Munnar

The confluence of three rivers Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundali gave Munnar its name. Munnar is a place of peace, beauty, and harmony. It is also known as the Kashmir of South India situated 1,600m above sea level in the Western Ghats range. It was the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. The wonderful topography offers a breathtaking vision of hardcore rocks, adding beauty to the scenery and the place captivates many tourists all over the world. Main vegetation would be teak, jungle jack, red sandalwood and rose wood. Munnar is also the apt place for bird watchers as rare species of birds are found easily in the early morning hours. A perfect destination for adventure lovers, honeymooners, wildlife, and nature lovers. 02 days complete stay at this place would be recommendable as it has many natural elements to offer. Munnar has got its diverse varieties of flora and fauna. In addition to surplus amount of tea plantations, Munnar has got variety of spices which include ginger, garlic, cardamom, vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, coffee, clove, nutmeg etc. Cocooned in the State of Kerala, Munnar poses breathtaking scenery filled with green tea plantations with the combination of valleys, streams, cliffs, exotic wildlife, and clear running streams making it an irresistible place. Neelakurinji flower that blooms once in every twelve years here is a highlight.

Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking. It is recommended to give at least 02 nights’ stay in Munnar to visit major sightseeing places.

Main attractions in Munnar:

Eravikulam National park:

Eravikulam National Park is a well-known park in Munnar, known for Nilgiri Tahr, which is an endangered species of wild goat found only in the south of the Himalayas and Neelakurinji, a Shrub that blooms once in 12 years. This park spreads over an area of about 97 sq. km towards the Western Ghats. The history explains that during the British rule, this region was owned by Rajamalai later given to Kannan Deven Hills for tea plantation. Days later it was declared as sanctuary and was founded in 1975 and upgraded as national park in 1978 which is numerously rich with shola forests and grasses. The main aim behind this move was to provide protection for the rare Nilgiri Tahr which are only found in Munnar. Eravikulam National Park is managed by the Kerala Department of Forest and Wildlife of Munnar and is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala. Eravikulam National Park is recognized as the UNESCO World Heritage Site. And this is the first national park in Kerala. The park is in Idukki district along the borders of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and most found animals are Nilgiri marten, Elephant, small-clawed otter Nilgiri langur, Stripe-necked mongoose, Sambar Deer and predators like Wild dog, Golden Jackal and a rare tiger or leopard and the Nilgiri wood pigeon

The Eravikulam National Park is categorized into three areas, namely, the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Tourists are strictly restricted from entering into the core and buffer area. The tourism area is unlocked for tourists to explore the beauty of the park.

The hill station, Rajamalai is known to be the tourism area of Eravikulam National Park. Rajamalai is surrounded by deep forest and green grasslands. The majority of grasslands constitute hill plateaus which is an added attraction. An abundance of wild orchids and other flowering plants grows richly in these grasslands. Many small streams flow across Rajamalai giving a visual treat to the eyes. This National Park is the habitat for about 120 species of birds, 26 varieties of mammals, wild animals, shrubs, exotic trees, flowering plants, and orchids. The Rajamalai hills are the main stage for the Neelakurinji bloom. Neelakurinji flowers are beautiful blue coloured flowers that bloom only once every twelve years. Rajamalai suits best for the adventure lovers as it provides activities like strolling and trekking to the mountain peaks.

Anthropologists and historians, after years of research, concluded that Theyyam is an art form related to the Voodoo Witchcraft in Africa. Why? Anthropologists say that these tribal people who perform Theyyam are of African origin. Thousands of years before, many Africans came and settled in the Wayanad jungle of Kerala. They came for work in the Jungle and eventually settled there. I hope you might have heard about Voodoo witchcraft in Africa. It is a kind of ritual, very common in Africa. The makeup, the dance moves, the music, etc are almost the same to that of Theyyam, which is why researchers believe Theyyam is not Indian, rather it is of African origin. Therefore, this side of the view believes Theyyam is not part of Hinduism, but Hindu people made it theirs by adding Hindu God stories to the Theyyam chart.

Best Time to Visit:

September to February is the best time to visit Eravikulam National Park.

Kindly note February & March month will be closed as its breeding time.

As of now only online ticket booking facility available in the park website www.eravikulamnationalpark.in and the time slots are 08:00am to 12:00pm, 12:00pm to 02:00pm & 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

Entry Fee:

Rs 500/- per head for foreigners, Rs: 150Rs per head for Children

Rs 200/- per head for Indians, Rs 90/- per head for Children

Charges for Video- Rs.350/ & Camera- Rs.50/-

Opening / Closing Time: 08:00am – 4:00pm

Nearest Tourist places:

Tea Gardens: It is at a distance of 10.6 Km. Tata Tea, Brooke Bond, AVT, Kannan Devan Tea are some of the famous Tea estates found here. Guests can visit the Tea Museum established by Tata Tea Ltd.

Anamudi Peak: It is located at a distance of 7.1 Km from Eravikulam National Park. Anamudi is the highest peak in South India as well as in Kerala. It is about 2695m above at sea level.

Kalari Kshethra: It is at a distance of 21.8 Km. Kalari Kshethra is said to be the “Temple of Kerala Traditions”. Here guest can watch the live performance of the traditional martial art of Kerala, the Kalarippayattu.

Punarjani Traditional Village: It is at a distance of 19.3 Km from Eravikulam National Park. This traditional village presents live shows of Kathakali and Kalarippayattu for the tourists.

Pallivasal Falls: It is one of the most popular and an ideal picnic spot in Devikulam area of Munnar. It is at a distance of 19.6 KMS from Eravikulam National Park.

Anamudi Peak: lying in the interior of the Eravikulam National Park is at a peak of 2695 m, is a perfect place for trekking. If required, needed facilities are arranged for tourists and they are permitted to go on foot to Anamudi. Anamudi peak is the resident of many animals, birds and is a thick forest where Nilgiri Langurs, Leopards, Tigers, and Macaques are commonly found here. This hill is rich in various kinds of flora and fauna and is well known for possessing endangered wild animals.

Tea Museum, Munnar is worth a visit:

It would delight any Tea-lovers to know that Tata Tea has set up a Tea Museum at the Nallathanni Estate, Munnar. As the guest gets in, they can go to the spot where cardamom flavoured tea is served free to everyone who visits. This museum portrays the growth of Munnar tea estates by displaying the most interesting items of the by-gone era such as artefacts, the original, basic tea roller to the modern fully automated tea factory etc. Other collections are the old photographs and machinery shown to the tourist to get a glimpse into the history and culture of the region along with which a video is screened. Visitors can of course get to know the various stages of tea processing through a guided tour. Clients will be shown right from the time the tea comes into the factory till the time it is converted into the lovely tea that we drink at our home.

Tata Tea Museum

located around 12 km from Munnar in the Estate of Tata Tea exhibits various antiquities and the most famous among them is the 2nd century burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate. This museum depicts the growth of tea plantations, photographs, old machineries used in production of tea powder processing that contributed to Idukki's flourishing tea industry. Section of the museum also houses classic bungalow furniture and office equipment of the Colonial area in Kerala. Tea tasting across different varieties of tea is another attraction.

Tea tasting – Rs. 250/- extra

Monday is a holiday for Tea Museum.

Entry fee: Rs. 125 per head for all

Camera / Video charges – Rs. 20 for camera.

Opening time: 9:00am to 5:00pm (last ticket will be issued till 4:30 PM)

Mattupetty Dam:

Mattupetty Dam is located at a distance of 13 Kms from Munnar. The height of Mattupetty Dam is about 160 feet. This dam has a vast reservoir that extends several kilometres into the hills. This dam is made up of concrete and it is the major source of hydroelectric power to the nearby regions. This dam is situated at a height of 1700 meters above sea level. Mattupetty Dam is one among the largest dam in the entire country. The rolling hills, scenic grasslands, large plantation areas and the charming lake flowing across are the highlights of Mattupetty dam. The dam offers a serene and peaceful environment and the Mattupetty Lake offers the best place to relax. Guests can also witness small streams of water running in crisscross fashion across the terrains. Mattupetty is famous for an Indo Swiss Farm Project or Livestock project. The farm in Mattupetty contains hundreds of high yielding cattle. The beautiful green hills of Mattupetty are the grazing land of these cattle. The sight of the cattle grazing here is a great visual treat for the tourists. Mattupetty hill station is also known as "cattle village" because of these cattle. Mattupetty Dam is a warehouse of a diverse range of flora and fauna. Boating facilities like pedal boats, speed launch, slow speedboat, rowboat, and motor boats are available here. During the boat ride, large herds of elephants can be spotted near the reservoir. Adventurous activities like trekking trail and jungle walk are offered by this dam for the adventure enthusiasts. The shola forests and the rich tea plantations in Mattupetty are great for trekking the Mattupetty Dam. Hence, Mattupetty is an ideal tourist spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and also for family and kids.

Best Time to Visit: August - May.

Tourists have the option to enjoy boat rides in the dam which can be done under direct payment basis and no advance booking.

Entrance Fee: NO

Boating charges:

Rs 500 for 1-5 Pax for ordinary boating for 15 min.

Rs 700 for 1-5 Pax for speed boating for 15 min.

Rs 900 for 20 people for big boat for 30 min (subject to availability).

Rs 100 for Horse Ride (subject to availability).

Nearest Tourist places:

Photo Point: It is at a distance of 12.4 Km. The picturesque background with large silver oak trees and tea gardens makes it a perfect photographic spot.

Sun Moon Valley Boating Center: It is at a distance of 1.6 Km from Mattupetty Dam. It is a heaven with lush green grasslands, hills, forests and tea plantations. Guests can spend a memorable time here with kids and family.

Echo Point: Echo point is situated 15kms away from Munnar. It is one of the favourite tourist spot known for its natural echo phenomenon. Famous activities in this picturesque destination among the explicit views of the lush green hills are trekking and nature walks. With an overall view, one can see clean mountain air, mist clad hills makes this place worth visiting.

Devikulam / Sita Devi Lake: It is at a distance of 25.2 Km. One will find amazing sights of nature here. A tranquil lake, the highest in the region, is the centre of attraction here. This lake is also known as Devikulam Lake, is gifted with sparkling crystal-clear water. This lake is considered as sacred as it is believed that Goddess Sita Devi of epic Ramayana bathed in this beautiful lake during the exile period. There is also a small temple dedicated to the Goddess. This lake is said to have immense therapeutical properties also.

POTHAMEDU VIEWPOINT

Pothamedu viewpoint is located at about 5 Km from Munnar. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Munnar and its neighbouring valleys, covered in the blanket of greenery. This stunning tourist destination is visited by a large number of tourists every year. Pothamedu Viewpoint has the most appealing climate throughout the year. This place is covered most of the times with mist. But on a clear atmosphere, one can catch a glimpse of Idukki Arch Dam which is at a distance of 60 Km from Munnar and the Muthirapuzha river. Pothamedu Viewpoint is situated near Attukadu waterfalls and the Blossom Hydel Park which are also the tourist attractions in Munnar. This viewpoint is at a great height and once we reach the top of this viewpoint we can watch tiny cars and vehicles approaching up through the serpentine roads. This is indeed a marvellous and breath-taking sight. Driving through these serpentine roads is truly thrilling as well as a mesmerizing experience. We can also view the refreshing large plantations of tea, coffee, and cardamom from the top of this viewpoint. Pothamedu Viewpoint is known for its scenic beauty and its chilling climate. Various varieties of tea are served in the small eateries near the viewpoint which are the perfect drink at this chilling atmosphere. The picturesque and scenic beauty of this viewpoint makes it the favourite tourist spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. We can also capture some stunning breath-taking pictures from this beautiful viewpoint. So, this place is also loved by photographers. The awe-inspiring view of sunrise and sunset can be experienced from the top of Pothamedu viewpoint. This is also a picnic spot which is favoured by families and friends. Here tourists can engage in activities like trekking, hiking, and long mountain walks. Strolling along this hill station gives a peaceful and calm experience.

Best Time to Visit: May - August.

Srishti Welfare Centre:

A non-profitable welfare center for mentally and physically challenged individuals. They are creating absolutely beautiful handmade quality products, the trust is dedicated to the rehabilitation & generation of sustainable livelihoods for the differently-abled children & young adults of the rural plantation community of Munnar. Guests can visit the place and spend some time with them, support them by buying some handicrafts items made by the under privileged people.

For more details please visit: https://www.srishti-trust.org

BLOSSOM PARK (also known as Hydel Park):

Blossom Park is located about 2 Km away from Munnar Town. This park covers an area of about 18 acres. It is situated near Muthirapuzha river and Kannan Devan Hill Tea Estate. The Blossom Park offers a breath-taking view of the elegant Western Ghats and the beautiful misty Kannan Devan Hill Tea Estate. Nature has blessed this park with enchanting mountains, abundant green landscape, beautiful gardens, artificial waterfalls and lawns, and charming rivers. The flower gardens of this park grow a variety of orchids and mountain flowers. The fragrance of the mountain flowers adds extra attractiveness to this park. Since the Blossom Park has wonderful gardens with a variety of flowers, it organizes flower shows, mainly during monsoon. The hanging garden in the Blossom Park is the main attraction of this place. Blossom Park is one of the favourite picnic spots for children because it has a large play area for children. The play area has swings, tree houses and ropeways for children to play. Blossom Park is also a great destination for adventure enthusiasts. This park offers activities like trekking, bird watching, nature walks, boating, cycling, roller skating, and badminton for adventure lovers to explore. Blossom Park is really a calm and quiet place. So many travellers visit this park to spend some time alone and for relaxing. This park is well-protected and well-maintained. So, littering is completely prohibited here. Another important thing to be noted is that visitors are not allowed to touch and pick flowers from the garden. There are artificial waterfalls in the park and visitors are not allowed to take bath in the waterfall. Campfire facilities are provided by this park for tourists to enjoy their evening with music and dance. The pristine environment and the natural beauty makes it a wonderful place. Hence, Blossom Park is indeed an ideal tourist destination for families and adventure enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit: November - February, which is winter season in Kerala.

Entry Fees: Rs. 50 per head for all

Entry Fees: Rs. 50 per head for all

Entry Fees: Rs. 50 per head for all

Top station:

Top Station is situated 41 km away from Munnar and is appropriately named. This is the main abode of the highest tea plantations in India. It takes one hour to reach Top Station from Munnar. It is located on the borders of both the states, Kerala as well as Tamilnadu and dictates an absolute panoramic view. Tourists keep visiting the top station as it is in the Theni district of Tamil Nadu and Idukki district of Kerala. It is at an altitude of 1700 meters

Lockhart Tea Factory

(Temporarily tourists are not being allowed here. However, from July 2022 onwards they will allow visitors for Tea factory visit)

The factory still follows the traditional method of orthodox tea manufacturing. Public visits are allowed during working hours except Sunday & Monday. The tour includes a briefing about the history and health benefits of tea. The factory also has a tea tasting section, a tea sale outlet, and a museum. The museum houses photographs and machinery that was used in earlier days of tea production.

Entrance Fee:

Rs. 400 for foreigners, Rs. 200 for Indians, Rs. 150 for students.

Camera / Video fee – Rs. 50

Opening /closing time: 09:30am to 04:00pm

Tea tasting charge: Rs. 200 per person.

Other Sightseeing Options in Munnar:

Marayoor:

Located 42 km away from Munnar which takes around 1.5hrs drive and is well known for the sandalwood trees. While heading to Marayoor you can see lots of Sandalwood trees along the roads and you may even feel the sandalwood smell in the breezes too. Through this travel, one can see a verity of plants- some of them are famous to be used for making Ayurveda medicines. Sugarcane cultivation and Jaggery preparation are famous in Marayoor.

Kundala Dam

also known as Sethuparvati Dam, 28 kms away from Munnar, was constructed for Pallivasal Hydro Electric project in 1946. It is situated around 21KM from Munnar. It is an artificial dam in Kundala which is another major attraction here. It is Asia’s first Arch dam. Boat ride at this dam is a wonderful experience. Boating facilities namely pedal boats, Kashmiri shikhara boats and rowboats are available for rent to guests trip more enjoyable. If the guest is willing to take a boat ride, they could hire a boat like Kashmiri Shikara. They could ride the boat themselves and explore the lake and its surroundings. It is indeed an awesome experience. The tranquillity of the place will never fade from the memory of the tourists as they cannot find any human being around the lake. It is surrounded by scenic jungles and hills. In Kundala, Cherry blossoms bloom twice in a year and we can also find Neela Kurinji flowers that blooms once in twelve years.

Anayirankal Dam

located around 27 Km away from Munnar is an ideal picnic spot for travelers from around the world. Sprawling tea gardens surrounded by evergreen forests on the slopes of high mountain ranges make the Anayirankal Lake and Dam a very popular picnic spot. Herds of elephants often visit the lake to quench their thirst, giving the visitors a rare opportunity of seeing elephants in open place from safe vantage points. The Dam is flanked by the Tata Tea Plantation and a thick cover of evergreen forests. A boat ride on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience that no visitor should miss.

Pallivasal (8 kms from Munnar)

Pallivasal is a hill village situated near Munnar. The First hydro-electric project in Kerala was established here during the reign of Maharaja Sree Chithirai Thirrunal Balarama Varma. The 37.50-MW power station is situated in a scenic landscape which travellers can visit with the permission of station authorities. There are several scenic spots on the slopes of Pallivasal. The hills here are ideal for short treks.

Meesapulimala:

The beauty of Meesapulimala must be enjoyed through trekking. The 8 kilometer long trek from the Rhodovalley, 15 kilometers from Munnar town, offers the trekkers breathtaking views of the grasslands, rainforests, and wildlife present at the high altitude.

The Anaimudi Peak

which stands tall in the Eravikulam National Park, is the pride of Kerala. It is the highest mountain peak in south India outside the great Himalayan Mountain Ranges, loaded with rich flora and fauna. It is also home to the largest surviving populations of Asian Elephants, endangered Gaurs, exotic Nilgiri Langurs, and lilion-tailedacaque.

Activities to do in Munnar:

Make your cup of tea at Lockhart Estate:

It is 13 kms away from Munnar town. It will be about 30 minutes drive from Munnar town, to reach Tea Factory. After having a fresh cup of tea, the program will be briefed, and guest shall proceed along with the program. Make your tea program will include a tea plantation walk (minimum of 02 hours, picking the leaves along with the local tea picking ladies or by themselves with the support/help of a guide, witnessing the weighing process, Lunch at an estate bungalow or in Club depending on availability (veg-nonveg cooked by local butler). After lunch, shall visit and work in one of the oldest factories in this region, which is operated in an orthodox method, we also get a chance to work in the factory for about an hour and conclude the program with exclusive tea tasting. The programme duration will be about 06 – 07 hours.

This activity is not available on Sunday & Public Holidays.

Shikara Ride in Kundala Lake:

This is being operated only during the season time, say October to May. Pedal boats & speed boats are available, but we can’t make any advance reservation. Driver can assist the guest on spot to get the ticket from the boat booking office.

Excursion to Carmelagiri Elephant Park [8kms from Munnar town]

This is an attraction where you can enjoy an elephant ride, Elephant feeding & shower with your kids and family. We can’t make advance reservation. But driver can assist the guest on spot to get the ticket.

Cycling tour in Munnar:

Mostly the ride will be through estate roads, village roads with few ascending and descending, fixing the route as per the guest’s request like easy or moderate (after discussing with guests).

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. We can’t make any advance reservation. Driver can assist the guest on spot to get the ticket from the Kathakali theatre.

Kalaripayattu Show (Duration – 01 Hr and timing – 06:00pm to 07:00pm)

This is a world-famous, ancient, traditional Martial Art form of Kerala renowned as the mother of all “martial arts”. It has a long tradition and later many techniques of this art were adapted into martial arts like karate, kung-fu, judo, etc . We can’t make any advance reservation. Driver can assist the guest on spot to get the ticket from the Kathakali theatre.

Bird Watching: (Duration:- 2- 3 hrs)

Munnar is one of the best places in the Western Ghats to spot some of the endemic birds like Nilgiri Wood pigeon, Nilgiri flycatcher, black and orange flycatcher, Nilgiri pipit, gray breasted laughing thrush, painted bush coil, broad-tailed grass bird, etc., Guest need to start early in the morning & this session would be for about 2-3 hours to spot some of these birds and guest can have another session afternoon from 3:00pm to 6:00 or until 7:00 pm.

Kolukkumalai Jeep safari, tea trail, and Orthodox Tea Factory (1935) visit :(Duration - Full day tour)

The highest tea growing estate in the World

This exclusive Tea tour takes you to the highest tea estate in the world, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. Guest can learn and experience art of tea manufacturing. They can get to know how tea leaves are plucked, processed and end up in their tea cup. This tea tour would instil in them sweet memories of this tour which they would remember the next time they sip a cup of tea.

Kolukkumalai Trek starts from the Suryanelli town, 30 kms from Munnar town. From there they will hop into a 4*4 Jeep and enjoy a 12 km scenic Off road Jeep safari to the World’s highest Tea growing estate. Guests would be exposed to some panoramic views of the surrounding hills. On reaching the estate, 7100 feet above sea level, their Guide would then lead them to the Tea factory, an 1935 British Built heritage Tea factory.

There guest would have their detailed Tea tour. They would get to know the brief history of tea in Munnar and particularly about the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. If they wish they can interact with the Tea workers at Kolukkumalai and learn more about their day to day work etc. After their tour, they can have their picnic lunch and later enjoy the beautiful countryside and return back to Suryanelli in Jeep.

Activity: Jeep Tour of Kolukkumalai Tea Factory and estate

Starting Point: Suryanelli Town

Finishing Point: Suryanelli Town

Timing: 9 am

Duration: 5- 6 Hours

Recommended: For all, except aged people

Chinar wildlife sanctuary safari, through the Anamudi Shola National Park:(Duration - Full day tour) - The biggest shola forest in India

A wonderful drive through Kannan Devan Hills tea plantations, villages, Madupatty, Echo-Point, Kundala Dam and a spectacular drive/walk through the Anamudi shola National Park, where one can see the real nature, birds’ life, tree fern grown like a palm tree etc…, after this 8 kilometres drive/walk guest will enter into a beautiful countryside of the Tamil people where you can see the vegetable cultivations, rise, and Sugarcane cultivations, Muniyara “the historical hermitages” etc…, this drive will take us up the Kerala Tamil Nadu border to a Chinnar wildlife sanctuary and guest will have 2 hours’ trek through the Sanctuary and back to Munnar through the Marayoor Sandal wood forest.

Photographic Spots in Munnar

The first hydroelectric project in Kerala is in Pallivasal which is 3 km away from Chithirapuram in Munnar. Chinnakanal Waterfalls or The Power House Waterfalls cascades beautifully down a 2000 m rock above sea level. The picturesque view of the Western Ghats is best seen from this scenic place. Another 7-8 km of soft trekking will take a traveller to Anayirangal. One shall shoot amazing pictures of elephants coming down from the hill to drink water. Around 32 km from Munnar is Top Station at a height of 1700 m above sea level which is the highest zone on the Kodaikanal-Munnar Road. Neelakurinji blooms in this area offering a panoramic view of the whole Nature-fed region. Visit the Tata Tea Museum in Munnar to see photographs, machinery, and artifacts connected with the energy drink. The location is Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar.

Different types of Trekking in Munnar:

Meesappulimalai Trek:

This is the most adventurous and sought after trekking trail in Munnar. This is a trek to the second highest peak in South India, standing 8661 feet above the sea level, Meesapulimala is known as a trekkers’ paradise. The Meesapulimala trail starts off with a jeep ride to Silent Valley, the starting point. During the jeep ride guest would pass through thick sholas, pine trees, gum trees, tea plantations and finally reach a vast stretch of verdant grasslands. This is where the Meesapulimala Trek begins. The Guide would lead the guest along the thick sholas of Munnar and the high ridges of Western Ghats which offer them some spectacular scenes of Munnar. After few ascents and descents guest would reach the highest point, the summit of Meesapulimala, the scenic view that makes anyone awestruck. Clouds skim pass us and in between we could see the downhill valleys, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate [the highest tea estate in the world], the Anayirangal Dam and many more splendid scenes which would never fade away from our memories. After enjoying the moments here, guest shall start their trek back to Silent Valley. Their jeep will be waiting for them to transfer them back to Munnar town. The Meesapulimala Trekking Trail is without doubt a great addition to anyone’s travel diaries.

Trek Level: Hard

Starting Point: Munnar Town

Finishing Point: Munnar town

Duration: Full day [08 Hours]

Timing: 8am to 4pm

Recommended: For youngsters and experienced trekkers.

Thoovanam Waterfalls Trek:

Munnar is gifted with some blissful waterfalls. In this exclusive trekking trail guests can be taken to the Thoovanam Waterfalls, popular for its spectacular surroundings and the forest ambience. The Thoovanam Waterfalls is located in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary which is 45 kms away from Munnar town. The waterfalls is wide and definitely a great spot to spend time amidst nature. On the way from Munnar town to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary they would pass through the Marayoor Sholas and be treated with some beautiful sights of the Munnar Hills. On reaching the sanctuary, their trek starts. The trek to Thoovanam Falls is around 2 hours, and some people may even take 3 hours. The area is like a storehouse of different species of birds and on the way, the Guide would help them spot many of them. Once they reach the waterfalls, admire the cascading falls and scenic beauty there. One can spend their time in a relaxed and peaceful way for sure.

Trek Level: Easy

Starting Point: Munnar Town

Finishing Point: Munnar town

Trek Duration: 03 Hours

Timing: Anytime between 10 am to 4 pm

Recommended: For those who are physically fit

Lekshmi Hill Trek:

This is small, soft, short duration trek and therefore is recommended to all. This is a 3 to 4 hrs trek program that can be done with a Guide. If clients want to have a short trek in Munnar, then this program can be recommended. This particular trek starts from the Blossom park or Hydel Park [3 kms from Munnar town]. A 40 minute trek along the Tea Plantations would take guests to the top. They would then walk through ridge area. On their left, they could see beautiful grasslands while on to their right is the sprawling tea plantation. They can indeed make use of their time taking pleasure in the heavenly sights all around them. Next up a two and a half hour [In some cases, 3 hours] hike down through the thick sholas and Coffee-Cardamom plantations would take them to the finishing point [5 kms from Munnar town] of the Lekshmi Hills trek. For more details on this please write to us separately.

Kolukkumalai Camping & Trekking Program (2 days): “The highest tea growing estate in the World”

Camp amidst the tea plantations – not just a simple one, but the Highest Organic Tea Estate of the World. Kolukkumalai, a small tea plantation village near Munnar is known for the tea grown in this region which is supposed to have the best flavour due to the high altitude and organic plantation. After visiting this amazing plantation, guest will get a chance to see the processing of tea in one of the tea factories. This is the perfect opportunity for anyone to learn more about the work that goes into tea manufacturing. The next time one sips a cup of tea, he/she will remember this beautiful experience. To know about the detailed program, you may please write to us.

Top station valley trek (Duration 5-6 hours):

After early breakfast, guest can do this trek. They will have to drive up to Yellapetty Estate, around 29 kilometers through the Kannan Devan Hills tea plantations, villages, Madupatty, Echo-Point, Kundala Dam etc…, and the trek will be through the tea plantations, dense shola forests, mountain ridges, shola grass lands, etc.,

Chinnar – Trek Only

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a World Heritage Site, with 11 tribal settlements, 34 species of mammals that includes the threatened Nilgiri Tahr and 245 species of birds, as well as, 965 species of flowering plants. It is home to the Indian Star Tortoise and the largest population of vulnerable mugger crocodiles in Kerala. The drive through the green carpeted tea plantations offers the vast valley view of Thalayaar and Vaguvarai tea estates, along with plenty of flowering trees like Spathodia, Jakaranda poinsettias, etc…, making it one of the best visual delights. In this trek, we shall arrange a direct drive through Marayoor Sandalwood forest to Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Duration of the trek will be for 2 to 3 hours along with a tribal Guide. On the way to Chinnar, we shall arrange to visit historical hermitages based on the timing (if guest can start as early as 5:00am). Please do write to us for more details.

Pambadum Shola National Park – Trek

Pambadum Shola National Park is known for its population of Gaurs (Indian Bison) and is the best area to find the highly endangered Nilgiri Marten. The trek becomes a wonderful experience as it is fully through the rich and dense evergreen Shola Forests. This gives you a chance to spot various endemic birds like Nilgiri flycatcher, Black and orange flycatcher, Nilgiri wood pigeon and the Indian Giant Squirrel. Hence, it becomes a wonderful experience to see the flora and fauna of the area, that is highly protected and one of its kind. It would be a drive of 26 kms from Munnar towards Top station through some of the main sightseeing points covering Madupetty Dam, Echo-point, Kundala Dam which would take 45 minutes to 1 hour drive to the starting point. Please do write to us if you want to arrange this trek for your clients.

TEA PLANTATION VILLAGE TOUR: 3 to 4 hours duration

If guests want to have a first-hand experience of life in one of the tea plantation villages around Munnar, this is the ideal program for them. They get to see the tea plantations, vegetable farms and houses built since the time of British. They will be taken to see the life of the villagers, who are mostly tea plantation workers, who have been residing in the Line houses provided by the company. Most of the present day workers have been a part of the family legacy as tea pickers, with the job handed down to 2nd or 3rd generations from the time of British. Guest will get an insight into their working conditions and lifestyle by interacting with them with the help of the Guide, over a cup of tea. Often they may even get to see them at work in the plantations. This village tour will last for 3 to 4 hours and guest shall be met by the Guide in Munnar Town to accompany them to the village. They can indeed experience the rural beauty with cattle grazing in the meadows and the houses amidst the hills covered with tea plantations. If interested, they can enjoy a cup of tea in a local tea shop or in a house around.

LOCKHART TEA TOUR

One of the well maintained tea factories from the British era, where one get to see the Orthodox tea processing (leaf tea processing) is this place. The old machines are still in use, packaging of the various grades of tea and the ambience itself becomes a fascinating experience to learn more about tea. One can also get an essence of the past in the museum that has antiques and history preserved. Guest can learn more about the plantations and enjoy the landscape through a guided hike to the tea plantations.

This activity is not available on Sundays & Public Holidays.

Optional: (full day)

• Guest can also get an experience of tea tasting program. This gives them a better insight on a tea taster’s job and the whole experience of knowing their tea better.

• Chokaramudi Trek – One of the interesting treks in Munnar, which is on the rocky terrain. We can guarantee one of the best views of the area from here. Guest can learn more about the landscape and enjoy the scenic beauty in the adventurous way.

Hotels in Munnar

Luxury Hotels

Windermere Estate - www.windermeremunnar.com

Vibe Munnar - www.vibemunnar.com

Fragrant Nature Munnar - www.fragrantnature.com

Panoramic Gateway- www.thepanoramic.in

Chandy’s Windy Woods - www.chandyswindywoods.com

The Fog Munnar- www.thefogmunnar.com

Elixer Hills Munnar - www.elixirhills.com

Mountain Club Resort - www.mountainclub.co.in

Amber Dale Luxury Hotel & Spa - https://amberdalemunnar.com

Club Mahindra Lake View www.clubmahindra.com

Spice Tree – www.spicetreemunnar.com

Blanket Hotel & Spa – www.blanketmunnar.com

Deluxe hotels

Fort Munnar - http://www.fortmunnar.com

Tall Trees Resort - www.ttr.in

Devonshire Greens - www.devonshiregreens.com

The Silver Tips- www.silvertipsmunnar.com

Parakkat Nature Hotels & Resorts - www.parakkatresorts.com

Ambady Estate – www.ambadyestate.com

Black Berry Hills Retreat & Spa www.blackberryhillsindia.com

Tall Trees - www.ttr.in

Tea County KTDC - www.ktdc.com/Teacounty.htm

Orchid Highlands - www.orchidmunnar.com

Munnar Queen - www.themunnarqueen.in

Devonshire Greens - www.devonshiregreens.com

Rivulet Resort - www.rivuletresort.com

Munnar Tea Hills Resort - www.munnarteahills.com

Ragamaya Resort & Spa - ww.ragamayamunnar.com

Standard Hotels

Clouds Valley Leisure Hotel - www.cloudsvalley.com

Bracknell Forest – www.bracknell.in

Madhumanthra Resort - www.madhumanthra.com

Dream Catcher Plantation Resort - www.dreamcatchermunnar.com

Misty Mountain Resort - www.mistymountainresort.in

Aranyaka Resort - www.aranyakaresorts.com

Munnar Tea Hills Resort - www.munnarteahills.com

Camelot Resort Munnar - www.camelotmunnar.com

The Munnar Queen Resort - www.themunnarqueen.in

Tea Harvester - www.teaharvestermunnar.com

Grand Plaza - www.grandplazamunnar.com

Nature Zone Jungle Resort - www.thenaturezone.org

Mountain Trail Resort - www.mountaintrailresort.com

Deshadan Mountain Resorts - www.deshadan.com

East End - www.edasserygroup.com

Rose Gardens Homestay - www.munnarhomestays.com

Elysium Garden Hill Resort - www.elysiumgarden.com

Abad Copper Castle - www.abadhotels.com

Ayur County - www.ayurcounty.com

Misty Lake Resort - http://www.stridehotels.com/misty-lake-overview.html

Iindrizzo Spice Valley - www.spicecountryresorts.com

Misty Lake Resort - www.mistylakeresorts.com

Swiss County - www.swisscountymunnar.com

BUDGET HOTEL

Westwood Riverside - www.eternalmewar.in

Archana Residency - www.archanaresidency.com

Great Escapes Resorts - www.germunnar.com

Olive Brook Homestay - www.olivebrookmunnar.com

Whispering Meadows - www.thewhisperingmeadows.com

Las Palms - www.sealordhotels.com

Lake N Hills Resorts - www.lakenhillsresorts.com

Falling waters – http://greenrouteshospitality.com/falling-waters-munnar.html

Munnar Castle – www.munnarcastle.com

At Woods Resorts - www.atwoodresortmunnar.com

Distances from Munnar

Distance Munnar to Cochin is 140Km & will take 04.5hrs drive

Munnar to Alleppey is 190Km & will take 05.5hrs drive

Munnar to Kumarakom 160Km & will take 04.5hrs drive

Munnar to Kottayam 140Km & will take 04hrs drive

Munnar to Madurai 275Km & will take 7hrs drive

Munnar to Kodaikanal 285Km & 07hrs drive

Munnar to Periyar 130Km & 03.5hrs drive

Munnar to Guruvayoor 195Km & 05.5hrs drive

Munnar to Palakkad 235Km & 06hrs drive

Munnar to Kovalam 355Km & 09hrs drive

Nearest Railway Stations from Munnar:

There are no trains directly to Munnar; the nearest railway station to Munnar is Aluva which is 110 kilometres away.

Kottayam, about 142 km away from Munnar.

Ernakulam, about 130 kms away from Munnar.

Madurai railway station is 135 kilometres away.

Nearest Airports from Munnar:

Cochin International Airport, about 120 km away from Munnar;

Madurai (Tamilnadu) is about 160 km away from Munnar;

Hospitals in Munnar:

Munnar has got limited number of hospitals and is with minimum facilities, if the client requires advanced care then they must be transited either to Adimaly government Hospital or drive to Cochin/Kottayam.

Tata General Hospital, Munnar - +91 4865 230270

Arun Hospital, Munnar - +91 4865 230410

Copyright ©2022 South Tourism. All Rights Reserved