The icing on our Keralan Christmas cake was a stunning bike ride down through tea plantations to Anakulam.

The relaxing downhill we’d both decided on was punctuated by tea stops, delicious biryani and an unexpected jungle scramble (er, I mean shortcut) neither of us had bargained for (thanks for that Komoot).

Unexpectedly sweaty, we arrived at Anakulam (which translates as elephant pond) just before 5pm. We had just enough time for a quick cuppa and a sit down before this beautiful lot made their entrance…

We’d heard the ranger’s bell a few days previously and assumed that it was just the thing that rang to clear everyone off the elephant’s patch before the rangers went home for their tea…

Words cannot begin to describe the rush of excitement and subsequent flood of emotions you feel when you first hear, and then see wild elephants emerging from the jungle.

Their majesty and wisdom is truly spellbinding.
Seeing elephants in the wild is so much better for them and for you than queuing up to ride a captive one.
If you want to know more about why please follow this link … Five Reasons Why You Should Never Ride Elephants If You Love Them! – Wildlife SOS

17 wild elephants came to bathe in the mineral-rich water at Anakulam that day.

Although clearly nervous of the noise and crowds that had gathered to see them, the elephants seemed to know that their special space was protected …

May the choices you make, the challenges you face, and those you overcome, bring you all the courage, joy and happiness you deserve.

Merry Christmas lovely people.