Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is a small village located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, near the border with the state of Kerala. It is situated at an altitude of about 7,900 feet (2,400 meters) and is known for its tea plantations, which produce some of the finest tea in the world.
Kolukkumalai is also home to the highest tea estate in the world, which was established in the early 1900s by British planters. Today, the estate is run by the Tamil Nadu government and is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to experience the process of tea-making first-hand.
To reach Kolukkumalai, visitors must take a bumpy jeep ride up a steep and winding road from the town of Suryanelli, which is about 32 kilometers away. Once there, they can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a peaceful atmosphere that is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
How to do trekking to kolukkumalai ?
Trekking in Kolukkumalai can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region and explore the tea plantations that have made the area famous. There are several trekking routes that are popular among visitors, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes that require a good level of fitness and endurance.
Kolukkumalai Jeep Safari
Kolukkumalai jeep safari is a popular way to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region, especially the tea plantations that have made the area famous. The jeep safari takes you through narrow and winding roads that run through the hills, providing a thrilling and adventurous experience.
The Kolukkumalai jeep safari is usually organized by local tour operators, and the jeeps used are usually sturdy and reliable 4×4 vehicles that can navigate the steep and rocky terrain of the region. The safari usually starts from the village of Suryanelli and takes visitors to the highest tea estate in the world, which is located in Kolukkumalai.
During the jeep safari, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a glimpse of the daily life of the local people. The safari usually includes stops at tea factories and plantations, where visitors can witness the tea-making process and sample different varieties of tea.
The Kolukkumalai jeep safari is a popular activity among visitors to the region, and it is a great way to experience the natural beauty and rich culture of the area. However, it is important to choose a reputable tour operator and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Kolukkumalai Self Trekking
One of the most popular trekking routes in Kolukkumalai is the Kolukkumalai to Meesapulimala trek, which takes hikers through a stunning landscape of rolling hills, grassy meadows, and dense forests. This trek is moderately difficult and takes around 5-6 hours to complete, depending on your fitness level.
Another popular trekking route is the Kolukkumalai to Vattavada trek, which takes you through tea plantations, spice gardens, and forests. This trek is more challenging than the Kolukkumalai to Meesapulimala trek and takes around 7-8 hours to complete.
If you are planning to go trekking in Kolukkumalai, it is important to hire a local guide who knows the area well and can help you navigate the terrain safely. You should also make sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, carry enough water and snacks, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
Kolukkumalai Tent Stay
Kolukkumalai offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region by camping in tents. Several local tour operators offer tent stays in the area, allowing visitors to spend a night or more in the midst of the stunning landscape of tea plantations and rolling hills.
The tents used for camping in Kolukkumalai are usually sturdy and comfortable, equipped with basic amenities like bedding and blankets. The camping sites are usually set up in quiet and secluded areas, away from the hustle and bustle of the town, providing visitors with a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
During the tent stay, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, take a walk through the tea plantations, and explore the natural beauty of the region. Some camping packages may also include activities like trekking, bird watching, and jeep safaris.
However, it is important to note that camping in Kolukkumalai can be challenging, especially during the monsoon season, when the weather can be unpredictable and the terrain can be slippery. It is important to choose a reputable tour operator and follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Here are some ways to reach Kolukkumalai
- By road: The most common way to reach Kolukkumalai is by road. The nearest major town is Munnar in Kerala, which is around 33 kilometers away from Kolukkumalai. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from Munnar to the village of Suryanelli, which is the base for visiting Kolukkumalai. From Suryanelli, visitors can take a jeep ride or trek to Kolukkumalai.
- By air: The nearest airport to Kolukkumalai is Cochin International Airport, which is around 115 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar and then proceed to Suryanelli to reach Kolukkumalai.
- By train: The nearest major railway station to Kolukkumalai is Aluva, which is around 110 kilometers away. From Aluva, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar and then proceed to Suryanelli to reach Kolukkumalai.
It is important to note that the roads leading to Kolukkumalai are steep and winding, and may not be suitable for inexperienced drivers or those who are prone to motion sickness. Visitors are advised to hire a local driver or use public transportation to reach Kolukkumalai.
Kolukkumalai Sunrise
The sunrise in Kolukkumalai is a spectacular sight to behold. The region’s high altitude and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal location for watching the sunrise. Visitors can witness the sunrise from various viewpoints in the region, including the Kolukkumalai Peak and Meesapulimala.
To witness the sunrise in Kolukkumalai, visitors need to start their journey early in the morning, preferably before dawn. Visitors can either take a jeep ride or go on a trek to the viewing point. The trek is moderately challenging, and it takes around 2-3 hours to reach the top, depending on the route and the fitness level of the visitors.
Once at the viewing point, visitors can witness the magical moment as the sun rises over the misty mountains, casting a golden glow on the tea plantations and surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy the serene and peaceful atmosphere and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
It is important to note that the weather in Kolukkumalai can be unpredictable, and visitors are advised to check the weather forecast before planning a sunrise trek or jeep ride. Visitors should also carry appropriate clothing and footwear, enough water and snacks, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
kolukkumalai tea estate
Kolukkumalai tea estate is one of the highest tea plantations in the world, located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu near the border with the state of Kerala. The tea estate is situated at an altitude of around 7,130 feet (2,170 meters) and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
The tea plantation in Kolukkumalai is known for its high-quality tea, which is grown and processed using traditional methods. The tea plants are grown in the rich soil of the region, which is rich in minerals and nutrients. The tea leaves are handpicked by local farmers, and the tea is processed in small batches using traditional methods, which involves withering, rolling, and drying the tea leaves.
Visitors to Kolukkumalai tea estate can take a guided tour of the tea factory and witness the tea-making process. They can also sample different varieties of tea, including the famous “Orthodox” tea, which is a specialty of the region.
The tea estate also offers a stunning and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The tea plantations cover the rolling hills, creating a breathtaking landscape that is perfect for nature walks, photography, and sightseeing. The area is also rich in biodiversity, and visitors can spot different species of birds and butterflies in the region.
Overall, the Kolukkumalai tea estate is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the region, especially for tea lovers who want to experience the rich flavor and aroma of the region’s famous tea.
