Cheeyappara Waterfalls – Nature’s Delight on the Kochi–Munnar Highway 🌿💧 Cheeyappara Waterfalls is one of those spots that instantly makes you pause your journey and soak in the beauty of nature. Located on the Kochi–Munnar highway, this majestic waterfall cascades down in seven steps, creating a breathtaking view surrounded by dense greenery. I visited during my trip to Kerala, and it turned out to be one of the most refreshing experiences of the journey. The cool breeze, the gushing sound of water, and the mist in the air together create a magical vibe. It’s the kind of place where you just want to stand still for a few minutes and take it all in. Accessibility & Facilities: • Very easy to access since the waterfall is visible right from the roadside. You don’t need to trek, which makes it perfect for families, kids, and elderly visitors. • There are parking spots nearby where you can stop safely. • Local vendors set up stalls offering tea, pakoras, corn, and snacks – enjoying hot chai while admiring the falls is an experience in itself. ☕🌽 Best Time to Visit: • The waterfall is at its most powerful and beautiful during the monsoon season (June–September). • Even in other months, the flow remains decent and worth a stop, but post-monsoon is when the surrounding greenery looks the freshest. What I Loved: ✔️ The seven-step cascading fall – very scenic and photogenic 📸 ✔️ No entry fee, and you can enjoy the view straight from the highway ✔️ Clean mountain air and peaceful vibes – a perfect break on the long drive ✔️ Convenient for quick visits, but also a place where you can linger longer if you love nature Travel Tip: If you’re driving to Munnar, plan to take a short halt here. Morning hours are usually less crowded and perfect for capturing pictures without too many people in the background. Overall, Cheeyappara Waterfalls is not just a roadside attraction – it’s a natural wonder that adds charm to the Munnar road trip. A must-visit stop that combines beauty, accessibility, and serenity. 🌸💧

If you're exploring Kerala, the Idukki Dam is an absolute gem you shouldn't miss. With its scenic location on the Periyar River, this engineering wonder will leave you in awe. No wonder it has a stellar 4.5-star rating from thousands of visitors! What sets it apart? For starters, the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the river are unforgettable. Plus, it's not just a pretty sight—this is India's first arch dam and one of the tallest in Asia. Impressive, right? For those looking for more than just pretty pictures, there's plenty to do. You can enjoy a serene boating experience, go trekking, or check out the nearby Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary for a touch of nature. Quick tips: Visit during the winter months (December to February) when the weather is at its best. And, of course, stay safe by following local guidelines near the dam. Whether you're into engineering marvels, natural beauty, or just a good day out, the Idukki Dam has it all. Highly recommended for tourists and locals alike!

This Elephant Junction at Thekkady bring you close to nature and make you live the experience to ride an elephant 🐘 with piece and safety along with the elephant trainer who is walking side by side giving orders to the elephant that show how clever and intelligent these creatures. They also have different kind of booking and options to choose and we chosen the best package with includes the elephant ride and command listening and elephant shower and bath. Great experience for try.

Last week my partner and I did both the Thondiyar and Brandipara full-day border hiking treks. Both were amazing but quite different and we couldn’t find much info online about the differences beforehand so hopefully this is helpful. Thondiyar goes through much denser forest, which feels very ancient and the trails are a bit more uneven underfoot and slippery at times but we loved how wild the route felt. Brandipara is much more exposed going through newer forests with clearings and amazing views over the mountains and to Tamil Nadu. The path was clearer and easier to walk. I was quite scared of the leeches but the guides provide leech socks and use tobacco powder to sprinkle on the socks to deter the leeches, and the treks are well worth it regardless! I would recommend wearing long sleeves, trousers, covered trainers or boots and long socks and tucking everything in for peace of mind. Also the food provided for breakfast and lunch was great, you get given 1 litre of water but we bought an extra bottle each which was needed given the heat and distance. For both lunch spots you stop at a building for a proper rest. You get given a nice comfy backpack that you can transfer your stuff into at the start of the day, we did this on the second walk and it was better to avoid getting your own bag really wet if it rains. If you like birds would recommend downloading the free Merlin app and the South India bird pack to help understand which birds are around, although some of our guides also knew a lot of bird species. Our guides were excellent and we felt very safe, on one day they shared more knowledge about wildlife and the other day more about history which were both interesting. We were lucky to see so many birds, an elephant, langurs, giant squirrels and amazing spiders! If you have time would recommend doing both routes as they feel quite different :)

Epic Performances! We did the 6-8 show back to back. First we saw Kalari and then Kathakali! It's a must watch! Kalari was so energetic and vibrant. Kathakali was so elegant and beautiful! 😍 Get tickets in advance in afternoon or morning itself for front row seats in both!

Only way to go here by periyar foundation bus, which cost 60/-. Bus will drop you at the lake. Spend some time there and come back with any bus any time before closing with same ticket. Boating cost is 225/per person which ticket can be buy at the lake.

The tea gardens in Munnar are a sight to behold. The endless rows of tea bushes, rolling hills, and mist-covered mountains create a breathtaking landscape. It's a feast for the eyes and a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tea gardens are not just visually appealing, but also offer a glimpse into the local culture and economy. You can witness the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to drying and processing them. Many tea estates also have factories where you can see how tea is packaged and prepared for export. If you're a tea lover, you'll be delighted by the opportunity to sample different varieties of tea, including black, green, and white. You can also purchase tea leaves and other souvenirs to take home. However, it's important to note that some tea estates may charge an entrance fee or require you to book a tour in advance. It's advisable to research and plan your visit accordingly. Overall, the tea gardens in Munnar are a must-visit for anyone traveling to this beautiful hill station. They offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and a delightful tea-drinking experience.

It's an amazing place if you're curious about Munnar's tea plantation history, especially, Kannan Devan Hills Produce!! The 30 minute movie is a nice peep into history and the narration is very clear and lucid. The artefacts from tea factories, tea gardens and planter's bungalows are well cared for and curated, though they're tightly packed together due to lack of space, leaving one with very little time for ruminating since the place is almost always crowded, especially in tourist season. Thereafter, there's also a basic tour of the tea factory showing how tea is sorted, treated and processed once it has been brought to the factory after plucking. Lastly, there's a very well stocked shopping arcade where one can buy souvenirs and everything tea 🍵 At Rs 150 per adult, the entry fee is quite reasonable. If you aren't a tea connoisseur of an insta wannabe, paying an additional Rs 120 per head for optional tea tasting is completely avoidable. All in all, it's worth a visit.

Eravikulam national park in one the best national parks available in Kerala, it is famous for the Nilgiri Tahr. It is one of the endangered species of goat which only available here. The parking is available but will be full if you are late . So start early and reach early. Ticket for Indian is Rs 200. They don't accept cash, card or UPI. Your phone will not have network but you can use the local Wifi available inside. From the entrance they have bushes which will take you to the top of the hill. It is a different world altogether. Mostly it will be Misty, but sighting is on your luck. Once the bus drops you, you will have to walk around and the trail is for about 1km. Toilets available but was dirty, cafe is available but again it was dirty. Otherwise the place is well kept and the scenery is awesome. Please try if you can.

Mattupetty Dam is one of the most beautiful and relaxing spots in Munnar, offering stunning lake views and cool mountain air. I visited this place recently, and it was such a refreshing experience. The calm water, misty breeze, and scenic view of the Western Ghats make it perfect for nature lovers. There are small shops nearby selling snacks, tea.It was a bit crowded when I visit there.It can get a bit crowded during holidays. A must-visit destination in Munnar — perfect for relaxation, photography, and enjoying Kerala’s natural charm 💚🌄✨

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem with breathtaking scenery. The trekking trail is challenging, with steep climbs and descents, but the reward is worth it - a stunning hidden waterfall ( Thoocanam waterfalls)! Spotting wildlife is a bonus, but not guaranteed. The falls themselves are awesome, though bathing isn't allowed. If you're up for the trek, it's an experience not to miss.

What is more you can expect other than being divine while you visit the best holy place. Starting from the entrance to coming back to entrance you will be awe'd and wow'ed with the sculptures and stories. This is a marvellous. The Srivilliputhur Andal Temple, located in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Andal and Lord Vishnu (as Vatapatrasayi). It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred shrines praised by the Alvar saints. The temple is especially significant as the birthplace of Andal, the only female Alvar and one of the most beloved saints in the Vaishnavite tradition. The temple complex features stunning Dravidian architecture, with its towering 192-foot rajagopuram (temple tower) being one of the tallest in Tamil Nadu. This tower is so iconic that it is featured in the Tamil Nadu state emblem. The temple has two main sanctums — one for Lord Vatapatrasayi and another for Goddess Andal, who is enshrined in a standing posture. The temple is famous for its Aadi Pooram festival, which celebrates Andal’s birth with grandeur and devotion. During the Tamil month of Margazhi, her devotional hymns, the Tiruppavai, are sung daily. Andal's deep love and devotion for Lord Vishnu are reflected in the temple’s rituals and traditions. Srivilliputhur Andal Temple remains a vital spiritual and cultural center, attracting thousands of devotees and pilgrims every year.

⚠️ Please note: The area remains closed during heavy rainfall due to slippery conditions in the forest, so plan your visit accordingly. 🌲 The trail begins with a few steps leading downward, followed by a scenic walk along a sloping hillside. The views of the lake and surrounding pine trees are absolutely stunning. 🐎 Horse riding is available and highly recommended—the hilly terrain makes the experience even more enjoyable. It costs ₹200 per person, and the staff will take photos and videos using your own phone.

Pillar Rock is breathtakingly beautiful! The towering rock formations and stunning views are simply mesmerizing. The scenic spot offers ample photo opportunities, and the surrounding landscape is perfect for a leisurely stroll. A must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers. If you want to enjoy the tranquility and serenity of this place, Do make a visit on early hours. Otherwise this spot become too crowded and unable to enjoy it. Highly recommended! Highly recommended!"

This lake is quite vast. Visitors with more energy can enjoy a pedal boat ride, while others can opt for a boat operated by an authorized person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Around the lake, there is a scenic road where people can rent bicycles or enjoy a horse ride in the evening.

One of my best spot in Kodaikanal, must try in sunset/ evening with mist. Each time I had different experience.. Highly recommend 👍👍👍

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Divine and Peaceful Experience at Madurai Meenakshi Temple The Madurai Meenakshi Temple is truly a masterpiece — both spiritually and architecturally. The temple is maintained exceptionally well, with clean surroundings and a beautifully organized atmosphere. The queue system is very decent and perfectly managed, ensuring everyone gets a comfortable and peaceful darshan. What impressed me most was how calm and orderly everything felt — no pushing or rush in the lines, allowing devotees to fully experience the divine presence of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. It was a deeply satisfying and serene visit. Highly recommend visiting this temple for anyone seeking a truly divine and peaceful darshan experience! 🙏

The Gandhi Memorial Museum in Madurai is a historic museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, showcasing his life, teachings, and India’s freedom struggle. Located in the old Tamukkam Palace, it features rare photographs, letters, personal items, and a special gallery on the Quit India Movement. It is one of the five Gandhi museums in India and a major cultural landmark of Madurai

What a marvelous temple. We spent a couple of hours in and around the temple which was clean and well maintained. The day we visited was free from massive crowd and so had a peaceful devotional experience. The architecture was wonderful and the ancient sculptures were amazing. The lord himself was gigantic and mesmerizing! Must visit!

Recently visited the Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple. Wonderful experience. Mesmerizing idol of Lord Murugan. Surprisingly people weren't understanding when we asked the direction to Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple. It's popularly known as Solaimalai Murugan Temple. The temple is located about 25 kilometres north of Madurai, atop a hill covered with dense forests. One of the six important abodes of the deity Murugan located in Tamil Nadu, it is close to the Alagar Perumal Temple. Around 3 kms from Alagar Kovil, there's a small ghat road to the top of hill. The road is excellent. Govt free bus service is available but one needs to wait in long queues. Many people come by walking. Roadside parking available on top of the hill. Temple will be open from morning 6am to evening 6 pm. No break in between. Darshan usually takes 1-2 hrs during weekends. There's Rs. 100 quick darshan service available which takes around 30 mins.

We had a divine experience while worshipping this Karpaga Vinayagar for the first time in our life. The temple is awesome and maintained well inside and outside. The Pond and the surrounding are beautiful. The Main Gopuram view was awesome to look at.

Thirumayam Fort – A Hidden Historical Treasure A stunning 17th-century fort with massive stone walls, ancient temples, and breathtaking hilltop views. Perfect for history lovers and photographers alike—especially at sunrise or sunset.

The Thayumanavar Temple, or Rockfort Temple, in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Thayumanavar. Situated on a massive rock formation, it features a mix of Dravidian and rock-cut architecture. Visitors must climb about 400 steps to reach the temple, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The temple has significant spiritual importance, especially for those seeking blessings for childbirth. Key festivals like Maha Shivaratri attract large crowds, making the atmosphere vibrant. Accessible and centrally located, it also houses a shrine for Goddess Parvati. The temple provides a serene spiritual experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. Overall, it's a must-visit for devotees and tourists alike.

Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Srirangam – A Majestic Spiritual Abode Visiting Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple in Srirangam, Tamil Nadu, is like stepping into a living tapestry of devotion, history, and architecture. Dedicated to Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Lord Vishnu), this temple is one of the largest functioning Hindu temple complexes in the world and a key center for Vaishnavite worship. The temple is immense and awe-inspiring. Its towering gopurams (gateway towers), especially the 13-tiered Rajagopuram, are adorned with intricate carvings depicting mythological stories and divine beings. The sheer scale of the temple, with its seven concentric prakarams (enclosures), gives a sense of grandeur that is both humbling and enchanting. Inside, the sanctum sanctorum houses the magnificent deity of Lord Ranganatha in a reclining pose on the serpent Adishesha. The spiritual atmosphere here is heightened by the rhythmic chants of Vedic hymns, the ringing of bells, and the devotion of thousands of pilgrims. The temple also has several smaller shrines, halls, and mandapams, each showcasing exquisite Dravidian architecture. Visiting Srirangam is not just about admiring architecture; it’s a deeply spiritual experience. Pilgrims and tourists alike can witness traditional rituals, festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi, and the daily aarti, which make the visit immersive and memorable. Tips for Visitors: Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during festival days to witness special ceremonies. Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended; men should wear dhoti or trousers, women should cover shoulders and legs. Plan Your Visit: Allocate at least 3–4 hours to explore the entire complex. Nearby Attractions: The town of Srirangam itself has many ghats and smaller temples worth exploring.

🛕 Jambukeshwarar Temple (Thiruvanaikaval) Also known as Thiruvanaikaval Temple, this ancient shrine is located just 2 km from the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, on the same Srirangam island. 🌿 Main Deities Lord Jambukeshwarar (Shiva) — worshipped here as an embodiment of the Water (Neer) element, one of the five Pancha Bhoota Lingas. Goddess Akhilandeshwari (Parvati) — consort of Lord Shiva, residing in her own separate shrine within the same complex. 🔱 Spiritual Significance It represents the "Neer (Water) Tatva" among the Pancha Bhoota Stalams (temples representing five natural elements): 1. Earth (Prithvi) – Ekambareswarar Temple (Kanchipuram) 2. Water (Appu) – Jambukeshwarar Temple (Srirangam/Thiruvanaikaval) 3. Fire (Agni) – Arunachaleswarar Temple (Tiruvannamalai) 4. Air (Vayu) – Srikalahasti Temple 5. Sky (Akasha) – Chidambaram Natarajar Temple Inside the sanctum, water constantly springs up around the Shiva Linga, symbolizing the element of water — a rare and divine feature. 🕉️ Legend (Purana) According to legend: Goddess Parvati, as Akhilandeshwari, performed severe penance here under the instruction of Lord Shiva, worshipping a Linga made of water (Appu Linga). Pleased by her devotion, Shiva appeared and taught her spiritual wisdom. The temple hence symbolizes the Guru–Shishya (Teacher–Disciple) relationship between Shiva and Parvati. 🏛️ Architecture Built in Dravidian style by the Early Cholas (around 2nd century CE), later expanded by Pandya and Nayaka kings. The temple has 5 enclosures (Prakarams) and majestic Gopurams (towers). The Akhilandeshwari shrine has exquisite decorations and the goddess’s earrings are said to be changed twice a year during special rituals. 📅 Temple Timings Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Timings can vary during festivals.) 🎉 Important Festivals Panguni Brahmotsavam (March–April) Aadi Pooram (Goddess Akhilandeshwari’s special day) Navaratri celebrations are grand here. Maha Shivaratri – observed with great devotion. 🧭 How to Reach Distance: 2 km from Srirangam Temple, 8 km from Trichy Junction. Easily reachable by auto-rickshaw, local bus, or taxi. Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli (about 12 km). 🌸 Special Highlights The Akhilandeshwari idol is said to radiate immense energy. To soften it, Sri Adi Shankaracharya installed two Sri Chakra Yantras (one in each ear) and designed her beautiful Thadanga (ear ornaments). The temple is serene, with sacred ponds and beautiful stone carvings.