It was just after the monsoon in Kerala; the air so fresh, and fragrant from the verdant spice plantations, that we never felt the exhaustion of the long drive from the midlands to the mountains.
Next morning we decided to experience an adventurous ride at the River Vythiri (or Anoth), just 5 km from our resort. First, we drove to the enchanting tea gardens of Pozhuthana, some of which are the oldest plantations in Wayanad, situated at the foot of mist-clad mountains. We then walked over a grassy meadow to a mud trail leading to the
It was just after the monsoon in Kerala; the air so fresh, and fragrant from the verdant spice plantations, that we never felt the exhaustion of the long drive from the midlands to the mountains.
Next morning we decided to experience an adventurous ride at the River Vythiri (or Anoth), just 5 km from our resort. First, we drove to the enchanting tea gardens of Pozhuthana, some of which are the oldest plantations in Wayanad, situated at the foot of mist-clad mountains. We then walked over a grassy meadow to a mud trail leading to the rafting point at a bend in the River. The raft was big enough to accommodate us (4 persons) comfortably. Our river guide from the village nearby navigated the raft down the winding green river between thick forests of bamboo and rushes, and tea / coffee estates.
Sitting safe in our life jackets, we listened keenly as the guide pointed out rare plants and exotic birds. At shallow stretches, we jumped off the raft and enjoyed swimming in the cool fresh waters streaming down from the Pookot Lake. However, do remember that there are occasional deeps that can swallow a ship! The raft finally came to rest below the Anoth Bridge, approximately 3 km downstream. We found it a little slippery at the landing point and some of my friends needed ‘helping hands’ to get off the water.
Our friendly driver was waiting for our arrival with the car; and we managed to get changed in the privacy of bushes/nearby tea plantations! Hot spice-laden tea from the local tea-stall rejuvenated us for the drive back.
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