A visit to 'God's own country' (as Kerala is fondly called) is incomplete without hitching a ride on an elephant, which is the state animal of Kerala and is also featured on its emblem. Carmelagiri Elephant Park is the best place to try this out. That it is located at Mattupetty Road that lies near the popular and scenic Mattupetty Dam, makes it all the more worth one's while. Exciting excursions sitting atop an elephant take one through rolling slopes, sprawling tea plantations and parks with sky-high trees and give a spectacular view of rough Munnar paths. One can also feed the elephants and talk to the mahouts about their behaviour and learn about their moods. The elephants are trained and well cared for by the mahouts, who help educate tourists about the majestic creatures.