This monsoon I wanted to chase the rains in the God’s own country-Kerala. So I packed my bag and decided to visit Munnar. Munnar is situated in Idukki district of Kerala. This place is on the confluence of three rivers Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala which makes it the most scenic and on the top list of tourists. The vast tangle of Kannan Devan tea plantations interspersed with Cardamom plantation, Sandalwood and forest gives Munnar an edge over many hill stations in India.
I decided to travel to Munnar by road from Alleppey. The journey was out of this world although the roads were not very smooth to drive in but the view was lovely. I experienced driving through the cloud, mist, rain, cool breeze and breathtaking waterfalls along my way.
Check in:
I decided to stay in Munnar Tea Country Resort which is a part of Green Earth Hotels group. A privately owned property, it is situated just 12 kilometers before Munnar. On reaching my destination I realized that the place is an embodiment of a ‘picture postcard’ landscape. Pure air cooled by the mountains overlooking the property and surrounded by lush green tea gardens, the resort is indeed a paradise. A series of interlocked green carpeted mountains, clouds, mist, cold breeze, fresh air, birds and abundance of flora and fauna create a perfect ambience for nature lovers and tourists alike.
I was welcomed in the resort with the traditional arti, sandalwood tika and a jasmine flower garland by a girl adorned in a traditional white sari with golden border, typical of Kerala, The rhythm of rain added to the welcome. The check in process was quite smooth with very helpful concierge and staff. I was moved by the warmth and the hospitality of my hosts.
The Villas:
The landscape of the resort is remarkably done and the natural flora and fauna as a prominent element of decoration enhances the beauty. Its white and green luxury cottages and villas are have been made with steeply pitched roofs. All the cottages and villas have a breathtaking view of the valley. The private balconies with a long sliding glass door of the villas lets one enjoy the stunning view.
The cottages are furnished well with a drawing room, dining space besides the open kitchen and a luxurious bathroom on the ground floor. The bedroom on the first floor has been partitioned that provides a sense of privacy and is connected by a staircase from the ground floor. A big flat screen TV along with a small dressing & cupboard complete the interiors of the bedroom. The bathrooms are well maintained. Other items like water bottles, fruit basket and cookies along with an electric kettle lets one enjoy unlimited while lazing in the private balcony.
I really like the small private sitting space beside the main gate of the villa. One can also enjoy tea and snacks while gazing the picture perfect landscape of the valley.
The food:
The variety and taste of the food add to the wonderful experience. A large dining room with the picturesque view overlooking the garden and the valley and amazing sea food just made me fall in love with the resort. The authentic south Indian cuisine along with Chettinad preparations mixed with the spicy character made it immensely delightful. The aroma of the food never lets one forget that Kerala is the mother land of spices.
While enjoying the specially prepared fish, I spotted a mesmerizing waterbody in the beautiful landscape. On enquiring, I came to know that it was Sengulam dam.
The Spa:
Kairali Ayurveda massage and panchkarma was on the top of my bucket list when I was preparing my itinerary for Kerala. The sight of the board of Oceana wellness spa in the lobby made me happier and I ticked another item on my list. It’s one of the well-known spa chain in the world. I decided to try the spa very first day so that I could rejuvenate myself and enjoy a relaxing massage.
The Kerala rejuvenation massage and treatment is excellent and must try for all. The spa has a variety of spa treatment ranging from international spas to authentic Kairali massages, panchkarma and holistic healing treatments. The whole experience was so relaxing and sheer luxury and I would share the entire experience in detail in my next post.
Note: Do not forget to spend time on a sunset point in the resort for a beautiful view of the sunset from there.
The staff was extremely cordial and helpful. It’s a nice family resort. They have all the amenities and facilities there and one would rarely want to go outside.
How to reach there:
From Kochi/ Kottayam/ Alappuzha
Drive to Adimali via Neriamangalam.
After travelling 8 kms after Adimali turn right at Iruttukanam Junction.
A place called Anachal comes after a distance of 6 kms from Iruttukanam junction. About another one km from Anachal on the Munnar road you arrive at Thattathimukku bus stop. A left turn from the bus stop leads one to a concrete road. Drive slowly on the concrete road for about 50 meters after which you need to take a right turn for another 50 meters. Take a left here and drive for another 100 meters to reach the Munnar Tea Country Resort.
From Thekkady/ Coimbatore/ Bodimettu
Drive to Munnar town and take the Ernakulam route for 10 kms until you reach 2nd mile.
Take a left and drive for 1 km to arrive Chekuttanmukku Junction.
Take a right and drive on for 1 km to arrive at Thattathimukku bus stop.
Drive slowly on the concrete road for about 50 meters after which you need to take a right turn for another 50 meters.
Take a left here and drive for another 100 meters to reach the Munnar Tea Country Resort.
