A picturesque tourist spot, Kerala is well
known for the blue backwaters, exotic beaches, golden sand and sensuous sea.
But theres a lot to explore in the natural unspoiled land of Kerala. The
hill stations of Kerala, lying on the Western ghats are less explored sites
in the state. The Kerala hill stations are far more fascinating than one can
imagine. The kaleidoscopic Indian state of Kerala has been blessed with
several
picturesque hill stations. Kerala has a long range of lush green hill
stations. All the hill resorts in Kerala offer the most enchanting
experience of nature in all its virgin beauty. The hill stations of Kerala
can be the perfect choice for anyone who wants a break from the city noises,
crowd, stress and tension. Sprawling tea plantations, picture postcard
views, serpentine lanes with greenery wrapping you from all sides and
holiday facilities available at a stone's throw distance make the hill
stations of Kerala the most perfect place to laze and relax.
The hill stations of Kerala are really different from other popular hill
stations of India. Breathe the unpolluted mountain air, relax in peace,
stroll down winding paths, marvel at the beautiful views, enjoy the
profusion of flowers in bloom. Rising to an average height of 1520 m and
housing rich flora and fauna, the hill stations of Kerala are dense in
vegetation and provide natural habitat to the exotic wildlife. The spices,
like Pepper, Cardamom, Cinnamon and the Cashew-nut are grown majorly in the
plantations on the hill stations in Kerala. Plantation of Cash crops like
rubber and tea got started here in 18th century by the British and the
Dutch.
They are still a major produce of Kerala today. Munnar, Ponmudi, Peermade,
Wagamon, Nelliyampathy, Vythri, Embra Peak, Lakkidu, Pythak Mala, Ezhimala
and Ranipuram are some of the most exotic hill stations of Kerala. Situated
1600 m above sea level, Munnar used to be a summer resort of the Britishers
during British rule in India. It is one of the most visited hill resorts in
Kerala. Peermade, located on the way to Periyar wildlife sanctuary is also a
pleasant hill station. Pine forests cover this hill station. One will also
come across the Tea, Cardamom, Coffee and Rubber plantations on the
beautiful hill station. Tucked away at the north eastern tip of Kerala,
Vythri hill station is renowned for its coffee, tea, cardamom and pepper
plantations. Ponmudi hillstation is located 915 m above sea level. It is an
ideal hill resort with narrow, winding pathways and cool, green, wooden
environments. One can also enjoy trekking in Ponmudi.
In all, a trip to the Kerala Hill stations will exhilarate your body, mind
and senses.
