CARDAMOM HILLS
Have you ever heard of the Cardamom Hills? No, it's not a new card game or a fancy restaurant. It's a beautiful mountain range located in the southern part of India. But don't worry, this blog is not going to be a geography lesson. Instead, we'll be exploring the wonders and quirks of this magical place.
First things first, let's talk about the name - Cardamom Hills. Yes, you guessed it right. This place is famous for its cardamom plantations. So, if you're a fan of this flavorful spice, then this blog is definitely for you!
But wait, there's more! The Cardamom Hills are also home to some amazing wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and leopards. So, if you're an animal lover (who isn't?), then get ready to go on a wild adventure with us.
Oh and did we mention that this place is also known for its breathtaking waterfalls and picturesque tea estates? Whether you're into trekking or just want to enjoy the scenic beauty, the Cardamom Hills have got you covered.
So buckle up and get ready for an exciting journey with us as we explore every nook and cranny of this fascinating mountain range. We promise that by the end of this blog, you'll be itching to pack your bags and head straight to the Cardamom Hills for your next vacation!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Cardamom Hills
- How to Reach and getting around Cardamom Hills
- Weather of Cardamom Hills
- Places to Visit in Cardamom Hills
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Cardamom Hills
- Best areas for Accommodation in Cardamom Hills
- Shopping in Cardamom Hills
- Nightlife in Cardamom Hills
- Festivals and Events in Cardamom Hills
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Cardamom Hills
- FAQs
History and Culture of Cardamom Hills
Cardamom hills are located in the Western Ghats of India, and they are known for their rich cultural heritage and fascinating history. The hills have been a center of spice trade for centuries, with cardamom being the most popular spice grown here. The hills were once inhabited by tribal communities, who had their unique culture and customs.
Legend has it that the name "Cardamom" comes from the word "Elaichi," which means "Queen of Spices." The hills have been a source of inspiration for many writers and poets, who have written about its beauty and charm.
The British were the first to discover the Cardamom Hills during their colonial rule in India. They recognized the potential of cardamom as a cash crop and started cultivating it on a large scale. This led to an influx of workers from other parts of India, who settled here and brought their own traditions and cultures.
One interesting aspect of the culture in Cardamom Hills is their love for music and dance. Every festival or occasion is celebrated with music, dance, and food. The people here are warm and hospitable, always ready to welcome strangers with open arms.
Another fascinating fact about Cardamom Hills is that they are home to many endangered species, including tigers, elephants, leopards, and lion-tailed macaques. The hills are also rich in flora, with many medicinal plants grown here.
In conclusion, Cardamom Hills are not just famous for their spices but also for their unique culture and history. If you ever plan to visit this place, be prepared to be amazed by its beauty, warmth, hospitality, music, dance, wildlife, flora & fauna- basically everything!
How to Reach and getting around Cardamom Hills
By Air:
The nearest airport to the Cardamom Hills is Cochin International Airport, which is located approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a cab or a bus to reach your destination.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to the Cardamom Hills is Kottayam Railway Station, which is connected to major cities across India. From Kottayam, you can take a cab or a bus to reach your destination. Another option is to take the Nilgiri Express from Chennai and get off at Mettupalayam Railway Station. From there, you can take the famous Nilgiri Mountain Railway that takes you through stunning landscapes and reaches Ooty.
By Road:
The Cardamom Hills are well-connected by road to nearby cities like Kochi and Trivandrum. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from these cities to reach your destination. The roads leading up to the hills are scenic and offer breathtaking views of lush green forests and plantations.
Trekking:
For adventure enthusiasts, trekking is an exciting option to reach the Cardamom Hills. There are many trekking routes that lead up to the hills through dense forests and steep terrain. The most popular trekking route starts from Munnar, which takes you through tea plantations and rugged mountain terrain.
Jeep Safari:
If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, then taking a jeep safari through the hills is an option worth considering. You can explore the rugged terrain of the hills in a sturdy jeep accompanied by an experienced driver.
Boat Ride:
Another unique way of reaching the Cardamom Hills is by taking a boat ride along the backwaters of Kerala. You can hire a houseboat or take a public ferry that will take you through scenic waterways and lead up to the base of the hills.
No matter what mode of transportation you choose, reaching Cardamom Hills will definitely be an experience worth cherishing for years to come!
Weather of Cardamom Hills
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + Dry
Hot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantCardamom hills, located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, witness a tropical monsoon climate with heavy rainfall throughout the year. However, the region experiences a pleasant climate during winter and early summer months.
The best time to visit Cardamom hills is from November to February, when the weather remains cool and dry. The temperature during this period ranges between 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
During the monsoon season from June to October, heavy rainfall causes landslides and floods in the region. It is not recommended to visit Cardamom hills during this period as it can be hazardous.
The summer months from March to May are also not suitable for tourists as the temperature can soar up to 35°C, making it too hot for outdoor activities. However, if you want to witness the blooming of cardamom bushes, you can plan a visit in April or May.
Overall, the best time to visit Cardamom hills is from November to February when you can enjoy a pleasant climate and explore the natural beauty of this place without any hindrance.
Places to Visit in Cardamom Hills
Periyar National Park: Periyar National Park is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in South India. It is situated on the banks of the Periyar River and covers an area of 925 sq km. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds.
Munnar: Munnar is a beautiful hill station located in the Cardamom Hills. It is known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and cool climate throughout the year. The town is also famous for its Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years.
Anamudi Peak: Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in South India and is located in the Cardamom Hills. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Trekking to the peak is a popular activity among tourists.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats and covers an area of 90 sq km. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds.
Mattupetty Dam: Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist destination located in Munnar. The dam offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a great spot for picnics.
Pambadum Shola National Park: Pambadum Shola National Park is located in the Cardamom Hills and covers an area of 1,000 sq km. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds.
Kundala Lake: Kundala Lake is a beautiful lake located near Munnar. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is a great spot for boating.
Top Station: Top Station is a viewpoint located near Munnar that offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. It is also known for its Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is one of the highest tea estates in India and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Attukad Waterfalls: Attukad Waterfalls are located near Munnar and are known for their scenic beauty. The waterfalls offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Adventures Activities
Romantic Places
Relaxing Retreats
Hilly Regions
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Cardamom Hills
Best areas for accommodation in Cardamom Hills
Cardamom hills are located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, and it is a popular tourist destination for its lush greenery, coffee, tea and spice plantations. The area is known for its stunning views of the mountains and valleys, as well as its rich biodiversity. If you are planning to visit Cardamom hills, here are some of the best areas for accommodation:
Munnar: Munnar is one of the most popular places to stay in Cardamom hills. It is a beautiful hill station that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. There are many hotels and resorts in Munnar that cater to all budgets.
Thekkady: Thekkady is another great place to stay in Cardamom hills. It is famous for its wildlife sanctuary, which is home to tigers, elephants, and other animals. There are many hotels and resorts near the sanctuary that offer comfortable accommodation.
Vagamon: Vagamon is a peaceful hill station that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It is a great place to stay if you want to relax and unwind. There are several hotels and resorts in Vagamon that offer comfortable accommodation.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Cardamom hills:
Luxury: The Windermere Estate is a luxury resort located in Munnar. It offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, as well as an outdoor pool, spa services, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
Budget: The Green View Inn is a budget hotel located in Thekkady. It offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking.
Hostel: Backpacker Panda is a hostel located in Munnar. It offers dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms, as well as common areas where guests can socialize with each other. The hostel also has a restaurant serving Indian cuisine.
Shopping in Cardamom Hills
Cardamom Hills is a wonderful destination for those who love to shop. The place is known for its lush green hills, aromatic tea plantations, and rich flora and fauna. When it comes to shopping, Cardamom Hills offers a wide range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, we will explore four things you can buy, three markets to visit, and four things to avoid when shopping in Cardamom Hills.
Things to buy
- Tea: Cardamom Hills is known for its tea plantations that produce some of the best tea in the world.
- Spices: The region is also famous for its spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Handicrafts: You can find a variety of handicrafts made by local artisans like bamboo baskets, wooden toys, and pottery.
- Honey: Cardamom Hills has several honey farms that produce natural honey that is both delicious and healthy.
Markets to visit
- Kumily Market: This is the most popular market in Cardamom Hills where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts.
- Cochin Spice Market: This market is located in Cochin city and offers a vast selection of spices from all over India.
- Munnar Market: This market is famous for its tea shops where you can taste different varieties of tea.
What to avoid
- Fake products: Be wary of vendors selling fake products like spices or handicrafts made using synthetic materials.
- Unlicensed guides: Avoid taking help from unlicensed guides who may mislead you or charge exorbitant fees.
- Overpriced items: Do some research before buying anything as some vendors may charge more than the usual price for their products.
- Illegal activities: Stay away from any activity that may be illegal or harmful to the environment.
In conclusion, shopping in Cardamom Hills can be an enjoyable experience if you know what to buy and where to buy it from. Follow our tips on what to buy, markets to visit and what to avoid so that you can have a memorable shopping experience while also supporting local businesses.
Nightlife in Cardamom Hills
Cardamom hills, also known as the Western Ghats or Sahyadri mountain range, is a beautiful and serene destination in South India. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Though the place is famous for its lush green forests and tea plantations, it also offers a vibrant nightlife. The nightlife in Cardamom hills is not as happening as in metropolitan cities but worth experiencing.
There are several bars and pubs that offer a variety of drinks and cocktails to its visitors. The locals are friendly, and the atmosphere is always vibrant, making it a perfect spot for late-night parties.
Here are three places with activities to spend the night in Cardamom hills:
High Range Club - It is located on Rajendra Road in Munnar, offering excellent facilities such as gymnasiums, tennis courts, billiards rooms, card rooms, etc., making it an ideal spot for sports enthusiasts.
The Fog Resort & Spa - This luxurious resort is situated on Bison Valley Road near Munnar and offers a wide range of activities such as trekking, camping, indoor games like table tennis & carrom board.
The Tall Trees Resort - Located on PB No 40 in Munnar; it offers various adventure activities such as rock climbing, river crossing & rappelling along with excellent dining options
In conclusion, Cardamom hills offer a unique nightlife experience that one should not miss out on while exploring the beauty of South India. The serene atmosphere coupled with friendly locals makes it an ideal destination to unwind after a day of exploring nature's beauty.
Outdoor Activities in Cardamom Hills
If you're looking for a break from the nightlife scene in Cardamom hills, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during the day. The hills offer a variety of adventures, including trekking, camping, and wildlife safaris.
Trekking is a popular activity in Cardamom hills. You can explore the lush green forests while hiking through various trails, which take you to the top of the hills offering spectacular views of the surroundings. There are many trekking routes available for all levels of trekkers, from beginners to experts.
Camping is another activity that allows you to connect with nature in Cardamom hills. You can set up your tent near waterfalls or amidst forests and spend your nights stargazing and listening to the sounds of nature.
For those who love animals, wildlife safaris are an excellent way to explore the wildlife reserves in Cardamom hills. You can spot various species of animals such as elephants, tigers, leopards, and many more.
In conclusion, if you're planning a trip to Cardamom hills and want to experience some outdoor adventure activities during the day while taking a break from nightlife, then trekking, camping and wildlife safaris are some great options for you.
Festivals and Events in Cardamom Hills
Cardamom hills are not just a place for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a place where festivals and events are celebrated with great fervor. The festivals and events in Cardamom hills are an integral part of the culture and tradition of the region. These events offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the people living in this region. Here are some of the most popular festivals and events that take place in Cardamom hills:
Onam (August/September): Onam is one of the most important festivals celebrated in Kerala, including Cardamom hills. It is a harvest festival that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali. People decorate their homes with flowers, prepare traditional meals, and participate in various cultural activities.
Pongal (January): Pongal is a popular festival celebrated across Tamil Nadu and parts of Kerala, including Cardamom hills. It is a harvest festival that marks the end of winter and beginning of spring. People decorate their homes with colorful rangolis, prepare traditional dishes like sweet pongal, and perform puja to thank God for the harvest.
Vishu (April): Vishu is another important festival celebrated in Kerala, including Cardamom hills. It marks the beginning of Malayalam new year and signifies prosperity and abundance. People decorate their homes with vishukkani (a collection of auspicious items), prepare traditional dishes like sadhya, and burst firecrackers.
Neelakurinji Flowering (August-October): Neelakurinji is a rare flower that blooms once every 12 years in Cardamom hills. The last time it bloomed was in 2018, and it will bloom again in 2030. This event attracts tourists from all over the world who come to witness this rare phenomenon.
Munnar Winter Carnival (December-January): Munnar Winter Carnival is an annual event that takes place in Munnar town during Christmas-New Year week. It is a cultural extravaganza that includes various activities like paragliding, trekking, adventure sports, music and dance performances.
These festivals and events offer visitors an opportunity to experience the local culture first-hand while enjoying scenic beauty at its best.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Cardamom Hills
Pack for the weather: The Cardamom hills region can experience varying temperatures and rainfall levels throughout the year. It is important to check the weather forecast before packing and bring appropriate clothing and gear. For instance, if you are visiting during the monsoon season, make sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella, waterproof shoes, and quick-drying clothes.
Respect the local culture: Cardamom hills is home to several indigenous communities who have unique cultural practices and traditions. As a traveler, it is crucial to respect their customs and beliefs. Avoid taking pictures without permission, dressing inappropriately, or engaging in any behavior that may offend the locals.
Stay hydrated: The hilly terrain of Cardamom hills can be physically demanding, especially if you plan on doing some trekking or hiking. It is essential to stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you at all times. You can also try some of the local drinks such as tea or fresh coconut water that are known for their refreshing qualities.
Explore the local cuisine: Cardamom hills is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine that includes dishes such as appam, puttu, fish curry, and more. Make sure to try some of these dishes while you are here to get a taste of the local flavors.
Plan ahead for festivals and events: Cardamom hills has several festivals and events throughout the year that attract tourists from all over the world. If you plan on attending any of these events such as Onam or Vishu, make sure to book your accommodations well in advance as they tend to get crowded quickly. Additionally, check with locals or travel guides about any customs or traditions associated with these festivals so that you can fully immerse yourself in the experience.
In conclusion, traveling to Cardamom hills requires some preparation and planning but it is definitely worth it. By following these tips, you can ensure a memorable trip filled with adventure, culture, food, and festivals!
FAQs
What are the Cardamom hills?
The Cardamom hills are a mountain range located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. They are also known as the Yercaud hills and form part of the Western Ghats, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How high are the Cardamom hills?
The Cardamom hills range in height from approximately 1,500 to 2,500 meters above sea level. The highest peak in the range is Anamudi, which stands at 2,695 meters.
What is the climate like in the Cardamom hills?
The climate in the Cardamom hills is generally cool and pleasant due to their high elevation. The area receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from June to September, which supports lush vegetation and wildlife.
What kind of flora and fauna can be found in the Cardamom hills?
The Cardamom hills are home to a diverse array of flora and fauna including elephants, tigers, leopards, bison, sambar deer, macaques, langurs, and many species of birds. The area is also known for its tea and spice plantations.
Can tourists visit the Cardamom hills?
Yes, tourists can visit the Cardamom hills and explore their natural beauty through hiking trails and guided tours. There are also several resorts and homestays in the area that offer accommodation options for visitors.
Is it safe to visit the Cardamom hills?
Yes, it is generally safe to visit the Cardamom hills. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and following local customs and laws.
How can I get to the Cardamom hills?
The nearest airport to the Cardamom hills is Cochin International Airport which is approximately 120 kilometers away. Visitors can also reach nearby towns by train or bus before traveling to their final destination by taxi or private vehicle.
