Renovation of Devikulam Yathri Nivas during peak season forces tourists to choose pricier stays

The poor scheduling of the renovation of the Kerala Tourism Department's Yathri Nivas guest house in Devikulam, a facility that offers quality service for just Rs 800 to visitors to Munnar and nearby areas, is burning a deep hole in tourists' pockets. Winter tourism in the region starts in September and continues till February. According to the authorities, the holiday home, which has been plagued by intermittent closures since its 2014 launch, is expected to open in the last week of December this year.

However, earlier media reports claimed that Yathri Nivas, located around 10 km from Munnar, shut down in May last year due to a water crisis caused by a faulty motor. Many tourists who have enjoyed the perks of staying here in the past miss the facility and are forced to opt for high-priced alternatives, as it remains shut.

IT professional Shyam Krishnan, who stayed at Yathri Nivas in early 2023 with his wife Parvathy, says that, except for the slightly interior location and occasional poor network, Yathri Nivas was a decent option for anyone looking for a basic stay in Munnar. “It may not be posh, but it had a beautiful location and all the amenities one needs for a basic stay, alongside early check-in. We were planning to visit again soon with my wife's parents and wanted to book Yathri Nivas. It’s disheartening that it isn’t available,” Shyam told Onmanorama. An assessment meeting on Yathri Nivas maintenance was held last Thursday at the facility, according to authorities.

Why the delay?
Tourism officials say that the holiday home is undergoing extensive renovation at the moment. Sources say that after the renovation, Yathri Nivas will have a well-furnished kitchen, an extra-spacious dining area, a staff rest room and an upgraded drivers' room. The bed linen, tiles and glass of the facility are also apparently getting a facelift.

Price hike expected
While Yathri Nivas earlier charged Rs 800 for executive rooms and Rs 1,000 for suites (plus GST) with three-star facilities, the tariff was later revised to around Rs 1,600 when it was operational. Once open next, the upgraded facility might charge around Rs 2,000. A government order on the final prices is expected to be issued after the relaunch.

What to see in Devikulam
Here are a few popular spots in Devikulam that tourists love to club with their Munnar visit:
1) Devikulam Tea Estates: Great spot for photography and nature walks
2) Sita Devi Lake: Sita from the Ramayana is believed to have bathed here. An excellent spot for photography too
3) Pallivasal Waterfalls: A spot frequented by nature lovers
4) Lockhart Gap Viewpoint: Offers sweeping views of Devikulam, its misty hills and valleys
5) Devikulam hill roads: Great for morning drives, photoshoots and walks