Wayanad with its surreal lakes, misty mountains, soothing greenery and majestic valleys, keeps you entranced as long as you choose to stay here and if it is a home stay like the one I lived in, you will feel absolutely pampered.

The hosts treat you like God and their devoted hospitality is something that I have not seen elsewhere. You are offered a secluded and spacious cottage, ensconced amidst vast coffee plantations, paddy fields and orchards of fruits and vegetables. The refreshing surrounding is further accentuated by the scenic views that you can lay your eyes on without any hindrance. Nature has always been my first love and with such diverse flora and fauna spread around, my days were always filled with joy. Guided by my friendly host during the walks, I got a good look at the birds while the solo treks were like meditation and adventure thrown in a single package.

Wayanad is a charming hill station with a very tranquil ambience. The locales mostly consist of the hardworking tribes whose lifestyle is in itself an intriguing wonder. Amusing and arousing, it led me into interacting with them, of course with the help of my host. Wayanad is blessed with a variety of delights. It can please all; adventurer, anthropologist, nature lover, monk, family, group of friends or just about any soul with any kind of interest or inclination. To feed my curious soul, the Wayanad Heritage Museum turned out to the best.

I relished Wayanad thoroughly. Every destination made me fall in love with the hill station but I lost my heart to Sunrise Valley. Located at a distance of 10 km from the cottage, it provides a spectacular view of the valley with the Chaliyar river passing through gently. When the sun goes down the hills, the whole setting takes on a mellifluous tone, transporting your senses and soul to a state of ecstasy.

Though not exactly, a lot feels similar when at the Meenmutty Falls. The water falls from about 300 meters over 3 stages, creating a sight that makes you take a bow at the ingenuity of nature. Visiting the Karapuzha Dam is like going to a picnic spot. Its picturesque setting invites tourists in droves to spend some beautiful moments with nature. For those who seek excitement, Chembra Peak is an appropriate spot. You can test your endurance to the hilt and if you like, you can also camp on the summit for some exquisite fun and adventure.

Wayand is an apt place to awaken your spiritual side and get your life renewed. A destination, worth a million dollars, its aroma will always remain fresh in your memory that you can tap into anytime to derive pleasure and comfort.

Try a homestay next time you are in Wayanad. Glenora is a decent one to begin with.

My lovely hosts provided me with the most luxurious stay and I have to say they made me feel royal. Their centuries old accommodation had a mystic earthy charm that looked all the more magnetic with the lush green vegetation around. I went alone to some of the popular destinations like the Eravikulam National Park, Kundala and Echo Point. A wildlife lover, I wanted to capture the different species and the natural beauty, all by myself. At the Echo Point too, I wanted to hear my multiple crazy voices coming back to me, with no one to look around. The clean air, artificial dam and cherry blossoms of Kundala were also something that deserved solo sightseeing.

However, when I wanted to stroll around the tea gardens, I asked my host to come along and he obliged. We walked around leisurely for hours, taking rest in between and what an informative stroll it was. He told me everything about tea cultivation, the workers and the history of the gardens. With the sun descending upon us and afternoon approaching, my stomach started asking for its dose. The caring host noticed it much before I had uttered anything and we were home.

The delicious lunch of rice noodles, egg curry, Puttu with Kadala curry, sambar and pickle was served. I lapped up every bit and such was its sleep-inducing effect that I woke up only around sunset. The aftertaste and aroma were still alive in my mouth and I thanked the hosts profusely for the same.

Now it was time for those adventurous treks on the hills and so, I was ready with my backpack and my guide-host in tow. I thought I have had my share of photographs but many gems were still waiting to be captured like the Nilgiri Tahr, grizzled giant squirrel, wood pigeon, the versatile flora, and a lot more. Next day, it was time to say goodbye which I did with a somewhat heavy heart. This homely heaven had worked its magic upon me and I longed to be here. Well, I will surely be back to explore the magical gems of magical Munnar once again.

For home stays in Munnar, visit Munnar Homestay.