2cupz

Couple Travelers Saju & Saru — Exploring the world together

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Hey! We’re Saju and Saru — the couple behind 2Cupz. We love long drives, hidden places, stunning views, and turning every trip into a fun memory. This blog is where we pour our travel stories, tips, and laughter. Come travel with us!
  • Vattavada – Our First Road Trip With Our New Companion

    Vattavada – Our First Road Trip With Our New Companion

    There are some journeys that stay with you forever, not just because of the destination, but because of the one who travels beside you. This trip was one of those moments for us—our first road adventure with our new companion, the Mahindra Thar, officially joining the 2cupz journey. The excitement was real, and somewhere between the mountain air and the soft hum of the engine, it felt like the beginning of a new chapter.

    Munnar Nights and a Fresh Morning

    We reached Munnar by night, welcomed by cold winds and quiet roads that instantly felt comforting. The next morning arrived with soft light and a peaceful calm. After breakfast, we started our ride to Vattavada, a village known as the “Vegetable Bowl of Kerala.”
    Clear skies, cool air, and our Thar ready for its first climb—everything felt refreshingly perfect.

    Through Tea Gardens and Hairpin Bends

    The route from Munnar to Top Station is one of the most scenic road stretches in the region. Endless tea plantations lined both sides, glowing under the morning sun. Riding through these green slopes with small hillside homes scattered around felt like entering another world.

    The road turned narrow in places with multiple hairpin bends, but we moved slowly, enjoying every curve and every breath of fresh mountain breeze.

    Mattupetty Dam – A Quiet Pause

    Our first stop was Mattupetty Dam, a calm reservoir surrounded by hills and forests.

    A few things that make Mattupetty special include:

    • Still waters reflecting the hills around it

    • Open grasslands where elephants often graze

    • Cool winds that make it a refreshing, peaceful break

    After spending some quiet time there, we continued our journey.

    Breakfast With a View at a Cliffside Café

    Just before reaching Top Station, we stopped at a tiny tea shop perched on a cliff edge. It was simple—no crowd, no noise, and one of the best valley views we had seen that morning. With tea gardens, layered mountains, and deep valleys stretching far ahead, even a basic bread omelette and Maggie felt perfect. Something about the hills makes every meal taste warmer and better.

    Entering Pampadum Shola National Park

    A little ahead, we reached the forest check post leading into Pampadum Shola National Park. It may be the smallest national park in Kerala, but it holds an unmistakable charm.

    Dense evergreen forests, unique wildlife, and cool shaded pathways make the drive feel magical. Moving through the silent woods felt calming, as if the forest wrapped us gently into its world.

    Vattavada – Fields, Freshness, and Slow Life

    Once we crossed the forest, the scenery opened into wide stretches of farmland. Vattavada is known for its step cultivation—the iconic layered farming seen along its hillsides.
    The village grows everything from cabbages and carrots to potatoes and strawberries, making it famously known as Kerala’s “Vegetable Bowl.”

    The simplicity of the village, the wind brushing over the fields, and the sense of slow living made us pause and breathe a little deeper.

    The Adventure Route to Chilanthiyar Waterfalls

    From Vattavada, we began the 8.2 km ride to Chilanthiyar Waterfalls. The route had mild off-road patches, making it a fun and memorable drive—especially because it was our first adventure trail with the Thar. This is where we truly felt connected with our new companion.

    After parking, we walked about five minutes along a forest path. The waterfall itself was peaceful, uncrowded, and surrounded by greenery. The short trail felt refreshing, filled with the smell of damp earth and leaves.

    There’s also a small cave near the falls. You can enter from one side and exit the other, though the path is a bit tricky and best avoided for small children.

    After spending some time exploring and enjoying the quiet surroundings, we began our return journey to Munnar.

    Distance Guide

    • Munnar to Vattavada: 34.4 km

    • Top Station to Vattavada: 9.9 km

    • Vattavada to Chilanthiyar Waterfalls: 8.2 km

    Why This Trip Felt Special

    This wasn’t just a travel plan; it was our first journey with Thar, our new companion on the road. The winding routes, quiet villages, forests, open farmlands, and that little bit of adventure made the entire experience unforgettable.
    Travel is always beautiful, but traveling together is what makes every moment feel complete for us.

  • Exploring Munnar by KSRTC: A Couple’s Scenic Journey

    Exploring Munnar by KSRTC: A Couple’s Scenic Journey

    There’s something magical about watching the world pass by from a bus window, especially when it’s with someone you love and a silent travel companion always by your side. Our first journey to Munnar via KSRTC was nothing short of enchanting — a perfect blend of adventure, scenic beauty, cozy moments, and memories that will last forever.

    Starting the Journey: Ernakulam to Munnar

    Our day began at the Ernakulam KSRTC depot at 10:30 AM. Excitement filled the air as the bus engine hummed to life, slowly moving through the city streets. Kochi’s traffic was mild in some areas but hectic at a few main junctions. As we left the city behind, the road opened into calm, empty stretches surrounded by lush greenery. Since it was the rainy season, the landscape looked fresh and vibrant, with droplets glistening on leaves and dozens of small waterfalls lining the route.

    Waterfalls and Scenic Stops Along the Way

    One of the first highlights of the trip was Cheeyapara Falls. Cascading water amidst dense green hills made for a stunning view that felt almost surreal. Later, we reached Adimali bus stand, where we took a short 15-minute break. The facilities here were decent, and the stop allowed us to stretch our legs and soak in the cool, refreshing mountain air before resuming the ride.

    The journey continued along winding, quiet roads. With every bend, the temperature dropped slightly, and the cool breeze hinted at the beauty waiting ahead. Sharing a window-side seat with your loved one while watching mist drift across mountains is an experience that words barely capture.

    Arrival in Munnar: First Impressions

    By 3:30 PM, we reached the KSRTC depot in Munnar. Interestingly, KSRTC now offers stay options inside the depot, including dormitories for ₹250 per person and family rooms with AC for ₹1000. We checked in and decided to take a walk before evening fell. Munnar greeted us with a calm breeze, fog settling over the valleys, and birds chirping softly.

    We savored street food — a simple plate of Maggie — which tasted extraordinary in the chilly, misty weather. Eating amidst this serene backdrop made every bite memorable. Later, we booked sightseeing bus tickets for the next day at ₹300 per person.

    Morning in Munnar: Calm, Cold, and Beautiful

    Waking up to Munnar’s chilly morning was a delight. The air was crisp, and soft bird songs filled the surroundings. A short walk to the nearest ground offered breathtaking views of tea plantations blanketed in mist. A cup of hot tea during this serene morning felt like magic, warming both our hearts and hands.

    Sightseeing Highlights: Tea Museum, Signal Point, and More

    At 9:00 AM, the sightseeing bus picked us up. Our first stop was the Tea Museum, with an entry fee of ₹120. Here, we learned about Munnar’s rich history of tea cultivation and enjoyed scenic views across the plantations. Next, we visited Signal Point, where infinite stretches of green tea hills unfolded before our eyes — a photographer’s dream.

    We then went to Lock Heart View Point, another iconic spot offering panoramic views of tea plantations. The cold breeze and fog added a mystical charm. Malaikallan Cave, known for its folklore about a thief who hid stolen items there, was our next stop — a small adventure on a mountain that felt exciting and historical.

    Gap Road and Periya Kanal Waterfalls

    The journey along Gap Road was mesmerizing. Both sides of the road were lined with endless tea plantations. We stopped at Periya Kanal Waterfalls, watching water cascade down tea-laden mountains — a sight that felt straight out of a postcard. Next, we reached Anayirangal Dam, where we marveled at the calm waters and spotted orange trees with fruit hanging low, adding pops of color to the lush green surroundings.

    Chadurangapara: A Thrilling Clifftop Experience

    From Poopara, we continued to Chadurangapara. To reach the top, we took a small jeep for around ₹70–100 per person. The view from the summit was breathtaking — windmills swayed gently, and valleys stretched endlessly below. The wind was strong, and the cliffs had no safety walls, so we stayed cautious. Every photograph we took felt like capturing a dream.

    Returning to Kochi: Memories Made

    By 5:00 PM, we returned to the KSRTC depot and later caught the 6:40 PM bus, which starts from Suryanelli, stops at Munnar, and then continues to Ernakulam. The journey back was calm, giving us time to reflect on the day’s beauty, the new friends we made, and the joyful moments shared. Traveling is always a form of therapy — every turn, every hill, and every smile added to the treasure trove of memories.

    Why Munnar via KSRTC is Special

    Traveling by KSRTC isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s about the journey itself. From lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, tea-scented breezes, and foggy mornings to cozy rides with your loved one, Munnar offers an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and love. This trip reminded us that traveling together, sharing stories, and exploring new places makes life richer, warmer, and unforgettable.

  • Malakkappara – A Perfect One-Day Couple Road Trip Through Mist & Forest

    Malakkappara – A Perfect One-Day Couple Road Trip Through Mist & Forest


    At 7:50 AM, we boarded a KSRTC bus — those classic red beasts that can climb anything — and started the 4-hour ride toward Malakkapara.

    And that route…
    Oh, that route!

    This stretch is considered one of Kerala’s most beautiful and longest forest routes, and we understood why within minutes:

      • Narrow road slipping between giant trees

    • Deep green layers on both sides

    • Birds everywhere

    • Fresh, cool air

    • And that feeling… that you’re entering a world untouched

    The chance of spotting wildlife kept us alert the whole time. Elephants, deer, bison, even bears call this forest home.

    And yes — we actually spotted a deer crossing the road for a few magical seconds.
    That moment alone made the ride priceless.

    Athirappilly & Vazhachal: The Gateways

    Before the real forest began, we passed Athirappilly, Kerala’s iconic waterfall. Even from the road, we could hear the thunder of water hitting the rocks. This place is sometimes called the “Niagara of India,” and honestly, the name fits.

    A little ahead was Vazhachal, calmer and greener, where the river spreads into gentle streams and smooth rocks.
    Here lies the forest checkpost — a strict entry gate.

    From this point, the forest becomes dense, deep, and protected. No stopping. No wandering. No parking.
    Just one continuous journey through nature’s private world.

    And the moment the bus crossed the checkpoint…
    It felt like stepping into another universe.

    The deep forest : Silence , beauty and wild life

    Words fall short for this stretch.

    We passed:

    • Tiny unnamed waterfalls dripping from rocks

    • Clear streams shining between trees

    • Long empty roads bending into mystery

    • Pockets of sunlight cutting through the forest roof

    We were quiet most of the time — not because we were sleepy — but because the forest demanded silence.
    It was peaceful, a little scary, and unbelievably beautiful.

    Every turn felt like a chance to meet wildlife.
    Every curve felt like a scene from a movie.
    Every minute felt like a memory getting stitched into our story.

     Arrival at Malakkapara: Tea Gardens & Border Breeze

    After four hours, the deep forest slowly opened up, revealing rolling tea plantations glowing in afternoon light.
    That sudden shift from thick forest to open green hills felt magical.

    Malakkapara sits right on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border, a small, quiet place surrounded by tea estates and windy viewpoints.

    We wished the KSRTC bus would stay longer, but it stops only for 15 minutes before returning.
    So we stayed back, ready to explore on our own.

    To the Upper Sholayar Dam View

    We took an auto and headed towards the Upper Sholayar Dam viewpoint — a place where mountains wrap around silver water.

    The road was calm, the breeze was cool, and the viewpoint was wide and peaceful.
    We spent a lot of time there, talking, taking pictures, and soaking in the moment.

    It wasn’t crowded.
    It wasn’t noisy.
    Just us, the wind, and the long stretch of blue water below.

    The “No Cash” Adventure

    Every trip needs one funny story, right?

    Well, ours came in the form of…
    We had no cash for anything.

    Return ticket?
    Snacks?
    Lunch?
    NOPE. We had barely any liquid money left.

    Luckily, we met a kind man who helped us out — we paid him online, and he handed us ₹500 in cash.
    Humanity wins again

    With that lifesaving cash, we went to a small local shop.
    We had chicken biriyani, and trust us — nothing tastes better than food eaten in the middle of a long, unpredictable journey.

    Waiting, Walking & Feeling the Heat

    We had about 4 hours before the return bus at 5:10 PM.

    And yes — it was HOT.

    So we:

    • Walked around tea estates

    • Sat on the bus stop bench

    • Took shade wherever possible

    • Talked for hours about random things

    • Laughed at our no-cash situation

    • And just enjoyed being together, far from the city rush

    Sometimes the simplest moments become the sweetest.

    The Return Ride: Darkness, Forest & Excitement

    The return journey began at 5:10 PM, and within minutes the forest grew darker.

    Imagine:

    • A narrow road

    • Silent forest

    • The sound of insects

    • Occasional rustling

    • And the KSRTC bus pushing through like a brave giant

    It was a little scary, yes.
    But also thrilling — especially hoping to spot animals in the dark.

    We didn’t see much on the way back, but the experience itself was unforgettable.

    We reached Chalakkudi by 9:30 PM, then took another KSRTC back to Kochi.

    Tired? Yes.
    Happy? More than ever.
    Together? Always. ❤️

    Final Thoughts

    Our Malakkapara trip wasn’t planned perfectly.
    It wasn’t fancy.
    It wasn’t luxurious.

    But it was REAL.
    Simple.
    Filled with forest magic, unexpected kindness, spicy biriyani, and shared adventure.

    Sometimes, that’s all a couple needs — a long road, a bit of courage, and each other.

    And that’s exactly why this day will stay special to us.