Exploring Off-Beat Kerala: A Scenic Journey Beyond the Beaten Path
Kerala, with its lush landscapes and winding roads, is a paradise for those seeking both tranquility and adventure. Recently, I embarked on a journey to uncover some of Kerala’s lesser-known gems. Starting from Kochi, we rented a Toyota Hycross—spacious enough to comfortably accommodate four people and our luggage. Kochi, by the way, boasts some of the best and most seamless self-drive car rental options, making it the perfect gateway for a road trip.
The Early Morning Escape
We set off at 7 AM sharp, eager to dodge the morning rush and bypass the crowds heading toward more “touristy” destinations like Munnar. The crisp morning air, paired with the excitement of exploring the unknown, set the tone for the day.
Our first stop was a quaint Udupi restaurant along the way. The aroma of freshly steamed idlis, tangy sambhar, and a piping hot cup of filter coffee was the perfect fuel for our journey. With both our tummies and the car’s fuel tank replenished, we were ready to take on the road less traveled.
The Enchanting Drive
Leaving behind the main highways, we ventured onto off-beat, single-lane roads that snaked through dense forests. The canopy of trees created a play of sunlight and shadows, making the drive nothing short of magical. The Toyota glided effortlessly over butter-smooth tarmac, a rarity in some parts of the region, and we often rolled down our windows to let in the pristine mountain air.
The symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves replaced the urban chaos we had left behind. Time seemed to slow down, and what could have felt like a long three-hour drive turned into a blissful journey of connection—with nature, with each other, and with ourselves.
As our journey took us deeper into the heart of Idukki, the charm of Kerala’s untamed beauty unfolded in ways we hadn’t imagined. Leaving behind the beaten paths, we decided to explore one of the region’s lesser-known marvels—the Anchuruli Tunnel.
Anchuruli Tunnel: A Man-Made Wonder in Nature’s Lap
Carved into the mountains, the Anchuruli Tunnel is a testament to human ingenuity harmoniously blending with nature. This engineering marvel channels water into the Idukki reservoir, but it’s the surrounding landscape that truly captivates. As we stood there, the sheer scale of the tunnel was awe-inspiring, but it was the mesmerizing backdrop of rolling hills, lush greenery, and the shimmering waters that left us speechless.
The faint roar of water gushing out of the tunnel added a sense of dynamism to the serene environment, creating a balance between tranquility and power. It was one of those moments where you feel both humbled and energized by the beauty of nature.
An Offbeat Hideout: Escaping the Crowds
From Anchuruli, we headed to our carefully chosen hideout—far from the bustle of conventional hotels. Tucked away in the folds of Idukki’s hills, this cozy retreat welcomed us with open arms. Its rustic charm, surrounded by dense forests and distant views of the tunnel’s cascading waters, felt like a sanctuary.
The hideout had a unique way of slowing us down. What started as a plan to explore more of the area quickly transformed into an evening of pure relaxation. We embraced the quiet, letting the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves set the perfect backdrop for reflection. Inspired by the setting, I couldn’t resist jotting down a few lines—a rare moment of creativity sparked by the calmness around me.
A Culinary Experience to Remember
As the day melted into evening, we indulged in a simple yet exquisite dinner: appam paired with creamy, aromatic stew. The subtle flavors of the local cuisine were a testament to Kerala’s rich culinary heritage. Each bite was comforting, adding to the warmth of our retreat.
Falling Asleep to Nature’s Lullaby
That night, we retired to our little cottage, enveloped by the sounds of nature. The trees swayed gently, their branches whispering to one another in the wind. Somewhere in the distance, the gushing waters from the Anchuruli Tunnel provided a soothing cadence. It was as if nature itself was singing us to sleep.
We didn’t even realize when we drifted off, cocooned in the serenity of this offbeat paradise.
A Day of Adventure: Exploring Periyar-Thekkady and Beyond
After a restful night at our serene hideout, we woke up recharged and ready for the adventures ahead. A hearty breakfast paired with steaming cups of aromatic coffee set the perfect tone for the day. Our destination: Periyar and Thekkady, with the promise of wilderness and unforgettable experiences.
The Road Less Traveled
True to our spirit of discovery, we took an offbeat route to Thekkady. As the winding roads revealed breathtaking vistas, the aroma of coffee wafted from the plantations dotting the steep hillsides. With every turn, we scanned the dense jungles for a glimpse of Kerala’s true royalty—the mighty elephants. Though luck wasn’t on our side this time, the journey itself was a reward, offering serene views and the kind of tranquility only an unfrequented road can provide.
We rolled into Thekkady just in time to book slots for the evening safari at Periyar Tiger Reserve. With a few hours to spare, we visited a centuries-old Shiva temple nearby, dating back to 1170. The temple’s ancient architecture and peaceful ambiance transported us to a bygone era, offering a quiet interlude in an otherwise action-packed day.
A Feast of Kerala Flavors
For lunch, we indulged in a traditional Kerala Saddya—a vibrant, multi-course meal served on a banana leaf. The flavours were a symphony of sweet, spicy, and tangy, leaving us both satiated and invigorated for the adventures awaiting us at Periyar.
The Periyar Boat Safari: A Wildlife Extravaganza
Excitement buzzed in the air as we boarded the boat for the much-anticipated Periyar Safari. As the boat glided across the serene waters, Periyar’s abundant wildlife began to reveal itself. From gaurs grazing by the water’s edge to wild boars rooting in the underbrush, from graceful sambar and spotted deer to vibrant, exotic birds, the reserve was alive with activity.
The highlight of the safari? A fleeting but unforgettable glimpse of elephants deep in the thickets, playing with branches. It was a magical moment, underscoring the majesty of Kerala’s wilderness. By the end of the safari, we felt grateful for the incredible show nature had put on for us.
The Thrill of the Night Drive
As the day wound down, we sipped hot coffee by our car, savouring the cool evening air before starting our journey back to Idukki. The night drive through dense forests was nothing short of thrilling. The eerie silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves, kept us on edge. Each turn brought with it a mix of anticipation and a hint of trepidation—would we spot an elephant crossing the road or, perhaps, the elusive orange-striped tiger?
BUT – The festive season – Christmas was on, with its firecrackers, seemed to have pushed the shy animals deeper into their sanctuaries. While we didn’t encounter any creatures on the way, the sheer beauty of the moonlit forest made the drive unforgettable.
A Cozy End to an Eventful Day
Back at our hideout, we lit a bonfire under the star-studded sky. The warmth of the fire, combined with a simple, wholesome meal, was the perfect way to unwind after an action-packed day. As we reflected on the sights and sounds of Periyar, the thrill of the night drive, and the serenity of our retreat, we couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this journey through Kerala’s wild and wondrous landscapes.
The Final Stretch: Adventures on the Way Back to Kochi
As our time in Idukki drew to a close, the final day of our journey beckoned with promises of more discoveries before we returned to Kochi. True to the spirit of this trip, we chose exploration over haste, ensuring the drive back was as memorable as the days before.
Ayyapankovil: A Thrilling Walk Into Serenity
Our first stop was Ayyapankovil, a hidden gem untouched by the usual tourist crowds. Getting there was an adventure in itself. Thanks to Google Maps, we found ourselves navigating an unexpected detour by the river, involving some light off-roading. While it may have added time to our journey, it also added excitement and a sense of discovery.
Ayyapankovil is best known for its hanging bridge—a wobbly yet fascinating structure that sways with every step. Crossing it was an exhilarating experience, equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. On the other side, a serene temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa awaited us.
The walk along the meandering river, with its gentle flow and lush surroundings, felt like stepping back into the Satya Yuga. The calmness of the place had a timeless quality, making us pause and reflect on the simple beauty of nature and faith.
A Spontaneous Detour to Idukki Dam
Reluctantly leaving Ayyapankovil, we began our westward journey back to Kochi. As we passed the sheer expanse of the Idukki Dam, its magnificence drew us in like a magnet. Without hesitation, we took a left turn toward this engineering marvel.
Built in 1975, the Idukki Dam is among India’s largest arch dams, standing tall amidst verdant hills. The sheer scale of the structure and the vast reservoir it holds are awe-inspiring. The sight of so much water stored high up in the mountains was a humbling reminder of human ingenuity and nature’s grandeur.
Calvari Mount: A Panoramic Finale
To cap off our spontaneous detour, we visited Calvari Mount, a nearby viewpoint that offers breathtaking vistas of the Idukki reservoir and the surrounding green hills. The views from the top were nothing short of spectacular, a fitting finale to our exploration of this enchanting region.
Back to Kochi: A Journey Well-Spent
As the sun dipped lower, we finally resumed our journey toward Kochi. Driving through Kerala’s winding roads, we couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible experiences we had over the past few days. From the offbeat trails to the majestic landscapes, from quiet temples to thrilling bridges, every moment had added a unique flavour to our journey.
Returning to Kochi felt bittersweet—a reunion with city life, but also the end of an unforgettable adventure. This road trip through the heart of Kerala wasn’t just about the destinations; it was about the journey itself.
Why Off-Beat Kerala?
What makes Kerala’s lesser-explored routes so special is their ability to offer an intimate experience. Unlike popular tourist spots, these hidden gems provide solitude and unspoiled beauty. Whether it’s the serenity of the drive or the sense of discovery around every bend, it’s an experience that lingers long after the journey ends. Planning my next getaway in this magical land already… – Wayanad!
