Kumarakom is a serene backwater destination in Kerala, renowned for its tranquil lakes, lush greenery, and the iconic houseboat cruises that glide through a network of canals. Kuttikanam, a nearby hill station, offers a contrasting experience with its cool climate, misty mountains, and dense pine forests, providing a perfect escape for nature lovers and trekkers. Further elevating the region's charm is Vagamon, another picturesque hill station known for its expansive green meadows, pine valleys, and a pleasant climate, making it a popular destination for paragliding, boating, and scenic walks.
The Vagamon Pine Forest is a man-made marvel, a dense plantation of towering pine trees created during the British colonial era, which now stands as a serene and captivating tourist destination. Located on the steep slopes of Vagamon, this unique forest offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the scenic trails, breathe in the crisp, pine-scented air, and take in the mesmerizing views of sunlight filtering through the thick canopy. The picturesque landscape, with its gentle slopes and soft carpet of pine needles, makes it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and simple nature walks, providing a tranquil and rejuvenating experience for all who visit
An orchid garden offers a mesmerizing journey into the world of one of the most diverse and elegant families of flowering plants. Visitors can wander through meticulously designed landscapes that showcase thousands of orchid species and hybrids, from the common and beautiful Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) to the rare and exotic Lady’s Slipper (Paphiopedilum). These tours often highlight the unique characteristics of orchids, such as their intricate shapes, vibrant colors, and delicate fragrances, while also providing insight into their cultivation and conservation. Whether indoors in climate-controlled conservatories or outdoors in a naturalized setting, an orchid garden tour is a captivating experience for both seasoned plant enthusiasts and casual visitors, offering a peaceful and beautiful escape
Vagamon Meadows, also known as Mottakkunnu, is a picturesque highlight of the Vagamon hill station, famous for its vast, rolling emerald-green hills that offer a peaceful and captivating natural retreat. The meadows, often blanketed in mist, provide an ideal setting for leisurely walks, romantic picnics, and photography, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy activities like paragliding, a popular pursuit here, while others can simply unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere and cool mountain breeze. The scenic beauty of the meadows, which changes with the seasons, has also made it a favored location for film shoots.
Nestled at over 3,500 feet above sea level in the Idukki district of Kerala, Kuttikkanam is a serene hill station renowned for its lush tea and cardamom plantations, misty rolling hills, and pleasant climate. Once a summer retreat for the Travancore kings, this tranquil destination offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from trekking through scenic trails and exploring the fragrant plantations to visiting local landmarks like the Valanjanganam falls and Panchalimedu, a viewpoint with mythological ties. With its unspoiled landscapes, diverse wildlife, and peaceful ambiance, Kuttikkanam is an ideal getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in a cool and captivating mountain setting.
Tucked away amidst lush rubber plantations in the Kottayam district of Kerala, the Aruvikkuzhy Waterfalls is a serene and popular picnic spot that offers a refreshing escape into nature. The falls cascade from a height of over 100 feet in multiple steps, creating a mesmerizing spectacle, especially during the monsoon season when they are at their most vibrant. Beyond the beauty of the waterfalls, visitors can enjoy trekking through the surrounding verdant trails, which lead to an old and peaceful St. Mary’s Church at the top of the falls. The area’s tranquil ambiance and picturesque landscape make it a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and photographers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Mango Meadows is the world’s first agricultural theme park, a 30-acre eco-paradise in Kaduthuruthy, Kerala, dedicated to blending traditional farming with eco-tourism and conservation education. Visitors on a guided tour can explore over 4,800 species of plants and trees, including a “Nakshatra Vanam”(birth-star tree garden), as well as organic vegetable and fruit farms, and a domestic animal husbandry section. The park offers a wide array of activities, from pedal boating, fishing, and archery to traditional experiences like coir-making and pottery, providing an engaging and educational day out for all ages.
The Bay Island Driftwood Museum in Kumarakom is a truly unique destination, showcasing an extraordinary collection of sculptures made from driftwood. The tour of the museum is a journey into the fusion of nature and art, offering a fascinating look at how weathered and twisted pieces of wood, collected from the shores of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are transformed into stunning works of art.
As you wander through the museum, you’ll be captivated by the creativity of the founder, a schoolteacher named Raji Punnoose, who meticulously collected, cleaned, and reshaped these natural artifacts. The exhibits are incredibly diverse, with driftwood pieces sculpted to resemble a wide array of creatures, including birds, animals, reptiles, and fish. Some pieces are so lifelike that they seem to be in motion, while others are more abstract, allowing for your own interpretation. The tour provides insight into the intricate process of transforming these centuries-old, ocean-weathered wood fragments into masterpieces. It’s a testament to the artist’s dedication and vision, and a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for art, nature, and the unexpected beauty that can be found in the world. The museum has even been recognized in the Limca Book of Records for its unique collection and innovative art form.