Munnar & Periyar Tour: A Detailed 3-Day Travel Review
Kerala, fondly named “God’s Own Country,” beckons with some very attractive destinations. So, a trip combining the hill station charm of Munnar with the wildlife encounters at Periyar seemed just about perfect for a short getaway. Basically, that’s how I found myself signed up for a 3-day ‘Munnar Hill Station with Periyar Wildlife Tour’. That is that this review is going to explore the itinerary, what made an impact, and some tips if you’re thinking about making a similar trip.
First Impressions: Munnar’s Misty Embrace
Alright, day one was all about Munnar. That is, winding roads and scenery that seemed to have jumped straight out of a postcard. You know, I arrived, and right away, I was struck by how incredibly lush the landscape was. That’s right, tea plantations stretched out everywhere, covering the hills in every direction with layers and layers of greenery. This place, I mean, this spot gave me that feeling that the air itself had a special sort of coolness. Also, that’s how I spent some time just breathing it all in, that is that, quite frankly, a relief from city life. By the way, the hotel was really rather comfy. So, in a way, that offered what appeared to be panoramic views, pretty great.
The afternoon? It was dedicated to sightseeing. That is, the Mattupetty Dam was the first stop. Right, it is a big structure surrounded by the rolling hills. By the way, boating on the lake was actually nice. That is, providing some truly picture-perfect moments. Next up, there’s this spot known as Echo Point. Apparently, people gather to shout and, basically, listen to their voices bounce back, which seems very touristy. So, yeah, it was all rather entertaining.
Visiting a tea factory turned out to be rather informative, actually. Of course, it walked us through this journey from leaf to that finished product. Still, the smell inside was amazingly robust. In fact, after that, strolling through those expansive tea gardens, well, that just really brought a peaceful close to the day.
Into the Wild: Periyar’s Wildlife Encounters
That is, day two took me over to Periyar, famous because of the wildlife sanctuary. Arguably, the change in scenery from tea estates to dense forests seemed rather marked. Anyway, the centerpiece of the day? Very definitely a boat trip on Periyar Lake. Basically, that offered us a chance to view some wildlife along the banks.
You know, spotting animals in the wild requires some patience, seemingly. Nevertheless, seeing herds of deer, some wild elephants, and many species of birds in what appears to be their natural habitat was indeed very special. Very really a treat. The guide, I mean the tour guide, he/she had extensive details that were extremely helpful in some aspects, so, the guide really helped in identifying the different species we came across. He was definitely passionate regarding wildlife preservation too. Seemingly, it was very inspiring. That is, it reminded you that you may be protecting the wild spaces.
Then, in the afternoon, you have this option for a spice plantation tour, actually. It seemed that it showcased Kerala’s rich spice trade. That’s right, wandering around, getting those scents, and hearing regarding different spices and their cultivation, well, seemingly, that was all rather enriching, that.
More Munnar: Eravikulam & Departure
That’s it, on day three, very likely, it was time to head back towards Munnar. Just a little more precisely, for a visit to Eravikulam National Park. That seems a popular destination for a good reason. Actually, it is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Of course, you need a little luck to spot them with the way that some can seemingly disappear, in that, quite honestly, rocky landscape. But, still, this park, basically, provides these outstanding views. So, that’s when people were hiking to get them. It was rather gratifying, that’s for sure. Really something else.
Following that, and very much close to the afternoon, it was then the time to head for the airport for my flight back. Seemingly, I was filled with some very new experiences and memories. Frankly, this blend of nature and that relaxing time, it was definitely great for a break from the hectic normal life.
Highlights & Recommendations
The thing is, this 3-day tour offers rather a lot, and I mean really provides some unique experiences. Right, here are some highlights and maybe some tips, okay?:
- Munnar’s Tea Gardens: Just a little unmissable is a very true assessment; those perfectly aligned tea bushes just go on seemingly endlessly. Of course, remember to take pictures. Then there is also to take some of that tea back home, maybe.
- Periyar Lake Boat Ride: Of course, that’s a great approach to get glimpses of some of the wild animals; take some binoculars to see. Then have it close by, I would highly recommend.
- Eravikulam National Park: Right, the views all around were rather spectacular, even if the Tahrs weren’t exactly keen to say hello at every turn; the earlier there to arrive the better so there might just possibly be chances to see them before what is often some pretty large crowds show.
- Spice Plantation Visit: Seemingly, an fragrant experience; don’t be shy trying just about everything. Seriously. And take some back to give away to people; always really is welcomed and nice.
You know, a few recommendations. Of course, pack clothing for what is basically two climates, there are cooler evenings in Munnar, it gets warmer at Periyar; bring, actually, comfy shoes due to the nature there of there just having so much walking involved; do take water and some snacks while you will travel between sites; always remain aware while viewing wildlife. I mean, you’re after all in the animals’ natural habitat; very definitely respect that! Then very much prepare yourself also regarding those winding roads. You have it there.
You get to encounter different types of terrains with lush plantations plus then abundant wildlife within a rather short time with that kind of trip. It seemed well organized while enabling tourists a chance to unwind alongside finding excitement through adventures within that incredible spot over this earth with beautiful destinations!
