Plan a Trip To Munnar
Munnar is a quaint town and an idyllic hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala – and the word ‘Munnar’ means three rivers in Malayalam. It is also an ideal place for trekking, camping, paragliding and boating. As it’s a hilly region, Jeep safari is also a popular activity to experience. Munnar is often visited along with Alleppey and Thekkady, the two most popular tourist destinations in Kerala.
Sprawling tea plantations surround the serene hills of Munnar, which attract adventure travellers hungry for paragliding, treks to Anaimudi (South India’s highest peak) and hikes originating at the confluence of three mountain streams. . Virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, scenic valleys, numerous streams, huge splashy waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways are all part of the great holiday experience on offer for a traveler to Munnar.
Munnar is a spectacular spot in Kerala, and its beauty attracts thousands of visitors every year towards it. What makes Munnar even more popular is the presence of three rivers that flow through this area, namely Mattupetti, Periavaru, and Nallathanni.
The hill station is a haven for shopping for tea and spices. Cardamom, ginger, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, coffee and a variety of homemade chocolates can be bought from the number of shops spread across the hill town. Various viewpoints are segregated throughout this area, from where you can have a look at the stunning valleys, hills, and rivers. It’s pleasant hills, pristine lakes, and rocky terrains have further made it a popular trekking and camping site.
Munnar is also known for Neelakurinji, a rare plant which flowers only once in twelve years. The ‘kurinji season’ in Munnar is a magnificent sight when the hills and valleys get bathed in the blue of the Neelakurinji blooms.
Trekking and camping are the most popular activities that you must try during your visit to Munnar. Apart from this, you can stay in a treehouse or visit the tea plantations for a surreal experience. Safari tour of Eravikulam National Park and Shikara ride in Kundala lake should also be the top things to do in Munnar.
The weather in Munnar remains quite pleasant throughout the year, but in summer, people especially come to this place to escape from the scorching heat in other parts of the country.
Places To Visit
Echo Point
Located at an altitude of 600 ft. and at a distance of about 15 kilometres from Munnar, Echo Point is situated right in the lap of a quaint lake and misty hills covered with lush green trees. The unique beauty of the Echo Point marks the confluence of three mountain ranges, Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Situated on the banks of a lake, the calm and serenity of this place are enchanting.
Entry Fee : ₹30 for adults , ₹15 for kids
Timing : 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Eravikulam National Park
The national park is a protected area and is divided into three regions – the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area that is in Rajamala, the region lying beyond the road entry into Eravikulam. Eravikulam is also famous for the natural habitat of Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered mountain goat and this park is built with the aim of conserving them.
Entry Fee : Rs 125 For Adults , Rs 95 for Children
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Idukki is home to the Great Grizzled Squirrel of India. Numbering less than 200, they are among the most endangered species on the planet. The beautiful Sandalwood forest nearby is highly recommended for a visit. One can view herds of gaur and elephants strolling around casually in this area.
Tea Museum
The unique tea museum run by the Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company Private Limited, the first of its kind in the country showcases the history of tea cultivation in Munnar since 1876 when tea was first planted in this tea plantation district. On display are several rare artefacts and curios as well as evocative photographs from an era long forgotten and of which few are aware.
Anamudi
Anamudi Peak is located in the Eravikulam National Park, and you will find different species of animals like Asian elephants, Gaurs and Nilgiri Tahrs. The peak offers a breathtaking view of the valley and hills around. You can see the tea plantations, spice plantations and the wildlife in the area.
Entry Fee : Free
Timing : 24 hr
Punarjani Traditional Village
Punarjani means rebirth, and this cultural centre aims to rejuvenate the traditions of Kerala. You can enjoy two styles of performing arts. Visiting the Punarjani art and culture centre is one of the best things to do in Munnar at night. It is best suited for art and culture enthusiasts.
Entry Fee : Rs 300-Rs 500