From Bangalore to Munnar and Varkala, Embracing the Beauty of Kerala, By Usha

On the evening of December 22, 2023, I started a special journey with one of my roommates (Muskan) as a first-time train traveler. Munnar and Varkala in Kerala were the destinations. We reached Munnar on December 23 in the morning.

Munnar

Munnar, a beautiful hill station in Kerala, is known for its serene beauty and sprawling tea plantations. Munnar was picturesque, with lush greenery everywhere. We visited the famous tea gardens and learned about tea processing. A boat ride in Mattupetty Dam was another highlight. One pleasant and unexpected aspect was the warmth of the locals we met along the way. Their kindness and assistance created a welcoming environment, making our exploration much more enjoyable. Our first day in Munnar was filled with intense sightseeing.

It was a magnificent experience to see the sunset at Top Station. Back at our hotel, we freshened up and enjoyed a delicious meal prepared in Kerala style and served on banana leaves. The hospitality of Kerala, along with the natural wonders of Munnar, created memories that will stay in my heart forever.

On the 24th, our journey started at 4:40 am. with a wonderful trip to watch the sunrise from the most beautiful hill station of Munnar. The refreshing morning air increased our enthusiasm as we walked towards the top of the hill.

The colors of the early morning sky created a warm and captivating atmosphere that remained engraved in our memories. Upon returning to the hotel, a delicious breakfast energized us, paving the way for more sightseeing. Exploring waterfalls and scenic spots, our travel plan was like a well-written script. Each discovery added to the tapestry of experiences that have marked this incredible adventure. This day, with its peaceful sunrise and unveiling of the natural charms of Munnar, was the pinnacle of what can only be defined as the joy of travel.

Varkala

On the second day of our trip, we moved from the lush green heights of Munnar to the sun-drenched coastal elegance of Varkala, providing an elegant contrast to the various beauties of nature.

As there was no railway station in Munnar, our schedule dictated a bus ride to Aluva, the next railway junction. Although traveling often leads to fatigue, the wait for the beautiful Varkala beach gave the journey an air of enchantment.

Our train, which left at 1:30 p.m., began a 4-hour, 24-minute journey, taking us on an adventure that combined the fatigue of the journey with the symphony of landscapes that were revealed to us through the breathtaking views offered from the train window. We loved the view of Varkala when we reached the beach around 6 p.m. After our refreshments, we took a trip to the nearby Varkala beach.

On December 26, after having a delicious breakfast on the beach, we enjoyed our last day at the beautiful Varkala beach. Playing in the sea and painting artwork in the sand sounded like a dream; it was the highlight of our trip. It is believed that a dip in the waters of Varkala Beach can purge the body of impurities and wash away sins from the soul (hence it is also called Papanasam Beach).

We went to the train station after lunch to start our 14-hour journey back to Bangalore. As the train departed from Varkala, the memories of laughter, hardship and shared joy remained, transforming this journey into a tale of exceeding expectations and embracing something new. It was more than just a trip; it was a celebration of possibilities.

I am grateful to my dearest Helen mum for her constant love, support and encouragement to me. None of this would have been possible without her.

Lessons Learned

The trip was not just an adventure, but a life-changing experience. It taught me that life, like the trail, is full of ups and downs. It is about facing challenges, enjoying the journey and learning from experiences. It is about discovering yourself in the midst of chaos and finding strength in vulnerability.

My adventurous journey is a testament to the fact that sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone can lead to the most enriching experiences. It was a trip I will cherish forever, a trip that taught me valuable lessons about life and about myself.