Imagine you’re stepping out of the bustling life of Bangalore, seeking solace and adventure. You’re heading to Kerala, a land where nature’s beauty unfolds in the most enchanting ways. The journey from Bangalore to Kerala itself is a transition from the urban to the serene, with landscapes transforming as you move closer to your destination.
Day 1: Munnar
Your first stop is Munnar, a haven of peace and tranquility, nestled in the Western Ghats. As you enter Munnar, the cool breeze carrying the scent of tea plantations welcomes you. The rolling hills covered in a tapestry of green tea gardens are a sight to behold. Begin your day with a visit to the Tea Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of tea plantations in this region. Then, take a stroll through the tea gardens, the greenery soothing your city-weary eyes. Don’t miss the Eravikulam National Park, where the endangered Nilgiri Tahr roams freely. If you’re lucky, you might spot one. The park offers a splendid view of the tea plantations and the misty hills. As the day ends, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Day 2: Alleppey
Next, head to Alleppey, the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. Board a houseboat and glide through the tranquil waters, lined with palm trees and lush greenery. This is where you truly feel the essence of Kerala. The houseboat journey offers a glimpse into the rural life of Kerala, with scenes of locals going about their daily life, birds flying overhead, and the sun casting a golden glow over the waters. Spend your night on the houseboat, under a canopy of stars, the gentle lapping of water lulling you to sleep.
Weather in Kerala
Kerala has a tropical climate, so expect it to be warm and humid, but Munnar, being a hill station, will be cooler. Pack light cotton clothes for Alleppey and a light jacket for Munnar. The weather is generally pleasant, making your exploration comfortable.
Also, don’t forget your camera, sunscreen, and a good book to read as you relax on the houseboat.
Events
Depending on when you visit, Kerala hosts various cultural and traditional events. The Onam festival, usually in August or September, showcases Kerala’s rich culture and heritage with boat races, traditional dances, and exquisite food.
Where exactly should you go? Where to start at?
Let’s fine-tune our journey, starting from the moment you step out of Bangalore, heading towards the serene landscapes of Kerala. Here’s a more detailed itinerary to make sure every moment is accounted for and cherished.
Starting Point: Munnar
- How to Reach Munnar from Bangalore: The most convenient way to start your journey is by taking an overnight bus or train to Kochi, followed by a scenic drive to Munnar. The drive from Kochi to Munnar itself is breathtaking, with picturesque views of the Western Ghats greeting you along the way. Alternatively, you can drive directly from Bangalore to Munnar, a journey of about 475 kilometers, which allows you to enjoy the changing landscapes at your own pace.
- First Stop in Munnar: Tea Gardens and Tea Museum Begin your day early in Munnar. Head straight to the lush tea gardens that are synonymous with Munnar. The fresh morning air, coupled with the gentle warmth of the rising sun, makes this experience magical. After wandering through the tea gardens, visit the Tea Museum to delve into the rich history of tea production in Munnar. It’s a fascinating introduction to the region’s colonial past and its connection with tea.
- Next, Eravikulam National Park Post the tea museum, make your way to Eravikulam National Park. The park is not only home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr but also offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The rolling hills and lush landscapes are a photographer’s delight. Ensure you’re there early to avoid the crowds and to fully enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Transition to Alleppey
- How to Reach Alleppey from Munnar: After your exploration in Munnar, set off on a journey to Alleppey, which is about 4 to 5 hours drive away. This journey allows you to witness the changing geography of Kerala from the misty hills to the serene backwaters.
- First Experience in Alleppey: Houseboat Stay Upon reaching Alleppey, board a traditional houseboat. This is where you truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the Kerala backwaters. The houseboats, with their thatched roofs and wooden hulls, offer a unique experience of living on the water. Spend your afternoon cruising through the labyrinth of waterways, observing the daily life of the locals, and enjoying the lush landscapes.
- Exploring the Backwaters As the houseboat glides through the waters, make sure to capture the moments when the setting sun paints the sky in vibrant colors. Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal on the boat, prepared using local spices and fresh ingredients.
You can book a guided tour with Indian Tour Makers if you wish that allow you to complete enjoy your visit and stay away from the hustles of booking and scheduling the time etc.
What you can experience in Munnar and Alleppey
Oh, where do I even start? Munnar and Alleppey were nothing short of magical. Let me walk you through it, just as I experienced it, in all its glory.
First up, Munnar. The moment I stepped into this lush paradise, it felt like I’d walked right into a postcard. You know, the kind you’d send back home with “Wish you were here” scrawled across it? That’s Munnar for you. The air was so fresh, it almost tasted sweet, and the tea gardens? Man, they stretched as far as the eye could see, painting the hills in fifty shades of green. I wandered through those tea fields, lost but in the best way possible. And the Tea Museum, oh, it was like stepping back in time. Who knew leaves could have such a rich history?
But wait, there’s more. Eravikulam National Park was a showstopper. Picture this: mist-covered hills, cool breezes, and me, standing there, feeling like I’d found my own little corner of heaven. And the Nilgiri Tahrs? Adorable doesn’t even begin to cover it. It was like they owned the place, strutting around with their heads held high. I couldn’t help but snap a hundred photos, each one trying to capture a piece of that magic.
Now, let’s talk Alleppey. If Munnar was a dream, Alleppey was the dream you didn’t want to wake up from. The moment I stepped onto that houseboat, I knew I was in for a treat. It was like a floating hotel room, but with views that no hotel could ever offer. Gliding through the backwaters, with palm trees lining the banks and the sun setting in the distance, was surreal. The water was so calm, it was like glass, reflecting the sky so perfectly, you couldn’t tell where the water ended and the sky began.
And the night on the houseboat? Pure bliss. The sound of water gently lapping against the boat, the stars overhead so bright, it felt like they were showing off just for me. I dined on the most delicious, spicy, tangy Kerala cuisine. Every bite was a flavor explosion, making me wonder why I’d never discovered this culinary heaven before.
But it’s not just the places, you know? It’s the people. The warmth, the smiles, the way they make you feel right at home, even when you’re miles away from your own. Kerala, with its tea-covered hills and serene backwaters, stole a piece of my heart. And I’m not even mad about it. In fact, I’m already dreaming of going back. Because once you’ve experienced this slice of paradise, there’s no turning back. Trust me, you’ve gotta see it to believe it.
Embark on this journey with an open heart and an eager spirit, ready to soak in the beauty of Kerala. From the green-carpeted hills of Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, each moment promises to be a blend of tranquility, adventure, and sheer beauty.
Similar Places
If you crave more of nature’s beauty, visit Wayanad, another gem in Kerala. It’s known for its lush forests, wildlife, and ancient ruins. The Edakkal Caves and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary are must-visits.
As you journey through Kerala, let the beauty of nature, the warmth of the people, and the tranquility of the backwaters fill your soul. This is a place where memories are made, stories are born, and the hustle of city life seems a world away.
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