Tuesday 28 October 2014

Kerala's Hill station Munnar in December


The most popular Hill station of Kerala, in South India

Munnar is one of the most popular hill station in Kerala.  It is nestled in Western Ghats at  1,450 meters(4,760 ft) to 2,695 meters (8,842 ft)  above the sea level and is located in Idukki district one of the beauty District of Kerala in South India


Hilltop Munnar

Large tea plantations, forests, hill ranges, valleys and wildlife makes anyone fall in love with this place. There are some important  places that you should visit (or try to) when you are in Munnar. And if you already visited Munnar recently, then I hope these will make you want to do another trip in December.


Nilgiri Tahr at Rajamala Munnar

Rajamala Eravikulam National Park

Part of Eravikulam national park, is located at about 15 kms from Munnar.  This region is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragas hylocres). It was converted to a national park to provide a safe sanctuary  for the already endangered species of Nilgiri Tahr.

Mattupetty Dam, Munnar

Mattupetty Dam 

Mattupetty dam and its reservoir  is  located 13 km away from Munnar.  This concrete gravity dam is built between the hill ranges and it is used mainly for water storage for hydroelectric projects. Its reservoir is an idyllic place to enjoy the serene nature. It is also said to be one of the waterholes where the elephants in the region often visit.


Mattupetty Dairy Farm

Mattupetty is also famous for the Indo-Swiss Farm. This is a highly specialized dairy farm  which comes under Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. Hundreds of high quality cattle are reared here and new varieties are scientifically developed.


    Kundala Lake

Kundala Lake is an artificial reservoir of a minor arch shaped dam huddled between the mountain ranges. It is about a 20 km drive from Munnar. There is boating facility there  and  don’t forget to go for a Shikara boat ride while you are there!



Kannan Devan Tea Museum

This tea museum is first of its kind in India. It is located at KDHP’s Nullatanni estate in Munnar. The aim of this museum according to its founders is to showcase the growth of more-than-a-century-old tea plantations in this region. Anyone visiting this museum will get a clear  picture of how laborious this tea processing really is.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

 Chinnar wildlife sanctuary

 Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is about 60 kms from Munnar. It is situated on SH 17 in the Marayoor and Kanthalloor Panchayats of Idukki district. It is an ideal spot for trekking and enjoying wildlife closely. It is the habitat for endangered Grizzled giant squirrel in India. Almost 34 species of mammals including panthers, spotted deers, elephants, tigers can be found here. It is also a bird watchers paradise. 245 species of birds live here!

Friday 11 July 2014

Munnar in Mansoon the Beauty of Rain

Rainy Season in Munnar

Rainy season in Munnar starts from the month of June and lasts till September. Most of the tourists don’t like to visit Munnar in rainy season. However, Munnar has its own charisma in Rain. In fact, it looks very revitalizing with full of greenery and high mountains during the season.Visiting munnar in Rainy season is a very different experience and most people from Gulf is visiting Munnar at Monsoon to feel the real rain.

See how beautyfull is the Munnar in Rainy season you can watch and fell the real rain from the resorts and mounterns if you like some adventure.
Munnar  is blessed with lofty mountain ranges with hazy peaks, extensive tea estates and tranquil climate offers a calm and peaceful environment to the tourists. Amazing views of low flying clouds and mist filled valleys make it a little heaven with a cool, revitalizing climate. Cloudy mountain peaks blend pleasantly in Munnar to form a delightful atmosphere that is hard to explain in words.

Munnar is one of the most alluring leisure destinations in India perched beautifully with rolling tea gardens and spice plantations. Amid the hues of God’s Own Country, this hill station is an ideal escape to weekenders as well as leisure travellers. It dwells a mild and pleasing climate throughout the year and even during the monsoon it partakes a tantalizing ambiance with mist layering over the lush greenscape, sparkling ripples of the meandering streams down their course and sploshing waterfalls pouring its own rage.


During the monsoon, Munnar receives moderate to heavy rainfall, and the temperature drops to a minimum of 20 degree and bears at a maximum of 25 degree

Monday 23 June 2014

Kerala North-East Wayanadu, Kerala Tourist places

  1. Wayanad


  1. Wayanad District is a district in the north-east of Kerala state, India with headquarters at the town of Kalpetta. The district was formed on 1 November 1980 as the 12th district in Kerala by carving out areas from Kozhikode and Kannur districts.

Chembra Peak




At a height of 2100 metres, the towering Chembra Peak is located near Meppadi in the southern part of Wayanad. It is the tallest of peaks in the region and climbing this peak would test ones physical prowess. The climb up the Chembra Peak is an exhilarating experience, as each stage in the climb unfolds great expanses of Wayanad and the view gets wider as one goes up to its summit. Going up and coming down the peak would take a full day. Those who would like camp at the top are assured of an unforgettable experience.

Those who require camping gear may contact the District Tourism Promotion Council, located at Kalpetta in Wayanad.

Neelimala




Located in the southeastern part of Wayanad, and approachable from Kalpetta as well asSulthan Bathery, Neelimala is a trekkers delight, with options for different trekking routes. At the top of Neelimala, the sight is a breathtaking one with a view to the Meenmutty falls located near by and the valley in the foreground.

Meenmutty waterfalls


Located close to Neelimala the spectacular Meenmutty falls can be reached through a 2 km trekking route from the main road connecting Ootty and Wayanad. It is the largest of waterfalls in the district of Wayanad, and adds to ones curiosity with its three stage falls dropping from about 300 metres.

Chethalayam


Yet another waterfall that attracts visitors to Wayanad is the Chethalayam falls, located close toSulthan Bathery in the northern part of Wayanad. This waterfall is smaller in size when compared to Meenmutty. The falls and the adjoining areas are ideal locales for trekking and a haunt for bird watchers.

Pakshipathalam



Pakshipathalam is located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills at an altitude of more than 1700 metres. The region predominantly comprises large boulders, some of them really massive. The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants. Pakshipathalam is located near Mananthavady and a visit to the region would require a 7 km trek through the forest, starting from Thirunelli. Visitors to Pakshipathalam are to seek permission from the DFO- North Wayanad.

Banasura Sagar Dam



The dam at Banasura Sagar is reckoned as the largest earth dam in India. The dam is located in the southwestern part of Wayanad district and is close to the Karalad Lake. The project area of the Banasura Sagar Dam also has the start point for treks to the Banasura Peak. An interesting feature is a set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas.

While you take in the captivating sights, sounds and fragrance of Wayanad, you may also shop for some specialities of Wayanad like spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey and herbal plants.

How To Reach

By Air:
The nearest airport is at Kozhikode, Calicut and is at a distance of around 100 kilometers from Wayanad. One can also access this place from the Cochin International Airport, which is at a distance of around 300 kilometers from this place. Karipur is connected to many cities in India including Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Airline services are available from Karipur to many gulf countries, like Oman, Quatar, Kuwait and Saudi.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is at Calicut and is at a distance of around 110 kilometers from this place. Wayanad is well connected by a good network of railways and a number of trains frequent this place.
Bangalore to Wayanad Trains
Wayanad does not have railway station. Kozhikkode (CLT) is a nearby train station connected to Bangalore.
Yesvantpur Jn to Kozhikode Trains
Trains to Kozhikode depart from 1 station in Bangalore: Yesvantpur Jn (YPR).
No Train Name & Number Departure      Time Arrival         Time Duration
Ypr Cannanore (6527)        08:00 PM    (Yesvantpur Jn) 06:55 AM  (Kozhikkode) 10h 55m
Chennai to Wayanad Trains
Wayanad does not have railway station. Kozhikkode (CLT) is a nearby train station connected to Chennai.
Chennai to Kozhikode Trains
Trains to Kozhikode depart from 2 stations in Chennai: Chennai Egmore (MS) and Chennai Central (MAS).
No Train Name & Number Departure Time Arrival                 Time Duration
West Coast Exp(6627) 11:30 AM  (Chennai Central) 12:05 AM (Kozhikkode) 12h 35m
Mangalore Exp  (2685) 05:00 PM  (Chennai Central) 04:15 AM (Kozhikkode) 11h 15m
Mangalore Mail  (2601) 08:15 PM   (Chennai Central) 07:45 AM (Kozhikkode) 11h 30m
Mangalore Exp  (6107) 10:00 PM   (Chennai Egmore) 04:55 PM (Kozhikkode) 18h 55m
By Road:
Wayanad is well connected by a wide network of roads and this place can be easily accessed from anywhere in Kerala and from neighboring states.
Wayanad By Bus
KSRTC buses connect Wayanad with all nearby cities. Public super fast buses connect Wayanad with Trivandrum, Mangalore and Kochi. Deluxe bus services are available from Bangalore, Chennai and Trivandrum up to Kozhikode.


Saturday 21 June 2014

kerala travel, Munnar , Idukki, Kumily: Munnar travel

kerala travel, Munnar , Idukki, Kumily: Munnar travel:                                     Munnar Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams -  Mudrapuzha, Nal...

Friday 20 June 2014

Munnar travel



Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that 

would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating 
hill station of Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park




One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National 
Park. This park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri 
Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to 
several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A great place 
for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations 
and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park 
becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in 
a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a 
plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once 
in twelve years.


Anamudi Peak



Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. 
This is the highest peak in south India standing at a height of 
over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission 
from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.


Mattupetty



Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, 
is Mattupetty. Situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level, 
Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful 
lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed 
to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where 
one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows.

Pallivasal



Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is 
the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place 
of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a 
picnic spot.

Chinnakanal & Anayirangal

Near the town of Munnar is Chinnakanal and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges. When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal, 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.

Top Station


Top Station, which is about 32 km from Munnar is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurinji flowers blooming over a vast area.


Tea Museum

Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.
Read more on Munnar

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Aluva about 108 km and Angamali, about 
109 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, via Aluva - Munnar 

Rd, about 108 km



Saturday 14 June 2014

Idukki the Beauty Queen of Kerala



Kumily The Pearl of Idukki



The Arch Dam Idukki


This beautiful High range district of Kerala is geographically known for its Mountainous Hills and Dense Forests. For the people of Kerala, Idukki is always associated with Power Generation. About 66% of the State's Power needs come from the Hydroelectric Power Projects in Idukki. Idukki accounts for 12.9 percent of the area of Kerala and only 3.7 percent of the population of Kerala.Kumily is one of the Best Tourist destination of Kerala
Another view of the Dam

Idukki district was formed on 26 January 1972.The district consists of Devikulam, Udumbanchola and Peermedu taluks of the erstwhile Kottayam district and Thodupuzha taluk (excluding two villages Manjallore and Kalloorkadu) of the erstwhile Ernakulam district. At the time of formation the district headquarters started functioning at Kottayam and from there it was shifted to Painavu in Thodupuzha taluk in June 1976, where it is proposed to build a new planned forest township.



Good Tourist Place and Good Roads to locations

Kumily is a town in Cardamom Hills near Thekkady and Periyar Tiger Reserve, in the Idukki District of Kerala. The state of Tamil Nadu borders the town. It is a major tourist destination and a spices trading center.



The main tourist attraction in Kumily is its spice market. Spices are the main things to buy in Kumily. Along with spices, products like spice chocolates, spiced preserves, specialty teas and coffee are also worth buying.
Apart from the spice market, Periyar Wildlife and Tiger Sanctuary and pilgrimage centre of Sabarimala are other tourist attractions in Kumily. The Periyar Wildlife and Tiger Sanctuary is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India known for its rich variety of flora and fauna. The high range town offers several avenues for adventure activities.
Shopping in Kumily is one of the most important tourist things to do in Kumily. Besides spices, things to buy include jute and bamboo products, traditional pickles of Kerala and traditional handlooms of Kerala.
The climate of the town is tropical. The best time to visit Kumily is during the month of November to May, as during these months the weather is generally pleasant.

Friday 13 June 2014

idukki travel

None

Natural Beauty - Idukki

Idukki is the largest district and a beautiful hill station in Kerala. This lively city is located at the top of the Western Ghats and is surrounded by mountains all around. This place is famous for mountainous hills, dense forests, gushing streams, valleys, sprawling plantations and wildlife. People from all over the country love to spend their holidays in this city to get utmost enjoyment. It is a unique destination where River Periyar flows.
With its hilly surroundings, this place has become popular for adventurous activities. This city has world's second and Asia's first great arch dam across the Periyar River. People get various opportunities to visit various destinations such as spice plantation centers, wild life sanctuaries, mountain treks, elephant rides and others.
Idukki is the place which attracts the attention of nature and adventure lovers. The name Idukki is derived from the Malayalam word 'idukku' which means narrow gorge. This city was founded in January 26, 1972. Teak, rosewood, ivory and sandalwood are the items of trading in the city which make it one of the major trading centers in South India. You can visit Idukki Arch Dam, Cheruthoni, Kalvari Mount and Nadukani, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary to get natural exposure and understand the rich culture of the city.
Idukki wildlife Sanctuary is inhabited by various wild animals and is spread over an area of 7700 hectares. Idukki travel guide can be referred to for getting thorough knowledge about the place. Mild weather in the city allows the tourists to pay a visit anytime of the year. Lush green fields and parks covered with thick vegetation offer scenic views. You can walk on the hills and take a look at the stunning views. Breath-taking and beautiful waterfalls and sandalwood forests will surely make your trip unforgettable.

Attractions in Idukki

Near By Cities to Idukki

  • None

    Coimbatore

    Lying on the banks of river Noyyal, t... »
  • None

    Kodaikanal

    Kodaikanal is a beautiful hill statio... »
  • Tree House in Munnar

    Munnar

    Munnar is a magnificent hill station ... »

Accommodation in Idukki

This place is a tourist destination which caters to lots of travelers throughout the year. Hotels are the best accommodation where you can stay comfortably. You can get vast range of hotels from luxury to budget. River Rock Homes, Kalarickal Heritage Bungalow, Dean Dale Cottages, Comfort Homestay- Tabernacle Homes are some of the comfortable hotels which offers best facilities to their guests. You can choose the best hotel according to your budget and need.

Events/Festivals in Idukki

Onam is one of the most important festivals in Idukki. This festival is celebrated in the month of August-September. This festival is related to a legend associated with King Mahabali. Mahabali was the legendary king and ruled Kerala for plenty of years. In this festival, children collect flowers for house decoration.