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Monday, September 15, 2025

Exploring Rajali Birds Park in Thanjavur – A Colorful Experience


Thanjavur, known for its rich cultural heritage and the world-famous Brihadeeswarar Temple, also has a lesser-known attraction for nature and bird lovers — the Rajali Birds Park. Located just a short walk from the Big Temple, this park is a wonderful place for families, children, and anyone who enjoys spending time amidst nature and wildlife.

Location & Entry

Rajali Birds Park is located on Membalam Road, very close to the Big Temple in Thanjavur. The entry fee is ₹150 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the experience it offers.

What to See Inside

The park features two aviaries:

  • One dedicated to large birds like macaws and parrots

  • Another for smaller species such as lovebirds and finches

Apart from the aviaries, there are also enclosures for rabbits, guinea pigs, and ducks. Visitors are allowed to step inside and even feed them, which makes the experience interactive and fun, especially for children.

The variety of birds and small animals here is impressive. During the visit, you can spot colorful parrots, exotic macaws, playful lovebirds, and other fascinating species. To make the experience more informative, you can also learn the names of different species while exploring.

Why Visit Rajali Birds Park?

  • A fun and educational experience for kids and families

  • An opportunity to get close to exotic birds and small animals

  • Conveniently located near the Big Temple, making it easy to add to your Thanjavur itinerary

Visitor Tips

  • Best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler

  • Carry a camera to capture the vibrant birds and interactions

  • If possible, plan your visit on a weekday to avoid crowds

Final Thoughts

Rajali Birds Park may not be as grand as Thanjavur’s historic temples, but it offers a refreshing change of pace. Whether you’re traveling with kids or simply love birds and animals, this park is worth adding to your Thanjavur trip.

If you’re planning to explore Thanjavur beyond its temples, Rajali Birds Park is a colorful little gem waiting to be discovered.

Sunday, September 14, 2025

Exploring Vattavada: Jeep Safari, Farms, Waterfalls & Hidden Views

 

Nestled in the high ranges of Kerala, Vattavada is a hidden paradise near Munnar, known for its pristine landscapes, sprawling terrace farms, and refreshing offbeat vibes. Often called the “vegetable bowl of Kerala”, this charming destination is perfect for travelers who love nature, peace, and authentic experiences away from the crowds.

Starting the Journey

My journey to Vattavada began with a jeep safari, passing through lush green forests and rolling grasslands. The ride itself felt adventurous, with winding roads and refreshing mountain air preparing me for the beauty ahead.

Pazathottam View Point

Our first stop was Pazathottam View Point, offering panoramic views of the valleys and farmlands. The sight of terrace cultivation, scattered houses, and the sun rising above the hills was simply magical. A small tea shop here added warmth to the moment, while the nearby camping site gave us a glimpse of the adventurous stays that Vattavada offers.

Temples & Terrace Farms

As we continued, the road descended, revealing small temples and terraced farms bursting with vegetables. Unfortunately, due to a local temple festival, the farm we planned to visit opened late, but I will soon share my farm experience in another Munnar vlog. (Check the links in the cards or description.)

Hidden Waterfall & View Point

One of the most delightful surprises of this trip was a hidden waterfall. Just a short 5-minute walk took us to the serene spot where the water cascaded gently into the valley. Beside the falls, a small viewpoint gave us a closer and clearer look at Vattavada compared to the other viewpoints we had explored earlier.

Honey House & Farm Products

Our next stop was the Honey House, where I picked up fresh farm products including garlic, jam, homemade wine, vegetables, and fruits. To my surprise, strawberries were still available here, even though the season had ended in the plains. Opposite the Honey House lies a Honey Museum, which adds more charm to the experience.

Vattavada Beauty View Point

Before concluding, we also visited the Vattavada Beauty View Point, located near the Honey Museum. This spot is truly captivating, with breathtaking views of the valley, farmlands, and villages spread out beneath. It’s a perfect way to end the Vattavada experience.

Wrapping Up

After this enriching journey, Chandran (my driver) dropped me back at the hotel. From there, I continued towards Munnar, passing through more forests and grasslands. Vattavada left me with unforgettable memories of its natural charm, offbeat attractions, and warm local vibes.

If you’re planning a trip to Munnar, make sure to add Vattavada to your list—it’s one of the best-kept secrets of Kerala’s hill country.