Monday, March 14
Munnar to Cochin (Kochi) – 88 K (then bus into city)
I layered up for a cool morning ride down the mountain – it was 55 degrees when I set out and the air was crisp and fresh. I was above the clouds in probably the MOST beautiful location in all of India. As I began the descent, before the sun rose over the tall mountains to my left, I whispered to myself “I want to remember this for the rest of my life!”
Soon, the high rock walls to the right were lit up by the sun and the mountain was waking up.
Then the sun welcomed ME into the new day.
I’ve always wondered WHERE poinsettias grow in their natural environment and now I know. Here’s one of many that line the road I traveled down today:
The pictures do not do justice to the lovely scenery here but I would like to share this lovely ride with you – so here’s a couple more pictures of the ride down the mountain.
A dog enjoying the morning sunrise under the tree J
Once I reached the river below it was a ride through a humid jungle-like landscape. The haze in the picture below is mist in the air:
High canyon walls are opposite the river from here and the view looking back down the canyon is worth a photo:
There were villages and small towns along the way and there were several men carrying large loads of clay pots on their heads. This man offered to stop for a photo:
I was riding near Michlene and Victor throughout the morning… we stopped together for a cool drink and enjoyed each other’s company in an “independent” kind of way. J Here’s a picture of Michlene – she’s French Canadian:
We crossed the river a few times – it was very pretty:
Here’s the road ahead:
And the road behind – (imagine the sounds of tropical birds in the trees overhead):
This was my FAVORITE ride of the trip!!! I loved the breathtaking scenery, the fresh air and peaceful roads!
