Discovering Munnar’s Hidden Gem
We’ve all heard of Munnar, right? Tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see, misty mountains, and the aroma of spices in the air. But let me tell you about a secret spot known as Cloud Farm Munnar that most tourists miss โ a place so magical that many don’t even know about and I am pretty darn sure it’ll make you question whether you’ve accidentally stumbled into a fairytale. Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to take you on a virtual journey into the beautiful Hills of Munnar and into the sustainable place famously known among adventurers as Cloud Farm.
Table of Contents
The Journey Begins: Tea, Trees, and Trekking Shoes
Just image that you’re driving through Munnar, admiring the patchwork of tea plantations as far as your eyes see, when suddenly your guide points to a tiny village called Yellapetty. “We’re here!” they announce, and you think, “Here? But there’s nothing here!” Oh, how wrong you are, my friend. This is where the real adventure begins.
As I laced up my trekking shoes (note to self: Maybe just maybe don’t wear new shoes on a hike next time), I couldn’t help but wonder what lay ahead. Our guide, with a mischievous glint in his eye, simply said, “You’ll see.” Spoiler alert: it was worth every blister.
A Trek to Remember: When the Journey is as Beautiful as the Destination
The trek from Yellapetty to Cloud Farm is like a highlight reel of nature’s greatest hits. You start off winding through tea plantations so pristine, you’ll want to break out into a Bollywood dance number (resist the urge, trust me). Then, as if Mother Nature decided to switch things up, you find yourself in a sparse forest that feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy novel.
Now, I’m not exactly what you’d call an athlete. In fact, the only marathon I usually participate in involves Netflix. But there’s something about the crisp mountain air and the promise of an epic view that keeps you going. Plus, the occasional “Are we there yet?” keeps your guide entertained.
Cloud Farm Munnar: Where Dreams and Clouds Collide
After an hour of trekking (or in my case, wheezing and questioning my life choices), you emerge onto a plateau that quite literally takes your breath away โ or maybe that was just the altitude. Welcome to Cloud Farm, sitting pretty and majestic in its very own sustainable environment at 6,500 feet above sea level.
Now, I’ve seen some stunning views in my time, but Cloud Farm? It’s like someone took all the beautiful landscapes in the world, mixed them in a blender, and spread them out before you. Rolling hills, mist-covered valleys, and clouds so close you could reach out and touch them. It’s the kind of view that makes you want to delete all your social media photos and start over.
Camping in the Clouds: A Night to Remember
Remember those camping trips where you’d wake up with a rock digging into your back and mosquitoes treating you like an all-you-can-eat buffet? Well, Cloud Farm Munnar is nothing like that. The tents here are set up on the slopes of Kottakudi Hill, each one offering a million-dollar view that no five-star hotel could ever match.
As night fell, I found myself sitting outside my tent, wrapped in a blanket, watching the stars come out to play. It was so quiet I could hear my own thoughts โ which, to be honest, mostly consisted of “Wow” and “Is this real life?”
The Men Behind the Magic: Meet Amal and Arun
Cloud Farm isn’t just a happy accident. It’s the brainchild of two nature lovers, Amal and Arun. These guys saw this slice of paradise and thought, “You know what? We should share this with the world.” And thank goodness they did! Apparently, it was once owned by another person who started it back in the 1997 and that one stay at the cloud farm changed their life which caused them to purchase this land about 10 years back and then refurbishing it into a tourist spot for those folks who are in deep love with nature.
Their love for nature shines through in every aspect of Cloud Farm. From the carefully placed tents to the minimal impact on the environment, it’s clear that this place was created with a deep respect for Mother Nature. Plus, they’re always good for a laugh and a story or two around the campfire.
Practical Tips: Because Even Paradise Needs a Bit of Planning
Now, before you start packing your bags and heading off to Cloud Farm, there are a few things you should know:
- Cash is King: There are no ATMs up in the clouds (shocking, I know), so make sure you bring enough cash with you.
- Say Goodbye to Signal: Only BSNL network works here. Consider it a digital detox. Your Instagram followers can wait.
- Pack Smart: Bring trekking shoes (your feet will thank you), bottled water, salt for those pesky leeches (they’re just trying to make friends, really), a torch, and power banks.
- Travel Light: Only bring what you need. Remember, you’ll be carrying it all uphill!
- Be Prepared for All Seasons: Cloud Farm is open year-round, except during heavy rains. But even in good weather, be ready for chilly nights and misty mornings.
The Price of Paradise
Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the catch? Surely a place this amazing must cost a fortune?” Well, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The entry fee is 2500 rupees per person, which includes your camping spot and guides. For larger groups, the tariff might vary, so it’s always best to check in advance.
You can always contact Cloud Farm through Instagram.
Final Thoughts: A Place That Stays With You
As I packed up my tent and prepared for the trek back down, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sadness. Cloud Farm isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.
There’s something magical about waking up above the clouds, feeling like you’re on top of the world. It’s a place that reminds you of how small we are in the grand scheme of things, yet how connected we are to the world around us.
So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Munnar, do yourself a favor. Look beyond the usual tourist spots and take that short hike to Cloud Farm. Camp under the blue sky, wake up to a sunrise that will make your heart sing, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Trust me, your Instagram feed (and your soul) will thank you for it.
Resources: Onmanorama
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