Discover Munnar: A Serene Escape in Kerala’s Lush Green Hills

munnar hill station

Munnar is a peaceful hill station in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is often called the “Kashmir of South India.” Munnar is known for its beautiful tea estates, lush green landscapes, rolling hills, deep valleys, waterfalls, and misty mountains. The area is rich in diverse plants and animals, including the rare Nilgiri Tahr. Visitors can enjoy the colonial architecture, cozy cottages, and modern amenities. Munnar has a pleasant climate all year, but the best time to visit is from October to February when the scenery is most vibrant.

Major Tourist Attractions in Munnar

Eravikulam National Park

Timings: 07.30 AM to 04.00 PM
Entry Fee: Foreign nationals – Rs.500 for adults & Rs.150 for children & Indian – Rs. 200 for adults & Rs.150 for children.
Camera Fee: Rs.50
Video camera fee: Rs.350
Closure Period: Eravikulam National Park will be closed from February to March every year for two months due to the calving season of Nilgiri Tahr.

The Eravikulam National Park is a beautiful natural area in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a type of mountain goat. The park also features a variety of plants and animals, including rare orchids, rhododendrons, leopards, elephants, and many bird species.

One of the main attractions in the park is the Anamudi Peak, which is the highest point in South India. This peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The park also has extensive grasslands, which are unusual in this region, and are home to a diverse range of plants and animals.

The park is an important area for conservation and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in the Idukki district, on the border between Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The park has different areas, including a tourism sector that is open to visitors. Rajamalai, within the park, is a popular tourist destination with dense woods, grasslands, and opportunities for activities like walking and climbing.

Nearest Tourist Places around Eravikulam National Park

  • Tea Garden: The Tea Gardens are located about 10.6 kilometers away. Some well-known tea farms in the area include Tata Tea, Brooke Bond, AVT, and Kannan Devan Tea. Tata Tea Ltd. has established the Tea Museum, which is open to visitors.
  • Anamudi Peak: It is situated 7.1 kilometers from Eravikulam National Park, and it is the tallest peak in South India and Kerala, standing at approximately 2695 meters above sea level.
  • Kalari Kshethra: Located 21.8 kilometers away, Kalari Kshethra is known as the “Temple of Kerala Traditions.” Visitors can watch live performances of Kerala’s traditional martial art, Kalarippayattu.
  • Punarjani Traditional Village: This traditional village is located 19.3 kilometers from Eravikulam National Park, offers live Kathakali and Kalarippayattu performances for tourists.
  • Pallivasal Falls: Pallivasal Falls is a popular picnic spot in Munnar’s Devikulam area, approximately 19.6 kilometers from Eravikulam National Park.
  • Anamudi Peak: Anamudi Peak situated in the interior of Eravikulam National Park at a height of 2695 meters, is great for trekking. Tourists are provided with necessary facilities and are permitted to trek to Anamudi. The peak is home to various animals and birds, and it is a dense forest where Nilgiri langurs, leopards, tigers, and macaques can be found. This hill is also home to a diverse range of vegetation and fauna, including endangered wild species.

Tea Museum

Explore the Tea Museum in Munnar to learn about the history of tea cultivation. Located in the Nallathanni Estate, the museum showcases artifacts, photos, and machinery tracing the evolution of tea production. Watch live tea processing demonstrations, view rare tools, and enjoy a tea-tasting experience.

Tata Tea Museum

Entrance fee: Rs.125
Timings: 09.00 AM till 05.00 PM (last ticket will be issued till 04.30 PM)
Camera fee: Rs.20
Video Camera Fee: Not allowed
Tea tasting: Rs. 250/- extra
Holiday: Wednesday

Visit the Tata Tea Museum, located about 12 kilometers from Munnar, to learn about the history of the region’s tea industry. The museum showcases the evolution of tea processing from traditional hand-operated machinery to today’s automated equipment. You can explore a collection of ancient furniture, office equipment, and colonial antiques, including a 2nd-century burial urn found near Periakanal Estate. The museum also provides insight into the lives and challenges of tea plantation workers. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a delightful tea-tasting experience while taking in the beautiful scenery of the tea plantations.

Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is located around 13 kilometers from Munnar in Kerala. This dam was built for generating hydroelectric power and conserving water. It has become a popular tourist spot due to its beautiful surroundings and calm atmosphere. The dam is 83.35 meters tall and 237.74 meters long, showcasing impressive engineering. The dam’s reservoir, known as Mattupetty Lake, has stunning water that reflects the lush flora and provides breathtaking views. The steady water supply attracts diverse wildlife, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as boating on the calm lake. Nearby, the Indo-Swiss livestock project features high-yielding cattle grazing in picturesque landscapes. The dam’s strategic location and tranquil beauty make it a must-see for anyone visiting Munnar’s hill resort.

Nearest Tourist places around Mattupetty Dam

  • Photo Point: Located 12.4 kilometres away, Photo Point is a scenic spot surrounded by Munnar’s rolling hills and expansive tea fields. It’s a great place for photographers to capture unforgettable moments with stunning backdrops.
  • Sun Moon Valley Boating Centre: Just 1.6 kilometres from Mattupetty Dam, this boating centre offers a peaceful experience with beautiful views of the dam and its surroundings. You can choose from pedal boats, rowboats, or motorboats, making it a perfect place for relaxation and enjoyment with family and friends.
  • Echo Point: Echo Point, around 15 kilometres from Munnar, is known for its natural echo phenomenon and offers a balance of tranquil beauty and exciting adventures. Enjoy the breathtaking views of tea plantations, misty mountains, and a serene lake, and capture the beauty of Munnar through stunning photography.

Devikulam / Sita Devi Lake

Devikulam, also known as Sita Devi Lake, is located 25.2 kilometers away. It’s a peaceful and tall lake that is the main attraction in the area. It is considered sacred because it is believed that Goddess Sita bathed in it during her exile. The lake is also known for its healing powers. Visitors can enjoy boating and trout fishing here, and its serene beauty makes it a popular destination for travelers.

Pothamedu Viewpoint

The Pothamedu Viewpoint is about 5 kilometers from Munnar. It offers stunning panoramic views of rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and misty mountains. On clear days, you can even see the Idukki Arch Dam, which is 60 kilometers away on the Muthirapuzha River. The viewpoint is close to the Attukadu waterfalls and Blossom Hydel Park, popular tourist sites in Munnar. From this high vantage point, you can watch small vehicles winding along the roads below. The area is great for photography, picnics, and leisurely walks through the beautiful landscape. It’s a wonderful place to relax and appreciate the natural beauty.

Srishti Welfare Centre

The Srishti Welfare Centre is a special project that helps children and young people with disabilities in the rural plantation communities of Munnar. It provides education, rehabilitation, and job training to those in need. The center also teaches sustainable practices like papermaking, dyeing, and baking, which create jobs for its students. Visiting the Srishti Welfare Centre is a unique opportunity to see people’s perseverance and kindness. Supporting their projects can significantly improve the lives of these individuals. The Centre makes high-quality handmade products using sustainable principles. These products are even shipped to Japan and Britain.

Blossom Park

Entrance: Rs.100 for foreigners & Rs.75 for Indians
Timings: 09.00 AM to 04.00 PM (Break Time – 01.00 PM to 02.00 PM)
Camera fee: Rs.50
Video Camera fee: Rs.150

Blossom Park is located 2 kilometers from Munnar Town. It is a beautiful flower oasis, also known as Blossom Hydel Park, hidden among Munnar’s lush foliage. Situated near the Muthirapuzha River and the Kannan Devan Hill Tea Estate, the park offers a stunning view of the Western Ghats and the foggy Kannan Devan Hill Tea Estate. Spanning 16 acres, the park is a great escape from daily life and is well-known for its variety of flowers and plants, providing a colorful and aromatic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, cycling, roller skating, and badminton. There’s also a designated play area for kids with swings and slides. The park is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation among the beautiful greenery and a peaceful lake. Additionally, an aquarium allows visitors to explore marine life, and the annual flower show season draws many with its breathtaking floral display. Overall, Blossom Park is a favorite destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation and fun.

Top Station

Top Station is situated 41 kilometers away from Munnar. It is on top of Munnar’s highest peak and offers stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats. From there, you can see the vast tea estates, misty mountains, and deep valleys. Every twelve years, the hills are covered in beautiful blue Neelakurinji flowers, creating a magnificent sight. Keep an eye out for the area’s diverse wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and other creatures. Top Station’s unspoiled beauty and rich biodiversity make it a truly unforgettable experience.

Other Sightseeing Options in Munnar

Marayoor

Marayoor is located 42 kilometers from Munnar and takes about 1.5 hours to drive to. It’s known for its sandalwood forests, ancient relics, and stunning views. Marayoor is the only place in Kerala where sandalwood trees grow naturally, creating a fragrant and enchanting atmosphere. The area is home to ancient burial chambers called Megalithic Dolmens, which date back to the Stone Age, providing insight into the region’s rich history. There are also rock-cut caverns with prehistoric paintings called Muniyaras, offering a glimpse into the region’s creative and cultural heritage. The Thoovanam waterfall, surrounded by dense vegetation, offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Marayoor is famous for its sugarcane farms, and you can try the local specialty, “sarkara,” a solid form of molasses. Marayoor is a hidden gem that invites visitors to explore its historical significance, natural beauty, and rural lifestyle.

Kundala Dam

The Kundala Dam, also known as Sethuparvati Dam, is located 28 km from Munnar. It is a popular tourist spot in Munnar, Kerala, and is also recognized as an impressive engineering feat. This dam is the first of its kind in Asia with its unique arch shape, showcasing remarkable engineering skills. Situated on the Muthirapuzha River, the dam is surrounded by dense vegetation and offers breathtaking views, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The dam gives rise to the tranquil Kundala Lake, famous for boating and relaxation. Visitors can rent pedal boats, Kashmiri shikhara boats, and rowboats for an enjoyable experience on the lake. One of the highlights is the option to hire a Kashmiri Shikara for a boat ride to explore the lake and its surroundings. It is an unforgettable experience due to the peaceful atmosphere with no crowds around. The area is known for its picturesque jungles, hillsides, cherry blossom trees, and the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years, creating a breathtaking purple paradise.

Anayirankal Dam

Anayirankal Dam is a lovely reservoir about 27 kilometers from Munnar. It is surrounded by green tea plantations and forests, creating a peaceful and charming environment. The area around the dam is perfect for a relaxing picnic with its lush foliage and fresh air. Visitors may even spot elephants and other wildlife near the reservoir. People can enjoy a calm boat ride on the still waters, taking in the beautiful natural surroundings. This destination is a photographer’s dream, offering stunning views of the dam, the area around it, and the wildlife. It’s an ideal place for anyone seeking to get away from the busy city life.

Pallivasal

Pallivasal is a charming hill town located about 8 kilometers from Munnar. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal place to escape the busyness of daily life. Pallivasal holds historical significance as the site of Kerala’s first hydroelectric power project, established during the reign of Maharaja Sree Chithirai Thirrunal Balarama Varma. The 37.50-MW power station is situated in a beautiful area and can be visited with permission from station authorities. Pallivasal Falls flows over the rocky landscape, creating a beautiful setting for nature enthusiasts and photographers. This lovely waterfall, formed by the Muthirapuzha River, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat. Its serene environment, combined with the grandeur of the surrounding hills, makes it a wonderful place to relax and rejuvenate.

Meesapulimala

Meesapulimala is best experienced through trekking. The 8-kilometer climb from Rhodovalley, which is 15 kilometers from Munnar town, offers trekkers stunning views of the grasslands, jungles, and high-altitude fauna. It is the second highest summit in the Western Ghats, providing a thrilling challenge for experienced hikers. This mountain range is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and the opportunity to witness the rare Neelakurinji flowers in bloom.

Activities to do in Munnar

Make your cup of tea at Lockhart Estate: Visit Lockhart Estate for a tea experience: It’s located 13 kilometers from Munnar town, and the drive from Munnar will take approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a fresh cup of tea and then receive a briefing about the program. The tea experience includes a guided walk through the tea plantation (lasting at least two hours), where you can pick tea leaves alongside local tea pickers or with the assistance of a guide. You’ll also observe the weighing process. Lunch will be provided at an estate bungalow or Club, depending on availability, prepared by a local butler and offering vegetarian or non-vegetarian options. After lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to tour and participate in one of the region’s oldest industries, which operates in a traditional manner. There’s also an option to work in the plant for around an hour before ending the program with an exclusive tea tasting. The entire program will last approximately 6 to 7 hours.

This activity is not available on Sunday & Public Holidays.

Kundala Lake Shikara Ride: This ride is available from October to May. Pedal boats and speed boats are available, but we cannot make advance reservations. The driver can help you get tickets from the boat booking office on the spot.

Excursion to Carmelagiri Elephant Park: You can visit the Carmelagiri Elephant Park, which is located 8 kilometers from Munnar town. At the park, you can enjoy an elephant ride, feed the elephants, and shower with them along with your kids and family. It’s not possible to make advance reservations, but the driver can help you get the tickets on the spot.

Cycling tour in Munnar: During the cycling tour in Munnar, we will primarily ride on estate roads and village roads with some uphill and downhill sections. We will customize the route based on our guests’ preferences, whether they prefer an easy or moderate ride, after discussing with them.

Kathakali Dance: (Duration 01 Hr – Timing – Evening 05:00pm to 06:00pm): This is a popular and major form of Indian Classical Dance Drama, a story play genre of art – known as the king of performing arts – performed in a Koothambalam (art performance temple) by skilled artists.

Kalaripayattu Show: The Kalaripayattu Show lasts for 1 hour and runs from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial art form from Kerala, known as the origin of many other martial arts like karate, kung-fu, judo, and more.

Bird Watching: Bird Watching in Munnar is a great way to spot endemic birds such as Nilgiri Wood pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, black and orange flycatcher, Nilgiri pipit, gray breasted laughing thrush, painted bush coil, and broad-tailed grass bird. The bird watching session lasts for 2-3 hours and starts early in the morning. Another session is available in the afternoon from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm or until 7:00 pm.

Kolukkumalai Jeep safari, tea trail, and Orthodox Tea Factory (1935) visit : Explore the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate on a full-day tour, including a Jeep safari, tea trail, and a visit to the Orthodox Tea Factory (1935). The tour starts with a 4×4 Jeep ride from Suryanelli, taking you on a 12-kilometer off-road adventure to the highest tea estate in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of the hills during the ride. At the estate, you’ll visit the tea factory built in 1935 and take a guided tour to learn about tea production and the history of Munnar’s tea industry, with a focus on the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. You can also interact with the tea workers and observe their daily tasks. After the tour, you can have a picnic lunch and soak in the beautiful landscape before returning to Suryanelli by Jeep. This unique tea trip promises to leave you with lasting memories of the experience and enhance your appreciation for a cup of tea.

Activity: Jeep Tour of Kolukkumalai Tea Factory and estate
Starting Point: Suryanelli Town
Finishing Point: Suryanelli Town
Timing: 09.00 AM
Duration: 5- 6 Hours
Recommended: For all, except aged people

Photographic Spots in Munnar: When visiting Munnar, you can explore several picturesque spots. The first hydroelectric project in Kerala is located in Pallivasal, just 3 kilometers from Chithirapuram. The Chinnakanal Waterfalls, also known as The Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a 2000-meter rock above sea level and offer stunning views of the Western Ghats. Anayirangal, which is 7-8 kilometers away, provides the opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of elephants descending from the hill to drink water. Top Station, situated approximately 32 kilometers from Munnar and rising to 1700 meters above sea level, is the highest point on the Kodaikanal-Munnar Road. This area is home to the Neelakurinji, which offers a panoramic view of the entire natural region. Lastly, you can visit the Tata Tea Museum in Munnar to see images, machines, and relics related to Tata Tea’s Nallathanni Estate.

Different types of Trekking in Munnar

Meesappulimalai Trek

Trek Level: Hard
Starting Point: Munnar Town
Finishing Point: Munnar town
Duration: Full day [08 Hours]
Timing: 08.00 AM to 04.00 PM
Recommended: For youngsters and experienced trekkers

The Meesappulimalai Trek is the most popular and adventurous trekking trail in Munnar. It leads to South India’s second-highest peak, at 8661 feet above sea level. The trek begins with a Jeep journey to Silent Valley, passing through dense forests, pine trees, gum trees, and tea plantations before reaching lush meadows. The guide then leads the guests through thick forests and steep slopes, offering breathtaking views of Munnar. After some ascents and descents, tourists will reach the peak of Meesapulimala, which offers a stunning view. On the way back, travelers will be transported by Jeep to Munnar town. The Meesapulimala Trekking Trail is a great addition to anyone’s holiday plans.

Thoovanam Waterfalls Trek

Trek Level: Easy
Starting Point: Munnar Town
Finishing Point: Munnar town
Trek Duration: 03 Hours
Timing: Anytime between 10.00 AM to 04.00 PM
Recommended: For those who are physically fit

This private trekking track takes you to the Thoovanam Waterfalls, located in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, 45 kilometers from Munnar town. The waterfalls are wide and surrounded by a stunning forest environment. The trek from Munnar to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary passes through the Marayoor Sholas and offers breathtaking views of the Munnar Hills. The trip to Thoovanam Falls takes about 2-3 hours. The area is rich in birdlife, and the guide will point out many of them along the way. Once you arrive at the waterfalls, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery and spend some peaceful time there.

Lakshmi Hill Trek

The Lakshmi Hill Trek is a short and easy hike suitable for everyone. It takes about three to four hours with a guide. The starting point is Blossom Park or Hydel Park, which is 3 kilometers from Munnar town. The trek begins with a 40-minute walk through tea plantations to reach the summit. Then, hikers will pass through a ridge area with beautiful grasslands on the left and a large tea plantation on the right. The descent through thick sholas and Coffee-Cardamom plantations takes about two and a half hours, sometimes three, and ends 5 kilometers from Munnar town. For more information, please contact us directly.

Kolukkumalai Camping & Trekking Program: The highest tea growing estate in the World

Join our 2-day Kolukkumalai Camping & Trekking Program and experience camping in the world’s highest organic tea estate. Located in the small town of Kolukkumalai near Munnar, this tea plantation is known for its exceptional tea flavor due to its high altitude and organic cultivation. During the program, you’ll have the chance to visit the tea estate and observe tea processing in one of the tea factories. This is a great opportunity to learn about the tea-making process. For more details about the program, feel free to reach out to us.

Top station valley trek (Duration 5-6 hours)

You can go on the Top Station Valley Trek for 5-6 hours after an early breakfast. You’ll need to drive around 29 kilometers to Yellapetty Estate, passing through Kannan Devan Hills tea estates, villages, Madupatty, Echo-Point, Kundala Dam, and more. During the trek, you’ll walk through tea plantations, dense shola forests, mountain ridges, and shola grasslands.

Chinnar – Trek Only

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a special place with 11 tribal settlements, a variety of animals including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, many bird species, and almost 1000 types of flowering plants. This sanctuary is home to the Indian Star Tortoise and Kerala’s largest group of vulnerable mugger crocodiles. The trek through the green tea farms offers a beautiful view of the Thalayaar and Vaguvarai tea estates. You’ll also see many blooming trees like Spathodia, Jakaranda, and poinsettias. Our trek will start with a straight drive from Marayoor Sandalwood Forest to Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, taking about 2 to 3 hours with a tribal guide. Along the way, we can visit historical hermitages if time allows. If you need more details, please get in touch with us.

Pambadum Shola National Park – Trek

Pambadum Shola National Park is well-known for its herds of gaurs (Indian bison) and is a great place to see the critically endangered Nilgiri Marten. The trek through the beautiful and dense evergreen Shola forests allows you to see a variety of endemic birds, including the Nilgiri flycatcher, black and orange flycatcher, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and Indian Giant Squirrel. It’s an amazing experience to witness the area’s vegetation and animals, which are both highly protected and unique. The park is a 26-kilometer trip from Munnar to Top Station and includes scenic locations such as Madupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Dam. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour to reach the starting point. If you’re interested in arranging this excursion for your clients, please contact us.

Top Valley Trek

Top Valley Trek is a popular hike in Kottagudi, Munnar, offering great views and the chance to see rare bird species. The trek takes you along the ridges of the Western Ghats and Eastern Slopes, providing beautiful views of Tamil Nadu’s plains. Along the way, you’ll see the second highest peak in South India, the world’s highest tea estate, “Kolukkumalai,” and other landmarks. The trek starts with a 26-kilometer drive from Munnar to Top Station, passing by attractions such as Madupatty Dam, Echo Point, and Kundala Dam. The trek itself begins with tea plantations and goes through a tea plantation community before reaching evergreen Shola woodland, montane forest, and grassland. The trek starts at an elevation of about 1800 meters MSL and reaches a maximum point of around 2250 meters. It ends at Top Station, from where you will drive back to Munnar.

Tea Plantation Village Tour: 3 to 4 hours duration

This tour is perfect for those who want to experience life in one of Munnar’s tea plantation villages. Guests will see tea plantations, vegetable farms, and houses dating back to the British colonial period. They will have the opportunity to interact with the local residents, who are mainly tea plantation workers living in houses provided by the company. The majority of today’s laborers are descendants of tea pickers, with the job being passed down through generations since the British colonial era. Guests will have the chance to learn about the workers’ living and working conditions while enjoying a cup of tea with them. The tour lasts 3 to 4 hours, with the guide meeting guests in Munnar Town and accompanying them to the village. Guests will have the chance to appreciate the rural charm of cattle grazing in meadows and homes nestled among the tea plantation hills. They can also enjoy a cup of tea at a local tea shop or a nearby house if they wish.

Lockhart Tea Tour

Visit a well-maintained tea factory from the British era to see how Orthodox tea is processed. The factory still uses old machines, and you can watch as they package different grades of tea. The factory also has a museum with antiques and historical artifacts. You can learn about tea cultivation and enjoy the beautiful landscape with a guided hike to the tea plantations.

Optional (Full Day):

  • Visitors can also join a tea-tasting program to learn about the role of a tea taster and expand their knowledge of different types of tea.
  • Chokarmudi Trek is a fascinating trek in Munnar with stunning views from a rocky terrain. You can learn about the landscape while enjoying the scenic beauty in an adventurous way.

How to Reach Munnar

By Air: The closest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 140 kilometers from Munnar. The second closest is Madurai International Airport (IXM), which is around 180 kilometers from Munnar.

By Rail: Munnar does not have a railway station; the nearest one is Aluva, 110 kilometers away. Other nearby railway stations include Kottayam (142 kilometers), Ernakulam (130 kilometers), and Madurai (135 kilometers).

By Road: Munnar is well connected by road to many important towns in South India via national highways such as NH 85, NH 69, and NH 209, as well as state highways. The road trip offers breathtaking scenery.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in nature, Munnar offers something for everyone. From exploring the lush tea gardens and trekking through the misty hills to relaxing by the serene waterfalls, this hill station is a perfect getaway. Experience the charm of Kerala’s natural beauty and create unforgettable memories in Munnar. Plan your visit today and let Munnar’s tranquil landscapes rejuvenate your soul.

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