One place that stirs a different kind of emotion in my heart is Munnar. This picturesque hill station still holds a special place in my heart, and I often find myself contemplating what it would be like to spend my life there. Munnar has left an indelible imprint on my soul, which I only realized after leaving the place.
My romance with Munnar began when I visited Kerala in 2010. We embarked on a bus journey from Kochi to Munnar, and I soon discovered that one of the unique aspects of Kerala is that long-distance travel doesn’t feel tiresome. The mesmerizing landscapes and abundant greenery have a soul-soothing effect. The 5-6 hour journey was a visual treat, with waterfalls and tea plantations scattered along the route. As evening descended, the tour conductor suggested turning off the air conditioning and opening the windows to let in the cool breeze. That moment was truly refreshing. In the darkness, I could glimpse tall trees lining the road, as well as the silhouette of a small temple and a church.
Upon reaching the hotel, I discovered that the reception was located on the fifth floor, while my room was in the basement on the third floor. There wasn’t much to do except have dinner and take a quick shower with cold water. Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to forgo the hot water option. Peering out of the window, all I could discern was darkness.
The next morning, I was awakened by the melodious chirping of birds. The anticipated moment had arrived, and I could finally witness the breathtaking beauty outside my window. Mist-covered blue mountains stood tall, accompanied by floating clouds. That’s when my love affair with Munnar truly began. I felt no desire to go anywhere else; all I wanted was to sit on a cane chair, savor a cup of filter coffee, and immerse myself in the surrounding scenery, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of the birds.
Our sightseeing journey in Munnar commenced at 9 am. The verdant landscapes, winding roads around the hills, trekking through Eravikulam National Park, and the gentle drizzle accompanied by a cool breeze stimulated all my senses. The taste of fresh carrots, boiled corn, and tapioca chips still lingers vividly in my memory.
Reflecting on what drew me so deeply to this place, I believe it was the simplicity of Munnar that gradually won me over. It didn’t overwhelm me with its grandeur; instead, it captivated me from the very first day and felt like a newfound home—a place where solace could be found. It’s as if the place itself communicates with the traveler, whispering its charm and character in its own subtle language. Often, we fail to listen, but when we do, the connection remains etched in our hearts. That’s precisely what happened with me in Munnar—an unexpected love affair that continues to linger.
To know more about Munnar, you may refer to the following: Munnar | Munnar Attractions | Munnar Map | Kerala Travel Map | Hill Stations in Kerala
