God’s Own Country! That phrase itself makes us think about the natural beauty that Kerala has to offer! Which is why, we planned to celebrate our 2nd marriage anniversary by doing what we love; riding and traveling to explore new places!
Starting from Bengaluru and proceeding towards Wayanad, Kochi, Vagamon, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Salem and then back to Bengaluru, we planned to embark on our first long distance ride through mountains, jungles, waterfalls, tea estates and nature in general!
Read on below to check out what we had in store for day 6 (Exploring Munnar).
We were initially slightly confused about whether to opt for the Kolukkumalai Jeep Safari or to visit Top Station, Echo Point and Matupetty Dam. Both the options were equally enticing and after a lot of discussion, we decided to proceed towards Top Station, Echo point and Matupetty Dam.
From the hotel, the first that we would reach is the Matupetty Dam, then Echo Point and then Top Station. However, we decided to not stop at the Dam and Echo point and decided to hit Top Station first and then on the way back, make stops at Echo Point and Dam accordingly.
The ride to Top Station is probably one of the most scenic routes that we have been on (including the ones travelled in Sikkim and Darjeeling). Passing through many tea estates which are in a wonderful shade of green all along with winding roads that lead up to Top Station is a sight to behold!
At Top Station
Top Station’s elevation is 1,880 meters (6,170 ft) and generally offers a panoramic view of the majestic Western Ghats. It was slightly different this time around. While we didn’t get to see the Western Ghats, the experience of being in a cloud was surreal!
DCIM100GOPROGOPR0250.JPG DCIM100GOPROGOPR0247.JPG
While riding to Top Station, we came across a sign board that indicated that this point is actually in Tamil Nadu and not Kerala. We did not know that!
Echo Point
As the name suggests, this place is well known for its phenomenon of echoing. As you scream, it is fun to hear your voice reverberate around the attraction again and again. Though, what’s more beautiful is that it is situated on the banks of a lake and is surrounded my mountain ranges. A mesmerizing sight indeed!
Lunch Break!
Well, not technically lunch, but we stopped at one of many many places here to grab a quick bite (Green Chili Bhajji, Banana Bhajji, Bread Omelet) and some Masala and Ginger Tea. Enjoying these while it’s raining is an experience that both of us love!
Matupetty Dam
The one mistake that we did was that we started a little late from our hotel in morning, because of which we missed the boating activity at Matupetty dam. However, the dam itself offers some great views and photo opportunities.
We did something different here and took the services of the photographer on the spot. The guy was ready to give us digital copies and wasn’t much of a cost as well. INR 100 for 25 photos! The photos did come out pretty well though (Post wedding photoshoot after 2 years!!)
We then rode back to our hotel, again passing through the same beautiful tea estates and of course stopping to click some photos!
Those of you interested can head over to Punarjani Traditional Village for the Kathakali Show From 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM and Kalaripayattu Show From 5:00PM to 6:00PM. We weren’t able to make it in time but if you plan well, do opt for this!
That marks the end of this day’s travelogues. For details from the other days, check out the links below!
- Kerala Ride – Basic Overview
- Day 1 – Bangalore to Wayanad
- Day 2 – Exploring Wayanad (Kurumbalakotta Mala, Banasura Sagar Dam, Karlad Lake, Edakkal Caves)
- Day 3 – Wayanad to Kochi
- Day 4 – Kochi to Vagamon
- Day 5 – Vagamon to Munnar (with Vagamon Meadows)
- Day 6 – Exploring Munnar (Top Station, Echo Point, Matupetty Dam)
- Day 7 – Munnar to Kodaikanal
- Day 8 – Kodaikanal to Salem
Happy Riding
The RE Travelers