Kannur: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) Budget Tourism wing organised a special one-day trip from Kannur to the vibrant flower fields of Gundlupet in Karnataka. Known as the "Flower Pot of India," Gundlupet offers breathtaking natural views, making it a perfect destination during the festive season.

The trip was led by Tourism Cell Kannur District Coordinator Tanseer K R, along with Unit In-charge Rajeesh K and guide Swapna P P Regular travelers' group from the KSRTC Kannur unit also joined the journey.

Passengers on the trip praised the experience, highlighting both the scenic beauty and the well-organized travel arrangements. Angha Rajan, one of the tourists, shared her excitement with ANI, saying,

“As we all know, traveling in KSRTC means traveling in bus only. Gundlupet, where we are going is full of scenes, full of nature. They also had south Indian food. The breakfast, lunch, and dinner was nice, including the staff were also so friendly, making us feel welcome.”

Another traveler, Ayisha Beevi, admitted she was initially hesitant due to common stereotypes about state-run buses. However, her experience turned out to be a pleasant surprise.

“At first I was not interested at all, because I heard that KSRTC journey was very uncomfortable. I was not ready to come at all, because I heard that the bus was not very careful. This journey was my first one, it was an amazing experience, the staff was so friendly, the whole journey was amazing, punctuality, organising.”

She added, “The food was very good. The timing was great too, as we didn't have to wait as we came in the KSRTC bus, we did not wait in queue at all. It was an amazing experience which should be experienced by others too.”

The trip began at 5 am from Kannur and concluded by midnight, offering travelers a full day of nature, food, and cultural experience, all arranged under the special guidance of District Transport Officer V Manoj Kumar.

This initiative is part of KSRTC’s efforts to provide budget-friendly tourism options during Onam, Kerala’s most celebrated festival. Onam, observed from August 26 to September 5 this year, marks the beginning of the Malayalam calendar month Chingam. It is both a harvest festival and a cultural celebration of the homecoming of King Mahabali.

As part of the traditions, people wear kasavu saris and mundus, visit temples, prepare festive meals, and gather with loved ones. This year, Kerala welcomed Chingam and the Malayalam New Year on August 17, with prayers and celebrations across the state.

ANI inputs