Bhakti’s Epic Family Journey To Munnar and Beyond with Thrillophilia
Our family, eager to escape the hustle of everyday life, found ourselves embarking on a journey to Munnar, the jewel of Kerala. We had read about its tea gardens and misty hills, but nothing could prepare us for how deeply it would touch us.
From the moment we set foot in this magical land, it felt like the world had slowed down, offering us a chance to just be—to breathe in the beauty, to savour the simplicity, and to make memories that would last a lifetime.
Our adventure began with a drive from Kochi, through winding roads lined with trees, revealing glimpses of the hills that seemed to rise from the mist. Our driver, Thomas, was the perfect guide—knowledgeable and calm, never requiring Google Maps to navigate the maze of roads.
The air grew cooler as we ascended, and the surroundings shifted from the busy streets of Kochi to peaceful, green hills. We stopped at Valara Waterfalls on the way, to run ahead and splash in the mist.
The waterfall’s roar was so powerful, it seemed to wash away all the chaos of city life.
Tea Gardens, Spice Trails, and Simple Joys
The next day, we immersed ourselves in the heart of Munnar—the tea gardens. The sprawling green fields seemed endless, with rows upon rows of tea plants as far as the eye could see. We took a guided walk through the plantation, learning about how the leaves are carefully plucked by hand.
We were fascinated by how each leaf would eventually make its way to become a cup of tea. We even tried plucking a few leaves ourselves, although, to be honest, we weren’t quite as quick as the local workers who moved with effortless grace.
Afterwards, we visited a spice plantation, where the air was heavy with the scent of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. I must say, we were quite intrigued by the raw spices—peppers in their bold, spicy form, and the green pods of cardamom that burst with flavour.
We tasted the spices right from the plants, feeling the intense flavours ignite our senses. It was a chance to connect with the land, to appreciate how these ingredients, so integral to Kerala’s cuisine, had been cultivated for generations.
For lunch, we stopped at a small local restaurant, where we enjoyed Kerala’s traditional fare. The fish curry was rich with coconut milk and perfectly spiced, while the appams, soft and fluffy, were the ideal companion. The meal felt like more than just food; it was a taste of the culture itself, full of warmth and history.
In the afternoon, we visited Mattupetty Lake. The serene waters, surrounded by hills, offered a peaceful escape from the excitement of the day. We rented a small boat and paddled lazily through the lake, laughing and talking. The stillness of the water, coupled with the beauty of the surroundings, made it a perfect moment to simply be present with each other.
A Glimpse of Thekkady and Alleppey
While Munnar had already captured our hearts, our journey continued to Thekkady and Alleppey.
In Thekkady, we went on a boat ride through the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Although we didn’t spot any tigers, the lush forest, the elephants grazing on the banks, and the sound of nature all around us made the experience unforgettable.
In Alleppey, we spent the night on a traditional houseboat, cruising through Kerala’s backwaters. The gentle sway of the boat, combined with the peaceful surroundings, made for a serene experience. The food on board was good, though the backwaters and the peaceful scenery were the real stars of the show.
Watching life along the water was a glimpse into a slower, simpler way of living.
Simple Moments, Lasting Memories
As our time in Munnar came to an end, we found ourselves reluctant to leave. There was something about the place that had captured our hearts—the endless hills, the scent of fresh tea, the laughter of the locals, and the warmth of the people.
Munnar, or I must say, Kerala had been more than just a destination; it had been a place where we had slowed down, where we had connected with each other and with the land in ways we hadn’t expected.
My suggestion to anyone planning a trip here? Take time to explore the tea gardens, savour the local food, and truly immerse yourself in the experience. And for a little adventure, don’t miss a boat ride on Mattupetty Lake—it’s one of those moments where time seems to stand still, and you feel a deep sense of peace.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind, to reconnect with nature, and make memories with your loved ones, Munnar is the place to be.
Read more: Thrillophilia Munnar Reviews