Sunday, March 12, 2023

Trip to Munnar



Every year, sometime during the first quarter, I find myself drawn to Munnar. There is something about the hills, the tea gardens, the cool weather and those winding roads that keeps bringing me back. Each year, I try to explore a different side of Munnar.

But this time, my reason for visiting was slightly different.

I had a new Honda Amaze CVT, and I wanted to take it on a proper hill drive — to get comfortable with the winding roads, the narrow stretches between tea estates, the inclines and descents, and, of course, simply enjoy being behind the wheel.

The other reasons were the usual ones: fresh mountain air, beautiful scenery, good food and a couple of peaceful days away from the routine.

The Drive from Kochi to Munnar

As usual, we started our journey from Kochi.

The drive towards Munnar was pleasant, with the landscape gradually changing as we moved away from the city. The familiar roads, greenery and increasingly cooler weather made the journey enjoyable in itself.

We stopped at Adimali for a short break, had tea and some snacks, and continued our drive towards Munnar.

We had booked our room in the Munnar town area. This time, we hadn't prepared an elaborate itinerary or made a long list of places to visit. In fact, we decided to keep things flexible.

After checking in, we had lunch and rested for a while. Later, we thought the easiest thing to do would be to ask the hotel lobby about some nearby places worth visiting.

Sometimes, an unplanned trip turns out to be the most relaxing one.

An Evening at the KDHP Outlet

Our first stop was the KDHP outlet.

Of course, no trip to Munnar is complete without taking some tea back home. We spent some time browsing through the different varieties and ended up buying tea in different flavours, chocolates and a couple of other things for the family.

The surroundings were just as enjoyable as the shopping.

The outlet is located near the old railway station, and there is a beautiful garden on the premises. The old station and the garden sit beside the Muthirapuzha River, making the place particularly pleasant for a leisurely visit.


A Quiet Evening at the Government Botanical Garden

A little further along the Munnar–Madurai National Highway, we reached the Government Botanical Garden.

The garden was a pleasant surprise. It has around 150 varieties of flowering plants, along with an open theatre, and there was plenty of colour and greenery everywhere we looked.


We spent some quality time there, walking around and enjoying the beautifully maintained garden.

After a day of driving and sightseeing, it was exactly the kind of place we needed — peaceful, green and unhurried.


By night, Munnar had become quite cold. The temperature dropped noticeably, and the chilly mountain air reminded us that we were well away from the warmth of Kochi.

A Sunday Morning in Munnar

The next morning, after breakfast, we visited the century-old C.S.I. Christ Church, located right in the middle of Munnar town.

The church is known for its religious and historical significance, as well as its Gothic-style architecture. One of the things that caught my attention was its traditional construction using rocks, which gives the building a distinctive character.

After spending some time there, we decided that the day's main plan would be a drive to Top Station.

And this was really the part of the trip I had been looking forward to.


The Drive to Top Station

The road towards Top Station was everything I had hoped for.

The scenery on both sides kept changing as we climbed higher. Tea plantations, hills, curves and stretches of narrow road made the drive interesting at every turn.

This was also the perfect opportunity to get a better feel for my new Honda Amaze CVT on hill roads.

There were plenty of curves and narrow sections, particularly through the tea estates, and I enjoyed the experience of driving at a relaxed pace and simply taking in the surroundings.

Since it was a Sunday, the popular tourist spots were crowded. Photo Point and Kundala Dam, in particular, had a large number of visitors.

Rather than spending too much time in the crowds, I was happy simply being on the road.

A Roadside Stop for Fresh Vegetables

One of the nicest moments of the drive was completely unplanned.

While driving back, I noticed a roadside vegetable vendor selling fresh vegetables. Beetroots, carrots and other produce were displayed along the roadside, and it was clear that these were fresh farm produce.

I stopped the car.

There was something wonderfully simple about buying vegetables directly from a roadside farmer in the hills. It felt much more memorable than buying another souvenir from a tourist shop.

We picked up some fresh vegetables and continued our journey.


Later, we stopped at the market and bought some more fresh vegetables before starting our return journey to Kochi.

Back to Kochi

We then headed straight towards Kochi.

There was no major sightseeing stop on the way back. Apart from a short break for some rest and tea, we simply enjoyed the drive home.

For me, this Munnar trip was exactly that — more driving, less planning, plenty of nature, and a lot of time behind the wheel of my new Honda Amaze CVT.

Sunday, March 05, 2023

A Day in Paniyeli Poru

Entrance to Panieli Poru rapids

Looking for a refreshing one-day outing with family, away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Panieli Poru is a wonderful place to spend a day surrounded by forests, flowing water, rocky landscapes, and the soothing sounds of nature.

Located around 35 km from Aluva, Panieli Poru is a popular nature getaway in Kerala. We decided to visit this beautiful spot for a family day trip, and we set out from Kochi in the early hours of the morning, excited about the journey ahead.

Our Journey to Panieli Poru

After reaching Panieli Poru, we parked our vehicle in the designated parking area and headed to the Forest Office counter to take our entry tickets.

From there, we began walking along the riverside pathway towards the main river area. The walk itself was enjoyable, with greenery on either side and the sound of flowing water accompanying us along the way.

Pathway to Panieli Poru rapids


After walking for around 1.5 km, we finally reached the main river area.

The Beautiful Panieli Poru Rapids

The first sight of the river was refreshing. The clear, sparkling water flowing over and around the rocks created a beautiful natural landscape.

There is a bamboo bridge that adds to the charm of the place. Visitors can walk across it, sit beside the river, or carefully step into the shallow waters. The cool breeze, gentle mist, and sound of the waterfalls make it an ideal place to relax.

The water looked crystal clear and inviting, but it is important to remember that the river can have strong undercurrents. Swimming is therefore not advisable. Instead, sitting on the rocks, enjoying the scenery, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere is a much safer way to experience Panieli Poru.




Why Is It Called ‘Panieli Poru’?

The name itself is quite fascinating.

In Malayalam, “Poru” means “battle.” The name is believed to refer to the way the river fiercely crashes against the rocks. As the water rushes through the narrow rocky stretches, it creates strong pressure and small waterfall-like formations.

Watching the water battle its way through the rocks makes the name feel particularly appropriate.

Walking Along the River

We continued walking along the river and found several beautiful spots where we could sit on the rocks and enjoy the falls.

It was a wonderful feeling to simply sit there, listen to the sound of rushing water, feel the cool breeze, and take in the natural surroundings. For anyone looking for a quiet picnic spot, Panieli Poru offers plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy nature.

However, visitors should be careful while walking over the rocks. They can be extremely slippery, particularly during the monsoon season. The river currents can also become much stronger during rainy periods, so extra caution is essential.


Tree Houses and Riverside Walkways

One of the interesting things we noticed during our walk was the tree houses along the pathway. They add a lovely touch to the natural surroundings and make the journey towards the river even more interesting.


There are also benches placed at various points along the walkway. These are perfect for taking a break after walking, enjoying the views, or simply sitting quietly while listening to the sounds of the forest and waterfall.



Food and Other Essentials

After spending a wonderful time near the river, we started our walk back towards the entrance.

We had lunch at one of the hotels near the entrance. There are also a few small shops selling snacks and other refreshments.

You can also carry your own food and drinking water if you are planning to spend several hours there. A small picnic with family can make the experience even more enjoyable.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

If you are planning a visit to Panieli Poru, keep these things in mind:

Wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking.

Be very careful on the slippery rocks.

Avoid swimming because of the unpredictable currents.

Take extra care during the monsoon season.

Carry sufficient drinking water.

You can bring your own food for a picnic.

Keep the surroundings clean and avoid leaving plastic or other waste behind.

Allow yourself enough time to enjoy the riverside walk rather than rushing to the main falls.

A Perfect One-Day Nature Escape

If you are looking for a one-day getaway from Kochi or Aluva, Panieli Poru can be a refreshing choice for spending quality time with family and reconnecting with nature.

Sometimes, all you need is the sound of flowing water, a cool breeze, and a quiet place to sit—and Panieli Poru offers just that.

Sunday, February 19, 2023

A Day in Abhayaranyam Ecotourism


Looking for a peaceful weekend getaway away from the bustle of Ernakulam? Abhayaranyam, located near Kaprikad in Kunnathukadu Taluk, Ernakulam district, is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, families, and anyone who enjoys spending time surrounded by greenery and wildlife.

Spread across a lush forested landscape, Abhayaranyam offers visitors the chance to experience Kerala's natural beauty while exploring a canopy walkway, wildlife enclosures, an elephant shelter, and scenic riverside surroundings.

Entry fee is Rs.50/-. An ecotourism shop functions near the main entry gage of the mini zoo which sells sandalwood oil and honey etc. The canopy walkway offers plenty of shade and you can walk around the park within 2 hours with a few stops along the way.


A Walk Through the Forest

One of the highlights of Abhayaranyam is its canopy walkway. The shaded pathway winds through the green landscape and can comfortably be explored in around two hours, depending on how often you stop to admire the surroundings.

The walkway is divided into different themed sections, including a bamboo forest, butterfly building, mini zoo, and other natural attractions. Benches are placed along the route, making it easy to pause, relax, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

As you walk, keep an eye out for the tree houses tucked among the greenery. They add a charming touch to the forest setting and make the walk even more enjoyable.
 

Deer and Sambar Park

The Deer and Sambar Park is another major attraction at Abhayaranyam. Hundreds of deer and sambar are kept in a spacious, forest-like environment where visitors can watch them moving around in a relatively natural setting.

For children especially, seeing these animals up close can be one of the most memorable parts of the visit.


A Haven for Nature Lovers

Abhayaranyam is not just about deer and larger animals. The area is home to a variety of birds, butterflies, spiders, and mushrooms, making it an interesting place for anyone who enjoys observing the smaller wonders of nature.

Meet the Elephants

Another important attraction here is the elephant shelter and mahout training centre. Visitors can learn more about the care and training of elephants and, at certain times, watch elephants being bathed.

The elephant bathing session is particularly fascinating. Watching these magnificent animals enjoying the water is an experience that visitors are unlikely to forget.



Enjoy the Riverside Scenery

Beyond the wildlife attractions, Abhayaranyam offers plenty of opportunities simply to enjoy nature. The lush greenery and the view of the river create a calm and refreshing setting.

If you enjoy slow travel, this is a place where you can put aside the rush of everyday life, sit under the shade of the trees, and simply take in the surroundings.

A Simple and Relaxing Day Trip

After exploring the main walkway and wildlife areas, you can make your way back towards the entrance and follow the trail down towards the lower entrance/exit. 

So, if you're planning a one-day trip from Ernakulam and want somewhere that combines nature and wildlife without the rush of a typical tourist destination, Abhayaranyam is certainly a place worth exploring.

Sunday, February 05, 2023

A Day in Mangomeadows

 

Sometimes, the best escapes are the ones that take you away from the noise of everyday life without taking you too far from home. While searching for an ideal one-day getaway near Kochi, I came across Mango Meadows Agricultural Theme Park, located at Ayamkudi near Kaduthuruthy in Kottayam district, Kerala.

Tucked away from the bustle of the city, Mango Meadows turned out to be a wonderful destination for a relaxed day surrounded by nature.

Spread across nearly 30 acres, the park is home to thousands of varieties of plants and trees. It is a privately owned, paid attraction that combines nature, agriculture, recreation, and Kerala's traditional culture in a rather unique way.

A Day Surrounded by Nature

Mango Meadows has plenty to keep visitors occupied. There are swimming pools, pedal boats, row boats, water cycles, go-karts, cycling trails, boating experiences and several other activities.

The park also has a fishpond, tree groves, farmland, a cattle farm, a boat safari, a ropeway and a restaurant. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, but if you want to experience most of what the park has to offer, keeping aside an entire day would be a better idea.

One of the things I particularly liked was the effort to combine entertainment with education. The park showcases biodiversity, traditional practices and the importance of plants and trees, making the visit enjoyable as well as informative.

Starting the Visit

On reaching the park, visitors are directed to a parking area. Our first stop was the Visitors Center, where we purchased the entry tickets and booked our lunch time.

We were then directed to a waiting area, where a guide was assigned to us.

The guided tour was an interesting introduction to the park. Our guide explained the importance of various trees and plants and shared interesting scientific information about them. Walking through the greenery while listening to these stories made the experience much more meaningful than simply wandering around on our own.

The Tea Garden

Our tour took us through several themed areas of the park, including the Tea Garden.

There was something fascinating about seeing different plants and learning about their uses and significance. The greenery, fresh air and peaceful surroundings made the walk especially pleasant.

Tea Garden

The Bible Statue and Bible Garden

One of the major attractions at Mango Meadows is the Bible Statue, a striking structure measuring about 25 feet by 25 feet.

The statue is made of concrete and incorporates original pages from the Bible in Malayalam. Around it is the Bible Garden, which contains around 125 plants, trees and herbs mentioned in the scriptures.

It was one of those places where nature, culture and spirituality come together in an unusual setting.

Bible Statue

Valentine's Garden and Eden's Garden

Mango Meadows also has a few themed spaces designed to add a touch of romance and imagination to the park.

The Valentine's Garden is a charming spot for couples, while Eden's Garden, inspired by the biblical story of Adam and Eve, offers another interesting corner to explore.

These themed gardens add variety to the otherwise nature-focused experience.

Valentine's Garden



Discovering India Through Trees

Another attraction that caught our attention was the Indian Map Statue.

Children, in particular, can learn about the different states of India and their respective state trees. Trees representing the different states stand within their corresponding spaces, turning the area into an interesting outdoor learning experience.

I thought this was a wonderful way of introducing children to India's incredible botanical diversity.

 Indian Map Statue

A Glimpse of Kerala's Traditional Culture
A few metres away, we came across a temple pond that seemed to evoke Kerala's traditional landscape.

Nearby was a sarppakavu, or sacred grove traditionally considered an abode of snakes. Such sacred groves are an important part of Kerala's cultural heritage and traditional biodiversity conservation practices.

It was interesting to see these traditional elements incorporated into a modern theme park.

Exploring the Park on Our Own

After completing the guided tour, we were free to explore the park at our own pace.

There are several activities available for visitors, including cycling and boating.

Free cycling is allowed for 20 minutes with a ₹100 deposit, which is refunded when the cycle is returned within the allotted time. Riding through the park was a pleasant way to enjoy the greenery and surroundings.

We also tried archery, which turned out to be one of the most thrilling experiences of the day. Holding the bow, taking aim and releasing the arrow was surprisingly exciting!

Tea and Pazhampori

No Kerala outing feels quite complete without tea and snacks, and Mango Meadows had a delightful surprise for tea lovers.

There is a small tea shop where tea is prepared in a traditional way. Watching the tea being prepared and enjoying it in such peaceful surroundings was a memorable experience.

And, of course, I couldn't resist having pazhampori with my tea.

I have always loved tea, but somehow it tasted even better that day — perhaps it was the traditional preparation, perhaps it was the company, or perhaps it was simply the beautiful surroundings.

A Relaxing End to the Day

As evening approached, it was time for us to leave.

After spending several hours walking through gardens, learning about plants, cycling, trying archery and enjoying a traditional cup of tea, we left Mango Meadows with refreshed minds and happy memories.

If you're looking for a one-day getaway near Kochi, especially a place where you can slow down, breathe some fresh air and spend time surrounded by greenery, Mango Meadows at Ayamkudi is certainly worth considering.

We left with a refreshed mind — and with the hope of returning again someday.

Sunday, August 28, 2022

Vagavanam Windy Walk: Trekking Through Kerala’s Green Hills


There are some journeys where the destination is only part of the experience. The winding roads, misty hills, fresh rain, unexpected encounters and tired-but-happy moments along the way become equally memorable.

Our journey to Vagavanam, near the famous hill station of Vagamon in Idukki district, Kerala, was one such adventure. Surrounded by rolling grasslands, greenery and strong mountain winds, Vagavanam offered us a refreshing one-day escape into nature.

An Early Morning Start from Kochi

We started our journey from Kochi early in the morning. After a few hours on the road, we stopped at Thodupuzha for breakfast and recharged ourselves before continuing towards the hills.

From Moolamattom onwards, the character of the journey changed completely. The road began climbing, with narrow stretches and plenty of curves. The drive wasn't particularly comfortable, but the changing landscape kept us interested.

Before reaching Vagavanam, we stopped our car and collected our packed lunch. Our destination was the Kerala Forest Department office at Ottamarapara, around 8 km from the junction.

There was a small shop near the forest office selling honey and tea dust. We made a mental note to stop there on our way back.

Beginning the Windy Walk Trek

The Kerala Forest Department conducts the Windy Walk trekking programme at Kuvalettam. The total trekking distance is around 7 km and generally takes about 3.5 hours to complete.

After paying the entry fee of ₹155 and completing the necessary formalities, we met our guides and began our trek.

The initial stretch was along a tarred road, which soon gave way to a muddy jeep track. Since it was the rainy season, the path was slippery in several places, making the climb a little more challenging.

We stopped at the foothill of the first hill, introduced ourselves to the rest of the group and then continued our walk.

And this was where the real experience began.


Greenery, Grasslands and Fresh Mountain Air

Walking through the greenery with the cool mountain breeze blowing around us was incredibly refreshing. The usual noise and rush of city life seemed very far away.

As we climbed higher, we could see Vagamon in the distance.

The landscape was a beautiful combination of rolling grasslands, patches of greenery and hills disappearing into the distance. The monsoon had given everything a fresh green appearance, making the scenery even more beautiful.


Soon, we reached the top of the first hill.

And there was a surprise waiting for us.

Far below, we spotted a herd of elephants moving across the hillside. Watching them from a safe distance was one of the most memorable moments of the trek.




A Trek of Ups and Downs

The Windy Walk is aptly named.

The trek is essentially a continuous journey up and down the grass-covered hills, with the wind following us almost throughout the route.

Some stretches were easy, while others required a little more effort. There were slippery sections, rocky patches and steep portions where we had to watch our steps carefully.

During the monsoon, these sections can become particularly challenging, so proper footwear and a little caution are essential.

But every climb came with its own reward.

Whenever we stopped to catch our breath, we were greeted by beautiful views of the surrounding hills and grasslands.

The fresh air, greenery and heavy wind made the effort worthwhile.


Reaching the Final Hill

We continued trekking until we reached the final hill, which marks the last point of the Windy Walk trail.

From here, the scenery changed once again.

On the other side of the reservoir was Kulamavu, while from the peak we could enjoy expansive views of the catchment area of the Idukki reservoir.

After walking for several hours, this was the perfect place to stop.

We rested for a while, opened our packed lunch and enjoyed our meal surrounded by the hills. Of course, there was plenty of time for photographs as well.

With the trek completed, we began our return journey.


A Refreshing Stop at Kallattupara Waterfalls

It was around 3 PM when we finally returned to the starting point.

But our day wasn't over yet.

The next stop on our itinerary was Kallattupara Waterfalls, located nearby.

It isn't a massive waterfall, but the cold water was exactly what we needed after the long trek. We took a refreshing bath beneath the falls and felt much of the day's tiredness disappear.

After the waterfall visit, we made one final stop near the reservoir and sat together, sharing our experiences from the trek.

Kallattupara waterfalls

A Monsoon Adventure Worth Remembering

The Vagavanam Windy Walk was a beautiful and challenging one-day adventure.

What makes the experience special isn't any single viewpoint or attraction. It is the journey itself — walking through the grasslands, climbing one hill after another, feeling the wind against your face and occasionally stopping simply to admire the landscape.

For nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts looking for a relatively offbeat experience in Idukki, Vagavanam is certainly a place worth exploring.

And after a long day of walking, nothing feels better than a cold bath under a waterfall before heading home.

One beautiful, challenging day. One memorable trek. And plenty of reasons to return to the hills.

Quick Trek Details

Location: Vagavanam, near Vagamon, Idukki, Kerala

Trek: Windy Walk, Kuvalettam

Trek distance: Approximately 7 km

Duration: Around 3.5 hours

Entry fee: ₹155 per person

Best experience: Monsoon, when the hills are lush and green

Nearby attraction: Kallattupara Waterfalls

Difficulty: Moderate, with slippery and rocky sections during monsoon

Highlights: Grasslands, mountain winds, views of Vagamon, Idukki reservoir catchment and elephant sightings

Sunday, June 26, 2022

Trek to Moodal Mala, Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary

I have already explored a couple of trekking trails inside Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, but every visit to this beautiful wilderness seems to reveal something new. This time, I was excited to explore Moodalmala, a recently opened trekking trail by the Kerala Forest Department.

Known as one of the highest trekking points in Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary, Moodalmala promised a completely different experience—dense forests, rocky viewpoints, reservoir views, wildlife encounters and, of course, the thrill of walking through the wilderness.

The Beginning of the Trek

Our reporting point was the Forest Office at Peechi, near Thrissur, Kerala, where we were asked to assemble at 9:00 a.m.

After completing the necessary formalities and obtaining permission from the Forest Department, we began our trek at around 9:30 a.m. Two forest guides accompanied our group throughout the trek.

Initially, we walked along a jeep road. Although it was an easy beginning, we knew that the real adventure was yet to come. Soon, we reached the entrance to the forest. After a brief introduction among the group members, we entered the forest and officially began our Moodalmala trek.

Into the Dense Forest

The initial section was a steady hike through dense forest. The trail gradually became more challenging, and we took short breaks at regular intervals to catch our breath.

One of the highlights of trekking with a forest guide is the opportunity to learn about the wilderness beyond what meets the eye. Along the way, our guides introduced us to various trees and plants, explaining their characteristics and uses. Their knowledge of the forest added a whole new dimension to the trek.


As we climbed higher, the gradient became steeper. After a strenuous ascent, we finally reached a viewpoint.

And what a view!

From the viewpoint, we could see the Kochi–Coimbatore National Highway winding through the landscape, along with the impressive Kuthiran Tunnel. Seeing the busy highway from the quietness of the forest was a striking contrast.


A Rocky Viewpoint and Reservoir Views

We continued towards an open rocky area where the landscape suddenly opened up. The dense forest gave way to expansive views, and strong gusts of wind welcomed us.

After the climb, I found a comfortable spot on the rocks and simply sat down for a while, enjoying the surroundings.

Far away, we could see the reservoir shimmering against the green landscape. The peaceful setting, cool breeze and panoramic views made this one of those moments when you simply forget about everything else and enjoy being there.

After spending some time at the viewpoint, we resumed our trek.


Descending Through the Wilderness

The trail now took us downhill through thick forest. Unlike a conventional hiking trail, there was no clearly marked route in many sections. We followed our experienced guides as they led us deeper into the forest.

We passed through an elephant movement corridor locally known as Anathara. Walking through such areas was a reminder that we were not merely hiking through a park—we were moving through the natural habitat of wild animals.

Eventually, we reached a small rivulet where we stopped for a break.

It was time for lunch.

We had our packed lunch beside the stream and relaxed for a while. Some of us also took the opportunity to refill our water bottles before continuing the journey.

Trekking Along the Reservoir

From here onwards, much of the trek was beside the reservoir. The scenery changed again, with the water body accompanying us as we made our way through the forest.

And then came the biggest surprise of the day.

An Unexpected Wildlife Encounter

Across the reservoir, we suddenly spotted a group of wild dogs.

Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is always special, but watching them from a distance as they made their way towards the water was an unforgettable experience.

They appeared to be heading towards the water to catch their meal. We quietly waited and watched from across the reservoir, taking a few photographs while maintaining a safe distance.


After they had finished their meal, the wild dogs gradually moved back towards the forest and disappeared among the trees.

Moments like this are impossible to plan. You can prepare for a trek, pack your essentials and follow a trail—but you never know what the forest might reveal. 


 
Back to the Forest Office

After spending some time enjoying the wildlife encounter, we continued our trek. Eventually, the trail led us back towards the Forest Office.

By the time we completed the trek, we were tired but thoroughly satisfied.

Moodalmala offered everything I look for in a forest trek—challenging climbs, dense greenery, rocky viewpoints, reservoir scenery, fascinating insights from forest guides and, most importantly, an unexpected wildlife encounter.

For me, it was another memorable day in the wilderness of Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary—and one more reason to return to this beautiful forest.

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Weekend at Abad Turtle Beach Resort, Mararikulam

 

Sometimes, all we need is a short break from our everyday routine—a change of scenery, the sound of waves, and a little time to simply slow down. For us, that perfect escape turned out to be a two-day stay at Abad Turtle Beach Resort.

After about an hour's drive from Kochi, we finally arrived at the vast and beautifully maintained resort. Spread across 13 acres of lush greenery, the property welcomed us with swaying palm trees, open spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere. The moment I stepped in, I felt myself relaxing. I took a deep breath and thought, our two days of fun have begun!

Exploring Abad Turtle Beach Resort

We spent two wonderful days at Abad Turtle Beach, and there was something enjoyable waiting around almost every corner. One of the things I loved most about the resort was the feeling of space. It was a joy to wander around, explore the surroundings, and discover little corners of beauty.

Our room was cozy and spacious, and one of its most interesting features was the open-sky bathroom. It added a special touch to the stay and made the experience feel quite different from an ordinary hotel visit.


There were hammocks where we could simply lie back and relax, plenty of space to walk around, and, of course, direct access to the beach.



The resort even has a small vegetable garden where fresh vegetables are grown. I enjoyed cycling around the property, taking in the greenery and the peaceful surroundings.

Pool Time and Family Fun

The swimming pool was another major attraction. It was the perfect place to cool down and spend some fun-filled time in the water. Whether relaxing by the pool or enjoying the water with the family, there was never a dull moment.

For families, the resort offers plenty of opportunities to spend quality time together. There is something wonderfully refreshing about being able to leave behind the usual rush of life and simply enjoy the company of your loved ones.


Delicious Food and Relaxing Meals

Our days were made even better with delicious meals served at the resort. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner gave us plenty of opportunities to sit back, enjoy good food, and talk about everything we had done during the day.

A holiday always feels more complete when good food is part of the experience—and Abad Turtle certainly made sure we were well fed!

Chasing Sunsets by the Sea

The beach was undoubtedly one of my favorite places at the resort, especially for photography.

The sunset was breathtaking. Watching the sky change colors over the sea was one of those moments when you simply want to stop and take it all in. I love the sea, and walking along the beach while listening to the sound of the waves was incredibly calming.

The beach also became our playground.

One morning, we woke up early and headed straight to the beach. We spent time running along the shore with the kids, enjoying some fun-filled moments and taking candid photographs. Those simple moments became some of my favorite memories from the trip.

A Holiday I Didn't Want to End

Two days at Abad Turtle Beach passed far too quickly. From the spacious and peaceful surroundings to the beach, swimming pool, cycling, delicious food, and beautiful sunsets, every part of the stay gave us something to remember.

Looking back, I couldn't help thinking, I should have visited this place much earlier!

And when it was finally time to leave, I had only one wish—I wish we could extend our holiday at Abad Turtle Beach for a few more days.

Sometimes, the best holidays aren't about travelling far or ticking off a long list of attractions. They are about slowing down, spending time with family, enjoying nature, and creating memories together.

For us, Abad Turtle was exactly that—a beautiful little escape filled with sunshine, sea, laughter, good food, and unforgettable family moments.