Munnar Unplugged: A Photo Journey Through Nature’s Wonderland #Tea Gardens #Waterfalls

Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is one of India's most sought-after hill stations. It sits at an elevation of about 1,600 meters (5,200 ft) above sea level and is renowned for its lush green landscapes, sprawling tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and rich biodiversity. Here’s a detailed look at everything Munnar has to offer:

 

History and Background:

• Munnar's name is derived from the Malayalam words "Munu" (three) and "Aru" (river), signifying the confluence of three rivers – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.

• Historically, Munnar was a summer resort for the British Raj elite, who developed the area for tea cultivation.

• The legacy of British colonialism is still visible in the colonial architecture of old bungalows and churches.

   

Climate and Best Time to Visit:

• Munnar enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year:

  • Summer (March to May): Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for sightseeing.

  • Monsoon (June to September): Heavy rainfall enhances the lushness, perfect for nature lovers but not ideal for trekking.

  • Winter (October to February): Temperature can drop to 10°C, making it a cozy time for honeymooners and adventure seekers.

• The best time to visit Munnar is from September to May.

   

Top Attractions:

1. Tea Gardens and Estates:

   • Endless stretches of tea plantations, mainly owned by Tata Tea.
   • Visitors can stroll through these estates or take guided tours.

2. Eravikulam National Park:

   • Spread over 97 sq km, it's home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
   • The park is also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years (next bloom in 2030).

3. Mattupetty Dam and Lake:

   • A scenic spot perfect for picnics and boating.
   • The area is known for its lush greenery and the Indo-Swiss livestock project nearby.

4. Anamudi Peak:

   • The highest peak in South India at 2,695 meters.
   • Popular for trekking and wildlife spotting.

5. Top Station:

   • Located about 32 km from Munnar, it offers breathtaking views of the Theni valley in Tamil Nadu.
   • Known for its panoramic vistas and the once-blooming Neelakurinji.

6. Echo Point:

   • Named for the natural echo phenomenon.
   • A favorite spot for trekking, nature walks, and photography.

7. Tea Museum:

   • Run by Tata Tea, it showcases the history and evolution of tea plantations in Munnar.
   • The museum also offers tea-tasting sessions.

8. Attukad Waterfalls:

   • A mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by hills and jungles.
   • Best visited during the monsoon when the waterfall is at its peak.

9. Kundala Lake:

   • An artificial lake surrounded by hills.
   • Known for pedal boating, shikara rides, and the cherry blossoms that bloom twice a year.
     

 

Adventure and Activities:

• Trekking and Camping: Popular trails include Anamudi Peak, Chokramudi Peak, and Meesapulimala.

• Boating: Available at Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, and Echo Point.

• Cycling Tours: Through the winding roads of tea gardens.

• Paragliding: An adventurous way to view the scenic valleys.

 

 

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Exploring Lalbagh Botanical Garden - Bangalore’s Most Iconic Green Space #A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Lalbagh Botanical Garden       Route map 

Lalbagh Botanical Garden or simply Lalbagh (lit. 'red garden'), is a botanical garden in Bangalore, India, with an over 200-year history. First planned and laid out during the dalavaiship of King Hyder Ali, the garden was later managed under numerous British superintendents before Indian Independence. 

 

It was responsible for the introduction and propagation of numerous ornamental plants as well as those of economic value. It also served a social function as a park and recreational space, with a central glass house dating from 1890 which was used for flower shows. 

Lalbagh is one of Bengaluru’s major attractions. A sprawling garden situated in a 240 acres piece of land in the heart of the city, Lalbagh houses India’s largest collection of tropical plants and sub-tropical plants, including trees that are several centuries old.

In modern times, it hosts two flower shows coinciding with the week of Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August). As an urban green space along with Cubbon Park, it is also home to numerous wild species of birds and other wildlife. The garden also has a lake adjoining a large rock on which a watchtower had been constructed during the reign of Kempegowda II. 

 

Why visit Lalbagh:

Lalbagh Glass House: Lalbagh Glass House is a giant palace like glass and iron structure, inspired by Crystal Palace in London’s Hyde Park. Lalbagh glass house was built in 1989 and renovated in 2004 and remains the primary attraction for visitors of Lalbagh.

Lalbagh Lake: Lalbagh has a large lake in its southern part, complete with walking trails, a bridge and a mini waterfall.

Seasonal attractions at Lalbagh: Lalbagh hosts several events throughout the year- Lalbagh flower show during Republic Day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August), Mango/Jackfruit festivals during summer, cultural shows at Band stand are some of the popular events held in Lalbagh.

 

Band Stand:

The band stand is a circular wooden structure with artistically elevated roof supported by wooden pillars, which are fixed to a granite platform. Located almost in the centre of the garden; it is surrounded by lush green lawns encircled by parapet walls. The garden around the band stand is in the form of terrace. A panoramic view of the Glass House towards the East and the Topiary garden towards the West can be seen from the band stand.

 

Attractions Inside Lalbagh

• Peninsular Gneiss Rock (a geological monument).

• Lake and Lotus Pond (ideal for birdwatching).

• Bonsai Garden and Rose Garden.

• Statues of prominent figures like Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV.

 

How to reach Lalbagh:

Lalbagh is located 7 km south of the city center (Majestic area) and 38 km from the Bengaluru airport. Lalbagh can be accessed using the Bengaluru metro rail network from different parts of Bengaluru city. Buses, autos or taxis are readily available to reach Lalbagh.

 

Visitor Information

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Open all days).

• Entry Fee: ₹30 per adult, Free entry for children below 12 years.

• Best Time to Visit: During Flower Shows or winter months (Nov-Feb).

 

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Hogenakkal Falls: The Niagara of India #The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors

Hogenakkal Falls       Route map

Hogenakkal Falls is a waterfall in South India on the Kaveri river on the border between Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu and Chamrajnagar district of Karnataka. It is located 46 km (29 mi) from Dharmapuri and 199 km (124 mi) from Chamrajnagar. Carbonatite rocks in this site are considered to be the oldest of its kind in South Asia and one of the oldest in the world. The Government of Tamil Nadu made a proposal to convert the falls into providing drinking water for the state.

 

Etymology

The pure Tamil name of Hogenakkal Falls is Uguneer Kal (உகுநீர் கல்). It was under the rule of Mysore Kingdom from 1652 to 1768 and during that period many Kannadas were employed and settled here in large numbers for tax collection work. Due to this reason, many Tamil names there became Kannada names.

That is how Uguneer Kal(உகுநீர் கல்) became Hogenakkal. The name Hogenakal is derived from Kannada means ‘Smoky Rocks’. The river when falls on the rock below, the gushing force of water resembles like smoke emanating from the rocks.It is also called as Marikottayam by the people of Tamil Nadu. 

 

History

Hogenakkal falls is mentioned in Sangam Literature as Thalaineer aruvi (தலைநீர் அருவி). All the areas around this waterfalls are called Thalaineer Naadu (தலைநீர் நாடு). It was ruled by the King named Adiyaman Neduman Anji. References to this King and the Falls are found in the Sangam Literatures like Purananooru (புறநானூறு), Agananooru (அகநானூறு), Kurunthogai (குறுந்தொகை) etc.

River

The Kaveri is considered to form at Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri hills in the Western Ghats of south India and gathers momentum as the land drops in elevation. It becomes larger as various tributaries feed into it on the way down.

At Hogenakkal, the Kaveri, now a large river, drops and creates numerous waterfalls as the water cuts through the rocky terrain. In places the water falls as much as 20 m (66 ft) and is said to sound like continual thunder.[citation needed] The river carries sediment which makes the downriver land fertile. 

At Hogenakkal the river spreads out over a wide area of sandy beaches, then flows south to the Mettur Dam and creates a 60 sq mi (160 km2). lake called Stanley Reservoir. Built in 1934, this project improved irrigation and provided hydropower.

Boating

Boating in Hogenakkal is allowed during the dry-season as the falls are not strong enough to disrupt the passage of the boats. This is the main source of income for boat operators. The coracles are about 2.24 m (7 ft 4 in) in diameter and can carry eight people at a time.

These coracles are made of bamboo, and with all materials available takes about a day to build. The bottom of the boats are made waterproof by the use of hides, but sometimes with sheets of plastic.Use of plastics in the Hogenakkal vicinity, not just for boats, has been criticised due to problems with pollution.

These boats are steered and propelled using a single paddle, making them unique. The coracles are locally called parisal in Tamil and teppa or harigolu in Kannada. Freshly caught fish are sold by the gorge and also various vendors selling water and snacks up and down the gorge rowing their coracles is not uncommon. 

The fish caught include katla, robu, kendai, keluthi, valai, mirgal, aranjan and jilaby. After leaving the gorge, on the left shore one can find improvised stalls set up on the sand. There, one can let the fresh fishes be prepared in one of the many kitchens. Also, many people can be found swimming or bathing around there. 

 

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