Tourist Destinations 4 U: Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable Tourist Destinations in India

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Showing posts with label Munnar Tourist Destinations. Show all posts

Top Tourist Destinations in Munnar: Best Attractions and Things to Do

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a stunning hill station known for its picturesque landscapes, lush tea gardens, tranquil atmosphere, and cool climate. A popular getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Munnar offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring rolling tea plantations, trekking through lush forests, or visiting scenic viewpoints, Munnar has something to offer everyone. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best tourist destinations in Munnar, along with the top attractions and things to do in this beautiful town.

1. Tea Gardens: Explore the Scenic Tea Plantations

Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea gardens, which are one of the town's main attractions. The Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, situated at a height of 7,900 feet, is known to be one of the highest tea plantations in the world. The lush greenery and the view of tea bushes stretching as far as the eye can see is a breathtaking sight. Take a leisurely stroll through the tea plantations or opt for a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process.

2. Eravikulam National Park: A Wildlife Sanctuary Amidst Hills

Eravikulam National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best places to visit in Munnar for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species of mountain goat. The park offers excellent trekking opportunities with trails that lead to Anamudi, the highest peak in South India. The views from the top are spectacular, with a bird’s eye view of Munnar’s lush greenery. It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Munnar’s rich flora and fauna.

3. Attukal Waterfalls: A Scenic Escape

For those who love the sound of cascading water, the Attukal Waterfalls is a beautiful spot to visit. Located amidst the forests, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is perfect for a peaceful retreat. The area is also a great spot for trekking, with several trails leading to the falls. Visit during the monsoon season to witness the waterfall in its full glory when it is at its most powerful.

4. Mattupetty Dam: A Popular Picnic Spot

Mattupetty Dam is another top attraction in Munnar, set amidst the rolling hills of the Western Ghats. The dam’s serene surroundings make it a popular picnic spot for families and tourists. The Mattupetty Lake offers boating facilities where you can enjoy a peaceful ride while taking in the scenic beauty. You can also enjoy trekking around the area and explore the rich wildlife nearby.

5. Top Station: A Viewpoint Offering Panoramic Vistas

If you want a panoramic view of Munnar and the surrounding landscapes, Top Station is the place to visit. Located at an altitude of 1,700 meters, it is the highest point in Munnar and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats and the Kodaikanal hills. The lush greenery, combined with the cool breeze, makes Top Station an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.

6. Kundala Lake: Serenity in the Heart of Munnar

Located about 20 kilometers from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a serene and peaceful destination. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and offers pedal boating and Shikara rides. If you’re looking for a peaceful and relaxing spot to unwind, Kundala Lake is the perfect place to visit.

7. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Adventure and Wildlife

Located about 60 kilometers from Munnar, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and macaques. The sanctuary also offers trekking options that lead to Thoovanam Waterfalls, a hidden gem that adds to the overall beauty of the sanctuary. It is a great place for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the untouched wildlife of Munnar.

8. Pothamedu Viewpoint: A Spectacular Sunset Spot

For breathtaking views of the valleys and the surrounding tea plantations, head to the Pothamedu Viewpoint. Situated just 6 kilometers from Munnar, the viewpoint offers one of the best vantage points to see the town's scenic beauty. It’s especially famous for its stunning sunsets, where the skies turn into a beautiful mix of colors, making it a perfect spot for photography.

9. Neriamangalam: A Hidden Gem

For those looking to escape the crowds, Neriamangalam is a hidden gem located just 40 kilometers from Munnar. Known for its tranquility, the area is perfect for nature walks and peaceful outings. The lush greenery, waterfalls, and scenic beauty make it an ideal spot for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat away from the touristy spots.

10. Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary: A Serene Escape

Located about 50 kilometers from Munnar, the Chilapata Wildlife Sanctuary is a serene and peaceful destination where you can enjoy nature and wildlife. The sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, and bears. It also offers trekking trails for adventure seekers.

Top FAQs About Munnar:

1. When is the best time to visit Munnar?
The best time to visit Munnar is from September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to August) is also a great time to visit for those who enjoy the lush greenery.

2. How do I reach Munnar?
Munnar is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (110 km). The nearest railway station is Aluva Railway Station, about 100 km away. You can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach Munnar.

3. What is Munnar famous for?
Munnar is famous for its tea plantations, beautiful landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene lakes. The region is also known for its pleasant weather and rich biodiversity.

4. What are the must-do activities in Munnar?
Some must-do activities include visiting the tea estates, boating in Mattupetty Lake, trekking in Eravikulam National Park, and exploring the nearby waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.

5. Is Munnar safe for tourists?
Yes, Munnar is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to stay vigilant, especially in remote areas or when trekking.

Conclusion: Why Munnar is a Must-Visit Destination

Munnar is one of the most beautiful and serene hill stations in India. Its lush tea gardens, rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and cool climate make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking to escape the chaos of city life. From trekking in scenic national parks to relaxing by the tranquil lakes, Munnar has something for every kind of traveler. So pack your bags and head to Munnar for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature's beauty!

Munnar Hill Station: A Top Nature Destination in Kerala, India

Discover Munnar: A Beautiful Hill Station in Kerala"

Munnar, located in the Idukki district of Kerala, is one of India’s most famous hill stations. Known for its vast tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, and scenic landscapes, Munnar attracts nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility. Whether you're looking to escape the bustling city life or experience Kerala's natural beauty, Munnar is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Munnar and making the most of your trip to this captivating hill station.

Top Tourist Destinations in Munnar

Tea Gardens: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, which cover the hills in a lush green carpet. A visit to these tea gardens provides a peaceful environment and a chance to learn about the tea production process.
Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this national park offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and is one of the top spots for wildlife enthusiasts.
Mattupetty Dam: A great place for boating and enjoying the serenity of the surroundings. The dam offers panoramic views of the reservoir and the mountains.
Anamudi Peak: The highest peak in South India, offering opportunities for trekking and awe-inspiring vistas of Munnar’s forests and valleys.
Attukal Waterfalls: A stunning waterfall, nestled in the dense forests of Munnar, is perfect for photography and a quick retreat into nature.
Kundala Lake: Known for its beautiful scenery, Kundala Lake is ideal for pedal boating and enjoying a calm day amidst lush greenery.
Tea Museum: A must-visit for tea lovers, the museum provides fascinating insights into the history and growth of tea cultivation in Munnar.

Best Time to Visit Munnar

The best time to visit Munnar is between September and March, during the winter months. This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring Munnar’s natural beauty.

If you enjoy the monsoon season, visiting Munnar during June to August can be a magical experience, but be prepared for heavy rainfall, which might cause landslides in some areas.

Summer (March to May) can be warm, with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C, but it's still a good time if you're looking to escape the heat of the plains.

How to Reach Munnar

Munnar is well connected to various major cities in Kerala and beyond. Here's how you can reach Munnar:

By Air: The nearest airport to Munnar is the Cochin International Airport (approximately 110 km away). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is Aluva Railway Station, which is around 100 km from Munnar. You can take a taxi or bus from Aluva to reach Munnar.
By Road: Munnar is well connected by road to cities like Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore. You can take a private taxi, bus, or even rent a car to travel to Munnar.

Top FAQs About Munnar

1. What is Munnar known for?
Munnar is renowned for its tea plantations, scenic landscapes, wildlife sanctuaries, and trekking opportunities.

2. Is Munnar a good destination for a honeymoon?
Yes, Munnar is a popular honeymoon destination in Kerala, offering a peaceful and romantic atmosphere with beautiful vistas, private resorts, and natural beauty.

3. What are the best activities to do in Munnar?
You can enjoy trekking, wildlife safaris, visiting tea gardens, boating at Mattupetty Lake, and exploring local markets for handmade crafts and spices.

4. How many days should I spend in Munnar?
A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore Munnar’s main attractions at a relaxed pace.

5. Is Munnar safe for tourists?
Yes, Munnar is a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always best to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding remote areas during heavy rainfall.

6. Can I visit Munnar with kids?
Absolutely! Munnar offers family-friendly activities like visiting the tea gardens, boating, and exploring the national parks, making it a perfect destination for families.

Conclusion

Munnar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the hills. With its serene tea plantations, breathtaking landscapes, and cool climate, it’s a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're planning a solo trip, a honeymoon, or a family vacation, Munnar has something for everyone.

So, pack your bags, and head to Munnar for a refreshing and unforgettable holiday!

MUNNAR, MUNNAR KERALA, TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN MUNNAR, MUNNAR TOURIST DESTINATIONS

Munnar Kerala

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill station of Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park
One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. This park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once in twelve years.

Mattupetty
Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, is Mattupetty. Situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level, Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows.

Pallivasal
Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot.

Chinnakanal & Anayirangal
Near the town of Munnar is Chinnakanal and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges. When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal, 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.

Tea Museum
Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.

Getting there
Nearest railway station: Aluva about 108 km and Angamali, about 109 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, via Aluva - Munnar Rd, about 108 km

Munnar, Munnar Kerala, Munnar Tourist Places, Munnar Tourist Attractions, Munnar Tourist Destinations, Munnar Hill Station Kerala

Munnar Tourist Places

Munnar is an incredibly spectacular and irresistibly enthralling hill station located in the district of Idukki in the Indian state of Kerala, Munnar is most popular Tourist Destination in India. Munnar is also on the list of Top 10 Indian Tourist Destinations. Without visiting Munnar Kerala, no tour is worthy in India for a travel lover. Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams. The name ‘Munnar’ means ‘Three Rivers’ and indicates the place’s peculiar setting at the convergence of the Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower that bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m.

MUNNAR PLACES TO VISIT

Pothanmedu -6Km from Munnar

Pothanmedu is a scenic spot offering majestic views of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The undulating hills, the lush mountain and the incredible scenery here is ideal for trekking and extensive mountain walks. Pothanmedu View is a very comely place, extremely scenic and extremely pleasing to eyes. Inhabited by tea estate workers, Pothanmedu View is a small village some km away in Idukki. At a high point of Munnar, from where the town of Munnar seem to a toy, Pothanmedu provides a bird`s eye view of the entire Munnar and adjoining areas to the town. Pothanmedu is quiet famous with trekkers and adventure junkies. Pothanmedu is catapulted to fame for its lush and green cardamom and tea plantations through which the trekkers make their way. It is an excellent place for a revamping oneself and taking nature walk in to the mountains. Sights of green Cardamom Valleys, the Muthirapuzha River and the near by valleys is really awesome.

Poopara

Poopara is a traveller's spot in Idukki, which is less affected by changing seasons. Sceneries, cool climate and large areas of protected forest with cardamom plantations are sure to attract any city-dwelling traveler.Seasonal change is a factor to be reckoned before setting out on a journey to enjoy and learn nature's creative moods. A waterfall never remains the same when one visits it after a few months of his previous visit. Though we do not normally experience the four seasons in their full strength, variations in climatic conditions make on all life forms. A dense forest turn thin during summer, taking away much of its greenery.A view from Bodymettu, near here, to the plains bordering Tamil Nadu, is clear. Fast spreading fogs that affect vision are a rare phenomenon, thanks to the presence of large rocky barren grasslands on the north-eastern side. During December and January for appears, but not to any great extent.Going on a visit to Poopara during summer is a real pleasure.

Devikulam-7Km from Munnar
Devikulam is an idyllic hill station and the most sought-after among the tourist attractions of Munnar featuring sprawling lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cold mountain air. The most famous spot of Devikulam is the Sita Devi Lake which is ideal for trout fishing. It is believed that the lake at Devikulam is the same place where Lord Rama and Goddess Sita had took bath and thus consecrating the waters with curative powers. Pallivasal Waterfalls and the bluish as well as reddish gum and rubber trees are situated near the lake.

Mattupetty Indo Swiss Project -13Km from Munnar
Indo-Swiss Project site in Mattupetty is a Cattle and Research Centre set in Munnar established by Government of India in collaboration with Switzerland government. The Project site is located at the middle of vast grassland which stretches miles like carpet and green-fluffy rug. Cattle of high-yielding cattle are bred in the vicinity of this area and long stretching gardens at the site is really scenic to take a ramble around.Mattupetty Lake and dam is a short distance from the farm and is a beautiful picnic spot.

The Mattupetty lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot.The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam.Speed launch and motorboats are available on hire.

time: 0900-1100 hrs and 1400-1530 hrs. Rate Rs.5 per head. Telephone:0486-530389.

EravikulamNational Park-15Km from Munnar
Eravikulam National Park is home of the Nilgiri Tahr and the Anamudi Peak. The park was initially established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex) and was recognized as a national park in the year 1978. It is spread over an area of 97 sq kms and is one of the most sought-after among the tourist attractions in Munnar. This park is remarkably beautiful and is a gem to the crown of Munnar.

Attukal Waterfalls-9Km from Munnar
Attukal Waterfalls offer uninterrupted panoramic view of waterfalls and verdant hills and is located between Munnar and Pallivasal. This place is an ideal choice if you plan to go for long trekks.

Top Station -32Kms from Munnar
Top station is located amidst scenic surroundings on the border of Kerala (Idukki) and Tamil Nadu (Theni), at an elevation of 1,700 mts. Top Station was a transshipment point for delivery of tea from Munnar to Bodinayakkanur. Top Station derived its name from its being the uppermost located railway station on the Kundala Valley Railway, built in 1902 between Munnar, Kundalai and this hilltop location. A monorail goods carriage system was soon installed along this cart route. In 1908 the monorail was replaced by a 24 inch gauge railway. Middle Station (Kundalai) is 12 kilometers west from Top Station on the way from Lower Station Munnar.Some remains of Kundala Valley Railway can be seen at the Munnar Tea Museum.Tea chests arriving at Top Station from the Kundalai Valley were transported by a ropeway from Top Station 5 km down hill to the south to Kottagudi, Tamilnadu. The tea was then shipped 15 km by cart to Bodinayakkanur, then by rail to other places in India and ship to England.[1] Remains of the ropeway station at Top Station are still visible. Elevation at top of Bodi ropeway was 1,911 meters (6,270 ft)

Marayoor (Nearest town to Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary.)
Marayoor terrain is specked with wave like mountains, rain and deciduous forests, riverbank forests, paddy fields, waterfalls, rugged rocky hills, shoals, hamlets, brooks and hamlets and so on and so forth. Marayoor, meaning ``hidden land`` has its roots in Tamil and Malayalam language. According to the legend, Marayoor is supposed to be the same place where Pandavas stationed for short span during their exile. The Pandavas used Marayoor as a hidden closet to remain away from the comforts of their palace and Kingdom. Many historians date the account to Stone Age and period near, according to the dolmen and paintings found in the area.

Nyayamakad(10km from Munnar)
Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 metres. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Chithirapuram(10 km from Munnar):
With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old-world charm.Home of the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.

Lock Heart Gap (13km from Munnar):
This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mistclad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of visit.

Rajamala (15km from Munnar):
This is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri tahr. Half the world population of the rare mountain goat (Hemitragas bylocres) which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here. The Nilgiri tahrs are today redused to small herds found in the Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Nilgiri tahrs in Rajamala is estimated at 1317.

Echo Point (15 km from Munnar)
This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Stations from Munnar.

Power House waterfalls (18 km from Munnar)
This waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock, 2000m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.

Kundala (20 km from Munnar)
Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Stations. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction.Aruvikkad waterfalls is also near Kundala.

Pallivasal
Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot.

Chinnakanal & Anayirangal
Near the town of Munnar is Chinnakanal and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges. When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal, 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.

Tea Museum
Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.
Excursions From Munnar

Anayirankal (22km from Munnar)
It is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirankal Dam is surrounded by the Tata Tea Plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.

Top station (32 km from Munnar)
1700 m above sea level, this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. The rare Nilakurinji (strobilanthus) belongs to this region. This plant blooms wants every 12 years bathing the hill sides in bright blue. Top Station also offers a panoramic view of the neighboring state of Tamilnadu.

Cheeyappara
The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Nariamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi Madurai highway. The Cheeyappara waterfalls cascade down in seven steps. It is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking.

Meenuli
It is noted for two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge Rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and is an ideal spot for mountaineering

Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary (60 km from Munnar)
Situated on the Tamilnadu Boarder, The Chinnar wild life sanctuary is spread across 90.44 Sq.km.

Accessing Munnar:
Munnar is connected only by road. By road: Distance from Munnar to some tourist centres- Cochin: 150 km, Thekkady: 110 km, Alleppey: 180 km, Kodaikkanal: 195 km, Kumarakom: 160 km, Trinavdrum: 360 km, Anamudi: 20 km.

Nearest railway station: Kottayam railway station, 142 km away & Cochin railway station, 150Km away

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, 130 km away and in neighboring Tamil Nadu, Madhurai Airport, 142 km away.

Munnar, Munnar Kerala, Munnar Tourist Places, Munnar Tourist Attractions, Munnar Tourist Destinations, Munnar Hill Station Kerala

Munnar, Munnar Tourist Places, Munnar Hill Station, Munnar Tourist Attraction, Munnar Tourist Destinations

Munnar, the famous hill station of south India, is a romantic locale where natural beauty is everywhere to visit, explore and to enjoy. Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala – and the word ‘Munnar’ means three rivers in Malayalam.

Munnar situated about 1600m above sea level, the hill station had been the summer resort of the British Government during the colonial era. Imprints of the colonial past stand tall in the Munnar town in the form of English country cottages. 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 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.

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill station of Munnar

Anamudi Peak
Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in south India standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.
Mattupetty

Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, is Mattupetty. Situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level, Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows.
Pallivasal

Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot

Top Station
Top Station, which is about 32 km from Munnar is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurinji flowers blooming over a vast area.
Tea Museum

Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.

Getting there in Munnar
Nearest railway station: Aluva about 108 km and Angamali, about 109 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, via Aluva - Munnar Rd, about 108 km