Kumily Guide
Spice Up Your Senses: Discover the Heart of Thekkady Guide
Welcome to Kumily, the gateway to Thekkady and a haven for nature lovers and spice enthusiasts! Nestled in the Cardamom Hills of Kerala, India, Kumily offers a sensory feast of lush landscapes, aromatic spice plantations, and thrilling wildlife encounters. Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant culture, the tantalizing flavors, and the serene beauty of this enchanting destination. Kumily's history is intertwined with the spice trade that has flourished in the region for centuries. The area's fertile soil and favorable climate have made it ideal for cultivating a wide variety of spices, including cardamom, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices have been traded across the globe, bringing prosperity and cultural exchange to the region. Today, you can explore the spice plantations and learn about the traditional methods of cultivation and processing. In Kumily, you can embark on a spice plantation tour, where you'll witness the cultivation of various spices and learn about their medicinal properties. Take a jeep safari through the Periyar National Park, home to elephants, tigers, deer, and a variety of bird species. Enjoy a boat ride on the Periyar Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding forests. Indulge in a traditional Kerala Ayurvedic massage for relaxation and rejuvenation. Don't forget to savor the local cuisine, known for its rich flavors and use of fresh spices. Try the traditional Kerala Sadhya, a vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, or the spicy fish curries that are a local specialty.
Transportation
The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (IXM), about 140 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kumily. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kottayam Railway Station, which is about 110 km from Kumily, and then take a taxi or bus. Several buses operate from major cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to Kumily. Within Kumily, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for local transportation.