Nestled in Kerala's Western Ghats, Munnar is a serene hill station boasting tea gardens, misty peaks, and waterfalls, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
If you're an adventurous traveler seeking a unique journey to Munnar, the Udumalpettai route promises an unforgettable experience. This scenic route takes you through two revered forests, Tamil Nadu's Annamalai, and Kerala's Chinar Wildlife Sanctuary. The diversity of this route offers two different kinds of experiences: one filled with lush forests and the other with captivating tea estates.
As you travel from Udumalpettai to Marayoor, you'll find yourself surrounded by the pristine wilderness of Annamalai, immersing you in nature's raw beauty. The dense forests, vibrant flora, and the possibility of spotting wildlife make this part of the journey truly exciting for nature enthusiasts.
As you continue from Marayoor to Munnar, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation. The road winds through sprawling tea plantations, painting the hills in shades of green. The sight of neatly trimmed tea bushes against the backdrop of mist-covered mountains is a photographer's delight.
From this window seat, I'm immersed in the living artwork of nature! 🌿✨ The captivating tea plantations, undulating valleys, and verdant greenery create a picturesque canvas that's hard to put into words. 😍💚
This enchanting drive allows you to experience the best of both worlds, from the tranquility of dense forests to the visual treat of lush tea estates. So, gear up for a memorable adventure as you embark on this offbeat route to Munnar, discovering nature's wonders along the way.
After arriving in Munnar from an awesome journey through lush green valleys, I made a conscious decision not to follow the typical tourist trail and wish to avoid all the crowded tourist places (except for Kolukumalai, which I knew could get busy). Instead, I yearned to uncover Munnar's misty secrets and embrace its untouched beauty solely through a tranquil two-day bike ride.
On Day 1, I kick-started my Munnar escapade by renting a bike, heading towards Suryanelli, where my booked tent at Tentvilla awaited—a steal at just Rs.1800! Excitement bubbled within as I envisioned the treats in store—Evening snacks, a captivating Sunset trek, and a delectable Night non-veg buffet by a crackling Campfire accompanied by DJ beats. As the stars adorned the sky, I knew this was only the beginning of an unforgettable journey!
The sunset trekking : The journey begins amidst the sprawling tea gardens, where the emerald green hues stretch as far as the eye can see, evoking visions of Switzerland's picturesque landscapes. The drizzled rain adds a touch of magic, turning the tea leaves into glistening jewels, and the aroma of wet earth fills the air.
With each step, the climate turns cooler, and the gentle rustling of leaves creates a soothing melody. The sound of raindrops dancing on tea bushes provides a harmonious symphony, connecting me to nature's rhythm.
As the trek continues, the tea estates gently give way to ascending paths, leading me higher, closer to nature's canvas. The verdant surroundings cast a spell, and I find myself captivated by the unspoiled beauty that surrounds me.
As the sky darkens and stars start to emerge, I realize that this Sunset Trek was not just an ordinary journey. It was an experience that touched my soul, leaving an indelible mark of nature's unyielding beauty and serenity.
Roaming around this enchanted place, I feel a profound connection to the Earth's natural wonders, finding solace in its pure embrace. The Sunset Trek through the tea estate was a mesmerizing blend of tranquility, love for nature, and a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures of life. As I head back to my cozy tent at Tentvilla, I know that this experience will remain etched in my heart forever, beckoning me to return and revel in its timeless beauty once again.
Embracing the Dawn - Jeep Safari & Sunrise Trek with Tentvilla's Magic.
The excitement began early at 4 am as I geared up for the Sunrise Trek and Jeep Safari thoughtfully arranged by Tentvilla. The morning air was refreshing, carrying a delightful chill that invigorated me for the day ahead. However, there was a tinge of disappointment as the expected cloud beds on Kolukumalai peak were nowhere to be seen.
Despite that, the peak still bestowed a magnificent view that left me mesmerized. The absence of clouds did not dampen the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape, and I stood in admiration of nature's grandeur. The Jeep Safari added to the thrill, venturing through rugged terrains and lush forests, revealing breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Sitting atop the Kolukumalai peak, I patiently awaited the sunrise. As the first rays broke through the clouds and gently kissed the land, a sense of wonder enveloped me. The view before my eyes was so beautiful that it felt like the best moment of my journey. There was an inexplicable happiness within my soul, reminding me of the simple joys that nature's beauty can bring. It was a moment that etched itself into my memory, a testament to the magic of the natural world.
"Let the morning light ignite your soul. 🌞🔥❤️"
After the exhilarating activities of the morning, our plan was to make the most of the remaining time in the day. In the second half of the day, we set out to explore Munnar's enchanting tea estates on our bikes. As we meandered through the winding roads, it felt like we were traversing pathways that God himself had painted.
The roads we traveled were not just routes; they were picturesque journeys in themselves. Each turn revealed a new vista, a fresh masterpiece of nature. Lush green valleys, misty hills, and tea plantations that seemed to stretch to the horizon unfolded before us like pages from a storybook.
With the wind in our hair and the aroma of tea leaves in the air, we roamed through the rolling hills, soaking in the serene beauty of the plantations. The golden rays of the setting sun bathed the tea gardens in a warm, ethereal glow, turning the landscape into a living canvas.
As we navigated these roads less traveled, we couldn't help but marvel at how every nook and cranny of Munnar seemed to be a testament to nature's artistry. It was as if God had carefully hand-painted every inch of this land, leaving us in awe of the sheer beauty that surrounded us.
As the day drew to a close, we returned the bikes and prepared to leave for our native place, carrying with us not just memories but the indelible impression of Munnar's natural splendor. The roads we traveled and the picturesque places we discovered were a reminder that sometimes, the journey itself is as beautiful as the destination.
"If you've enjoyed sharing in my adventures and want to see more of my travel escapades, don't forget to follow my Instagram page for daily doses of wanderlust and travel inspiration. 🌍✨ Click the follow button and let's embark on new journeys together! 👉 ranjit_periyasami | Tripbees "
