A mind hesitant to descend the pass – A Wayanad trip :-
A Wayanad trip with SMS Tours & Travels is absolutely flawless. Earlier dear friend Surendran had registered his name but some technicalities remained unfavorable till the last moment. Finally all the remedies were worked out and we (me and my better half) were ready to leave on 8/10/22.
Being a little tight on time, Shornur reached SMS Travels at 5:30 for the scheduled departure at 6:00. Contrary to what I thought, the Managing Directors of SMS, Maniyetan, Surendran and Suja were in the final inspection of preparing the systems for the journey.
For two days water, food, plate, glass, coffee, bisque, first aid box, yellow cap which is the identity gift of SMS, each one is checked by checking the list of what is loaded in the vehicle, including the poltheyan cover. At 6:05 the order is given to start the vehicle. During preparations, the SMS triumvirate comes together at each spot. Phones are busy. It may feel like it’s not performing as well as it should. Some of the staff are charging the phone. All this came under my observation because I had to carry out the responsibilities as the head of the institution for a long time.While the SMS car was undergoing final inspection, many fellow passengers were coming and boarding. I was intrigued by the work of some people who took care to make at least their mothers participate in the journey even when they were unable to come due to adverse circumstances. Their concern for their elderly parents was very impressive. Although there are many old age homes, attracted attention with different activities, the SMS group, which is also the colleagues of the shelter in Shornur, who work as a refuge for the helpless, gave courage to these activities. Idali, sambar and chutney prepared at home in Malappuram at 8 o’clock as scheduled. The traveling party, consisting of the elderly and children, seemed to be treated very well. Then he moved on to song, poetry and folk songs until he reached Edakal. The pitch was set at noon in the Idaikal cave. Natarichor, Meenkari and Morukari prepared in the country kitchen with the direct attention of SMS. The thiyal prepared with kanthari and champin stems was admired by all.
Directly at Karapuzha Dam. Those who fly like butterflies in the cool atmosphere. Mostly non-Malays. Spent at the Karapuzha Dam area till six o’clock. Everyone is relieved to have a chance to rest. Went straight to Ambalavyal. Accommodation was arranged at Mount Avenue Resort. The attention shown by SMS in providing a wonderful accommodation is commendable. All four share rooms are equipped with modern amenities. Sura and Suja’s efforts to accommodate everyone have been successful. A family setup for everyone is impractical for such trips. Everyone was happy. When I joined the junior class at KVR School, I used to admire Mr. Ummeruka, the wonder of the track that was the thrill of Shornur. Later he and his family were not expecting to travel and stay together. Very happy. The presence of Radhetan, Sura, Raviyatan Gopietan Johnson, all made the stay at the resort memorable.
A delicious meal prepared for those who want to eat enough for the night. Campfire after a sumptuous meal.
Sura danced in Aramandal with age-defying May flexibility. The dance program was initiated by Suja, Dileep, Pushpan, Biju, Mini Teacher and our army of children like Ponnus, Sonu, Vrinda, Trishna and Alfin. Over time, it has become a joyous occasion where people of all ages take steps, bridging generation gaps. It lasted a long time. In the evening, at least some people did not forget to take a dip in the swimming pool. During the journey, the length of the night was not enough. Radhetan had already come to the front in the form of black tea to take care of those who were with him. At 7 o’clock, everyone took a bath and got ready. At eight o’clock to the front of the restaurant for breakfast. All set, many people are snapping good moments on their mobile phones with the mesmerizing backdrop of Mount Avenue. Raviettan took a photo of me and my children and asked me to take a picture of my mother and my children together.
That motherly affection has been able to stir our minds. Put, pea curry, poori masala, fruits, tea coffee stew. Breakfast for a long journey. Everyone wished Tour co-ordinator Sujak a happy birthday. I heard Suja saying ‘Let’s pay for it’ to the grandchildren’s mischievous question. Did it? There will be!!
Straight to Kurua Island – which I originally understood to be the abode of the Kurua tribe. But now it has come to know that ‘Kuruva Island’ is a haven for many migratory birds, essential animals and diverse flora and fauna. Rafting was the first experience for many. Suja’s classmate Wahida and her husband were videotaping all the scenes with explanations. On the way there were signs of an elephant traveling last night too.
Lunch with Kudumbashree. Everything is pre-planned by SMS.- Mattaari Chor, Sambar, Meen Curry, Pulissery, Meen Varuttha, Cabbage Thoran, Ganapati Lemon Pickle, Rasam, Mor, Papadam, Payasam. Dine in Nakila.
After lunch ‘Banasura Dam’ is not far behind in Asia in terms of size, – wide carpet, boating – some mischievous people got into a speed boat – when looking from a distance, only scared eyes can be seen. The return was accompanied by rain.
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