Plumeria, native to Mexico and Central America, is a large shrub or a medium-sized tree widely growing in tropical and sub-tropical climates around the world. In Kerala these plants are commonly found near temples, cemeteries, gardens and parks. Also called Frangipani, the sweet fragrance of plumeria flowers are reminded of a blend of jasmine, rose and honey suckle. Although without nectar, the flowers are used for making scents and perfumes.
The rich and productive banks of the Periyar reservoir attract Elephants (Elephas maximus) that gather in large numbers to graze on fresh fodder and drink and bath in the waters of the famous lake. In summer, when most other pastures are dry, the lake shore is a constant life source. Elephants are one of the main attractions in Periyar; according to the latest Forest Department census there are about 1300 elephants.
Honeysuckle is a popular garden plant widely growing throughout the world. The rambling varieties are extremely popular, because they are very adaptable, twining happily around climbing supports, bushes or growing over the ground. Because of their intense fragrance, these flowers are popular in the vicinity of seating areas.
Darter, Snake Bird (Anhinga melanogaster)
The Periyar Tiger Reserve is an avifaunal hot spot and one of the popular birding destinations in the Western Ghats. The landscape is made up rolling hills, evergreen and semi-evergreen forest and the reservoir nestled in its valley folds.
Teak is a tall evergreen tree with very large leaves and small white flowers set on meter-long panicles. The timber is world famous and its uses are well known. The heart wood is golden yellow when freshly cut, later turning brown. The hard knots which develop on trunks are prized for making tobacco pipes.
Bengal Clock Vine is native to north India but can be found throughout the high ranges of Kerala as an ornamental plant. In Kerala called curtain plants for obvious reasons, this perennial climbing vine blooms throughout the year. Continue reading
Painted Nettle is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in the nurseries and gardens of the high ranges of Kerala. The smooth leaves are brightly colored with green edges and splotches of color ranging from blood-red to brown. In medicine it is used to treat stomach pain, digestive problems, dysentery and even elephantiasis.
Kolukkamali is located near Munnar at the upper reaches of the Tamil Nadu and Kerala border at an elevation of 7900 feet above sea level. The drive to the top past sprawling tea plantations and through a narrow track is an adventure in itself. Continue reading
The Indian Moon Moth is an ethereal-looking, nocturnal insect found in the Periyar Tiger Reserve but is also widely distributed throughout India. The ochreous moon spots on the light green wings earned this moth its name.
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Solanum Laxum is a climbing vine native to central Asia, commonly found in the high ranges of Kerala above 1000 meters. The fragrant, star-shaped flowers are white with tiny yellow centers. Continue reading
Top Station valley view
Top Station, one of the highest and most popular excursion points in Munnar, is the uphill climb through tea estates to Top Station, a tiny hamlet on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. This idyllic spot has superb views over the Tamil Nadu plains and the edge of the Western Ghats. Top Station takes its name from a ropeway that once connected it via middle station to lower station in the valley.
Nawab Butterflies are frequently found inside the forest, in damp patches as well as open areas such as pathways and fields. The butterflies have yellow and green patches on both side of the wings. Continue reading
Native to Central Europe, Euphoria are now widely growing in the High ranges of Kerala.Their highly unusual, sculptural structure makes these plants look somehow rather bizarre. In Kerala these plants are grown as ornamentals in home and public gardens.
Bi-Coloured Frogs are endemic to the Western Ghats, especially in Periyar Tiger Reserve. The tropical climate and abundant rain combine to create rich and varied niches that offer safe haven for these amphibians. The leaf litter–the most nutrient and species rich strata–is a favourite hunting ground for these frogs.
The only natural sandalwood forest in Kerala is near to Munnar at Marayoor. The sandalwood of Marayoor is said to be the best in the world. Continue reading
Cardamom County guests, Mr. & Mrs. Renjith, visited Periyar Tiger Reserve and shared some of their wildlife experiences with us.
Geraniums are bushy evergreen perennials grown as ornamental flowers for  both indoor and outdoor display. Geraniums are commonly found in the gardens of the High Ranges of Kerala.
Muniyaras
Muniyaras Dolmens are burial chambers belonging to the Megalithic age made of huge rocky slabs. It is believed that this was the ideal place for the ancient sages for meditation and Yoga. There are many dolmens in and around Munnar especially Marayoor, Kovilkadavu and near the cliffs overlooking the Pambar River.
Cabbage is a powerfully medicinal vegetable that is a natural remedy for ulcers as it helps to clean the waste from the stomach and improves digestion. It is also proven to assist in the treatment of cancer. Continue reading
The elegant Soft Shield Fern loves neutral, humus-rich, fresh soil. It is commonly found in the Western Ghats of India above 1000 meters. Continue reading
Organikos 