A Journey Through the Enchanting Landscapes of Chinnakanal and Munnar
Discover Munnar’s majestic waterfalls, lush tea plantations, historic churches, and Aranya Natural’s inspiring story of community empowerment. A journey through nature and culture.
Navigating the Scenic Route
It was a serene afternoon in November when we embarked on our journey to Chinnakanal, maneuvering through the winding hairpin bends. Our travels began at Kochi, from where we turned towards Kothamangalam, a significant town in the reign of the Chera kings. Kothamangalam, with its historical ties to the Chera dynasty, offered a glimpse into the past. As we ventured further, the trees at Nellikkuzhi stretched their branches into the road, resembling sofas, chairs, and tables—a testament to the area’s fame for wooden artifacts.
Crossing the Historic Neriamangalam Bridge
We traversed the Neriamangalam bridge over the Periyar River, the first arch bridge in Asia, celebrated as the ‘Gateway to the High Range.’ Along the National Highway, we encountered the Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls. The Valara falls, situated below road level, offered a unique perspective, allowing travelers to admire its beauty from different angles. As we ascended towards Munnar, we were greeted by unexpected waterfalls cascading down the mountains, sometimes vanishing as quickly as they appeared.
Munnar: A Confluence of Rivers and Beauty
Munnar owes its name to the meeting of three rivers—Muthirappuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. The town buzzed with activity, prompting most visitors to stay in nearby Chinnakanal, approximately 20 kilometers away. Prominent rocks bordered one side of the road, while the other dropped steeply into the valley below. It was advisable to arrive before nightfall, as the resort staff cautioned us about the return of Arikomban, a known elephant in the area. Nearby, the Anayirankal Dam stretched across a lake, its shores lined with forests inhabited by elephant herds, evoking curiosity and awe.
Exploring Eravikulam National Park
Just a short distance from Munnar lies the Eravikulam National Park, where private vehicles are prohibited. Visitors can board park-operated buses or hire a buggy for the journey to a plateau, from where a hike leads uphill. The landscape, a harmonious blend of grasslands, shola forests, and wooded areas, is a testament to nature’s artistry. Many come in hopes of spotting the Nilgiri tahrs, agile creatures adept at navigating steep rocky slopes, inspiring both admiration and occasional disappointment among visitors.
A Glimpse into History and Tea Plantations
Our exploration continued with a visit to the lush tea plantations, where women skillfully plucked tender tea leaves. Despite their youthful appearance from a distance, the tea plants revealed mature, intertwined branches up close. Our driver, familiar with the area, led us on a forest trail in search of a notable lone tree, though we found only the ‘Tall Tree Resort.’ On our return, we stumbled upon a small stream beneath a rocky cleft, where a stone adorned with red cloth and garlands stood as a makeshift deity—a tribute from locals who venture into the forest.
Munnar’s Historical Church and Cemetery
In the heart of Munnar Town, the parish church, built in 1910, stands as a stone edifice with Western architectural influences. The church courtyard, a respite from the bustling town, offers a glimpse into the past, where many who contributed to the tea estates rest, including Eleanor Isabella. Her poignant story, intertwined with the history of the hills, lingers as a reminder of love and loss.
Discovering Aranya Natural
Our journey led us to the Tata’s K.D.H.P. Tea Museum in Nallathanni, where we delved into the history of Munnar’s tea estates. The museum showcased artifacts from the colonial era and illustrated the evolution of the industry. From there, we ventured to ‘Aranya Natural,’ an initiative that began in 1993 to empower differently-abled workers through the art of natural dyeing. Founded by Mrs. Ratna Krishnakumar, this project has flourished, transforming waste from tea factories into artistic creations and providing employment to those often overlooked by society. The confidence and creativity of the workers were truly inspiring, leaving a lasting impression.
The journey through Chinnakanal and Munnar is a tapestry of history, natural beauty, and human resilience. Each destination tells a story, inviting travelers to explore, reflect, and connect with the enchanting landscapes and the people who call it home.