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Wednesday 23 July 2014

Unravel the Secrets of Spice Gardens of Kerala


Kerala, with its virgin backwaters, pristine beaches and tropical jungles, is one of the most enchanting nature destinations, which lures tourists from near and far away.  But, apart from its picturesque landscape, what makes this place truly ‘God’s Own Country’ are the fragrant spice fields sprawled generously over its lush green canvas. Imagine yourself walking through these exotic spice gardens, their delightful aroma intriguing your senses and their natural hues draping your soul with tranquility. Sounds wonderful already? Then, it’s about time that you plan a spice holiday to Kerala!

 Here is a list of popular spice destinations in Kerala, where you can spend savoury time exploring a variety of spices such as black pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, dry turmeric, nutmeg and vanilla.

 
1.    Abraham’s Spice Garden

Located on the route between Thekkady and Kottam, Abraham’s Spice Garden is a place, where spice farming is rather a ritual. Here, you can not only absorb the scents of spices, but also pick up the basics of spice agriculture and organic farming. Run by Abraham family, the spice garden is nourished with the experience handed down by generations. A few of spices you will see here are cardamom, cinnamon, pepper and vanilla. The one hour tour will take you through a guided tour of spice growing & processing, preparation of ayurvedic medicines, wood crafting and much more. What is more, you can even indulge in the taste of some rare food and beverages made from home grown spices.


 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

2.    Cinnamon Gardens

Nestled in Munnar, one of the most sought after towns of Kerala, Cinnamon Gardens is home to a large assortment of spices, fruits and other vegetation. Here, you can look forward to a visual treat encompassing spices such as allspice, tulsi, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmegs, black pepper, turmeric and vanilla, to name a few. The place also attracts tourist interested in a hands – on learning in herbal farming and exploring exotic varieties of flora and fauna. It is believed that your Munnar visit is incomplete without including a trip to Cinnamon Gardens in your itinerary!


 


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

3.    Shalimar Spice Garden

The mesmerizing Shalimar Spice Garden stands proudly amidst the verdant spice gardens of cardamom, pepper and coffee. Also an eco-friendly resort with a beautiful blend of traditional local culture and modern amenities, Shalimar Spice Garden offers in-house tours that will take you through spice fields and other crops. From here, you can also plan exclusive excursions to spice plantations in Kumily (spice trade centre), Murikkady (cardamom, pepper and coffee), Vendiperiyar (tea, coffee and pepper) and Vandanmedu (cardamom).  While at Shalimar Spice Garden, you can also enjoy a host of other fun activities like visit to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, bamboo rafting on Periyar Lake, boat ride, cloud walk etc.


 


 













4.    Biovalley Herbal and Spice Garden

This herbal and spice garden is situated on Allava – Munnar road. With its farm fresh spices in the offering against the backdrop of panoramic view, Biovalley is the place that will rejuvenate your senses with the scent of pepper, coffee, cardamom, cinnamon, allspice, ginger and several other flowers as well as medicinal herbs.


 


 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Apart from the above, this beautiful state includes a host of other small and big spice plantations, which you can explore as suited to your itinerary. All these exquisite plantations boost of the rich culture of Kerala and are loved for their unmatched splendour.

 
Want to relish the flavor of authentic spices from Kerala, right from the comfort of your home? Check out here to know more!

 
 

(All Images via Google Search)

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