Trip to Munnar

Every year during the first quarter, I visit Munnar and each time I choose different places around Munnar.  But this time, the main reason for travelling to Munnar is a long drive in my new Honda Amaze CVT and get familiarized with the gap road and narrow roads between the tea estates. And of course, breathe some fresh air and have some good food with scenic view.

As usual, we started from Kochi and the drive was pleasant. We stopped at Adimali for a while, had our tea and snacks. We had booked our room in the Munnar city area. Since, we didn't plan much about the places to see in Munnar this time, we thought it was better to ask the hotel lobby about the places to nearby to visit.

After having lunch and rest for some, we went to the KDHP outlet. We purchased tea in different flavors, chocolates and couple of other items for our family, back home . There is a beautiful garden on the premises of the old railway station which is on the banks of the Muthirapuzha river.

A little further through Munnar Madurai National Highway, is the Govt Botanical Garden. We spent some quality time there. Enjoyed the spectacular garden which houses around 150 varieties of flowering plants and an open theatre.

Night was so cold. Next day, after breakfast, we visited the century old C.S.I. Christ Church which is in the middle of Munnar town. This Church is famous for its religious and historic significance and its gothic style of architecture. Its main attraction is the construction in traditional architecture style with rocks.

We decided to drive till top station.  Both sides of the road were very scenic, and I really enjoyed it. Since it was Sunday, there was a huge crowd in tourist spots like Photo point and Kundala Dam. I stopped my car, when I saw a roadside vegetable vendor. He was selling fresh beetroots, carrots etc., directly plucked from the farm.

On our way back, we visited the market and purchased some fresh vegetables. We then headed straight to Kochi without making a major stop except for a little rest and tea break. 

These two days were pretty relaxing, full of a lot more of driving and enjoying nature.

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A Day in Paniyeli Poru

Entrance to Panieli Poru rapids

I was looking for a one-day outing with family, and so decided to visit Panieli Poru, which is 35 kms from Aluva. We set out from Kochi in the early hours of the morning, fully prepared and thrilled by the journey ahead. 

After parking your vehicle in the parking area, you must take a ticket from the Forest office counter. And we walked around 1.5 kms through the riverside pathway and reached  the main river area.

Pathway to Panieli Poru rapids

You can walk across a bamboo bridge, take a dip in the shallow waters or sit near the waterfalls and enjoy the cool breeze and mist. The water is crystal clear and clean.

The name ‘Paniyeli Poru’ may sound intriguing. “Poru” in Malayalam means “battle,” referring to the fierce way the river crashes against the rocks, creating  a bottleneck pressure that results in a small waterfall like formation.  

We further walked through the river. It was a great feeling to sit on the rocks and enjoy the falls. The river here is not for swimming as the undercurrents can be strong. But it’s perfect for sitting on the rocks and enjoying a quiet picnic place. One should be careful of the slippery rocks and the strong currents, especially during monsoon season.

 During the walk, you can see tree houses on the way. 

There are benches all over the walkway which offer a handy spot to sit and relax while listening to the soothing sounds of nature and watching the mesmerizing views of the waterfall. 

While returning we had lunch from one of the hotels before reaching entrance. You can bring your food and water. There are few shops selling  snacks  also 1. 

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