Mahindra Homestays » Munnar

Discovering the joys of Munnar

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:09:34 +0000

Guest writer and photographer, Anu Shankar discovers the joys of Munnar and shares the experience of her trip with us.

The trip was driven by an impulse – a desire to get out the city and go somewhere – anywhere! Poring over maps and trying to get some accommodation arranged turned out to be an exercise in futility. “It is the season, Ma’am and all rooms are full” was the refrain we heard again and again. There was a faint trace of mockery in the tone too, as if they wondered about our sanity in trying to arrange rooms at the last minute, at such a time! But the desire to travel was too strong to ignore, and we finally headed out, our destination unknown. For the first time, our trip was completely devoid of plans.

We were at Coimbatore, at my sister-in-law’s place, an unplanned visit in itself, and an unexpected holiday had found us all with some spare time we hadn’t bargained for. We started off, thinking of visiting the hill temple of Palani, but the board ‘Munnar – 100Km’ seemed to beckon, and our decision was finally made. We would head out to Munnar, in spite of the season, and try our luck. Something would surely work out!

Windmills lined the road on both sides as we approached the Amaravathi dam.

With no fixed plan in mind, the only idea was to have fun, so we stopped at the dam for a little while.

While the dam was nice, more fun was the crocodile park, where my son exclaimed over the huge number of crocodiles, their length, and above all, the size of their teeth!

As we approached Munnar, the scene changed… the plains gave way to the mountains; and fields of corn and rice made way for tea plantations…. But above all, peeping through between the hills were waterfalls!

There were lots of monkeys all along the route, but this family was one which caught our eye!

As we climbed higher, the weather cooled, the clouds gathered, and the fog made its appearance…

It looked like it would begin to rain, so we hurried to look for a place to spend the night. There was a sense of Déjà vu as we heard the same refrain once more “Sorry! No rooms!” At last, a young chap at a travel agency came to our help. Would we mind living at a small hotel? It was clean! He affirmed. We looked at each other and decided to give it a try. The ‘small hotel’ turned out to be a house converted into a hotel with rooms added to the main wing. The rooms were clean and looked comfortable enough. We only had to stay a day, after all. Besides, it looked so beautiful, the fog covering the surroundings, making us feel we were all alone in Munnar!

The next morning, we started our exploration…. Once again without direction, simply driving where the fancy took us! The fog was still there, and the mountains seemed to be covered by the clouds….

We were now closer to the waterfalls we had seen on the way, and they looked all the more beautiful, appearing as they did, suddenly, as the clouds parted!

The tea gardens were now a hub of activity, the workers picking the young leaves…

We arrived at the Matupetty dam, which was filled with tourists. There was such a long queue for the boat ride that we gave up the idea and concentrated instead on enjoying the view from the relative peace on the dam!

We headed next to Top Station, 1900m above sea level. The place is known for the view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamilnadu, but it was too cloudy, and we despaired of any view!. Even as we waited, the clouds parted, showing us an even more beautiful sight – that of the shola forest carpeting the mountains and valleys as far as we could see!

Turning back towards the town, we stopped to click this profusion of flowers on a tree…

And headed towards Kundalay dam, hoping to try our luck with the boating there…

The boat house was once again full, but while returning, we were rewarded with a sight of an elephant in the wild!

The fog was as thick as ever as we walked along the path leading to the Attukkal Falls..

The falls looked especially magical in the haze of the fog and mist…and the roar of water drowned our voices and made conversation impossible! But what was the need for conversation, faced as we were with nature in all her glory?

As we bid goodbye to Munnar, leaving the tea plantation covered hills behind, we looked back once more, promising ourselves “We will be back once more!”

Physicist by education, home-maker by choice, Anu Shankar is above all, a traveller at heart… She is always on a journey… either discovering new places in India, or finding her way among the most challenging journey of all – bringing up her 8 year old son. Her blog is called “A Wandering Mind”, which describes her perfectly, for her thoughts wander all the time, seeking new journeys, and new destinations.

If you are a travel blogger and would like to be featured on this blog please get in touch.

If you are interested in travelling to Munnar check our our Munnar Travel Guide.

National Parks of India – Eravikulam National Park

Mahindra Homestays — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 06:46:31 +0000

The state of Kerala is offers many opportunities for tourists, ranging from coastal holidays, backwaters, plantation visits and also wildlife. One great destination for wildlife enthusiasts is the Eravikulam National Park in the Idukki district near Munnar.

The western ghat mountain ranges provide a wholesome environment to nurture wildlife, and this 97 square kilometre stretch is no different. Though comparatively smaller than many other national parks of the country, Eravikulam is special due to the largest population of the endangered Nilgiris Tahr.

History
The region is a game preservation area for the Kannadevan Hills Produce Company. The local tribals, Muduvan, helped the game watchers of the nearby plantations before the area was taken over by the Kerala government for preservation in the 1970s. The planter community and the Muduvans still continue their contribution towards protection of the park.

Flora and Fauna
The largest surviving population of the Nilgiris Tahr is found in the Eravikulam National Park, about 700 of them roam in the confines of the park. Wild dogs, leopards and tigers are also found here. Nilgiris marten, small clawed otter, ruddy mongoose, and dusky striped squirrel are also found along with occasional elephants in these grasslands. About 120 species of birds are also found here along with 100 odd varieties of butterflies.

How To Get There
The Eravikulam National Park if situated in the Kanan Devan Hills of the Southern Western Ghats in Idukki. The park can be accessed from Kochi and Coimbatore airports, which are located at about 148 Km and 175 Km respectively. Munnar is the nearest town (13km.) and is very well connected by roads from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

The nearest railway station in Kerala is Aluva but few trains come here. There is only one central motorable road in the park, but the rest has to be traversed on foot.

Entry Fees
The park fee is Rs 200/- for foreign travellers but Rs 20/- for Indians. There are also additional charges for vehicles and children. Photography fees also have to be paid separately if the footage is for commercial use.

When to Go
The best time to visit the park is between January and March. The monsoons are difficult in the region and its best to avoid the months of June to August.

Where to Stay
Base yourself in Munnar, a popular hill station. Many visitors come to see the tea estates and trek among the rolling hills.

If you are interested in visiting Eravikulam National Park then our reservations team can help you plan a trip based on your interests. Get in touch to find out more! Check out our Munnar Homestay Collection.

Getting Married In 2010? Do Not Miss This India Honeymoon Offer

luke — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:39:04 +0000

Kerala honeymoon accommodation

Share a hot cup of coffee with your beloved on a private terrace overlooking the endless tea plantations or wake up in the serene atmosphere with the first view of the sunlight spreading over the Kerala backwaters. Your honeymoon can become more memorable with Mahindra Homestays.

This is the perfect time to visit Kerala and our gift to newlyweds is an irresistible 30% discount on our normal tariff, available on two select Mahindra Homestays properties that make for an ideal honeymoon accommodation and a romantic getaway.

You can now experience the privacy and peace as well as a home-like stay on your special holiday. The Kerala honeymoon package is a room for two guests, for four nights, including breakfast and dinner during the entire length of stay. It’s INR 14,000 and applicable to stays before 31^st March 2010.

Ranger Woods

In Munnar, we have Ranger Woods Homestay. Surrounded by spice trees, this private homestay gives over its first floor to guests who’ll enjoy a comfortable and relaxing space with en-suite bathroom and terrace balcony. There is a lot the two of you can do. You can take a tranquil walk or go fishing, enjoy a refreshing swim in fresh waters or cycle through the tea plantations. If you need more action, treks, paragliding, visits to tribal colonies can be arranged on request. If you are a foodie, you can come back to an authentic home-cooked Kerala meal.

Vembanad House

In Alleppey, we have Vembanad House. This idyllic homestay is set in 10 acres of beautiful surrounds and features four beautiful guest rooms, which are serene, spacious and each come with their own open air seating area. You can go on cruises on boats and canoes and go fishing with the locals. You can then come back to the home’s divine meals prepared with Ayurvedic touches by Sandhya, a former yoga trainer. Spend the evenings visiting temples and watching the Mohiniattam (the traditional Kerala dance). This homestay has featured in publications like Vogue and Brunch.

Bookings for the Kerala honeymoon package can only be made through our call centre.

Our telephone number in India is 18004252737. Our UK number is (020) 31408422.

Conditions apply.

Front page image used under Creative Commons with credit to JOVIKA

Kerala Honeymoon Package: India Homestay Special For Newlyweds

luke — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:49:52 +0000

Kerala honeymoon - Photo: mckaysavage

Wedding season is coming in India, and to mark the start of it we’re offering an attractive new Kerala honeymoon package.

Our gift to newlyweds is an irresistible 30% discount on our normal tariff, available on two fine Mahindra Homestays properties that make ideal honeymoon accommodation.

The Kerala honeymoon package is a room for two guests, for four nights, including breakfast and dinner during the entire length of stay. It’s INR 14,000 and applicable to stays before 31 March 2010.

Guests can enjoy the plantations and exhilarating mountain lands of Munnar and the lazy backwaters and paddy fields of Alleppey.

Ranger Woods

In Munnar, we have Ranger Woods Homestay. Surrounded by spice trees, this private homestay gives over its first floor to guests who’ll enjoy a comfortable and relaxing space with en-suite bathroom and terrace balcony. Trekking, tribe visits and the incredible Attukadu waterfalls are among the things-to-do here – and there’s plenty more on offer if that’s not enough.

Vembanad House

In Alleppey, we have Vembanad House. This idyllic homestay is set in 10 acres of beautiful surrounds and features four beautiful guest rooms, which are serene, spacious and each come with their own open air seating area. Lie back under the gazebo and listen to India’s most diverse birds. The home’s divine meals are prepared with Ayurvedic touches by Sandhya, a former yoga trainer, who has years of experience in the field of spirituality. This homestay has featured in publications like Vogue and Brunch.

Bookings for the Kerala honeymoon package can only be made through our call centre.

Our telephone number in India 18004252737. Our UK number is (020) 31408422.

Conditions apply.

Wow! 5 Stunning New Homestays In Cochin, Munnar and Kottayam

Mahindra Homestays — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:36:03 +0000

Here are the latest exciting additions to the Mahindra Homestays network. Read about them below and make your booking through our main site.

Eden’s Garden

This is a homestay that lives up to its name. It’s 260 years-old, features a huge pond, a waterfall and a chorus of chirping birds. Lovingly maintained by the Cyprians, one of the oldest families in Fort Cochin, its guestbook is overflowing with rave reviews in countless languages. The homestay has three spacious guest rooms that are bathed in sunlight. Churches, mosques and temples are within walking distance.

Meenachil Enclave

This is a homestay in Kottayam for those who like to live in the lap of luxury. Sprawling over 20 acres of land, this opulent property has a large swimming pool, three aviaries, lavish interiors, gold-plated cutlery and a marble courtyard. The two spacious guest rooms are serene. Beautifully-designed en-suite bathrooms, small zen gardens and skylights. Tour the paddy fields and plantations.

Noah’s Ark

Jerry and Diana Kocherry are one of the warmest couples you will ever meet. Their beloved homestay mirrors their own personality – cheerful and warm. Jerry is retired captain from the merchant navy, and Diana used to be a teacher. Together they’ve sailed to all parts of the world. Their home has an intriguing, postmodern façade. The inside is drenched in sunlight and its three deluxe rooms are spacious. A charming roof garden is good for sunbathing. Easy access to all tourist destinations.

Orion

An enchanting homestay in the heart of Fort Cochin, run by a down-to-earth modern young Indian couple. The property is newly constructed but in a traditional Keralite architectural style. Four impeccable bedrooms, all with private balconies, look over the city. Lush green lawn, communal areas and efficient staff on hand to look after the needs of guests. Ayurvedic massages can be arranged.

Spice Garden

A charming homestay in Munnar made entirely from wood, with divine views of the majestic green mountains. Spice Garden was originally an award-winning pepper plantation, but five years ago owner George ventured into the hospitality industry and didn’t look back. He’s created a home for peace and inspiration; it’s no surprise that it attracts acclaimed writers and directors such as Bollywood’s Myshkin, who penned two of his latest works here. Surrounded by tea estates, flowering plants, spices and fruit trees.

To read more about these Cochin homestays and book now, visit our Cochin page.

Munnar Things To Do: 9 Ways It Will Capture Your Heart

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:22:37 +0000

Munnar in Kerala is one of the India’s untouched hill stations.

It’s an easily-accessible traveller destination, yet it is also uncorrupted by commercialisation.

The region’s delightfully soothing landscapes have only recently become popular. Yet they have quickly captured the hearts of visitors.

Here are nine things to do in Munnar that will make you fall in love with the place:

1. Watch the waterfalls

Whether you’re on your way to Munnar or right in the heart of it, you’ll come across beautiful waterfalls gushing down with fury. The famous Cheeyapara and Vallara Falls look like they belong in a wild rainforest. But Munnar’s glistening Attukal Waterfall is the favourite of the locals. These falls are seen at their most majestic during the monsoons.

2. Splash around on the lake

At Munnar’s Mattupatty Dam you can go boating across an enormous lake. Rowing boats, motor boats and even speed boats are available for hire. The Kundala Dam and Kundala Lake are also popular for more languid boating, especially among honeymooners. Here, boats styled after Kashmiri shikaras (similar to Venice’s gondolas) can be taken for a cruise.

3. Get the best view of the mountains

Munnar’s mountains can be seen at their grandest from Top Station, a dedicated viewpoint at 1,880m above sea level. From here, the hills are truly alive. And the clouds are at your feet. This area is also popular for spotting the rare blue flower, Neelakurunji, which blooms only once every twelve years. The Nilgiris (Blue Mountains) around Munnar derive their name from these flowers, which in full bloom turn the hillside into a spellbinding blanket of blue.

4. Fawn over Munnar’s fauna

15 kms from Munnar is Eravikulam National Park. The sanctuary is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr, striped squirrel, Nilgiri Marten, elephants, sambhars and even tigers and leopards. To avoid overcrowding and preserve the park’s environment, tours are organised by the park’s management in mini-buses. They also arrange treks and hikes through the park’s “tourism area.” Note that during the monsoons the park is closed.

5. Enjoy the freshest tea you’ve ever tasted

At a glance, Munnar’s landscapes look like giant emerald-green waves, cascading towards the horizon. This beautiful sight is the formed by unending spans of lush green tea estates, which produce regular flavours like masala, ginger and lemon, but also exotic creations like chocolate tea. Whatever flavour you opt for, they will all share one common trait: delightful freshness.

6. Try the finest spices

Idduki district produces the world’s finest cardamom. It’s famous for its spices and coir products, believed to be the best quality in the world. The spices are sold straight from the plantations, in shops all over Munnar. They make excellent presents for cooks and those with a discerning palate.

7. Cook what you grow

Most families in Munnar cook using the finest local ingredients, often grown in their own fields. If you are staying in one of our Munnar homestays, it’s easy to pick up great tips on cooking and maintaining a kitchen garden. Most recipes are deceptively simple and require the same principles of preparation. Culinary knowledge is one the most prestigious souvenirs you can take away from Munnar.

8. Unleash your creativity

From endangered wildlife to untouched landscapes, Munnar is a photographer’s delight. For years, Munnar has attracted artists from all over, serving as a muse to writers, photographers, poets and more. Its beauty was recently seen on the big screen in the movie Nishabd, where Munnar is home to a reclusive photographer. You’ll feel inspired too, so be prepared to create.

9. Walk the landscape

Munnar is overflowing with enchanting landscapes that are irresistible to anyone that enjoys walking. Tea estates are usually off limits for trekkers, but exceptions can be easily found – take advice from your host if you are staying in a Munnar homestay. Plantation walks are a lovely way to see the region’s flora and fauna. The Shola forest, near the Mattupatty Dam, is also a great place for a long walk.

Mahindra Homestays has a variety of stunning homestays to choose from in the Munnar region of Kerala. At the time of writing, some of them are available with a massive 50% discount if you book soon. Take a look at our Munnar homestays, choose your favourite and book now to see this beautiful part of India.

India Mountain Views Quiz – How Well Do You Know India’s Mountains?

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:55:54 +0000

We’ve just uploaded some guests photos to our new Flickr page.

All the images show mountain views that have been captured close to our homestay properties.

That’s right: as well as our numerous homestays in popular destinations such as Kerala, Goa and the big Indian cities, we also have homestays in India’s most mountainous and remote regions, offering a unique and rich experience for the intrepid traveller.

Just for fun, we’re inviting blog readers to test their India knowledge and guess where these five views can be found.

Choose a, b or c and then click on the image to find out the answer (new window opens – close when finished to return to quiz).

1. The image above shows:
a) Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan
b) Tsomgo Lake in East Sikkim
c) Dal Lake in Kashmir

2. The hauntingly desolate landscape above can be found in:
a) Batal, Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
b) The Western Ghats at Matheran near Mumbai
c) Aravalli Hill in Rajasthan

3. The mountain above is:
a) K12, seen from Kashmir
b) Changuch, seen from Uttarakhand
c) Kanchenjunga, seen from Sikkim

4. The lush green view above can be found in:
a) Munnar, Kerala
b) Manali, Himachal Pradesh
c) Naga Hills, Nagaland

5. Finally, the view above can be enjoyed at:
a) Obalagandi Gorge in Karnataka
b) Rishi Ganga Gorge in Nanda Devi National Park
c) Mekedaatu Gorge near Bangalore

How did you do?

For more of our mountain views, explore our Flickr photoset.

Book homestays in the mountains of Sikkim, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and more.

8 Stunning New Homestays In India

Mahindra Homestays — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 15:47:31 +0000

We’ve got eight more beautiful India homestays to tell you about, all recently added to our network and available to book on our main site now.

Here they are:

New Munnar Homestays
Cedar Woods

Wow – what a view. That’s what you’ll get when you stay on this cardamom plantation in Munnar, with Jean Philips and his wife Anita. Cedar Woods is a comfortable home with large rooms, full-size windows and cozy beds. The popular travellers’ attraction Kallar Water Falls is nearby – it’s always worth exploring, especially during the monsoons.

Mushroom Valley

Johney Cheruthanniyil and his wife Binni are the gracious hosts of this attractive homestay in Anachal, 11 kms outside Munnar, Kerala. Johney runs a business in finance, Binni is a housewife who enjoys cooking traditional Kerala cuisine. The food prepared in the house is a mix of North Indian, South Indian, Western and traditional Kerala dishes. Staying with their three daughters, the family are ever ready to help their guests explore the scenic beauty, culture and history of Munnar.

Pavithram

This homestay is set in an idyllic hill station, 1800 metres above sea level. Hosts Rajesh and Maya believe that the opportunity to welcome travellers from across the world is an enriching experience for them as well as the guests. Trekking, plantation visits and cooking classes are all available.

New Thekkady Homestays
Koshys

Eco tourism practitioners, the Koshys are keen to spend time with guests and explain local culture and traditions. They keep a vegetable garden which brings organic food to the kitchen table, and the surroundings of this Kumily homestay are best described as serene. Periyar Tiger Reserve is nearby.

Chitrashala

At this homestay, also in Kumily, the family stays on the ground floor and guests have the first floor of the house. There are four double bedded rooms with attached bathrooms. Tribe visits, bamboo rafting and jungle safari can all be arranged from here.

New Kottayam Homestays
The Bungalow

Located 100 kms from Kochi and 75 kms from Thekaddy by road, this 1927 Kottayam homestay is pitched on a hillock. The architecture is a mix of early Syrian Christian home architecture with the traditional spacious Keralite style of numerous cross ventilated doors and windows. There’s a swimming pool, built in ancient style with a ‘Kulippura’ (bathing ghat), and you can enjoy the local coconut drink in either the open courtyard or on the verandah.

New Cochin Homestays
Thomas Inn

This beautiful house has a well maintained garden and verandah under the shade of a mango tree. The hosts stay on ground floor and the guests stay on first floor. A separate entrance through stairs take guests to their accommodation, which includes a balcony, communal area and huge kitchen with all amenities.

New Srinagar Homestays
Almond Villa

This colonial era mansion offers a perfect view of famous Dal Lake, surrounded by lush green mountains. There are five spacious double bedrooms with attached bathrooms. Host Viv, an avid traveller, has experience in the Indian wildlife tourism industry and loves to chat about the flora and fauna of this outstanding Indian region.

See more of our unique range of India homestay accommodation and book your stay online through our main site.

A review and photos of the Neela’s dining experience (uncork29.com)