some tea and coffee.!! Never miss the homemade chocolates too.

Munnar is really blessed with so many hotels and resorts, so find the best and affordable one and all these hotels resorts offer various packages which includes Munnar Honeymoon Packages as well.

#munnartourpackage #munnarhoneymoonpackages #keralatourpackage #makeourmomentsholidays

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wanderlustayne-blog · 7 years ago

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Munnar on a motorbike you say…

Since being in India, Brad and I have turned into quite the roadsters. Motorcycle – or a moped – is our preferred mode of transport here…

It was actually in Portugal on a family holiday where we realised that having a bike gave us even more freedom to explore. (You can read that post here).

So with this opportunity to explore outside of our current whereabouts, we have been able to go and see places we would either need to pay more for, be limited on time at or just not get the chance to see – because you just wouldn’t “go have a peek over there” if you are being driven somewhere by someone else. –

We have had several road trips the last three months here in India. Our latest trip was to Munnar. Munnar is a town in the mountains located in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is about a 4.5hr drive from Kochi and really worth a visit even if you decide not to get a bike there. There are plenty of package deals and buses etc, to get there.

Things you need before you get a bike:

There are a few things you should know and have before you attempt to get a bike in India.

FOCUS: First and foremost, you need to have your wits about you. India is an extremely chaotic country to drive in and if you are a nervous driver or have delayed reaction time then perhaps getting motorbike is not for you.

DRIVING LICENSE: Now, most places in India will probably only ask you for your regular valid home driving license. But please be aware that you should also carry with you an international driving permit, a document that, along with your driving license, allows you to legally drive a motor vehicle while abroad. The reason why I am mentioning this is that sometimes if you are not carrying one it can be used against you by the police if you get pulled over and they want a bribe from a foreigner. So do keep that in mind and maybe think about getting one for your travels. (You can apply for one easily here)

PASSPORT/ID: Once you have chosen your bike and have negotiated a good price – if you are trying to travel on a budget or just hoping to save some money, know that you can negotiate on a price per day, don’t just agree with the price they give you. You can definitely screw them down. – They will probably ask you for some sort of deposit. Sometimes it will be a cash deposit but other times it will probably just be a form of ID that they will return to you when the bike is returned.

And that is literally it, with these three things you can get a motorbike just like that.

** Please make sure you hire a bike from a reputable shop, make sure you can trust that they are giving you a decent vehicle and at a fair price. – Some places may even look after your bags until you return if you are going for a few days like we did. –

If you are looking for a good place then head over to Ocean’s Pride Tours on Rose Street, Fort Kochi.

They gave us Royal Enfield Himalayan bike that was in excellent condition at a very reasonable price and they also looked after our stuff.

3 Day Itinerary For Munnar

We spent three days in Munnar, and for me, that felt like the perfect amount of time to spend there but of course, it’s entirely up to you and what you want to do there.

The 3 day itinerary that I am going to share with you is just locations that you can reach on your bike around Munnar and the Idukki District which are completely free to visit. No tours or treks, just landscapes, nature and a whole lot of adventure! –

– If you are taking a bike, you can also reach these places by car, taxi or tuctuc. Whatever you decide 🙂 –

Day 1

Day 1 includes the drive from Kochi, it took us about 5 hours on the way there more or less with a few pits stops for tea and snacks.

Attukal Waterfall: Halfway up the mountain en route to Munnar there is an amazing waterfall on the right-hand side of the road. You can’t miss it. At this time of year (March), the water isn’t very abundant but it is still quite a spectacle regardless! I can only imagine what it would look like during or just after the monsoon season.

Munnar Centre: Once you finally reach Munnar and find a place to stay, – I would recommend staying somewhere outside of the center, it will be cheaper and more peaceful, we stayed at Maharaja Country Resort Hotel – then you can explore the center. It is noisy, smoggy and crowded. But what city in India isn’t? There are lot’s of shopping areas here, there is a lot of homemade chocolate you can buy. – I went to the first place and tried to negotiate on a cheaper price but he didn’t budge. Later I found a place that sold more chocolate for less than what I paid! So make sure you look around first before you commit to buying from anyone. –

We spent the later part of our day exploring our surroundings and planning what we wanted to do for the next two days driving West until it was nearly sunset and heading home for dinner.

Day 2

One of the staff at our guesthouse recommended a route for us to take on day 2 which I am going to share with you all. It was full of so many incredibly beautiful views and it was just an all-round amazing ride which took us all day.

Tea Plantations: As you begin your journey you are welcomed by the mass of tea bushes that will be the main view of the day but trust me, it does not get old! It is just so amazing to look at and you wind through the hills through villages and settlements that you can stop in for tea or just admire whie you drive through them. These tea plantations are over 150 years old, they are just truly incredible to look at.

Manakulam: The drive through the plantations is quite long maybe an hour and a half or so. Eventually, you will reach a dirt road which will take you through some younger plantations, maybe 20 years or so. You will know you have reached them when the bushes are cut into rows rather than the abstract way they were cut before. Between the plantations, there are some villages. We stopped in Manakulam for lunch. Make sure you get there before 2pm, they stop serving the infamous banana leaf thalis at that time. It’s cheap, and all you can eat. Winning.

Perumbankuthu Waterfalls: After lunch, keep heading down the route towards Anakkulam which I will tell you about next. Before you get there, you will reach the most incredible waterfall that is something not to be missed. Brad and I spent some time there, we had it all to ourselves. It had a pool at the top of the immense waterfall where we swam, it then cascaded over the edge onto the most incredible view of the jungle.

Perfect spot for photos and to gaze out and appreciate the fact you are alive and looking at this…

Anakkulam: If you come back on yourself after the waterfall then go left down the mountain instead of back up towards Manakulam you will reach Anakkulam, a small village resting on a grassy plane with running water that is occasionally visited by wild elephants. -If you go there in the evening you might even catch a glimpse! –

A Different Route Home: When it’s time to go home, instead of heading back up the hill towards the 20-year-old tea plantations take the right exit for another route home. It runs parallel to a waterfall and the river at the bottom of it. You will then drive through a small village where you can stop for tea and a snack if you want then the rest of the ride takes you right back to the beginning!

This will be a really fun day, explore, take your time and enjoy!

Day 3

On our final day, we drove North to further explore where we initially went on our first day which I mentioned earier. Below I am going to share with you the locations we found, all completely free for you to enjoy but there are options of paid attractions if you so wish. You will be blessed with incredible mountain views draped with fog and sprinkled with tea bushes for most of your journey, there are some tea factories you can visit if you want a tour and also a chocolate factory too. (these of course are attractions you must pay for)

If there is one request I may make, please for the love of all innocent creatures, DO NOT visit the elephant park. I do not and will not EVER advocate or support the capture and exploitation of wild animals for our entertinment. It is cruel and wrong. Please, if you are an animal lover and care about their safety just stay away from anything of this nature. – When we were in Thailand a few years ago, we went to what we thought was an elephant sanctuary (it could well be…) but we were not comfortable there and we left that day instead of the three days that we planned because they were forced to do tricks and be in certain areas at certain times to fit the schedule of the sanctuary rota that was made for us. It just seemed all very forced and not very “sanctuary” like at all. –

If you are going to do a santuary visit, please do your dudiligence before going. Make sure they are legit and that the animals are in fact rescued and properly cared for and not just there for our entertinment.

Anyway… Below is the route that we took on our last day. It’s pretty much the same road there and back. Take your time, you will really feel close to nature on this ride and you even get to the bordering line of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Munnar Colony: When we drove North on our frist day we noticed a colourful hillside village whcih we decided to explore on our last day. It turned out to be the village of Munnar, – so the noisy, smoggy centre wasn’t actually Munnar itself just the touristic hub of the area.

Mattupatti Dam: There are a few things to do here, shooting games after the dam, stops for tea/coffee, shops for chocolate and souvenirs. After the dam there is a huge mass of water. You can go boating, picnicking and even go for a walk in the reserve forests in the surrounding areas. It’s absolutely stunning and some of the views even reminded me of the English countryside.

Echo Point: Still part of the lake and just after the dam you will find a spot called Echo Point. You can pay to see the attraction, which we didn’t do ourselves but there are other areas where you can still experiment with your best screams for a good drawn out echo!

Pampadumchola National Park: After the lake, just keep driving on the same road for about an hour. You will drive through even more tea plantations, more mountain views and, forest. There are some sad sights of deforestation but I guess they are removing the trees to plant more tea bushes. Eventually, you will hit some epic views where the tips of mountains are peeking out from beneath the blanket of fog. You will reach a national park at the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. You can pay to go into a tower for picture taking and gazing. We just had a tea, watched the monkeys and went for a walk.

The way home is the exact same route, so if there are any places you missed you can revisit them on the way back!

I hope you guys enjoyed the post and for some of you it provides you with a nice plan for a ride and a few days out in Munnar. Let me know what you got up to in the comments below!

Until The next post x

Traveling Around Munnar On A Motorbike – India Munnar on a motorbike you say... Since being in India, Brad and I have turned into quite the roadsters.

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anoop40-blog · 5 years ago

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Leading travel agent from Kerala

Munnar packages and sight seeing option

Munnar hotels and resorts

Munnar is a town and hill station in the south-western Indian state of Kerala's Idukki district. Munnar is located in the western Ghats mountain range at an altitude of about 1,600 meters (5,200 ft) above mean sea level. Munnar is also called South India's "Kashmir," and is a popular destination for honeymoons.

Munnar in Kerala is such a beautiful place that can't be represented in a single canvas. Everything and anything is going to make us happy here. Hills, mist, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, tea groves, uncommon flora and fauna.... It is a beautiful tea town in Kerala district of Idukki within easy access from Kochi and Coimbatore. The majestic hill station is ideally situated in India's South Western Ghats. With an area of about 557 sq km, Munnar is the largest panchayat in Kerala at Devikulam Taluk.

This place is a paradise for shopaholics whether they're tea or spices. From here you can gather various spices such as ginger, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, clove, nutmeg etc. Don't miss out on the homemade chocolates. Enjoy the nuts in sugar, cool, packed liqueur, and chocolates. Munnar is blessed with lots of resorts and hotels that will satisfy your every need. You can also find affordable and inexpensive hotels among these resorts, which best suits you. All of these hotels and resorts will give you a range of packages such as honeymoon packages, Munnar Tree Houses, family packages, etc. and will help you experience Munnar beautifully.

For Munnar honeymoon packages , Munnar packages,Tree houses in Munnar,Hotels and resorts in Munnar please visit our website https://thetravelandtour.com/munnar-tour-packages

Four exclusive self-contained tree houses were carefully chiseled into the thick plantation. Giving honeymooners privacy and the much-needed seductive ambience. Set as high as 60 feet from the ground, magnificent panoramic views from the tree house welcome couples at every nook and corner.

If you haven't, by any chance.Packed passion before leaving home, you will most likely find it here at the tree house of the Dream Catcher.

Both tree houses are fitted with modern bathrooms with 24 hours h/c water, 100% power backup, table & chair writing, intercom, television, guest supplies and balconies. Tree house in Munnar-The travel and tour

Instructions to be followed in Tree house

· Food will be served in Tree House with additional service charge

· Away from the main Building

· Tree Houses are at an altitude up to 20 to 60 ft from the ground

· The approach is only through staircase / hang bridge

· Kids are allowed in Tree house

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About Goa - We are the leading tour operators at Goa

Goa may even be a state on India's southwest coast within the area known as the Konkan, albeit geographically separated by the Western Ghats from the Deccan Highlands. It is surrounded to the north by the Indian states of Maharashtra, and the east and south by Karnataka, with its western coast forming the Arab Sea. It is India's smallest state by area and therefore the fourth-smallest by population. Goa has the very best GDP per capita among all Indian states,[6] two and a half times that of the country.[7] it had been ranked the best-placed state by the 12 Indicators was funded by the Eleventh Finance Commission for its infrastructure and rated highest by the National Commission on Population for the single quality of life in India. Goa tour packages-leading operator holidays vacation

Panaji is the capital of the state while Vasco da Gama is its largest town. The historic city of Margao also retains the cultural influence of the Portuguese, who first landed as traders in the first 16th century and soon afterward invaded it. Goa was an ancient Portuguese town.

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A large number of international and domestic tourists visit Goa each year for its white sand beaches, nightlife, places of worship and architecture listed as a World Heritage Site.Because of its position on the western Ghats range, it has rich flora and fauna, a hotspot for biodiversity.

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Kerala honeymoon packages

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The travel and tour packages are the right choice for you if you're looking for a memorable Kerala journey. The travel and tour offers the widest range of customizable Kerala tour from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai or Bangalore to suit any form of traveler. Discover Kerala with unsurpassed deals and discounts from over 325 tour packages. Experience the major sightseeing points of Kerala with the collection of experiential tours and activities included in the Kerala tour packages for travel and tour. Whether it's a short trip or a long itinerary, a relaxing holiday or an adventure holiday, whatever your travel tastes, you can choose from the right Kerala holiday tours. Looking to enjoy yourself? Don't forget to check out our luxurious Kerala tour packages offering the best of Kerala holiday hotels and inclusions. If you want to learn more about traveling Kerala like the best time to visit Kerala, how to get to Kerala, stuff to do in Kerala and so on. Kerala tour packages-Honeymoon Packages-Tour Operators. You can reach us by Kerala tour operators from Bangalore,Kerala Tour Operators from Delhi,Kerala Tour Operators from Mumbai,Kerala Tour Operators from Kolkata,Kerala Tour Operators from Ahmedabad,Kerala Tour Operators from Chennai

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A few features that identify Kerala as one of India's most popular tourist destinations are the lush green tea plantations, serene winding backwaters and spice plantations. Popular as God's Own Country Kerala is a refuge away from the concrete jungle for travelers who come here to relax in the salubrious climates. Kerala is a sight for sore eyes in a state where topography varies from cool hills to balmy beaches. Here is a list of places for all those who visit this tropical paradise that are a must-see.

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mchocolatefactory · 2 years ago

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The Best Place for Homemade chocolates in Kerala.

If you’re a chocolate lover, then you’re in for a treat when you visit Munnar. This beautiful hill station in Kerala is not only famous for its tea plantations and scenic beauty but also for its delicious homemade chocolates. And when it comes to finding the best homemade chocolate manufacturers and suppliers in Munnar, the Munnar Chocolate Factory is the perfect place to visit.

Located in the heart of Munnar, the Munnar Chocolate Factory is one of the best chocolate shops near Munnar. The store offers a wide range of chocolates made from the finest cocoa beans sourced from different parts of the world. The chocolates are handcrafted using traditional methods, and the ingredients used are of the highest quality.

The Munnar Chocolate Factory is known for its homemade dark chocolate in Kerala. Dark chocolate is rich, creamy, and has a smooth texture that melts in your mouth. The chocolate is made with a high percentage of cocoa and is free from any artificial additives or preservatives. The store also offers a range of milk chocolates, white chocolates, and flavored chocolates that are equally delicious.

The Munnar Chocolate Factory is run by a team of expert chocolatiers who have years of experience in making chocolates. They use traditional techniques and modern equipment to create chocolates that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The store has a modern production unit where the chocolates are made, and you can even witness the process of chocolate making.

The Munnar Chocolate Factory is not only a treat for your taste buds, but also for your eyes. The store has a beautiful interior with colorful displays of chocolates and cocoa beans. The aroma of cocoa fills the air, making it a delightful experience for chocolate lovers.

If you’re looking for the best chocolate shop near Munnar, then the Munnar Chocolate Factory is the place to be. The store offers a range of chocolates that are perfect for gifting your loved ones. You can also purchase chocolates in bulk if you’re planning to host a party or an event.

In conclusion, if you’re a chocolate lover and are visiting Munnar, then a visit to the Munnar Chocolate Factory is a must. The store offers the best homemade chocolates in Munnar, and the experience of witnessing the chocolate-making process is truly unforgettable. So, head over to the Munnar Chocolate Factory and indulge in some delicious chocolates that will leave you wanting more.

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makeourmomentsblog-blog · 6 years ago

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The Offbeat Side Of Mystical Munnar

Munnar is one of the best and wonderful tourist destination in Kerala. The place is located at the confluence of three mountain streams such as Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Seeing the sprawling tea plantation makes our mind joy. The land is blessed with beautiful hills, pristine lakes, green valleys, and exotic aromatic spices. When we reach there we can see that the trees were swayed with tenacity. The low-lying monsoon clouds engulfed the hills and slopes in a white luminous blanket. We can enjoy the cool breezes and sweeping mist of Munnar that remind us. Many people visit this beautiful hill station throughout the year. Cheap Munnar Honeymoon Tour Packages offer a wonderful journey to us with comfortable rates. It is one of the top honeymoon destinations in Kerala.

Many beautiful places are there to see in Munnar. We cannot portray the charming beauty of Munnar in a single canvas. Anything and everything will attract us a lot. When we visit there never forget to buy homemade chocolates because they are available here at cheap rates. Aromatic spices that available in Munnar are cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, tea, coffee, and pepper. We may think that what makes Munnar more popular. One of the most popular attractions that we can see only in Munnar is beautiful flower Neelakurinji. It makes Munnar pride to the World. This flower will bloom once in every 12 years and makes the hill blue in color.

Nilgiri Tahr a rare mammal can also be seen in Munnar. It is found in Eravikulam National, the first national park in Kerala. Majestic tea plantation is the third attraction in Munnar. We can have a cup of tea from fresh tea leaves. Many pine trees can also be seen here. Many beautiful and stunning places are there to be seen in Munnar. Each place in Munnar gives a new experience to us. Munnar is a protected area for flora and fauna. The beautiful Munnar cordially welcomes visitors by rolling out sprawling tea plantation and green valleys.

Best and Beautiful Three Places in Munnar.

We can explore the stunning beauty of Munnar in a single word. Every place in Munnar is attracted by us. Each place in Munnar has its own beauty that we cannot portray in our single canvas but we have to experience it. Among the best three are

Top Station

One of the topmost tourist attracted places in Munnar is the top station. It is located some 40 km from Munnar. When we reach there we can see the magnificent sight of our neighboring state Tamil Nadu. It is located at the topmost point of Kundala Valley Railway and hence this place is called as the Top station. Many people visit this place with their near ones. It is one of the favorite honeymoon locations for honeymooners. We can capture the beauty of nature. We may think that the clouds are going to cover us. It is a beautiful experience for us.

Kundala Lake

Kundala lake is one of the top tourist attractive places in Munnar. Many people visit this places with their near ones. The lake is surrounded with green valleys, pine trees and while you are in boating you can see the animal-like elephants, deer are coming near to the river valley for drinking. The main attraction in Kundala lake is Shikara boating which we can only see in Kashmir now Munnar is also called as "Kashmir of South India". Many people suggest shikara boat ride because it gives another experience to us.

Attukad Waterfalls

Everyone likes waterfalls very much. When water falls towards the downstream it will give us a mental refreshment. One of the prime attractions in Munnar is Attukad Waterfalls. It is one of the best waterfalls in Munnar. Around thousands of people will visit this beautiful place. When the cold waterfalls towards our body make stunning experiences to us.

The beauty of Munnar is endless. Sometimes we don't know where to start and where to end. Many beautiful places are there to be seen in Munnar. Varieties of birds, bees and animals can also be seen there. Best Munnar Tour Packages For Family offer a wonderful journey to us with comfortable rates. When a tourist visit to Kerala cannot complete without seeing in and around Munnar. Never forget the fairy town of Munnar because they will stupefy you with its dazzling kaleidoscopic visions of nature. So, guys come and discover the fascinating magic of Munnar with our near ones. If you looking for a Munnar Tour Packages anywhere in India. Best to choose Munnar Tour Packages of Make Our Moments. One of the best travel partner in Kerala. For more information please visit us: https://makeourmoments.com/ contact +91 9745599940, +91 9995-900-600

Also, read our related blogs about:

Exploring and Staying In Munnar

Best Location to Visit in Munnar

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tourismhub-blog · 7 years ago

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Munnar, Idukki, Kerala Everything You Need to Know

Munnar, Idukki, Kerala

Munnar - breathtakingly beautiful - a haven of peace and tranquility - the idyllic tourist destination in God's own country. Set at an altitude of 6000 ft in Idukki district, Munnar was the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days. Unending expanse of tea plantations pristine valleys and mountains exotic species of flora and fauna in its wild sanctuaries and forests aroma of spice scented cool air yes! This beautiful destination has all these and more. It's the place you would love to visit it's the place you would wish never to leave.

Munnar rises as three mountain streams merge - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picturesque towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Munnar is such a beautiful place in Kerala, which cannot be portrayed in a single canvas. Everything and anything here will make us excited. The hills, the mist, the valleys, the streams, the waterfalls, tea plantations, rare flora and fauna.... It is a beautiful tea town in Idukki district of Kerala easily accessible from Kochi and Coimbatore. The gorgeous hill station is ideally placed in the South Western Ghats of India. With an area of around 557 sq km, Munnar in Devikulam Taluk is the largest panchayat in Kerala.

Greenery, Mountains covered with tea plantations, forests, wild life, valleys, trekking and mountains are the memories that comes in when you hear about best places to visit in Munnar . With a view that inspires painters and artists who view the lakes and verdant tea gardens, Munnar has lot of places that is a must visit when you go for a Munnar Honeymoon package.

Refreshing breeze, mountains covered with mist and acres of tea plantations, beautiful valleys and mud roads between tea gardens and some adventurous ride through the hair pin curves would definitely be enthralling to anyone, and that is exactly why Munnar is one among the most loved hill stations in India and Munnar Tourism is well known. Stretched along the Western Ghats, this ‘hill range’ as it is widely called, has many breathtaking sights and landscape perfect for honeymoon and even for a family vacation.

Munnar in local language Malayalam translates into Three rivers and the name would have originated from the fact that this hill station which was the erstwhile summer capital of British was located in the confluence of three rivers.

Munnar was the summer capital of the British in southern India. Munnar was developed to cultivate tea plants by British although it was first discovered by Scottish planters. Munnar is located at the confluence of three mountain streams Mudra puzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.

Once, Munnar was the summer resort of the British government in South India. There is much more about Munnar that simply cannot be put in words. We totally informed about this magnificent hill retreat before embarking on a tour. Munnar is also known as the Kashmir of Kerala. The formal history was wrote since the 10th century; the first British who visits the area was the Duke of Wellington, in 1790, during the British Raj, at the same time also migrated to Munnar and nearby places was occupied by them.The Munnar history began in the prehistoric, so prove the relics discovered around the area point of Stone Age civilization. A British lawyer and tea planter leased close to 600 sq. km of land around Munnar, which was then covered with thick jungle, from the Poonjar chief, a subordinate of the Maharaja of Travancore. He then cleared the jungle for Tea plantations. Then in 1983 James Finlay Group sold their remaining share holdings and the company became known as Tata Tea Ltd., the largest integrated tea company in the world. This land was later known as Kanan Devan (Kannan Thevar) Concession Land. Later in 1895, Messrs Finlay Muir & Company bought Munro's land and in 1976 Tata-Finlay Ltd. purchased it

One of the main attractions of Munnar Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana) is a shrub that used to grow abundantly in the shola grasslands of Western Ghats in India. The Nilgiris, which literally means the blue mountains, got its name from the purplish blue flowers of Neelakurinji that blossoms gregariously once in 12 years. And the another attraction in Munnar is The Nilgiri Tahr. The Nilgiri Tahrs are stocky goats, The western Ghats run along the West coast of South India.

The rolling hills around Munnar, South India's largest tea-growing region, are carpeted in emerald-green tea plantations, contoured, clipped and sculpted like ornamental hedges. The low mountain scenery is magnificent – you’re often up above the clouds watching veils of mist clinging to the mountaintops. Munnar town itself is a scruffy, traffic-clogged administration centre, not unlike a North Indian hill station, but wander just a few kilometers out of town and you’ll be engulfed in a sea of a thousand shades of green.

Munnar got its name from its strategic location at the confluence of three rivers – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala Rivers. 'Moonu' means 'three' and 'Aru' means 'river'. The region is placed at a height of around 1,500 m to 2,695 m above sea level and was once the summer capital of the British in South India. Later it was developed for cultivating tea plants. The beautiful sights of acres and acres of lush green tea plantations will make us realize that we have at last reached Munnar and of course the place is so much known for its tea estates. It always carries the remnants of history of tea cultivation in Kerala. Neelakurinji or Strobilanthus has special status in the tourism map of this fascinating destination. The flower which blooms once in twelve years attracts lots of tourists from all over the world.

Eravikulam National Park and the Nilgiri Tahr is considered to be the icon of tourism in Munnar. The national park is also famous for its Neelakurinji population. In 2006, the place witnessed the rush of tourist both domestic and international to sight the rare flowers. Now we have to wait till 2018, to watch the same rush, to see the gorgeous blooming of the flowers after long 12 years. At this place, you can witness the highest peak in South India, Anamudi. A trekking to this peak will no doubt energise you. When you stand yourself on the top of this peak, you will feel that you are standing very close to the sky and very soon you can touch the sky. The lovely Devikulam Lake; Kolukkumalai (the highest tea plantation in the country); the waterfalls like Lakkam, Attukal, Nyayamakad, Chinnakkal, Kuthumkal, Cheeyapara, Valara and Thoovanam; the 'cattle village' or Mattupetty etc makes Munnar the abode of nature.

The unending expanse of tea plantation on both the sides of the widening roads this tiny hill station Munnar looks like a picture-book town where there are manicured gardens and widening lanes. Munnar is a great holiday destination in Kerala loved by many travellers and reasons to visit Munnar are endless. You can feel the presence of serenity amidst the popular tourist attraction around Munnar and experience the destination to cherish for your lifetime.

For shopaholics, this destination is a heaven – whether tea or spices. You can collect various spices from here like ginger, cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, clove, nutmeg etc. Don't miss the homemade chocolates here. Enjoy the white, dark, liqueur filled and chocolates with nuts. Munnar is blessed with lots of resorts and hotels, which will cater all your needs. Among these resorts you can also find affordable and cheap hotels, which suits you the most. All these hotels and resorts will offer you various packages like honeymoon packages, family packages etc and will help you to explore Munnar in a perfect way.

Perched at an elevation of 1600 m above the sea level, Munnar holds the secret of producing India's best tea and spices. Enchanting hills of Munnar holds the spellbinding effect of a lush and peaceful environment around. This must visit place Munnar was once the tiny retreat of the English people who ruled in South India. And also this hill station has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origin of tea.

Visitors can see genesis and growth of tea at the Tea Museum. The museum houses photographs, machinery and various other things which speak about the history and origin of tea plantation in Munnar. Besides, for best places to see in Munnar, one of the best ways is by taking the cycle tour of the region.

Hire a cycle and explore the manicured tea plantation, enjoy gushing waterfalls, explore shimmering lakes and spot an animal called the Nilgiri Tahr at the Eravikulam National Park of Munnar. For gratifying sightseeing tours in Munnar, tourist should go for a pleasurable boat ride to Mattupetty dam; it is also famous for its dairy farm which is managed by Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. Here one can see a variety of high-yielding cows as well.

Munnar plays a key role in India's spice plantation industry by growing spices like cardamom, cinnamon; nutmeg, ginger, and turmeric are produced in abundance here. Munnar tour will offer you with sights like waterfalls in Kerala which are found to be most spectacular in India. Popular Munnar tourism attractions that you can find in leisure are Kerala's most amazing waterfalls like- Attukal, Cheeyappara, and Valera. The bigger they are, the harder they fall, feel the power of the Kerala's mightiest and most beautiful waterfalls. A tour in Munnar’s splendid gushing waterfalls and reservoirs is an unforgettable experience. Munnar's greenery and cool air draw streams of honeymooners and weekenders from many metropolitan cities of South India.

Munnar is an idyllic escape into the natural wonders of God's own country, Kerala. As soon as the dusk stretches into the silence of the night, one can feel the presence of serenity and peace in the middle of nowhere, an experience that can't be explained in few words. Munnar is a lowland hill station whose scenery is magnificent. With its drowsy little bungalows, Munnar is one of the unique hill stations in India, which holds the old world colonial charm. You can indulge in other top tourist attractions in Munnar like Attukal Waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Hydel park, Munnar Tea Museum to name a few.

The south-west state of India, Kerala is one of the major tourist destinations in the country with its silvery coast, serpentine backwaters, coconut grove swaying to the south-west wind and Western Ghats covered in aromatic spice and tea plantation. There is no dearth of places to see in Kerala and Munnar is one such place. Located at about 5,200 ft above the sea level, Munnar is a beautiful hill station in the district of Idukki, Kerala. Once the summer resort for the British,

Munnar is known for its pleasant climate and pristine beauty. The rolling hills covered in mist intersected by the winding road, the dark emerald green coloured plantation and the few lone houses in midst of it will instantly make you fall in love with this place. Munnar is a very popular destination among the honeymooners. It is also an ideal place for nature lovers, wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. You can indulge in boating, trekking and paragliding. Munnar is the perfect place to hang your shoes and just soak in the calm and relaxing atmosphere.

Munnar Geography

One of the most popular hill stations in India, Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Located at 1600 Mts above sea level, this was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India

Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, trekking and holiday facilities make Munnar a unique experience. Munnar is essentially a tea town. The tea plantations have now been taken over by the Tata Tea Company. The visitor is greeted with miles and miles of unending tea plantations on entry into Munnar. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji a flower which bathes the hills in blue colour once in twelve years. The Neelakurinji, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India - Anamudi - which towers over 2695 Mts and is an ideal spot for campers who like to do some trekking.

The Duke of Wellington is reputed to have been the first European visitor to Munnar, in 1790, but this is unlikely. In the early 19th century, the headman of the villages of Anchanad, just to the North of the high ranges was named Kanan Thevar. It is said that travelers from Madurai to the West coast passed through these villages and named these hills after him.

An entry in the diary of Madras army Lieutenant made in 1817 describes a bullock-road heading across the Kanan Devan hills into Coimbatore.

In 1877-79, the Poonjar Chief, a subordinate prince to the Maharaja ofTravancore, leased a large tract of land comprising 588 sq. km. to a lawyer in the employee of the Travancore Government named J. D. Munro. This tract, henceforth called the Kanan Devan Concession Land, was completely undeveloped, largely unexplored, and covered with thick jungle full of wild elephants and tigers.

In Conjunction with Munro and H. G. Turner of the Madras Civil Service was founded the North Travancore Land Planting and Agricultural Society, whose members developed their own estates in various parts of the High Ranges. This first cultivation was undertaken by A. W. Turner near Devikulam lake in 1877. The pioneers tried many crops such as coffee, cinchona, sisal and cardamom before discovering tea, the product best suited to the area.The first tea plant was planted by A. H. Sharp at Parvathi, now in Sevenmullay estate, but then a 20 hectares (50 acres) clearing in an immense jungle. In 1893-95, the concession area was purchased by Muir and Co. which later became James Finlay & Co. Ltd.

The original route to the Anamellen's was cut out of the jungle in 1858 by Congreve and Macpherson, and it led to what are now Veloine & Valparai Estates. The first plantation was 20 hectares (50 acres) of coffee put out in 1897 by "Carver" Mersh. E. J. Martin introduced tea a few years later and cardamom, cinchona and rubber were also added. The latter has now been mostly abandoned.

The Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company was formed in 1897, and together with other subsidiaries of the Glasgow, UK - based Finlays Group, namely, the Anglo-American Direct Tea Trading Company and the Amalgamated Tea Estates Company it opened or came to purchase 33 estates in the high range and 9 in the the Anamallais.

In 1964 a collaborative venture between Finlays and Tatas was established to develop value-added tea, and in 1976 Tata-Finlays Ltd purchased the black tea producing/marketing operation and other interests. The name of the company was changed to Tata Tea Ltd. in 1983 when Finlays sold their remaining share holdings including the considerable landholdings and manufacturing facilities in Northeastern India. Tata Tea Ltd. justifiably claims to be the largest integrated tea company in the world, with activities spanning the entire spectrum of the industry.

Munnar History

The early history of Munnar is not perfectly known today. The early inhabitants of the region are members of the Muthuvan tribal community. However, it remained a wild and unexplored landscape till the later half of 19th century when ambitious planters from as far as Europe started plantations here.

Plantation era

Munnar came to be known to the outside world in the 1870s with the visit of the British Resident of the then Travancore kingdom John Daniel Munro. Munro, who visited the place as part of settling the border dispute between Travancore and the nearby state of Madras literally fell for the beauty of the region. Though the Munnar region fell under the jurisdiction of the Travancore kingdom, it was the jenmam land of Poonjar royal family. Since it was a ‘jenmam land’ the royal family enjoyed absolute powers over the land as the landlord. Wayanad Homestay

The history of Munnar has roots into the prehistoric period and to the stone ages, but the written history actually begins from 900 AD onwards. Tamilians in large numbers migrated to Munnar and nearby places during the war period of Pandia rulers. They crossed the woods and climbed up the steep hills with bundles on their backs and they got the name 'Muthuvans'. There was no transport facility or even permanent paths and Munnar was an isolated forest area. The British came to this place to exploit the scope for agriculture. The High Ranges was earlier known as the Kanan Devan Hills, the name having been derived from a certain native chief, Kanan Thevar who had been a landlord in the Anchanaad Valley on the eastern side of the district. It is said that travellers from Madurai to the West Coast, who used to pass through his villages, had named these hills after him.

In 1877, the Poonjar Raja or Chief conveyed a large tract of land, measuring 588-sq. km. to one J.D. Munro, a lawyer in the employ of the Travancore Government. This tract, called the Kanan Devan Concession Land, was at that time undeveloped, largely unexplored and covered with dense jungle-an undisturbed abode of wild elephants and tigers. In conjunction with A.W. Munro, H.G. Turner of the Madras Civil Service founded the North Travancore Land Planting & Agricultural Society, whose members developed their own estates in various parts of the High Ranges. A.W. Turner undertook the first cultivation near the Devikulam Lake in 1877. These pioneers tried growing many crops, such as coffee, cinchona, sisal and cardamom, before discovering tea, the crop best suited to the area. The first tea was planted by AH Sharp at Parvathi, now in Sevenmallay estate, but then a 20-hector clearing in an immense jungle. In 1895, the Concession Area was purchased by Finlay Muir and Company, which subsequently became James Finlay and Company Ltd. The original route to the Annamallais was hacked through the jungle in 1858 by Cogreve and Macpherson, and it led to what are now Velonie and Valparai Estates. The first Plantation was one of 20 hectors of coffee, set-up in 1897 by "Carver" Marsh. E.J. Martin introduced tea a few years later, and cardamom, cinchona and rubber were also added. The latter crops have now been mostly abandoned. The Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company was established in 1897, together with the other subsidiaries of the Glasgow-based Finlay Group, namely the Anglo-American Direct Tea Trading Company and the Amalgamated Tea Estates Company. It opened or came to purchase 33 estates in the High Range and 9 in the Anamallias. In 1964, a collaborative venture between the James Finlay Group, the pioneers in Tea cultivation, and the Tatas, the pioneers in Indian Industry, was initiated to develop value-added Teas and in 1976 Tata-Finlay Ltd. purchased the black tea producing/marketing operations and other interests. The name of the company was changed to Tata Tea Limited in 1983 when the James Finlay Group sold their remaining share holdings, including the considerable hectorage and manufacturing facilities in north-eastern India. Today, Tata Tea Ltd. is the largest integrated Tea Company in the world, with activities spanning the entire spectrum of the industry.

Munro had a great interest in plantation. Of the several hills in the region, he found the Kanan Devan hills with high potential for plantation crops. Without wasting any time Munro visited the Poonjar Palace and met the then head of the royal family, Rohini Thirunal Kerala Varma Valiya Raja, fondly called as Kela Varma Raja. The entrepreneur in Munro won the confidence of Kela Varma Raja and he agreed to lease out Kanan Devan hills to Munro for a handsome payment.

Thus in 1877, Poonjattil Koickal Rohini Thirunal Kerala Varma Valiya Raja leased out the Kanan Devan hills comprising about 1,36,600 acres of land to John Daniel Munro for an annual lease rent of Rs. 3,000 and a security deposit of Rs. 5,000.

Munro formed the North Travancore Land Planting & Agricultural Society in 1879. Members of the society started cultivation of crops, including coffee, cardamom, cinchona and sisal in various parts of the region. However these crops were later abandoned when tea was found to be the ideal crop for the region. A.W. Turnor was the first to start cultivation.

Interestingly, it was not Munro or Turnor who started tea cultivation in Munnar. The credit goes to A.H. Sharp, a European planter, in 1880. Sharp planted tea in around 50 acres of land at Parvathy, which is now part of the Seven Mallay estate. In 1895, Finlay Muir & Company (James Finlay and Company Limited) entered the scene and bought 33 independent estates. The Kannan Devan Hills Produce Company was formed in 1897 to manage these estates.

Planters get a setback

In 1924, the plantations of Munnar suffered a major setback in the form a disastrous monsoon. Heavy landslides and flooding literally redrew the landscape in several places. There was a heavy loss of property and life. Though it was hard for them, the inhabitants managed to bring back life to a normal in a few months. Large-scale replanting was carried out in several estates.

Entry of Tatas

In 1964, the Tata Group entered into collaboration with Finlay which resulted in the formation of the Tata-Finlay Group. Tata Tea Ltd. was formed in 1983. In 2005, the Kannan Devan Hills Produce Company Pvt. Ltd. was formed and Tata Tea transferred the ownership of its plantations to the new company. Employees of Tata Tea hold stake in the company.

Tourism, the new hope of Munnar

If plantation industry ‘discovered’ Munnar in the 19th century, it was re-discovered by the tourism industry in the later half of the 20th century. The hill station, situated about 1600 m above the sea level, began to be flocked by travellers from around the world. The town, which still retains its colonial charm, has a large number of hotels to greet travellers. Virgin forests, savannahs, rolling hills, scenic valleys, numerous streams, waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways are attracting thousands every year.

Poonjar Royal Family

The history of Munnar is never complete without a mention of the Poonjar royal family. Over a long period of history, this royal family had the privilege to be the custodians of the virgin hills of Munnar.

The history of Poonjar Royal Family begins in Tamil Nadu from where they had to flee following a ruthless struggle for power. Long ago, the Madurai kingdom was ruled by Manavikrama, a mighty king of the Pandyan dynasty. Besides a powerful kingdom, Madurai had the distinction of being a centre of arts. The Pandyan kings had great reverence to the goddess Madurai Meenakshi. The artful sanctum sanctorum of the temple is believed to have been built during the reign of the Pandyas.

Once Madurai came under the attack of the nearby Chola dynasty and after a fierce battle, the Pandyas recaptured their kingdom. The recapturing of Madurai was celebrated with spectacular festivities. But in the night, when everyone was asleep after the celebrations, Viswanatah Naicken a general of the Pandyas who had sided with the Cholas, opened the fort gates for the enemy.

The Chola army unleashed a ruthless attack slaying the sleeping soldiers. A minister safely took Manavikrama and his immediate family out of the fort through a long secret tunnel. The family had managed to take a good portion of their fortune in the form of jewellery, gems and gold. The tunnel led them to a forest area from where they reached Palghatusserry (the present day Palghat). There they lived for a brief period in the house of a Brahmin. But when he came to know that his guest was King Manavikrama, the Brahmin family feared the displeasure of the Cholas and asked them to leave the place.

From there, Manavikrama moved to Vanneri, which is part of the present day Thrissur. There he built a residence and after sometime some of his former subjects came to visit him. They were the poligars of Theni, Uthamapalayam and Kumbam. Though they extended support to their dear king to win back Madurai, Manavikrama had scant interest. Though the poligars returned, they didn’t loose hope in a come back of the King. They built a palace at Mele Goodalloor in anticipation of a change of mind of their dear king.

As time passed by Manavikrama was racked with a feeling of insecurity at Vanneri and during this time he was approached by the king of Elangallur (present day Edappally). Both the royal heads soon struck a chord of friendship which resulted in Elangallur king marrying the daughter of Manavikrama. The Elangallur king, as a token of his love, gifted the Ernakulam region in his principality to the queen.

Unfortunately, Manavikrama who found great solace in getting an affluent relative didn’t live for long. After Manavikrama’s death, his eldest son Kulasekhara took charge of family affairs. The prince was an ambitious gentleman who wanted to regain the glory of his family. He made arrangements to move to the Goodalloor palace and regroup the loyal Poligars.

Fate was more generous than the young prince had thought. He came to know that the kingdom of Poonjar was for sale following the death of its chieftain. Poonjar lay opposite to the Goodalloor hill ranges and it was quite natural for the prince to have interest in the region. With the help of the fortune his family had brought from Madurai, the prince bought the Poonjar region from its custodians, the royal family of Thekkumkoor. Besides selling the land, Aditya Varma, the Thekumkoor King, installed Kulasekhara as the king of Poonjar.

Munnar Season

December to February: The winter months are by far the best time to visit Munnar since the weather is pleasant. The minimum temperature during this time of the year drops to ten degrees Celsius and is perfect for a vacation or a honeymoon. This is also a great time for adventure enthusiasts who can enjoy adventure activities such as rock climbing, trekking and rappelling. Do carry woollens along as the evenings can get quite cold. March to May: March marks the beginning of summer in Munnar. The weather remains pleasant and temperatures range between 19 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Summer in Munnar is a perfect time to enjoy sightseeing and visiting tea estates and the Tata Tea Museum. Carry light cottons, though also carry an umbrella as rain showers are common during the summer months. June to September: This is the monsoon season in Munnar and even though many tourists avoid Munnar during the monsoons, this is a great time to visit the hill station if you’re looking for a quiet vacation. Covered with lush green foliage, monsoons in Munnar have a charm of their own. This is also a great time to enjoy discounts on hotel tariffs and enjoy Munnar all to yourself, without swarms of tourists. Also do remember to carry an umbrella or raincoat along.

How to Reach Munnar

Nearest railway station: Aluva about 108 km and Angamali, about 109 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, via Aluva - Munnar Rd, about 108 km

Munnar Location

Latitude: 10.091234, Longitude: 77.060051

Munnar Geographical Information

Rainfall: 275 cm.

Best Time to Visit Munnar, Idukki

How to Reach Munnar

Nearest railway station: Aluva about 108 km and Angamali, about 109 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, via Aluva - Munnar Rd, about 108 km

Munnar Location

Latitude: 10.091234, Longitude: 77.060051

Munnar Geographical Information

Rainfall: 275 cm.

#munnar #idukki #kerala #season #climate #westh #history #geography #india

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pravasavarnana · 7 years ago

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#SweetSpot A sweet surprise for us at Grand Plaza Munnar - Complimentary fresh fruit basket and the Munnar homemade chocolates. The Chocolates were just right - sweet but not over sweet Food for thought #Food #Kerala #Fruitbasket #MunnarChocolates #HomemadeChocolates #Munnar #travelphotography #foodphotography #Keraladiaries Discovered at Grand Plaza Munnar, Munnar, India. See more at Trover

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anaya0022-blog · 7 years ago

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GOD’S OWN COUNTRY – KERALA BEST TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN INDIA !!

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kerala , known as Gods Own Country has some of the best tourist destinations in India for any kind of holiday. It is the land of coconuts, backwaters, elephants and the land of rich cultures and traditions, and has been one of the most sought after places by travelers from all around the world . #kerala #tourism was also recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the must visit family destinations to visit.

It is without doubt one of the most beautiful places on earth and that’s why it is known as’Gods Own Country’. From the stunning beaches along the Malabar Coast to the maze of backwater canals cutting through huge rice fields to the glorious rolling hillside tea plantations in the Western Ghats, #kerala’s landscapes are almost as diverse as its people and the culture and history of the people of #kerala is a major factor in attracting the tourists. If you are planning to visit kerala, here is a selection of the best places to visit in #kerala curated by the holiday experts Iris Holidays

Kochi

Kochi, the largest city in #kerala, has historically been an important port city right from the 14th century – colonised by the Portuguese, Dutch & British at different times in history, the city still preserves an intriguing mix of architecture from its varying colonial past. Ernakulam is the city’s cosmopolitan part where as Fort Kochi is colonised by the Portuguese, Dutch & British at different times in history, the city still preserves an intriguing mix of architecture from its varying colonial past. Ernakulam is the city’s cosmopolitan part where as Fort Kochi is the tourist hub.

The fortfort Kochi area has it own quaint charm, It is buzzing with tourists, but each at their own pace – this part of the city has a ‘homestay’ in every corner! We chose to discover this area on foot since all the places we wanted to see were close to each other.it own quaint charm, It is buzzing with tourists, but each at their own pace – this part of the city has a ‘homestay’ in every corner! We chose to discover this area on foot since all the places we wanted to see were close to each other.

We first walked to the Chinese fishing nets – Iconic to Kochi, these cantilevered fishing nets are said to be in use since 500 years! these are fixed land installations & each of them is about 10M high operated by a team of since 500 years! these are fixed land installations & each of them is about 10M high operated by a team of 5-6 fishermen. If you wait around, you might get to watch them in use!

visit the folklore museum but being shut on Sunday, instead we walked on; stopping from time to time taking pictures of interesting street art – we also visited David hall & OED galleries on the way. Do stop by if you are an art lover, I had an interesting conversation with Mr. Dilip, who spent time with us & showed us the gallery’s diverse contemporary art collection, you can also check the gallery website if the current exhibition is of interest to you before going there.instead we walked on; stopping from time to time taking pictures of interesting street art – we also visited David hall & OED galleries on the way. Do stop by if you are an art lover, I had an interesting conversation with Mr. Dilip, who spent time with us & showed us the gallery’s diverse contemporary art collection, you can also check the gallery website if the current exhibition is of interest to you before going there.

Mattancherry is known for spice markets, a local spice store called ‘All spices market’ & were in awe of the variety of spices,oils,teas & coffees & felt like a kid in a candy store !. Some of the street stores also sell spices, herbs, soaps & oils.The Mattancherry (Dutch) palace museum is definitely worth a visit. The Murals in the bedchamber part of the palace depict scenes from the Ramayana. It is said to cover an episode from the epic in 48 paintings. Another part of the museum documents the portraits & lifestyles of the rajas of Cochin. One can also find a few items of furniture gifted to the rajas from the Portuguese. The museum captures a small part of Kochi’s Traditional, Portuguese & Dutch history.

Antique Store at Mattancherry

Jew street has some very interesting antiques & gifting items, once can find painted cow heads, little house boats & hand made soaps everywhere. Many antiques sold here are not traditionally from keralathough, I was surprised to find many shops selling handicrafts from Kashmir & Rajasthan not just here but at most tourist attractions in #kerala. The Jewish or Pardesi synagogue is a highlight of this area. This entire area preserves parts of its Jewish heritage. One can also purchase lace & needle work pieces like table runners & matts locally made by the residents of the area.

Kochi also has some interesting Churches, here one finds a unique blend of European architecture (introduced by the Portuguese, Dutch & British respectively) & #kerala architecture in terms of motifs, mural painting or wood carving & there isn’t a standard layout for these churches either. I found the churches of St Francis & Santa cruz basilica particularly interesting.

At night we ventured out to princess street – it is a great place to shop & eat! It rained that evening & being unprepared, we were drenched (it often rains in Kochi, be sure to carry your umbrella when you visit!) One can see pretty houses with flowers on their windowsills & more street art across this area. We ate at Kashi cafe (& art gallery – another recommendation if you are an art buff like us!) Every cafe we visited in the city had great cold coffee & homemade cake.

If you enjoy seafood, Kochi has some pretty great restaurants & cafes – My favourites are Fort house restaurant without a doubt as it had the best food we had in the entire trip; evenings are the best time to visit since it has a great view as well. Kashi cafe (Art & food) & Oceanos (seafood) If you like Art & Seafood – I bet you’ll like Kochi as much as I did!

Munnar

Munnar is a Hill-station on the foothills of the western ghats, One of the most sought after tourist spots of #kerala owing to its scenic beauty – lush carpeted plantations of tea & spices around its hills. It is also the largest tea growing region of the south.

AC KSRTC volvo bus from Kochi to Munnar, Starting from Ernakulam bus depot at 9AM. The journey was scenic but nearly 5 hours long! and all through the way, our bus driver played 90s Bollywood music! So our playlist comprised of – songs from Raja Hindustani, Ashiquie, Darr & other nineties hits! quite a nostalgic journey.

taxis quite expensive in Munnar & realised the need to bargain (luckily, I had Vikram for this!) #kerala is hot during February, & as I found out much later, it’s not the best time to visit Munnar – the waterfalls start to dry up & the wildlife sanctuaries are shut due to breeding season (Eravikulam national park was shut) so we weren’t able to do any wildlife activities!

Though Scenic, with large properties, resorts in Munnar are far away from the market & tourist spots, plan entire day well before leaving the #hotel. The Kanan Devan Tea factory & museum.

One of the things enjoy most in Munnar, was stopping on the way & walking through tea gardens, there are many many scenic places to discover by chance get to see tea pickers in action!

The Mattupetty dam was extremely scenic! beautiful, calm & serene. Though it was quite sunny around 4pm, (the #kerala sun is quite harsh, during the day & it gets hot by 9 am! don’t leave your #hotel without a hat & sunglasses & carry appropriate sunscreen). Boating at Mattupetty dam is one of the main attractions here.This whole stretch is scenic, one can walk around, boat or even shop for home made chocolates in the stretch of stalls by the lake. A completely commercialised tourist spot now – it has all the street food one would expect corn, coconut water,peanuts, snack stalls & even Passion fruit vendors! One can club visiting Mattupetty dam with Top station as both these are only a few kilometres apart. On the way back, our cab driver stopped by many places, claiming that these were ‘Shooting points’ or points where some Bollywood film shooting has taken place. although truth be told all of it was equally scenic!

the elephant ride in Munnar to be short & over rated & would recommend the one in Thekkady since its in the forest! visit spice plantations in Thekkady Instead of Munnar.

enjoy the food in Munnar all that much. surprisingly found the coffee & tea very mild & milky here. Munnar was not favourite of the #kerala trip for sure, come again in the monsoon or winter to visit all the places.

Don’t leave #kerala without trying…

Puttu and kadala curry

This is a breakfast staple eaten all over the state. Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake cooked in a mould with grated coconut. It’s usually served with kadala curry, a dish of black chickpeas made with shallots, spices and coconut milk, that can also be served with ripe bananas and grated coconut.

Appam with stew

Appam is a #keralan staple made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. It’s similar to a thin pancake with crispy edges. These crepe-like bowls are made from fermented rice flour, coconut milk, coconut water and a little sugar. Ishtu or stew is a derivative of the European stew and consists of coconut milk, cinnamon, cloves and shallots, eaten with appams. The stew may also feature mango pieces, vegetables, chicken or lamb. The addition of aromatic whole spices, ginger and fresh coconut milk enhance the natural flavor of the vegetables. The crucial ingredient is fresh coconut milk, which lends a sweet flavor.

Karimeen pollichathu (fish)

This is one of #kerala’s traditional delicacies. Karimeen or pearl spot fish is a speckled fish commonly found in the backwaters of this state. This is traditionally a Syrian Christian delicacy but has become part of kerala’s rich cuisine. Pearl spot fish is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, red chillies, and other ingredients, wrapped and baked in plantain leaves, giving it a unique flavour.

Malabar Parotta with kerala beef curry

Layered flat bread that originated in the Malabar region called Parotta is made by kneading maida (plain flour), egg (in some recipes), oil or ghee and water. The dough is beaten and later shaped into a spiral with thin layers. The ball is rolled flat and roasted into a Parotta with ghee. This is then eaten with beef curry – pieces of beef simmered in a curry made with tomatoes, onions, garlic and spices like bay leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black peppercorns and star anise.

Erissery or pumpkin and lentil curry

This is a popular curry in #kerala, made from either raw plantains or sliced yams. It also usually includes slightly sweet pumpkin that has been boiled in water with salt, chillies or pepper, dried lentils, grated coconut, turmeric powder, cumin seeds and garlic, served on a bed of rice. It appears on most menus at religious festivals like Onam.

Palada payasam (dessert)

A sweet rice kheer prepared with palada is a delicacy made in almost all #kerala households during the festival of Onam and many other special occasions. There are many variations of it, however, the traditional recipe uses only basic ingredients like rice ada, milk, sugar and ghee. Rice ada is easily available in Indian #kerala grocery stores.

#kerala prawn curry (chemmeen curry)

This is a sig#nature dish of the state – a prawn curry from the Malabar region made with a blend of fenugreek, black mustard and fennel seeds, coconut milk and green chilli. It also includes a special ingredient called kudampuli (also known as brindleberry) to give it a sour taste, plus it uses marinated prawns, drumsticks and raw mango to give it a spicy, tangy flavour.

Thalassery biriyani

A rice biriyani is the most common dish of the Muslim community. Thalassery sea port was a centre for the export of spices where European, Arab and Malabar cultures came together and influenced the cuisine. Thalassery biriyani uses a unique, fragrant, small-grained, thin rice variety named kaima. The biriyani masala and cooked rice are arranged in layers inside the dish. Meat is cooked with the masala on a low heat and layered with rice before the lid of the container is sealed with dough. Hot coal or charcoal is then placed above the lid.

Fish moilee

A famous #keralan fish stew made with coconut milk, which is a typical Syrian Christian delicacy. The curry is usually prepared in a traditional manchatti (earthen vessel) and stews lightly fried fish in coconut milk, and spices like turmeric, pepper, cinnamon and cloves along with fresh green chillies to give it a tangy taste. The fish (usually kingfish or seer fish) is marinated with oil, turmeric, red chili powder, lemon juice and salt for 30 minutes before being used in the curry.

Banana fritters (dessert)

Pazham pori or Ethakka appam are juicy banana fritters tha feature as a traditional tea time snack. They’re available throughout #kerala and are simply ripe bananas coated with plain flour and deep-fried in oil.

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