Thirteen kms from Munnar is The Shade, the tranquil home of Santhosh and Maya. This three-bedroom homestay is hidden between emerald-green tea estates and acres of plantations; and offers an enchanting view of Kerala’s second highest peak. The home is unique and charming not just because of its location but also the family that runs it. The family is a traditional Hindu unit, which is deeply interested in cultural exchanges. Due to their closely held traditional values, Maya and her mother-in-law, Indira are exceptionally skilled in cooking vegetarian delicacies. But on special request can also prepare some non-vegetarian dishes.
The family, till recently, resided in Saudi Arabia. But after returning to Kerala they turned their 2.5 acre property into a homestay, The Shade. The homestay, which is now 2 years old, has cosy and simple rooms and its construction is only 10 years old. It is encircled by cardamom and pepper plantations, imposingly tall trees all around and has virtually no other building in sight. Out of the homestay’s 3 guest bedrooms, two are independently located and attached by a common area. These rooms are ideal for small families due to their apartment-like character. The home also has an open-air seating area in the backyard with the view of majestic mountains all around.
From the home, one can travel to nearby waterfalls such as the Mudraiped, which is less than a kilometre away. A drive to Munnar city for shopping and sightseeing takes less than half an hour. Treks through the plantation and tea estates is a popular way of spending time. But a night of amusing exchanges, set against a crackling bonfire, is perhaps the best way to connect with your hosts and understand the real spirit of this hillside haven.
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