Vandanmedu is said to be the single largest producer of Cardamom in the country. The vast grounds of Carmelia Haven - an eco-friendly plantation retreat – have winding paths with well signposted plants, shrubs and trees. Look out especially for the incense tree - a towering large tree from the sap of which incense and frankincense are derived.
Periyar National Park
Vandanmedu is an hour's drive from Periyar Wildlife Reserve. The journey affords some beautiful views of the highest mountain range in India south of the Himalayas. This range has coffee plantations spread across the foothills of the Western Ghats, while tea grows at higher altitudes.Periyar Sanctuary is open all year round. The best time to visit is between October and April, to avoid the south-west monsoon months. During April and May, when water gets low and grass dries out, there is a greater chance of spotting elephants near the lakeside.
