http://olivebrookmunnar.com

Our host at Olive Brook resort

showed us around the garden talking about the plants and some of the methods they used.

We loaded up the bus and headed off to find the ATM in Munnar. Not always easy.

Then the journey down the mountains towards Cochin. It’s not far in km but it takes awhile because the roads are narrow and bumpy.

Along the way we stopped at an Ayurveda Spice Garden. We climbed the tree house and went in the Jeep down into the garden.

It was set out well with the trees marking the path painted jaunty colours. Our guide Teddu was there to explain all the uses of the Ayurveda plants. He explained each one in detail and believe me there was a cure for everything- from headaches to high blood pressure to varicose veins and all the pills and creams were available to buy in the shop. Unfortunately I’m not going to throw out my present medications. Though I’d like to give the one for inflammation a go.

Back on the road, we saw a truck clip a bike and both rider and passenger were shaken but hopefully ok.

Then we passed a family of monkeys.

What we were looking for was a wine shop! We are headed for a 3 night home stay and decided we’d like a bottle of wine. This is despite the fact it’s an organic farm with all vegetarian food.

We’ll also be enjoying an Ayurveda massage!

We stopped at a sad looking bar and realised that the Indian people do not drink like we do – to enjoy a glass with dinner.

So on we pressed for Kottayam- and the exact area where the author Arendhoti Roy comes from. Her book The God of Small Things was set in this area and our host George knows her well.

George was at the gate to greet us and straightaway we knew we were in for an authentic home stay.