Carpeted with lush green tea plantations, Munnar is swath of soul stirring palm-shaded mountain scenery. Here the clouds form a mist that clings to the mountaintops sculpted like ornamental hedges.
A symphony of rolling hills, tea plantations and traffic clogged streets, Munnar is a fabulous languorous network of gleaming backwaters, spice and tea. Engulfed in a thousand shades of green it has earned international recognition for its backwaters, elegant houseboats, ayurveda, and mouth watering cuisine.
Mattupetty Dam
About 13 km away from Munnar, this concrete gravity dam was constructed between the hill ranges. Mostly used as storage for hydroelectric projects, it is an ideal place to breathe afresh in the serene nature. The waterholes here are frequently visited by the elephants.
Mattupetty Indo - Swiss Dairy Farm
A highly specialized dairy farm, it comes under the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. Here, one will find hundreds of high breed cattle and new varieties scientifically developed.
Boating in Kundala Lake
An artificial reservoir snuggled between the mountain ranges, Kundala is a popular spot for a Shikara boat ride. About 20 km drive from Munnar, the entire lake area is surrounded by green valleys and majestic landscapes.
Top Station
About 40 km from Munnar, at 1,880 meters above sea level, Top station offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and the valley of Theni. People come here to witness Neelakurinji flower that blooms in every 12 years.
Echo Point
About 15 km from Munnar, people come here to scream as loud as they can and get their echo back! This natural phenomenon is a perfect place for photography and fun place for kids.
Rajamalai (Part of Eravikulam National Park)
A section of the Eravikulam national park, about 15 kms from Munnar, Rajamalai is the home of Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragas hylocres). Walkthrough the rare terrestrial and epiphytic orchids and meet the Nilgiri Langur, leopards and the Indian Bison on way.
Tea Museum
One of its first kinds in India, the museum in KDHP’s Nullatanni estate in Munnar showcases the birth of century old tea plantations in this region. Visit here to witness tea processing.
Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Famous for its sandalwood forests, Marayoor at 42 kms north of Munnar has a history that dates back to the ancient Stone Age civilization. Here, one will find Stone-age paintings, rock edicts and dolmens that belong to 10,000 B.C.
Attukad Waterfalls
A scenic waterfall located between Munnar and Pallivasal at 9 km away from Munnar. See it in full glory after the monsoons.
Blossom Park
Spread over an area of 16 acres, Blossom International Park is a peaceful place for a calm and relaxing nature walk. Admire the beautiful flowers and green hills while enjoying boating, cycling and roller skating.
Lakkom Water Falls
The cascading waterfalls, about 25 kms from Munnar falls on the way to Udumalaipettai. A part of Eravikulam National Park, its scenic surroundings make it a popular tourist spot.
Best things to do in Munnar
Munnar, a curious mix of tribal Muthuvan traditions, British culture and the traditions Tamil Nadu, celebrates Onam as one of the most important festivals. During the month of August –September, this harvest festival brings forth pomp and fervor all over Munnar and Kerala. Recently, Hot Air Balloon Festival is being organized in Munnar to offer one a bird’s eye view of the town’s scenic beauty of the green heaven.
Shopping in Munnar
Dotted with tea and spice plantations, Munnar is the best place to take back some home grown tea and spices. Best place to pick up some authentic spice and tea are the tea and spice factories in the town. Other places to consider are:
Best time to visit
Winters: (December to February), winters are quite pleasant as the temperature ranges between 10 degrees Celsius and hence is perfect for a vacation. It is a great time to enjoy adventures rock climbing, trekking and rappelling. Evenings might get a bit cold, so visitors should carry woolens.
Summer: (March to May) is when the average temperature goes between 19 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Sightseeing and tea estate visits can be done during this time. Visitors must carry light cottons and an umbrella as rain showers are common during this time.
Monsoon: (June to September), best time to visit the hill stations which are in full bloom during this time. Covered with lush green foliage, monsoons in Munnar have a charm of their own. Grab some good offer in hotels during this time.
By Air:
Cochin International Airport, about 110 kilometres from Munnar is the nearest airport. From Kochi, one has to hire a cab to get to Munnar. Passengers can also opt for Madurai International Airport, about 140 kilometres away from Munnar. From Madurai, the State Transport or private buses go to Munnar.
By Rail:
Aluva is the nearest railway station from Munnar, at a distance of 110 kilometres. At 130 kms, the Ernakulam Railway Station and Madurai Railway Station at a distance of 135 kilometres can also be a good option. From these stations a cab can be hired. State transport or private buses are also available.
By Road:
Driving to Munnar can be a lot of fun. One can take a ride from Ernakulam (135 km), Thekkady (110 km), Thiruvananthapuram (300 km), Palani (120 km), Coimbatore (150 km) and Madurai (135 km).
