College trips are always special, but when you mix education, adventure, and breathtaking nature, it becomes an experience of a lifetime! Our five-day educational tour from Thrissur to Coorg, Dandeli, and Hogenakkal was exactly that—a perfect blend of learning, excitement, and unforgettable memories. Here’s a glimpse of our incredible journey!
Day 1: Thrissur to Coorg – Into the Land of Coffee
Our journey started early in the morning as we boarded our college bus, filled with excitement, music, and endless chatter. The long drive through scenic highways and winding hill roads brought us to Coorg, a place known for its misty landscapes and coffee plantations.
Coffee Plantation
Our first stop was a coffee estate, where a guide took us through the plantation, explaining how coffee is cultivated, harvested, and processed. Walking through the lush green estate, surrounded by towering silver oak trees and pepper vines, felt like a great experience. The most fascinating part was watching the roasting process—seeing the green coffee beans transform into the deep brown beans we all love.
Sunset at Raja’s Seat
Later in the evening, we visited Raja’s Seat, a famous viewpoint that once served as a retreat for Kodava kings. The moment we reached the top, we were greeted with a panoramic view of rolling hills, deep valleys, and an endless horizon covered in mist. As the sun began to set, the sky created a picture-perfect moment. Sitting there with friends, soaking in the view, and feeling the cool evening breeze made it one of the most peaceful experiences of the trip.
Day 2: Wildlife Safari at Nagarhole National Park
The next morning, we set out early for Nagarhole National Park, one of the best wildlife reserves in Karnataka. The excitement was high as we boarded the safari jeeps, ready to explore the dense forests.
As we entered the jungle, the sounds of chirping birds, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls surrounded us. Within minutes, we spotted herds of spotted deer, langurs swinging between trees, and wild boars. The real thrill came when our guide signaled us to stay quiet as a majestic tiger was resting near a waterhole. Though it was a brief sighting, the sheer thrill of seeing a tiger in the wild left us speechless.
We also saw a group of wild elephants, lazily grazing by the river, and several colorful birds, including the vibrant Malabar trogon. The safari gave us a deeper appreciation for nature and its wild beauty.
Day 3: Dandeli – White-Water Rafting on the Kali River
After an overnight journey, we reached Dandeli, a paradise for adventure lovers. After a quick safety briefing, we put on our helmets and life jackets, grabbed our paddles, and climbed into the rafts. The river looked calm at first, but as we moved forward, the first set of rapids hit us—water splashed everywhere as we struggled to keep balance and paddle through the waves!
The adrenaline rush was unreal as we navigated through Grade 2 and 3 rapids, twisting and turning through the rocky riverbed. The instructors guided us through each rapid, and at one point, they even let us jump into the river to float along with the current. The cold water, the roar of the rapids, and the sheer thrill of conquering the waves made it an experience none of us would ever forget.
Later in the day, we explored the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, spotting hornbills and Malabar giant squirrels. As the sun set, we gathered around a bonfire, sharing our rafting experiences and reliving the most thrilling moments of the day.
Day 4: The Majestic Waterfalls and Coracle Ride at Hogenakkal
The next morning, we set out for Hogenakkal Falls, a breathtaking waterfall on the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border. As we approached, we could hear the thunderous roar of water crashing down the rocky cliffs, building up our excitement.
One of the most exciting activities here was the coracle ride—a traditional round boat that took us dangerously close to the falls! The boatman skillfully maneuvered through the swirling currents, and at times, it felt like we were floating in the middle of a giant whirlpool. The mist from the waterfalls drenched us, making the ride even more thrilling.
As we sailed through the deep gorges and rocky canyons, we were awestruck by the natural beauty surrounding us. Some of us took a refreshing dip in the calm waters further downstream, while others simply sat by the rocks, enjoying the peaceful sound of flowing water.
Day 5: Back to Thrissur – Cherishing the Memories
This trip was more than just an escape from college life—it was an adventure that brought us closer to nature, taught us new things, and created bonds that would last a lifetime. From walking through lush coffee plantations to experiencing the thrill of rafting and standing in awe of powerful waterfalls, every moment was unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
If you ever get a chance to visit Coorg, Dandeli, and Hogenakkal, don’t think twice—just go! Whether you love nature, adventure, or just want to experience something new, this trip has everything you could ask for.
