Veli Tourist village,Tivandrum

Just as it says-tourist village. A picnic point located on the shore of a very high tide part of the arabian sea.

A hardly 30 min run from anywhere in Trivandrum. Its absolutely a picnic spot- not much to see,not much to enjoy,if you do not really know how to..... ;)

It has nominal entry fees and a KTDC restaurant providing good food during lunch and dinner time.

The activity you could try out here include- boating, few street side games like throwing rings and hitting the stack of cans. In addition to boating and these games, there is a swimming pool nearby- possibly you might be interested. A nominal charge of Rs 40 per hour is taken. The water was highly chlorinated and had much dust in it but was not harmful seemingly so we went for it and it actually turned out to be refreshing rather than causing harm.

Calm waters after so many beaches with high waves is always good. :)

Not too deep, not too shallow. The maximum depth was around 5 ft only. May be a little exceeding that at some places.

All in all, no much pics to be shown and not much place to be regretted for, if not visited.

Ponmudi-A little place to feel one with mother nature

A one day- to and fro trip from Trivandrum-relaxing,pleasing and must visit destination. In fact, I would say multiple visits also is affordable for this place. At a really short distance of 50-55 km from Trivandrum, it is a journey of approximately 2 hr uphill and 1:30 hr downhill.

The route is also a part of refreshment there. Very few places to enjoy and have fun there. It is a place solely meant for having and feeling peace.A waterfall coming en-route but not meant to be visited if you do not like walking. The waterfall is far off into the dense forest-nearly 1.5 km ahead of the parking spot inside. The waterfalls are named "Meenmutty falls". The entry at the waterfall is highly restricted. Security guards all around the forest to prevent people from dangers. There was a nominal entry fee to get into the forest zone.

If we talk about the forest, the trees were surprising. There were creepers all around the trees in weird shape. I tried imagining some past - I came out with the idea of them being man-eater like they show in the animated films :)

Well, that's me on the creeper. :D

Was a sweating journey-very moist weather as obvious and hardly an breeze. But was worth visiting once as the way the forest was allowed to be-it was amazing to see.

After a really long walk as mentioned above, we reached the falls shown below and were as obvious-disappointed

Yes, this was the fall we were able to see. What you see behind me is the fencing which stopped us from getting in there to bath. :(

But it was for our safety,so didn't mind much. Set out for ponmudi as it was already 4pm. The driver climbed uphill like he was driving a toy. We crossed 22 hairpin turns in half an hour and there we were!!

Some might question what hairpin turns are- well if you are planning for ponmudi then you've already heard about them. If not, I would say-they are U-shaped turns on hill which in count are 22 mentioned clearly on the sign boards on hill.

During the travel uphill, the view seemed to be getting more than better and amazing. One could see shadowed hills with partial sunlight which seems like magic. The clouds could be seen speeding up and you feel like you will soon be touching those.

If you can afford to spend a day and also afford KTDC hotel-usually affordable, I would suggest you to stay there!

Its the masterpiece there. The location of the hotel is on the cliff falling in a really deep valley. The view alone will pay off your charges. We unfortunately were not able to manage an extra day. But the view I am sure would be a pleasure to the eyes.

Finally talking about the hill top. Will just provide images and I wont really need to describe as it can just be seen and felt- can't be described in words what it felt like there.

Just like I said, I do not need to describe it... :)

That's ponmudi in Abk's terms :D

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abk.edu@gmail.com

Munnar Day 2

After a lot of shopping by friends on the day 1, finally it was time for a longer journey of sight seeing. So we were on to Coimbatore direction/Marayoor direction. Spots were many but we visited least. :D

Passing through shabby areas,National parks and waterfalls we finally reached 63km away
The first venue was the trekking venue-Chinnar. The worst place for trekking when its very hot,no rains and the trekking is through the dried up forests.

Remember you are not permitted to go alone into the forest which means you need to pay Rs150 per head for hiring a guide :P

I didnt understand what that cost was for. The trekking available was of 3 types:

-Passing through ancient monastries
-Another passing through the forests and animal zones
-Third one through forests to waterfalls

We wasted our time frankly by going there. But one visit was to be made when you are there first time :D

Then we left to go back downhill expecting to make the day. But for 30km felt like the journey might get worse. But never lose hope.We finally found flowing water :D

Took a stop there. Spent almost one hour there. Had coconut finally. Huge and heavy. :D

Was fun and got fresh there. Realized here the power of marketing by Modi. A rickshaw driver carrying coconuts recognized us being Gujarati. The driver communicated something to the seller and then said "Modi People" :D

We were seriously glad to here that and we replied "Ab ki baar Modi Sarkar" :D

Then moved ahead for next venue. It was a waterfall coming up. Being exhausted and facing lack of time, we did halt but thought of leaving it untouched. Thanks to the forced opinion of few to get in, it was the best fun during the day. Lakkam Waterfalls it was.

Chilled water like never before. Relieved us of the heat of entire day. Was a little risky waterfall with slippery stones, but you could take enough care and enjoy there. Beware of the drunk local people there. They are too much excited. :P

Really a refreshing time and then we were damn fresh to return. It was already 5pm. :P

National park closed. Rajmala Garden closed. These were the venue which were suggested as must visit ones but we are we. :D

We enjoyed in our own way. Halted at a pleasant private place nearby. Had tea like never before. It got to be when its the speciality of the place. :D

The hazy clouds covering our path at the back. Was a beautiful view. You could see the gases hasting ahead with no destination :D

And there we were.....

Finally after 6pm left this place. We were on the way back to Munnar. Had already reserved tickets for the return journey and had to leave tonight but wasn't really in mood to return.....

But the job awaited...:P

Overall,a great time...many un-cherished dreams came true...so the scenic beauty like never before...:D

Now the concluding summary:
2 days are more than enough if you are not willing to do trekking.
Trekking during summer is advisable only in the morning(5:30am)
Smaller the groups,better it is(8-15 people could do)
KSRTC buses are the last option you opt for. :D

Munnar-The journey to heavenly venue begins...

"Nature-a good word for the effect whose cause is GOD"

Amazingly stunning and beautiful place it was-can't stop to miss it.

The best atmosphere ever.There might be others somewhere around the world-but for me till date this was the place;the place where I found peace,where I enjoyed being one with nature,where I had the best time being lonely and obviously best time being with friends too...:D

In short,words are not a real medium which could describe this place. It could only be felt and I could say it without a doubt in mind that you will be refreshed with those drizzles striking your face,that cool and calm wind blowing towards you,that beautiful hazy view of range of mountains...All of it seemed to be a magical world.

The journey began with a night travel in the KSRTC(Kerala Govt bus) directly to Munnar.It was nearly a pleasant journey. It was still about 30km more to Munnar and we were freezing of the chill atmosphere. The temperature during dawn being 7-10 degree celcius. There were nearly 3 waterfalls on the way,visible but not flowing at their best as it is just beginning of rains here. The rivers were almost dried. I am sure,you could enjoy more during monsoon but make sure you remain cautioned. :)

We reached Munnar Town by 7:30am after a 8hr long journey. As all our trips are,this one also was an unplanned one. So we went on to explore the hotels around. You get hotels and lodges for nearly all the budgets here.

When its Kerala,I would advice one thing in specific-"Do not trust agents who take bookings over internet unless it is the Hotel itself"

We didn't fall into such a thing but received the same advice from others. 

We finally managed for 4-bedroom rooms at N.G.Tourist home. Not a luxurious stay,but comfortable for 4 and when its IPL going on and you've got television in your room,you could not miss it. :D

So we opted for it at a really economical rate compared to what we found at other hotels. If you are looking for a luxurious stay,I would advice you Hotel Eastend-a really good hotel with vacant rooms easily available during off-season.

Once we were ready to begin the exploration of Munnar,we enquired for the sight seeing charges at Taxi Association office. The guy got us a Mahinda Tourister-a really comfortable vehicle for 15 people if its not a long journey especially when the driver is good.

Here I would also suggest you to contact the person directly-his contact number:
Kumar-09498579468

No incentives on my side :D

Just a general suggestion is that taking a direct taxi is a better choice as the association adds their commission which is somewhere around Rs500. 

The first day journey was towards the "Mattupetty" direction. 

The first spot: Flower Garden
A beautiful place with variety of colourful flowers-if you wish to photograph yourself with this varieties of nature,you could get in.If you are in Munnar for the visit,do not skip it. Do not skip any venue. A nominal entry fee-you could bear it. Not a big deal. One visit might please you atleast if nothing.

Some pics for you specially :P

The second spot: Photo point

A perfect spot for just photography. Its en-route to Mattupetty. It has a vast area covered with tea gardens which give this place a vivacious look. If you feel that its merely a place to see and no fun-you should leave Munnar the same minute :P

It is all about enjoying each and every moment with nature rather than having the same fun as we have daily. :)

A small markets accompanying the spot with few food items and some imitations available. In addition to these,instant photograph printing also is available.

The third stop: Mattupetty Dam
As already mentioned, it was just the beginning of rains in this place and hence this dam too wasn't filled much. There was speed boating available. Cost bit high but if it is not a matter, it would be fun to have the ride once atleast.

Normal place just like any other dam. Nothing specific about it

The fourth spot: An unknown beauty where we fulfilled our small trekking wish :P
Stopped en-route seeing a beautiful place, a downhill ending into jungles and leading straight to the water reserve of the Matupetty Dam downhill. As I always say, its fun when your have friends accompany you in all such stupid yet fun stuff. :D

The fifth spot: Echo point
Paddle boating at an affordable rate but heavy crowd. Shallow water making it less fun. Had lunch or rather snacks here-maggi after a lot of days and was amazed that they know to make it!! :D :D :D

Dalwada & tea both good enough. Maggi would be a better option in my opinion.
The echo point was certainly an echo point-not a myth :P

But with too many people around and so much of noise,you feel it less. There's a small market selling all that is famous in and around Munnar-spices,dry fruits and hand made chocolates.A variety of all.

The sixth spot: Elephant arrival spot

The visit to it was closed because of Good Friday-a rare thing. But yes,you wont be disappointed at this place as we were able to see atleast 5-6 elephants outside itself.So I guess there might be more inside the place. Basically the entire area surrounding Munnar is a residence of Elephant,many of them. This spot was specifically a sanctuary area which made it more noticed.

The seventh spot: Kundala lake

One more venue with boating facility available(paddle boating). Was heavily crowded and hence skipped the venue and moved ahead to the next spot.

The eight spot: An array of tea gradens-an un-named venue again. 

Affected by the beauty of the place,we decided to halt to snap a few pics with these beautiful shrubs. 

No more description of the place is required after seeing the above pics I guess....:D

The Top Station-Last but not the least spot-About 6600ft high, this place had the essence of love in the air. Felt pleased to smell the winds here. This was the hill top of this direction and far off you could see nothing but green shawl on the "Mother Earth"-the magical and artistic nature,crafted by human.

Spent quite a lot time here, took a cup of tea in the pleasant pink cold weather. :D

Finally the rains began to shower, slow and steady. It added to the beauty of the place. The tea leaves appeared even more lively with water on them. They refreshed, felt as if they also talked and enjoyed the rains.

And then, it was time to get back....We set back to return to our hotel.

The return journey was equally pleasing standing at the door to enjoy the rains and view more. :D

And then it was downhill town again...the dreamy sight seeing was over. It was time to get back to rooms,get fresh and finally begin with shopping....a lot of shopping :D

Overall,was a really pleasant day and the coming day too remained equally pleasant....The description coming up in the next post...to keep this one short. :D

For the description of restaurant and tea stalls where we experienced the food- just logon to:
www.datsfoodie.blogspot.com

For any feedback or suggestions,
Mail me at: abk.edu@gmail.com

Allepey-one of the small heaven in the God's own country-Part 2

And it was time to wake up after an awesome freezing night in the boat....It was time to take a look at the sunrise...Woke up nearly on time...Heard the chirps of cuckoo as if after a long time...enjoyed them at peace....The weather around and the green layer all over the area gave a really pleasant feeling....for an outstanding experience...

Here's a look at the sunrise...

The day began with the pleasing rhythmic chirps of cuckoos and other birds....The boat was going to start its journey ahead into the lake as promised at 7:30 am . So by then we were almost ready. The journey began on time almost. We were served with breakfast soon. Had a new variety that came up. They called it "Steam Cake".

If you are successful to find out what exactly it was...please let me know..it hardly had any taste....:)

The breakfast again wasn't much enough in quantity...though was healthy...the sambhar with idli was pretty tasty....you could gulp it up directly too...

The sight seeing in the lake is not of much interest....you would frankly get bored when it comes to sight seeing...there's nothing much to view actually....The company you've got makes your journey special....

We made it more special by driving the boat turn by turn..:P

Its not much tough...and its boring too when you are not allowed to accelerate..:P :P

We roamed about in the Vembanaar lake-that is what I felt it sounded like.

Though we didn't visit the Allepey beach,if you could get time and are not much tired....You could visit it too....

Soon the time passed off and it was time to reach back from where we started...at around 9:45am we were back....Had a walk back to the bus stop...

Inquired for an A/C bus but the earliest was at 1pm which was too late so opted for a regular bus which goes to trivandrum every 20 mins and you could get it easily...the seats were better...and the journey was bit safer..:)

Finally we reached the destination...An end to a beautiful time....Thanks to all my friends who made my journey and my days in Trivandrum so special....And are keeping along to make the coming days special too....:D

Last but not the least...here is the contact of the agent ...in case you require it:

Suraj: 09947997535
Sanil: 09895108332

Both know English pretty much...So I guess it would be perfectly convenient to talk to them early on and get a boat arranged if you are in a group and going in a high crowd season



For any further queries and feedback:

Feel free to contact me on:

abk.edu@gmail.com
+91-9408941843

Allepey-one of the small heaven in the God's own country-Part 1

Allepey it was this time.....A really long experience to describe....Will prefer to describe the beautiful heavenly weekend in two parts...There's a really long experience to describe...had the best experience...first one is always special...:D

It was almost an unplanned tour....No idea at all about what is to be done there...And the morning of Saturday brought with a pack of good fortunes....Everyone of our group was finally ready and agreed to set off for the weekend on time...Nearly on time..:P

The morning began with a very uncommon call coming up of a person whom I hardly knew...He had been a resident of Trivandrum for almost a year and belonged to Gujarat....

He called up to ask how am I doing....how are the days passing by....and this call came up as a help....I got to know the approximate rates...what to go for and what not to...It was obvious that we had to stay back overnight to have the real fun...:D

We caught a KSRTC volvo bus to have a comfortable journey ahead as it was almost 4 hour long journey...But comfort is least we could expect when its KSRTC. The driver drove like hell!!

Had a ride with jerks and jumps....But finally reached within 4 hrs including the halts summing upto around 30 minutes. 160km approx.

The bus we caught was deemed to arrive Kazakuttom at 12pm and it was there as expected.

On reaching Kazakuttom,the decision to be made was which boat and what was the budget. Make sure you go to Allepey with heavy pockets and bargain with nearly empty pockets...as that is the only way you could get a good deal....

A private agent asked us as soon as we got down from the bus...The agent asked whether we preferred to hire a houseboat...And yes was our call...

I would like to mention that since this was an off-season time (March to May) private hiring got us better del but there is a DTPC office where you could fetch a better deal during a high season...It is Kerala Tourism dept office and being handled by Government,it is a safer choice...

We were strong enough to go in a private boat so we made the deal..:P

12 of us...First 4 of us were taken to the houseboat for having a look and believe me-we were satisfied at the first look only....Rs10000 was the fixed price...not a penny of bargain...This is the best way to deal...No bargain simply means you got the best possible price...

A 3 bedroom houseboat with A/C ....A porch with dining table and chairs to sit in the porch having a pleasant look of the backwater lake with fruits and tea/coffee as welcome treat and dinner included for the first day....

Another group of friends hired a 6 room boat for 24 of them...It costed them Rs21000 as per info received.Just to mention..

12 of us onbaord...We got in at around 5:45pm. But you should try getting in as early as possible...we wasted time looking the boat first and then finalizing the deal....The earlier you get in, the more you could travel...:D


Here's the first look of the boat...

And here's the front view...Almost 1000 houseboat are available in this zone as per the data I am aware of.

The journey began peacefully with sunset time nearing up....Snapped lots of pics...Though not publishing on the blog...We were served with fruits and tea soon....The weather went bit bad at around 7pm and it started raining....The best time....At the best place...the first full on rains and we were in the middle of backwaters...The captain Babubhai parked the boat soon and got the curtains lowered to prevent the water from getting in...

The fruits were tastier then ever....Oranges...pineapple and bananas....all really sweet,,:)

Then began the disco night..:P :P :P

Danced like anything for almost an hour....Strobe lights with mobile....full on shouting and howling with the sound system courtesy to one of my friend...:D

Had the best exercise to get hungry....it was almost 9pm by the time dinner got ready...the dinner was quite different from all that we had until today...4 different sabjis....good rotis....but limited quantity....I would mention that...It was healthy and hygenic no doubt....Gulped it all almost...And then it was the time to sleep and wake up early to have a look at the scenic sunrise...So we freezed into the chilling weather in the bedroom...thanks to my friend who had set the A/C to 17 degrees and my God!! it worked !!

Had a freezin night....:) 

Kovalam Beach

Finally got some time to visit the place which I already didn't like much at the first sight...

Yup...May be you people too wont like it if you are looking for a beach with lovely sand to walk on it with naked legs....

This isn't such a place....But beach is a beach....Huge waves...too much crowd....small coast length....Too many people playing around...Speed boating....and shopping market nearby....

You could no doubt spend atleast 3 hours hours around the place.....Talking about the water...very clean though silt obviously accompanied....

Make sure you stick hard to the sand when in water. The force to retreating waters,we experienced,was quite high. It might drag you in. Also the sand slope is uneven which might given a sudden steep fall at some place. But not too risky after all.If you are in Kerala in the wrong months i.e specifically March and April...This place also could do the healing when it comes to extreme heat.

So if its a few hours time to spare and you are unable to fin ways to other places...Just go to "east fort" and catch direct bus to Kovalam. The frequency of buses in damn high. The last bus leaving from Kovalam is at 7:30pm ...

A specific odd point to mention about the place is that the people around very pretty much cheap and not worth get into quarrel with. So make sure you ignore any such locals who come in your way to the beach...

Overall, you should go once here if you are in Kerala...atleast once....:D