College days are always filled with little adventures, and one such memorable experience was our trip to Conolly’s Plot in Nilambur. The trip was part of our fifth module at MDC, and though it was academic in purpose, it turned out to be far more than just an ordinary study visit. Two of our teachers and eight students, including me, set out together on this short but beautiful journey.
The Journey Begins
We boarded our college bus up to Pandikkad and from there switched to a private bus that would take us to Nilambur. The ride was a little tiring, and I even felt a bit nauseous along the way. Still, the excitement of visiting the famous teak plantation kept my spirits high. We reached around 11:30 AM.
At the entrance, I treated myself to some salted gooseberries – a simple but refreshing snack that instantly lifted my mood. What made the journey even more special was the way our teachers mingled with us. They weren’t just supervisors but felt more like companions, sharing jokes and enjoying the trip as much as we did.
Exploring Conolly’s Plot
The entry fee was ₹40 per person, with an additional ₹50 for the jangar (a type of country boat used to cross the Chaliyar River). Once inside, we were welcomed by nature itself – lush greenery, the calls of birds, and the playful sight of monkeys hopping around. Along the paths, I noticed tiny Bougainvillea flowers adding pops of pink and purple against the green background.
We also passed by some old abandoned buildings, standing silently as remnants of the past. Each corner seemed to tell its own story.
By the Chaliyar River
Next, we visited the majestic Chaliyar River. Though entering the river was prohibited, simply standing on the banks and watching it flow was calming. The Chaliyar, Kerala’s fourth-longest river, has its origin in the Ilambaleri hills of the Nilgiri mountains. Its tributaries include Kuruvanpuzha, Karimpuzha, Kajirappuzha, Cherupuzha, Kuthirapuzha, and Iruvazhinjipuzha. Learning these details while actually standing near the river gave me a sense of connection between classroom lessons and real-world experiences.
Herbal Garden & The Teak Forest
Afterward, we moved on to the herbal garden. Each plant had its name displayed, and walking through the garden was both educational and refreshing. Soon, we boarded the jangar again and headed to the famous teak forest. Here we got to see the world’s largest teak tree – a sight that left us speechless.
We stopped at a resting area nearby to have lunch. Everyone had brought food from home, and the best part was how we shared it with each other, turning it into a mini feast. Washing our hands in the river and eating together under the shade made it feel even more special.
Butterfly Garden & Return
Before leaving, we visited the butterfly garden. It was absolutely enchanting – colorful butterflies fluttered all around, making the place look almost magical. After some time there, we drank water, gathered our belongings, and began our journey back. This time, we traveled by KSRTC bus up to Akkapparamb and from there quickly made our way to the college.
Reflections
Though it was just a one-day trip, the experience was enriching. Travel, no matter how short, has the power to broaden our minds. It helps us appreciate nature, history, and culture while also bringing us closer to the people around us. This trip not only gave us knowledge but also memories to cherish – laughter, shared meals, and the beauty of Nilambur’s forests and rivers.
In the end, travel teaches us empathy, open-mindedness, and self-awareness. Our visit to Conolly’s Plot was not just a study trip but a reminder that we need more such journeys – because they help us grow, connect, and truly live.
Pavithra. K. K
3 rd Semester
B. Com Computer Application
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