Ponmudi- A Wonderful Hill station of Kerala

Ponmudi is also called the Golden peak and is a part of western ghats. It is a  small hill station, only   3  hours drive and is a perfect choice. It is situated at an altitude of 3,000 feet, the drive to the hilly retreat is the most scenic.  Natives in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram will always say that weekend drive to Ponmudi is the best way to spend time. Families and Friends groups are known to go on a long drive through the winding road and through the thriving hills and sweepings valleys of the Western Ghats, leading up to Ponmudi from Trivandrum. This is a perfect place for kerala group tour packages because of the awesome trekking trails.
Most Flora and   Fauna can be seen here including mountain flowers, wild orchids, and exotic butterflies. The climate of the place is very pleasant and most part of the year this place is covered with thick mist. A large number of cottages and resorts have come up in the area, tourists can enjoy all essence of nature and its beauty while staying. The treehouse view tower is another great place to visit here in Ponmudi.

A special attraction of the Ponmudi is a meenmuty-Kallar waterfall, One can always stopover at the breath-taking Kallar river on the way. This River flows parallel to the road in the opposite direction, and Meenmutty Waterfalls only a little distance ahead. A good part of this space is covered with dense forests and can be reached only after covering these forests. And the wildflowers growing on the banks of brooks just adds to the overall beauty. The waterfall cascade down and a series of boulders to form a large pool. Then cold water flowing through rocks is a beautiful sight. Kallar is also a popular and favorite destination for bird watchers

Golden Valley doesn’t involve any trek to reach the place. The highlight here is the gushing water of Kallar River, which is perfect for a dip. Also, the place is strewn with golden-hued stones and pebbles which can be the reason behind the name of this place.
Wildlife enthusiasts rejoice because Ponmudi is home to Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, rich in flora, fauna. The terrain of this sanctuary is hilly, with the beautiful Karamana river meandering through it. The most commonly spotted animals here are the elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sambar, Nilgiri langur, and macaques.

Related: Kerala family tour packages

If you drive around Ponmudi, a stop at Bonacaud is highly recommended. Covering 2,500 acres, it has forests, waterfalls, streams and tea plantations. It also serves as a base for the popular trek to Agasthyakoodam Peak – the second highest peak in Kerala. Situated at an altitude of 6,128 feet, the trek to Agasthyakoodam is done over two days. However, permits are to be obtained from the forest office at Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary. A dip in the cool yet pure water that flows through this area is truly worth the effort. One could also avail of the facilities provided by the District Tourism Promotion Council at Kallar, including restrooms, the dining hall, and bathrooms.

A trek to one of the wonders of Wayanad with the cool breeze!

If you don't see the Chembra Peak and the Heart-shaped Lake then you are going to miss the stunning beauty of Wayanad. A trek to one of the wonders of Wayanad with the cool breeze will change your mind and soul! Wayanad is a paradise for nature lovers and many love to see the sights of Wayanad. Tourists from all over the state and other states come here to enjoy the beauty of Wayanad. Hundreds of visitors come to Wayanad every year from foreign countries. The Chembra Peak of Wayanad is another must-visit for those who love the Edakkal Cave, Kuruva Island, and Soochippara Waterfalls. 

Chembra Peak is a popular tourist attraction in the World!

Chembra is also popular for those who love trekking. For those who are planning a day trek, you can select one of the kerala group tour packages and plan your trek to Chembra Peak. The trekking time is around three hours. Seeing the heart-shaped lake here is one of the many years old aspirations for many. This is known as the ‘Hridhaya Sarass’ in Malayalam. The main attraction of the lake is that it never drains. The trekking begins from Meppadi. Trekking is organized by the Forest Department's Chembra Peak VSS Eco-Tourism. Tickets can be purchased from its office. The trekking time is from 7 am to 2 pm. Tea plantations can be found spread across the valley of the Chembra Peak and it is a sight for our eyes. One kilometer after trekking, you can see a watchtower. Tourists can enjoy a panoramic view of the Chembra Peak and nearby areas from here. The Heart-shaped lake reaches after another two kilometers. It is situated amidst lush green meadows; Visitors all over the nation visits Chembra to experience this sight! You can relax and spend some time on the shore of the lake and enjoy the beauty and breathtaking climate of the place. Going one kilometer further, you will reach the top of Chembra Peak. It is a total of four and a half kilometers of trekking and it takes about three to four hours to reach the top.

Also Check: kerala tour packages from mumbai

Trekking up to the lake is not that much difficult task. After that, there is a steep climb. 

Trekking through the forest will give you a different experience. You will surely love the Chembra while passing under the cool breeze! The trekking can be done only after obtaining prior permission from the forest department office located at Meppadi. Tickets can also be purchased online. If given permission, you can use the pass to get to the top of Chembra Peak. Winter is the best time to visit the Chembra Peak because you can enjoy the beauty of the green forest at this time. When the trees fall down in the month of February and March, the greenery may be lost. The best time to visit Chembra is from September to January. Trekkers should also arrive early in the morning. If you want to experience the cool breeze trekking then this is the best choice. Avoid trekking during the rainy season. Heavy rains can be a challenge along the way.

The road to Chembra

From Lakkidi in Wayanad, Chundale Township is about 10 km along National Highway 212. From here turn right and travel 10 km, then you will reach Meppadi! From here enter the road that lies to the right. If you travel four kilometers, you will see the forest department's ticket counter. Trekking passes can be purchased from here. There are two options for trekking. One can opt for trekking to the Watch Tower. Or you can select the trekking after the heart-shaped lake and see the top

Wayanad becomes more beautiful during the winter season. The foggy green covered tea gardens and lakes exhibit more beauty in the winter season. Wayanad has some of the best sights to see. Edakkal cave, Pookode lake, Soochippara waterfall, Kuruva island the beautiful list extends. The accommodation also has many amenities. Wayanad has a wide range of homestays, resorts, and estates. Wayanad has many resorts and hotels for couples, so many selecting their kerala honeymoon packages to Wayanad. Wayanad will not disappoint those who love privacy. Apart from that, there are plenty of entertainment options. You have to stay for two or three days in Wayanad to enjoy beauty. Seeing all the places and returning to them with satisfaction is not going to happen in a single day. Select a 5 days kerala tour package and explore the beautiful destinations in Wayanad.

Interesting Facts about Kerala!

With a network of 44 rivers and turquoise blue backwaters, Kerala lies in the lap of nature. This pristine and peaceful state lies in the South - Eastern part of India and is much favored due to its exotic wildlife, herbs, emerald green hill stations, and the crystal clear the Arabian Sea along its shoreline. It is indeed God's own country. Mainly known for its backwaters and coconuts, here are a few facts about Kerala state which would make you pack your bags for kerala tour packages.

Highest literacy rate

Kerala is the well-educated state in India with a literacy rate of 93.91% while the literacy rate of the country stands at a mere 74.04% according to the census of 2011. The rural zone of Kottayam district in Kerala has a literacy rate of 97.17 percent. While amid the urban areas, Pathanamthitta has 97.42 percent.

Cleanest State of India

According to a survey conducted by the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), Kerala is said to be the freshest state of India. The only state which has hospitals and banks in every village. Along with being the cleanest state it also offers essential facilities in every corner. Kerala is the only state to have provided banking facilities and hospitals in its innermost locations, thus increasing its overall development.

The first state to get rainfall in India

God's own country as it is well known, Kerala gets the first hex of rains in India. While the rest of the nation experiences rain in July, Kerala observers it around the first week of June every year followed by Mumbai and Delhi. The best seasons in Kerala varies accordingly.

The Paradise of Ayurveda

Kerala is known for its pioneer in medicine using Ayurveda as its treatment method. It is also home to Somatheeram, the world's first Ayurveda Resort. Ayurveda is also used for prettiness, massage and hair treatment. Ayurveda is used for medical treatment mainly. Even today with the transformation of medicine, Kerala uses age-old Ayurveda techniques to fight and medication for most of its diseases. It is also being used to treat arthritis in the state. Ayurveda is the primitive mode of medicine in Kerala.

The state with the uppermost number of festivals being celebrated

Kerala doesn't only showcase variety in wildlife but is also home to various forms of religion. It serves as an excellent example of people belonging to different religions living together in harmony and peace. It is quite common to see a loving sanctuary of every religion everywhere the corner of every street or so.

Home to a vast variety of herbs 

Herbs with medicinal possessions such as turmeric, Cinnamon, Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Amalaki, Bharangi, and Phyllanthus Amarus, etc. are found in plenty in Kerala.

The first state to have implemented education improvement bills

Literacy is the spine of Kerala and is considered to be an essential feature of its development. The education bill of the Kerala education act, 1958 was presented in the Kerala assembly by its education minister, Professor Joseph Mundasseri.

The backwaters cover almost half of the length of Kerala

The backwaters of Kerala consist of a network of turquoise and serene streams and canals, all beautifully interwoven. These backwaters are mostly composed of lagoons and lakes that lie parallel to the Arabian Sea. Since backwater tourism is trending many couples preferring kerala honeymoon packages to backwaters.

The first state to have 100 % prime education

Kerala’s 96-year old woman tops state literacy examination

The schools in Kerala are affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), the Kerala State Education Board or the NIOS. Kerala became the first state in January 2016 to have attained 100 % primary education through Athulyam, its literacy program. It is also

famous as the spice coast of India

Kerala is famous for its flavors and hence is popularly known as the Spice Coast of India. It tastes a variety of spices originating from the cultures of Jews, Christians, Muslims, and merchants who settled down in this state. Thus, you can find a rich texture and aroma to the original cuisine of Kerala.

India's first coir factory was set active in Kerala

Supplying 60% of the total worldwide white coir fiber, the state houses the first-ever coir factory in India that was set up in Alleppey in 1859.

FAMOUS ADVENTURE- TREKKING DESTINATIONS IN KERALA

Rajamalai / Eravikulam National Park

At a distance of 16 km from Munnar, Rajamalai is a tiny hill station situated inside Eravikulam National Park. The Eravikulam National Park was recognized to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. The park is extended long into Tamil Nadu, and known as Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Tour to Rajamalai is one of the top things to do as part of Munnar tour packages and among the beautiful places to see Neelkurnji flowers in South India as part of your wildlife tour in India. The park is of rolling terrain and the highest peak is Anamudi.  Three main types of plant groups found in the park are Grasslands, shola forests, and Shrub Land. The high highland and the hills rising above it are primarily covered by Grasslands. Shrub Lands are seen alongside the base of the cliffs. Shola Forests are situated in the valleys and folds. 

Chembra Peak (Near Wayanad)

It is at a distance of 17 km from Kalpetta. Chembra Peak is a highland peak in Western Ghats of Wayanad district. Located at a height of 2100 m above sea level, Chembra is the uppermost peak in Wayanad & third uppermost peak in South India. This is one of the top places of hiking in Wayanad and also one of the top tourist places in Kerala. It is another popular attraction not to miss in kerala tour packages.

Ramakalmedu (Near Idukki)

Ramakalmedu is at a distance of 40 km from Idukki, 38 Kms from Kumily, 57 Kms from Munnar, 15 Kms from Nadumkandam and 18 Kms from Kambam. Ramakkalmedu is a beautiful tourist place with rolling green hills and the fresh mountain air. Ramakkalmedu is a hill station and a village in Idukki district in Kerala. The place is noted for its panoramic beauty and many windmills. The hilltops also offer a panoramic view of the attractive villages of Kambam and nearby places on the slope of the Western Ghats. Kerala Tourism has provided facilities for tourists with resting points. Statues of Kuravan & Kurathi are the main attraction!

Thusharagiri Waterfalls 

Thusharagiri is at a distance of 32 km from Kalpetta, 48 km from Kozhikode.  Thusharagiri Falls is an attractive waterfall situated in Kozhikode district of Kerala, India. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala and is another adventurous trekking point.

Related :Travel Kerala: Popular waterfalls in Kerala

Thoovanam Waterfalls

At a distance of 4 Km from Alampetty junction check post on Munnar - Udamalpet Road. Thoovanam waterfall is also a popular hiking route in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. This flowing falls is a wonderful place to enjoy nature. It is a popular trekking path in Munnar. A trek to Thoovanam falls in the jungle is the best way to get to the depth of Chinnar. This 4 km trekking path starts from the Alampetty Check post. It is a guided program that usually takes 3 hours from the check post. 

Agasthyakoodam

It is at a distance of 62 Km from Trivandrum. Agasthyakoodam is a peak range in Western Ghats. It is at an altitude of 6201 feet above the sea. It is the second-highest peak in Kerala. Being one of the highest peaks in Kerala, it has long been known as a bird watcher’s heaven and many gather here to catch sight of mysterious avian species.  It can be viewed from near Neyyar Dam. Agasthyakoodam is also known for its remarkable greenery, especially certain uncommon medicinal herbs which have been discovered here. The peak was named after the sage ‘Agasthya’ and is a popular pilgrim place. A memorial dedicated to him is located here and is frequented by devotees. The air itself is said to have medicinal makings. The peak is a 90-minute drive from Bonacaud and is being the last motorable spot. Trekking is limited as only a few people are allowed to go up the peak and need a forest pass from the wildlife office in Thiruvananthapuram.

Dhoni Hills 

Dhoni Hills in Palakkad is gradually turning into a famous picnic spot. The trekking from the base area to Malampuzha and Meenvallam waterfalls is very interesting. The three hour trip to the reserve forest area and the view is extremely beautiful. One can get a chance meeting some rare species of greenery on the trekking here. The path is slowly gaining power with travelers and trekking fans. 

This 4 km long trekking track through the lush green environs gives one with a silent isolated space to witness nature in its most peaceful form.kerala tour packages from ahmedabad to Dhoni hills are now available by different tour operators across the country.

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Popular waterfalls in Kerala

ATHIRAPPALLI

Athirappalli is Kerala's most well-known and the largest waterfall at over 80 ft. high. The sight of the water crashing onto the ground leaves make you with a sense of wonder at the sheer power and splendor of nature. It is located around 63 km from Thrissur district. It is a recurrent trip destination for people in the area and beyond. Its nearby greenery is perfect for walks and picnics with adored ones. Lying at the entrance to the Sholayar forest ranges, it is a portion of the Chalakudy River.
Just 5 km away is another family favorite, Vazhachal Waterfalls. These waterfalls became well-known for not just their view but the endemic species found in the nearby dense forests. Researchers have found four rare species of the Hornbill here, the only place they flourish in the entire Western Ghats. Birdwatchers attach great significance to this location and bird watchers can come across many rare and vibrant species in these parts. Many tour operators are arranging kerala tour packages from ahmedabad to Athirappilly because of the beautiful nature of the waterfall. 

 
MEENMUTTY

It is located about 45 km from the city of Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Meenmutty Falls gives a sight of natural beauty surrounded by the highland ranges of Western Ghats. The waterfall is situated upriver the Neyyar reservoir space. Travelers have to trek through the thick forests to reach the falls.
To reach the target one has to take a boat ride from the Neyyar dam through its catchment area. Nearby is a forest camp house, where trekkers can take rest and have food. Forest guides will bodyguard you on this trek, which requires the approval of the forest department. An ideal place for a one-day trek and by evening the boat will pick you from KombaiKani and drop you back at Neyyar dam.

THUSHARAGIRI

Thusharagiri Waterfalls lying 50 km from Kozhikode, the Thusharagiri Waterfalls include Erattumukku, MazhavilChattom, and Thumbithullum rock which can be reached through hiking. Thusharagiri or 'mist-capped peaks' gets its name from the gorgeous silvery crown formed at the peak top due to the waterfalls. Nature here will transport to a different aspect where time itself comes to a standstill.

Having a dip in the cool water here is highly suggested as well, to revive one’s body and mind. The atmosphere on the way to waterfalls is occupied with the aroma of various plantations. Mist-capped mountains, enthusiastic streams, energetic waterfalls, dramatic backdrops of lush woods and plantations make it are a wonderful destination to enjoy nature at its finest.

Related article: https://gokeralatripblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/05/wayanad-the-green-paradise/

Best honeymoon spots in kerala

Kerala bagged the 2019 ‘Best Honeymoon Destination’ award under the domestic category by the Travel and Leisure India and South Asia Magazine. Kerala is bounded by tranquil lush greenery and quietly flowing backwaters. This tremendous scenery and ideal setting destinations made Kerala high up the list of best honeymoon destinations in India. Couples always dream of spending their moments in pure bliss. The seaside paradise in Kerala has always been one of the favored honeymoon destinations in India for couples moving into a whole new stage of their lives. In this blog, we listed some of the top honeymoon destinations in Kerala

Munnar

Traveling to Munnar is often billed as a ‘trip of a lifetime’. Valley bathed in vibrant Green, flanked by rolling hills and covered in pine forest attracts tourists to South India like a Treasure waiting to be uncovered.

This paradise with pretty little hill stations and craggy peaks is situated in the bank of three rivers – Madupetti, Nallathani, and Periavaru which is placed at a height of around 1500m to 2695m above sea level was once the summer capital of British in the state. This destination is blessed with lots of resorts, hotels, homestays, and heaven for shopaholics; one can collect a variety of spices like pepper, coffee…etc. and don’t ever miss delicious chocolate that is homemade. Cuisines hot served are also ready to welcome you. The town is easily accessible from Cochin International Airport and Ernakulum junction from a distance of around 119 km and 120km. The best time to visit Munnar is from December to February, where the weather is pleasant with minimum temperature but do carry woolens while traveling. kerala tour packages from ahmedabad and other kerala tour packages are provided by different tour operators in Kerala.

Alleppy

Alleppy is the main backwaters destination of Kerala, the travelers reach to have a romantic ride through the Vembanad Lake. The churches, picturesque canals, and the lighthouse are scenic enjoyments that one gets to capture on a drive through this little land that serves the best spicy seafood to the tourists.

Marari Beach

Located at a distance of 11km from Alleppey, Marari Beach is one of the most tranquil and superb coastlines lined with coconut palms which is perfect for a honeymoon. One of the main attractions of this tranquil beach destination is the beautiful sunset and sunrise which leaves the sky dipped in the saffron sky. The place could be mentioned as one of the best destinations for an escape to the nature free from the loud pollution of a city like Bangalore.hence tour operators like GoKerala Trip provides kerala tour packages from Bangalore. Couples traveling to this water destination can enjoy a stay in the beach resorts taking advantage of the magical touch of nature.

Pathiramanal

A backwater island located between Thannermukkam and Kumarakom on the Vembanad Kayal, the Pathiramanal is a paradise for bird observers. The place is factually a well-protected bird sanctuary which is home to a wide variety of rare traveling birds. True to its name the place provides the travelers with a visual treat that breaths taking. Families, travelers, and couples who wish to explore this inland island could enjoy a boat ride. Some of the main attraction in the place is the presence of rare birds like night heron, pintail duck, cattle egret, Indian pond heron, whiskered tern and more. The beauty of the island with the migratory birds would be a sight worth watching.Honeymooner’s couples and families who wish to escape into the true beauty of nature; Alleppey is your right choice.

Wayanad

Chembra Peak
It is located close to the clumsy town of Meppady and just 8 km south of Kalpetta, stands the highest top of the Wayanad Hill Range- the Chembra Peak at a height of 2000 meters above sea level. The Chembra peak offers a panoramic view of not only the whole Wayanad district but also a large portion of Kozhikode, Malappuram and Niligiri regions. The peak, its surrounding lavish greenery, and the famous heart-shaped lake make it a paradise for couples to explore. As you walk your way up to the Chembra Peak, do not miss the Heart-Shaped Lake or Cupid Lake, which is an unconditionally astonishing sight to witness. Many couples select their kerala honeymoon packages to chembra peak because of the heart-shaped lake situated on it.