Yellapetty, which means ‘final village’ in Tamil, is a tranquil gateway to the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, nestled within the Western Ghats’ rolling mountain ranges. This article tells the beautiful story of Yellapetty, examining its historic appeal, local life, and the alluring camping experience that captivates guests’ hearts.
Yellapetty
Yellapetty, located on the route to Munnar’s renowned Top Station, is a picturesque 35-kilometer journey through tea fields that provides stunning views of the Kundala and Mattupetti ponds. The township evokes traditional hill station imagery, with men in checkered dhotis, quaint movie posters, and red-tiled houses. Swami Annan’s tea business grows as a thriving hub, where locals and visitors engage in vibrant conversations while sampling various tea types.
The ‘village’ is primarily made up of modest shacks where plantation workers live, resulting in a close-knit community. These family, spanning generations, have made Yellapetty their home, seeking refuge from the ‘outside world.’ Their sole connection to life outside of the plantations is a monthly trek to Munnar for provisions.
Glass House and Camping
Yellapetty provides a one-of-a-kind camping experience for those who hike up the eastern highlands. The trip takes trekkers through beautiful tea estates, where they may pluck ripe leaves and open patches waiting for the next crop. The Devikulam Forest Division, which is home to Sambar and spotted deer, serves as the starting point for a forest trip.
The camping location, while located in Kerala, is geographically within Tamil Nadu’s borders. Senthil owns three remarkable ‘glass houses’ atop the hill, which provide a comfortable hideaway with their glass-covered exteriors. Despite the availability of these contemporary structures, a camping tent on a hilltop remains popular with travelers, including those who arrange their vacations around its availability.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Yellapetty, soaked with rain, transforms into an even more lovely setting. The warm rays of the early sun shed a shimmering shine on the hills, producing a gorgeous scene. Campers who watch a dawn are generally fascinated, expressing their astonishment through music or solitary contemplation. The region, unaffected by the rush and bustle of modern life, has a certain appeal that leaves an indelible impression on each visitor.
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Conclusion In the heart of Yellapetty, where simplicity meets splendor, one can find a timeless haven. The final village perfectly combines traditional hill station charm with the draw of unspoiled natural beauty. Whether enjoying tea at Swami Annan’s shop, trekking through tea estates, or camping atop the hills, Yellapetty emerges as a spot that imprints itself on the memory, much like a loving glance from a cherished time.