A Whisper From Kerala’s Green Heart: Vinay’s Trip Review with Thrillophilia
Have you ever felt a place pull you into its rhythm, gently insisting that you forget the world you left behind? That’s what Kerala did to us the moment we arrived.
It wasn’t the landscape that first caught us; it was something in the air – a blend of earthy rain, spiced aromas, and the soft chatter of palm trees swaying in the breeze.
Our journey began with an introduction to Kerala’s winding roads, framed by waterfalls that seemed to spring out of nowhere.
The Valara and Cheeyappara waterfalls were more than just pit stops. We stood there, letting the misty spray kiss our faces, sharing a quiet awe.
Our guide, Shamon, arrived with a smile that could rival Kerala’s sunshine. From that instant, it was clear that this was going to be special.
Shamon was far more than just a driver—he was the storyteller who brought Kerala to life with interesting anecdotes.
The Tea Gardens and a Chocolate Revelation
Munnar unfolded like a dream.
The tea gardens here felt like a postcard we’ve seen many times, it was green and oh so breathtakingly beautiful. Walking through the plantations, we met workers who greeted us with warm smiles and stories. One elderly woman, her hands deftly plucking tea leaves, stopped to explain the process of making the best tea in the world.
A visit to a local chocolate factory turned into an unexpected highlight for us. Rows of handcrafted treats tempted us, and we soon found ourselves sampling everything from coconut-infused bites to rich cocoa bars.
At one point, I thought we’d need a separate bag just for chocolate – but who could blame us?
The Echo Point stole the show with its playful charm. A single shout and nature responded with gusto, bouncing our voices back to us. We laughed like kids, trying silly phrases just to hear them echoing by the hills. There was something magical about that sound – it was a pure melody.
At Ripple Tea Garden, we sat on a rustic bench overlooking the endless green. The tea we tasted there felt like peace, served in a warm cup. We watched the clouds roll in, wrapping the hills in a soft haze, as time seemed to stand still.
Where Wild Hearts Wander
“Don’t look now, but I think that’s a wild boar,” I whispered during our boat ride in Periyar National Park. My partner turned, and there it was – majestic, almost unbothered by our awe.
There was a moment during the ride that still makes me smile. The guide pointed out a kingfisher perched on a branch, its vivid blue feathers glowing in the sun. Just then, it dove into the water and emerged with a fish, a moment so swift and precise. It was MAJESTIC.
Shamon had mentioned a market where the locals sold handmade trinkets. The vibrant colours of spices, handwoven shawls, and wooden trinkets were irresistible. We bought it and every time it jingles, it feels like we brought a piece of Thekkady back home.
Where Time Floats
I had heard people gush about Alleppey’s houseboats, but no one told me they come alive at dusk. As our boat sailed through the backwaters, the sun painted everything golden. We sat on the deck, munching on banana chips and listening to the gentle ripples against the boat.
We saw fishermen casting their nets with practised precision, their silhouettes etched against the golden sunset.
The highlight, of course, was the houseboat itself. The chef onboard treated us to a feast that felt like an ode to Kerala’s cuisine – freshly caught fish, tangy curries, and soft appams that melted in the mouth. As night fell, the boat docked, and we stepped out to see fireflies dancing in the dark. It was a scene straight out of a fairytale.
A Goodbye Wrapped in a Promise
Our final hours in Kerala were spent exploring Kochi, a city that seemed to hold centuries of stories in its streets. The Chinese fishing nets swayed lazily over the water, and the vibrant graffiti on the walls of Fort Kochi told tales of tradition meeting modernity.
As we boarded our flight back, I looked out at Kerala one last time. It wasn’t just the places we visited or the things we did – it was the way Kerala made us feel. It wrapped us in its warmth, showed us its beauty, and left us with memories that feel like treasures.
A huge thanks to Thrillophilia who helped us make this trip unforgettable and comfortable. Everything was taken care of, from our stays to activities to transportation and the best part, it was all planned according to our needs and preferences.
And our journey was greatly enhanced by our driver cum guide, Shamon Manamkavil. Shamon's warmth, extensive knowledge, and assistance were invaluable throughout the trip. His adept driving skills and fluency in both Hindi and English added an extra layer of comfort and enjoyment to our experience.
When we shared our journey with friends and family, they asked what the highlight was. And honestly, how do you pick one? Was it the tranquillity of Munnar, the wild charm of Thekkady, or the poetic serenity of Alleppey? Perhaps it was all of it – tied together by the unspoken promise that one day, we’d return.
Because Kerala gives you a piece of itself. And you carry it with you, forever. God’s Own Country— truly!
Read more: Thrillophilia Kerala Reviews