Kerala Opposition leader VD Satheesan goes trekking in a misty haven

Kerala’s Opposition leader VD Satheesan took a break from politics, after a hectic election season, to enjoy the tranquillity of nature. Satheesan, along with his family and friends, visited the beautiful Kuttikanam on April 13. The family trekked on the vast meadows and hills and enjoyed the cold weather of Peermade. The people of Kerala knew where their leader of opposition had been only when the Congress digital media cell coordinator, Tara Tojo Alex, posted photos and videos of Satheesan enjoying the trekking trip. The video posted with the caption, ‘in the forest, not in exile’ has become viral on social media.

Satheesan’s supporters wrote comments like ‘next CM’ and ‘exploring the forests unexplored by the current forest minister’ while his political opponents said, ‘he must have gone looking for land’, alluding to his decision to go into political exile if Congress loses the election. Satheesan went on the trip with his family without informing the party leaders or the media. He was accompanied by his wife, Lakshmipriya; his daughter, S Unnimaya; his childhood friend, Ranjith Thambi; and his wife, Suma George. The group checked into the Kattadi Resort at Kuttikanam on April 13. They went trekking at the enchanting peaks of the high ranges the next morning.

Trekking spot surrounded by cardamom and tea plantations
The misty Kuttikanam in Kerala’s Idukki district is a popular trekking haven and a great escape during the summer season. The misty spot, surrounded by tea and cardamom plantations and hills, has many trekking trails, including Amrithamedu Peak, Panchalimedu, Parunthumpara, Third Hill, and Malamanda. Many tourists also love to include the Pattumala Church, Pine Forest, Valanjanganam Waterfalls, and Ammachikottaram (an age-old palace) here in their Kuttikanam itinerary.