Exploring the Hidden Gem: Grape Farms in Thekkady-Cumbum Route

Shamon Shaji
Travel Expert at Rainwood Hotels [rt_reading_time label="" postfix="min read"]

Hi, I am Shamon Head of Sales & Marketing department at Rainwood Hotels. Let me take you to the virtual tour of the wonderful grape farms in Thekkady. The enchanting grape farms are a picturesque treasure along the Thekkady-Cumbum route, beckoning food enthusiasts and travel lovers alike. Plan a visit to grape farms in Thekkady with your loved ones and add charm to your Thekkady tour next time.

Imagine the thrill of a jeep ride from the renowned Periyar Tiger Reserve. Enjoy the journey through all the beautiful places and finally reaching the green fields. Loose yourselves in the sight of grapevines, painting the land in all shades of green and violet. Stroll through the grape farms; appreciate the ripe bunch of violet grapes enticing your taste buds and eyes! Feel a divine connection with nature and learn more about sustainable farming practices.

Credits – Sahayathrikan (Youtube)

In Cumbum Grape Farms, there is no entry fee; instead, the tourists are welcomed free of cost. Knowledgeable staff explains the subtleties of grape farming, irrigation and cultivation. Gain a better understanding of the efforts for producing these juicy fruits. While plucking the grapes by yourself may not be allowed, you could take home the harvest with an array of locally made grape wines and juices from a shop near the entrance to this delightful farm experience.

1. When to Visit the Grape Farms in Thekkady: The seasonal secret

Pre planning the Cumbum grape farm visit draws importance to ensure a full filling visit. Visit these farms is from January to March, which gives perfect weather conditions and the most delightful experience. A lazy walk under the shades of grape vines in the little humid atmosphere and moderate heat is truly endearing. However, the month of March is unique with the most suitable temperature, and the peak season of grape harvesting.

The rich hues of the ripened grapes, the sweet aromas in the air, and the busy activity in the vineyards cannot be missed when you go to Thekkady.

2. The Mesmerizing Grape Farms in Thekkady

Savor the unique experience when you drive along the Cumbum-Thekkady route, hosting numerous grape farms and vegetable farms. Take a leisurely 30-40 minutes’ drive from Thekkady, you could find yourself amidst a cluster of grape farms.

a. Jenis Grape Farms

You are traveling along Cumbum by road up to Kumily. Along the journey, you could come across several large and small grape farms, and one to be highlighted is Jenis Grape Farm. Just beside the national highway, this farm is worth visiting for tourists and people interested in grape farming.

Walk along the well-maintained vineyards and have a ring-side view of the various stages of grape cultivation, medicine spraying, organic fertilization, and harvesting. This farm offers the perfect experience of grape cultivation and is a stunning backdrop for capturing memorable moments. Buy fresh grapes, wines, juices, and even ice creams from the cute little shop at the entrance. A visitor said, “Visiting at least once would be a great experience.”

b. MSR Grape Farm

Another wonder in Cumbum Valley, MSR Grape Farm is near the Kollam – Theni highway (NH183). It is a family-friendly farm where one can walk around the vineyard, watch the grape farm, and can have the grapes available for direct purchase. The only thing that makes a difference about MSR Grape Farm is the additional facilities that come along with the visit for the convenience of the visitors.

The farm has all that you want, be it street food, a cup of tea, looking around the nursery, or taking back some spices and bakery items. They also offer accessible restrooms and small playgrounds for children. MSR Grape Farm is designed to create an experience for all the visitors to remember.

And these are just a tiny part; many other grape farms in the region have more enticing experiences, and each one offers a new and different kind of charm. Either Jenis or MSR or most other grape farms you visit, you are bound to come back with a better understanding of grape-farming techniques and the natural beauty of the place.

3. Entry Fees and Timing

One of the most appealing aspects of visiting the grape farms along the Thekkady-Cumbum route is the affordable charges.

Most farms do not have entrance fees, or if they do, the entrance fees are incomparably low, hence affordable to all.

Importantly, these farms are often open 24 hours a day, allowing visitors to schedule their visits accordingly.

If you want to take an early walk in the morning through the farms or wait for the late afternoon tour, the grape farms invite you!

4. The grape farm allure: What more is in store?

When you visit the grape farms, you have much more in store than just walking through the long lines of grapevines; this experience caters to all kinds of visitors.

a. Wine Tasting

Wine farms plan and conduct wine-tasting events. It will be a perfect moment to appreciate the variety in taste, which may enable you to find your favorite type of wine from the Cumbum Vineyards.

b. Farm Tours

Any person who wants to see what is done while farming grapes can always get that opportunity. The farms are open to educational tours that offer knowledge on matters ranging from cultivation and irrigation practices to harvesting techniques.

c. Photography Spots

The vineyards themselves are any photographer’s paradise, offering unlimited, breath-taking views. Be it the grapevines, the landscape, or charming farm structures. If you are a professional photographer or just someone who loves taking photos, you will definitely find perfect, beautiful spots all over the farms.

5. Tourist Attractions Nearby Thekkady

However, there are other attractions one can relish in this region. The destination is rich with other accessible tourist attractions to add flavors to your experience.

a. Wildlife Sanctuary Thekkady

Credit – Travel Melodies

Located near the grape farms, Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary enables one to explore this land’s varied flora and fauna. Known for its varied biodiversity, the sanctuary is home to herds of elephants and tigers and a variety of bird species. Trekking, bamboo rafting, and nature walks, among other activities, are some of the facilities that visitors can enjoy. Entrance fees are very affordable, and the best time to visit is early morning and late afternoon when wildlife is most active.

b. Periyar Lake

Credit – Travelsetu.com

Another beautiful place is Periyar Lake, from which one can enjoy a boat ride along the lake while looking at the wildlife on its shores. The placid waters, against the backdrop of a verdant landscape—giving a serene view are a tourist’s delight.

c. Spice Plantations

Credit – i-escape

The region is also famous for its spice plantations, where guided tours are possible. One learns about various spices, namely cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. There are options for purchasing fresh spices. Indeed, the place is exciting for people who love cooking.

d. Cumbum Valley

Credit – Tripoto

Besides grape farms, the Cumbum Valley has many vegetable farms. The drive through the road has vegetable farms on both sides, which excites you. Touring around the valley will expose you to more agricultural practices and evidence of how they relate to the local economy.

6. Nearby Hotels and Resorts in Thekkady

Suitable accommodation is vital to keeping you safe and comfortable throughout the vacation. Here are a few accommodation options in Thekkady so you can make the most of the scenic location in Kerala.

a. Spices Lap Resort, Thekkady

Located close to the grape farms, Spices Lap Resort, Thekkady offers a unique rhythm of luxury with nature. It is a perfect destination for those who wish to explore the area. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms with a full range of services while gazing at the amazing views of the surrounding landscape.

b. Forest Canopy

The other most preferable resort is the Forest Canopy, which harbours all kinds of eco-friendly practices yet offers modern living comfort. Lying amidst the luxuriant forests, it bestows a placid tranquillity after a hectic day of sightseeing.

c. Abad Green Forest

Abad Green Forest resort, offers decent accommodations for people with more modest means who still want easy access to the grape farms and other attractions around.

7. Travel Tips

Here are a few travel tips for visiting the grape farms that will best help you make the most of your trip:

  • How to Reach: The grape farms are easily accessible through big cities like Kochi and Madurai. From Kochi, it’s about a 4-hour drive, while from Madurai, it takes around 3 hours. Both the routes are scenic enough to make the journey as feasting as the end destination.
  • Must-bring Items: Visitors to these grape farms must carry sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes when light clothing is appropriate. They should also carry a camera to photograph the picturesque locales and their holiday moments.
  • Local Etiquette—On farms, an individual must follow certain local ethics and environmental concerns. Do not litter, adhere to the guidelines of the farm, and show respect to the toil and sanitation followed by the farmers to maintain the vineyards.

A visit to the grape farms and route to Thekkady-Cumbum is not just another tourist affair but a sneak peek of the farming legacy.

8. Why Spices Lap Resort is Your Perfect Stay for a Thekkady and Cumbum Grape Farm Adventure

Spices Lap Resort, Thekkady can be an ideal complement to your entire adventure at Cumbum grape farms and the nearby tourist attractions. The Resort is an excellent blend of luxury and nature. Taste the richness of grapes right after harvesting; have a retreat at this peaceful haven where every detail is designed for the ultimate relaxation of your senses.

Starting your day with a soothing spa at Spices Lap Resort, Thekkady washes away all your stress, followed by a guided tour of vibrant spice plantations and getting enchanted by their aromatic charm. Add the excitement of wildlife spotting via jeep safari, and this getaway becomes truly rejuvenating. From the Jacuzzi Villas, dripping with romance, to the cute Tree Houses perched in the treetops, rejuvenation and memorable stay are assured for the visitors at Spices Lap Resort.

It’s not just a place to stay, with amenities such as a swimming pool, engaging recreational areas, and a fine in-house restaurant you can have a resort experience beyond imagination.

With so much to do, it is best to take a three-day tour to totally realize Thekkady’s beauty and culture. Book your stay, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Thekkady-Cumbum grape farms!

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9. FAQs

1. Which is the nearest grape farm to Spices Lap Resort?

Cumbum grape farms are just 30-40 minutes away from the Spices lap Resort. Please book a 2 night stay in the resort to have a blissful Thekkady experience.

2. Is a grape farm visit suitable for honeymooners?

Yes why not! Add colours to your Thekkady honeymoon trip with a grape farm visit! Capture memories together that last for lifetime.

3. What is the check-in time at Spices Lap Resort?

Please check-in at 2pm and check-out at 11am.

4. Which is the best time to visit farms for the best photographs?

Late afternoon is the best time to get the best photographs because you can capture pictures with the bright light as well as the soft, golden light that enhances the beauty of the grape farm as well the photograph.

5. Can I take my pet while visiting the farm?

Following the rules in the farm is quite mandatory. Please take permissions from the farm officials to take your pet along.