Picture this. You wake up to the pitter-patter of raindrops just outside your window. When you open the window and look out you see mist roll in. And the steady drizzle is bound to make you lazy and you would want tuck yourself in and enjoy a sip of coffee. If you indulge the old caretaker at the inn you are put up for a conversation, he may let you in on a secret - that even the rain in Idukki has a name. How did rain get a name, you may wonder, well, before we let you in on the story, allow us to list four places you absolutely should visit during the rains in Idukki.
Read also: Drench in rain-come to Kollam | A rain drenched day around Sholayar forest range
Enjoy the 'Number 40' rain at Ramakkalmedu
If you are familiar with stitching and needle work you will know that most of the threads are identified by a number denoting its size. During monsoon, it is normal for people to gather together and have conversations about the rain over piping hot tea. It was then that some genius came up with a casual comment saying the rain is as thick as a 40 number thread, and it just stuck. Over years, the name has just stayed on.
Climb up the hills at Ramakkalmedu, spread your arms wide and walk in the rain. Oh, don't get scared of thunder. Always ask a local if it is safe to walk out during the rain.
Route: It's 14 km from Nedumkandam, 20 from Kattapana. If one starts from Munnar, it's 74 kim.
Also read: Idukki will never cease to entice you
Stay: Nedumkandam has all kinds of facilities for tourists. Ramakkalmedu has a few homestays too.
The heavenly rain at Top Station
Rain at Top Station, which is 1,700 meters above sea level is a very unique experience. In some places, where there are no trees around, you can feel the rain on your face. This is perhaps one of those places where you can catch the snow showers in Kerala. You can watch the rain in the valley from the top of the hill.
The route: Top Station is 32 km from Munnar, on the road to Koviloor.
Stay: There are resorts in Vattavada, Munnar and Mattupetti areas.
Rain in the forests at Kulamavu
Berry trees line the ghat road around Kulamavu. As you drive up the 12 hairpin bends, you will feel the rain follow you. And at each level bend, the rain looks stunning. Once the mountain pass ends, it's dense forest until Kulamavu. One can enjoy a walk in the rain as the forest rain pours in all its beauty.
Also read: The not so famous tourist spots in Idukki
Route: Turn left from Arakulam Asoka junction on as you travel from Thodupuzha to Moolamattom. From there to Kulamav is 15 km of red apple rain.
Stay: There are resorts in Nadukani and Kulamav. There's also a government guest house at Cheruthoni.
Enjoy the night rain at Uluppooni
This is where the film 'Iyyobinte Pushtakam' was shot. Take out your umbrella and just walk down the meadows and the tall grass. It's a delight to watch rain filling up the Kulamav dam. With permission from the forest department, you can build a tent here and watch the night rain. The mood is fabulous.
Route: Six km from Pullikanam on the Kanjar-Vagamon route. Easy to drive on in cars. Good for off-roading also.
Stay: Kadathayoor near Kanjar has resorts. Vagamon also is good to stay.
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