The beautiful hill stations of Kerala are a great destination for the more adventurous traveler.
On the windward side of the Western Ghats of Kerala there are a long chane of lush, mist-clad hill stations, among these the more famous are: Idukki, Kottayam, Munnar, Peermede, Thekkady (Periyar) and Wayanard. Rising to an average height of around 1500 meters, the tropical forests of the Ghats houses rich flora and fauna as well as extensive plantations of tea, coffee, rubber and cardamom. Strewn across the lush valleys are quaint colonial cottages and bungalows reminding you of the colonial past.
All the hill resorts of Kerala offer the most enchanting and idyllic experience of nature in all its beauty. There is no better place than Kerala's hill stations to cool off. These are the perfect place to enjoy the cool evenings and to experience gurgling streams amidst forests, breathtaking waterfalls and trout filled lakes. With several wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks across the Western Ghats a visit is also an opportunity to observe some of India's famous and endangered animals like the Indian Elephant, Buffalo and Tiger.
All the hill stations are just a few hours drive away from the major towns of Kerala. The drive itself passes through wonderfull landscapes with great views, evergreen rain forests and various kinds of plantations. Some of these plantations accept visitors, so make a stop and find out how tea, coffee or some of the spices are grown, harvested and afterwards treated. You may also want to buy some of the produces.
There are many choices for accommodation at the Kerala hill stations, from five-star luxury hotels and resorts to more modest and cheap options. A few of the resorts are located within the natural parks, but the best option is probably to choose to stay in or near the villages, so you can do some shopping or visit the local restaurants. Some of the hotels offer mountain trekking, ethnic cuisine classes and Ayurvedic treatments.
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