Day 2
Remember how I said that you'd wake up to a breathtaking view of mist filled mountains? Well, I did wake up to it. After peacefully taking in the view, and the morning air, I went to sleep again and woke up an hour later by 7:30.
After the coffee, around 6 of us including the organizers took the tents out, rolled and stuffed them into their bags. Then we had a traditional South Indian breakfast with Idli, Dosa, Sambar, Tomato Chutney which were delicious as usual. Finally, after clicking an awesome group picture we bid farewell to the campsite with a heavy heart. I didn't want to leave that place at all.
Tea plantation, the falls, and the Ayurveda nursery
Second to last in our itinerary was the falls. On our way we drove through a gorgeous tea plantation. Everyone wanted to experience it and click pictures. So, we let ourselves saunter in the plantation for a few good minutes just relishing the stunning landscape, and the lush greenery.
Then we came upon the falls. There was one main stream where the water flowed with much ferocity and two small streams. And there was a small pool in the center where we could just casually float. (or play or take Instagram reels- your choice). At first sight, it looked like any other falls. The moment we reached one of the streams and let the water hit us, I began squealing. Partly in delight but mostly because of the freezing water. (Ok, 'freezing' is an exaggeration but it was fricking cold!).
We then waded through the water and the rocks to reach the main stream. The point where the water hit the surface was extremely deep. Anyone going in without the knowledge and putting their feet inside thinking there would be rocks for support, would go in. Probably smash their head and body on the nearby rocks.
Luckily, for us, there was a guy helping the few brave people who ventured to the main stream. I held that guy's hand, kept one leg on a rock with no support for the other leg, and enjoyed (while being scared :P. I don't know swimming!) as the water crashed on my head. It was an inexplicable feeling!
As I came out, my hands, body, face, in fact every cell in my body began shivering uncontrollably. Even with the shivering, we spent some time on the pool area clicking pics and taking Instagram reels.
The final place in our itinerary- an Ayurveda nursery. We took a tour through the nursery learning about the medicinal values of different Ayurvedic plants. It astounded me to learn the plants provided cure for almost all major ailments. But, sadly, they are eclipsed by western medicines and treatments.
Ping Pong, Charades, and Mafia!
Our final activity in Kerala was...shopping, of course. They had several varieties of chocolate (pistah, mango, butterscotch, dark, milk, etc. etc. :P) and I had a sample piece from each variety. Mmm, delicious! With chips, chocolates, and other eatables we boarded the van.
Games filled the rest of the journey. We began with charades, each team terribly roasting the other for their acting or lack thereof, and their guessing skills. Then came Ping Pong where the names of each member would be switched and they have to remember the assigned names of others. We strained our minds playing the game with all of us failing hilariously at times.
Then we played the game of the night- Mafia. When the pace picked up, once the air of mystery and murder filled our bodies and then the van, we all had crazy energy levels. We started the game around 10 p.m. and played until 5 in the morning. A coffee place broke up the game.
Then an hour later the trip officially came to a halt and we all departed with tons of memories.
A few words about 'Exotic Camp adventures'
This was my first trip with Exotic Camp. I have been wanting to travel with these guys for some time, and boy, they didn't disappoint!
I have to say a big kudos to the organizers- Vijay, Joseph, and Yunis for the way they organized the trip and their infectious energy level. Even before boarding the van we became comfortable to the point of roasting each other.
Now to the camp- Thekkady. To say it was a paradise wouldn't be a stretch. The hosts were huge inspirations themselves with their stunning home garden, paintings, books, etc. etc.
So, makkale, if you're looking for an awesome camping experience with loads of fun, you can pack your bags and travel with these guys!
Comments
Post a Comment