When it comes to hill stations in Kerala, Munnar is undoubtedly the renowned gem that captures global attention for its tea plantations. While Munnar steals the spotlight as the charming hill station destination, it's one of the many gems nestled within the serene district of Idukki in Kerala. During my exploration of Idukki, I was spellbound by the abundant natural wonders this place possesses. Let's embark on journey to explore Idukki; God's own hill retreat in God's Own Country.
Idukki, nestled in the enchanting Western Ghats of Kerala, is blessed with captivating mist-clad hills, lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, Sandalwood forests, Spice farms, Trekking routes and for its famed rolling Tea Plantations Idukki offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
In ancient times, Idukki was inhabited by various indigenous tribes like the Muthuvan, Malayarayar, Urali and Paliyan, preserving their unique traditions and way of life. During the colonial era, Idukki witnessed the arrival of European powers, primarily the British, who recognized the region's potential for agriculture and trade and established tea and spice plantations, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape, architecture and culture.
Tea Plantations
Idukki district in Kerala is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, each offering a distinct and captivating experience. During my visit, I had the pleasure of exploring tea estates in Munnar, Devikulam, Suryanelli and Kolukkumalai (Tamil Nadu).These tea plantations in Idukki not only allow you to witness the guided tea cultivation process but also provide breathtaking landscapes and tranquil settings that immerse you in the rich tea heritage of the region. I choose to stay in a secluded homestay in Devikulam, nestled right next to a tea plantation. This idyllic location allowed me to enjoy leisurely strolls through the captivating labyrinth of tea gardens and homely food.
One remarkable tea estate is Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, situated at an elevation of 8,000 feet about 2 hours drive from Munnar and known for its flavorful and aromatic tea. The sunrise experience from its top is truly mesmerizing. To reach Kolukkumalai, a shared Jeep from Kolukkumalai is the only mode of transport because of the terrain. I also discovered the HGL tea plantation located in Suryanelli, just a one-hour drive from Munnar, along the way to Kolukkumalai.
Another gem I visited is the Lockhart Tea plantation near Devikulam, named after Colonel Lockhart who was pivotal in establishment of the tea the estate. It has picturesque landscape and tea museum. The museum provides intriguing insights into the evolution of the tea industry, while the estate itself offers stunning landscapes. A guided tour and tea tasting session allow you to delve deeper into the art of tea cultivation.
Lastly, the Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company (KDHP), formerly known as Tata Tea plantation, holds a significant place in the history of Munnar's tea industry. As one of the largest tea producers in South India, KDHP encompasses several tea plantations that exemplify the region's tea legacy. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in tea tasting sessions and take guided plantation tours.
Exploring these tea plantations in Idukki opened my eyes to the intricate world of tea production and left me with a newfound appreciation for the beloved chai.
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| Tea plantation view from the balcony of homestay in Devikulum |
Forests, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Paddy fields
Idukki has many wild life sanctuaries that offer visitors the opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Whether it's spotting the Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam National Park, witnessing the beauty of endemic bird species in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary or immersing oneself in the natural surroundings of Thattekad Bird Sanctuary situated on the banks of the Periyar River, these sanctuaries are a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Embarking on a scenic drive through the winding roads of Idukki, flanked by towering trees, I stumbled upon the enchanting Bison Valley. Renowned for its paddy fields, captivating beauty, and diverse wildlife, including the majestic Indian Bison, this hidden gem is a sight to behold. The terraced paddy fields that grace the valley offer a mesmerizing spectacle, particularly during the cultivation season when they are adorned with vibrant shades of green. Taking a leisurely stroll through these fields, especially after a refreshing rainfall, is a truly tranquil and serene experience. As you wander amidst the paddy fields, a cool breeze caresses your skin while you relish the sight of clouds embracing the valley. Bison Valley is conveniently located just an hour's drive from Munnar, making it an easily accessible and worthwhile destination to explore.
While Idukki is primarily famous for its wildlife sactuatries and tea plantations, it also treasures beautiful and aromatic sandalwood forests in Marayoor. It is the only place in Kerala that has natural sandalwood forest. It is conveniently located around 40 kms from Munnar and has acres of dense forest of sandalwood and sugarcane farms. The forest department runs sandalwood factory in Marayoor which is open to visitors. Strolling in the sandalwood is an aromatic therapy. Marayoor is also known for its prehistoric dolmens, which are megalithic burial chambers dating back thousands of years.
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| Paddy fields of Bison valley |
Lakes and Waterfalls
Munnar, a captivating hill station in Kerala, is renowned for its serene lakes and cascading waterfalls. Mattupetty Dam and Lake offer panoramic views of the hills, while Kundala Lake provides a tranquil boating experience. The enchanting Attukad Waterfalls captivate visitors with their picturesque beauty. Another gem is Vallara Waterfall, nestled amidst lush greenery and rocky cliffs on the way from Munnar to Kochi. Here, one can relish the sight and sound of water flowing down the rocks, surrounded by dense forests and a cool breeze. Don't forget to pause for a rejuvenating chai break at nearby tea shops, savoring the calmness and refreshing atmosphere.
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| Vallara Waterfall |
Spice Farms
The lower reaches of the Idukki hills enjoys a cool climate, fertile soil, and abundant rainfall, making it an ideal hub for spice cultivation. The farms in this area cultivate a variety of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and cocoa. Guided tours through the spice gardens offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the different spices grown here, their medicinal properties, and culinary uses. Additionally, there are spice shops where visitors can purchase fresh spices. During my visit, I discovered the intriguing "Allspice," which boasts a flavor reminiscent of a delightful blend of many spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Adding to the charm of Idukki is the magnificent Cardamom Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity. These hills derive their name from the abundance of cardamom plantations, which dot the landscape alongside pepper, cinnamon, and clove plantations. While the route from Munnar to Kochi via Cardamom hills involve a slight detour, the breathtaking beauty of this journey is truly worth it.
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| Assorted spices in Spice farm. The rightmost is the the Rudraksha encapsulated in shell |
Idukki is a treasure trove of hidden gems. The untamed beauty of this region holds untold stories, waiting to be discovered and shared. Exploring Idukki is a harmonious blend of adventure and serenity, where visitors can immerse themselves in its diverse biodiversity, savor the flavors of aromatic spices, and find solace in its breathtaking landscapes.
PS :
Munnar has a beautiful church with gothic architecture called CSI Christ Church. The church is shaped in the form of cross with stained glass and simple altar. Its very peaceful to be in its presence.
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