When Anan told us it would take nearly 4 hours to do about 100kms, we didn’t scoff. And he was right – but sadly a lot of it is down to the terrible storms that Kerala suffered last August. One of the big main roads was either swept away in parts or was under landslides, so quite a bit of the journey was on very small roads with very large potholes.
Munnar is about 5,000 feet above sea level, and we are staying at the Rose Gardens HomeStay – essentially private houses that let out fewer than 6 rooms.
Ventured out into Munnar – not the most salubrious of towns:
And Kerala has introduced very strict licensing laws, which means that most hotels can’t serve alcohol. But you can buy it at government approved stores and take it back to the hotel.
The only liquor store in Munnar:
Classy eh???
Then met Tony whose father had started the Rose Garden and he took us on a tour of his eco-friendly spice and flower gardens.
Apparently the “deal” is that as long as the local wildlife take only 30% of the crop then all is fine. Solar panels, recycling food waste to create methane for cooking, spring water and virtually zero food miles. And it’s lovely.
And had a quick wander out just before sunset:
And found a friend – no, it’s not my CD but I kept a close eye on my phone.
