Munnar

Munnar, the popular hill station of south India, is a heartfelt region where regular magnificence is wherever to visit, investigate and to appreciate. Munnar is arranged at the intersection of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala – and the word ‘Munnar’ signifies three waterways in Malayalam. Arranged about 1600m above ocean level, the hill station had been the mid year resort of the British Government during the pioneer period. Engravings of the pioneer past stand tall in the Munnar town as English nation bungalows. Virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, scenic valleys, numerous streams, huge splashy waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways are all essential for the extraordinary occasion insight on proposal for an explorer to Munnar. Munnar is likewise known for Neelakurinji, an uncommon plant which blossoms just a single time in twelve years. The ‘kurinji season’ in Munnar is a great sight when the slopes and valleys get washed in the blue of the Neelakurinji sprouts.

Step by step instructions to Reach Munnar

By Road

For any guests, they can undoubtedly arrive at Munnar as the hill station is very much associated with other significant spots across South India. This beautiful hill station has a decent availability with places like Bangalore, Wayanad, Kochi and other mainstream urban communities.

By Train

Munnar don't have its own rail route station. Guests can make it to the Aluva Train Station and Madurai Train Station that are situated around 130km and 135km from Munnar. After landing in both of these two stations, guests can board customary transports or recruit private vehicles to arrive at Munnar.leo.

By Air

Cochin International Airport which is around 125km from Munnar fills in as the closest air terminal to this stunning hill station in Kerala. The air terminal encounters a decent measure of air-traffic from practically every one of the significant Indian urban areas and a few worldwide objections too. From the air terminal, guests can book prepaid cabs to arrive at Munnar.

Places to visit In Munnar

Photo Point

At a distance of 4 km from Munnar Bus Station, Photo Point is a beautiful spot on Mattupetty road lined up with tea gardens on both sides. As the name suggests, this place is a famous photography point in Munnar due to its breathtaking background of mountains surrounded by lush green tea gardens. Photo Point is one of the best tourist places to visit in munnar.

The tea gardens are owned by Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Limited owned by Tata Group and it is a private property. Visitors can take photographs at the entrance of garden without disturbing the plantations.

This place is situated on the main road with running traffic and tourists are advised to be careful while taking pictures standing close to the road.

Mattupetty Dam

Just 13 Km drive Kerala is a must visit site to enjoy the scenic surroundings of Kerala Backwaters. Stay for couple of hours and you will be thrilled in seeing groups of elephants visiting here. This is why, Mattupetty Dam often referred as water holes. The Gravity Dam is used for water storage and producing electricity.

Constructed in 1953, the lake and dam surrounded by wooden hills and tea plantations, makes a great view. Boating in the Mattupetty Lake is a memorable experience. If possible, hire an exclusive speed boat. Often, elephants from surrounded forest take bath in the waters of the lake and watching them (while boating) is a pleasant experience. This place is also famous for Eucalyptus Oil, which is sold near the dam. The tea plantations enroute the Dam might be crowded with visitors rushing to take snaps.

Mattupetty Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM, Boating Fee: Speed boat – Rs.600 for 15 min (max. 5 persons)

Mattupetty is also famous for its highly specialized dairy farm, an Indo-swiss project. It is open for visitors between 9 AM to 11 AM and 2 PM to 3:30 PM.

Kundala Lake

The lake is formed by Kundala artificial dam, which is a small dam in cured shape. The lake offer boating facility. The unique experience of boating in Kashmiri boats in this lake is a special attraction. These boats are also known as Shikara Boats. Kundala Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing in Munnar.

There is also a golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd in Kundala village.

Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM

Boating Fee (30 minutes): Shikara Boat – Rs 200 for 2 persons, Row Boats – Rs 150 for 4 persons, Pedal Boat – Rs 100 for 2 persons

Top Station

At an altitude of 2200 meters, this place is also known for the Neelakurunji Plant, which flowers only once every 12 years (next flowering year is 2018). The view point is at a distance of 2 kms from the road point and has to be trekked down. The trek path is very steep with deep valleys one side. One should be very careful while trekking to the view point, which offers lifetime memories. Top Station is the highest approachable road in South India.

The viewpoint at Top Station offers breathtakingly beautiful views of Kannan Devan Hills. The valleys all around, the misty mountains and distant waterfalls all make this place a must visit spot in Munnar.

Top Station is also a wonderful trekking destination in Munnar. There are multiple trekking routes in Top Station. The most popular route starts from Kurangani, a small village in Theni district of Tamilnadu. The total distance of Kurangani to Top Station is about 9 km and it usually takes around 6 hours to complete the trek. Camping is also allowed on the trail if overnight stay is preferred. This can also be done as a single day trek. This trek is of moderate difficulty with well marked path.

Other trekking trails start from Top Station and run through Pambadum Shola National Park and end up at Vattavada / Koviloor in Kerala or take a diversion to Kilavari / Kavunji in Tamilnadu (known as Kerala – Tamilnadu border trail).

Pothamedu Viewpoint

Pothamedu Viewpoint offers panoramic view of Kannan Devan Hills of Munnar region and it also offers a great view of the surrounding tea gardens. Pothamedu Viewpoint is one of the most popular tourist places in Munnar and a wonderful place to spend sometime in the lap of the nature with great views.

Pothamedu Viewpoint is easily accessible from Munnar by road.

Lock Heart Gap/ Lockhard Gap

Lock Heart Gap provides a panoramic views of the mountains and valleys of Munnar and it’s one of the must visit place in Munnar. This is also a great sunset point on a clear day. This is situated close to the main road and easily accessible from Munnar. The road from Munnar to Lock Heart Gap is full of tea plantations and it is a nice stretch for photography.

The nearby Lockheart Tea Estate is another attraction which provides wonderful opportunity to learn tea dust making process.

Devikulam

The name Devikulam is a combination of two words Devi from the goddess Devi and kulam meaning pond. According to legend, the goddess Sita Devi bathed in Devikulam Lake now named as Sita Devi Lake. The lake draws tourists not only because of its sacredness but also for the curative powers of its mineral waters. The lake is also idle for trout fishing. The scenic beauty, adventure sports, beliefs and religion come together to make the Sita Devi Lake a major tourist attraction in Devikulam.

The lush green open spaces and the high cliffs of Devikulam provide scope for hiking and mountaineering. There are several tea plantations in and around Devikulam that add to the charm of the hill resort. The gum trees in red and blue are the other major highlights of the natural vegetation at Devikulam. For those of the tourists to Devikulam interested in visiting the tea estates, tea plantations or the factories conducted tours are available. Power House Waterfall, Lock Heart Gap and Anayirankal Dam are the nearest attractions to Devikulam.

Prior permission from Tata Tea Regional Officer (Kanan Devan Hills Plantations – at KDHP House in Munnar) is required in order to visit the lake. There are a lot of small places where you can stay for the night. The Government owned Guest House at Devikulam ensures a comfortable stay in the midst of the misty slopes of the Western Ghats.

Devikulam can be visited anytime of the year due to its pleasant climate.

Idduki Dam

Idukki Arch Dam is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam, constructed on Periyar river across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills.

The 550 feet high and 650 feet wide dam lies close to the Cheruthoni Barrage. According to the legend, two natives were cursed by Lord Rama when he caught them staring at bathing Sita. The two natives, Koravan and Kurathi who were converted into stones (on opposite banks of Periyar river) begged Lord Rama for mercy since they had never stayed separate. Lord Rama blessed them that they will stay together for years to come. And, today, the Idukki Arch Dam links the two hillocks, Koravan Mala and Kurathi Mala. The Underground Power House is located at Moolamattom, 43 Kms from Idukki Dam.

The Reservoir is formed by three dams, namely, Idukki, Cheruthoni and Kulamavu. Boating facility is available in the reservoir.

Idukki is connected by frequent bus service from Munnar.

Kalvari Mount/ Calvary Mount

The Kalvari Mount Viewpoint offers a charming view of Idukki Reservoir from Idukki to Ayyappancovil on one side and panoramic view of Kamakshy and Mariyapuram villages on the other side. It is one of the most scenic places in Idukki and a must visit place in the district.

The view point is situated near Thankamani Junction on Thodupuzha – Puliyanmala highway.

Ilaveezha Poonchira

laveezha Poonchira is a beautiful valley spread across thousands of acres at the foot of three hillocks – Mankunnu, Kudayathur Hill and Thonippara near Kanjar. Ilaveezha Poonchira (meaning – the valley where leaves don’t fall) has no trees, and is literally a place where leaves do not fall.

Surrounded by hillocks raised above 3000 feet from sea level, Ilaveezha Poonchira is an ideal place for trekking. This is one of the best places to watch Sunrise and Sunset. The wonderful views of Malankara Dam can be viewed from this place. Malankara Dam (7 Kms), Thommankuthu Waterfalls (30 Kms) & Vagamon (35 Kms) are near by places of interest.

Eravikulm National park

At a distance of 16 Kms from Munnar, Rajamalai is a tiny hill station located inside Eravikulam National Park on Munnar – Udumalpet Road. The Eravikulam National Park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. The park is extended into Tamil Nadu and known as Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Trip to Rajamalai is one of the top things to do in Munnar and also a popular place for trekking in Munnar.

This region is famous as the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Nearly half the world’s population of this rare species is found in area. Other faunal species found in the park are elephant Gaur, Giant Squirrel, Leopard, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Tiger, and Sambar.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a rain shadow area of the Western Ghats which gets only 48 days of rain per year. It is under consideration by UNESCO for selection as a World Heritage Site. It is one of the prime attractions and top trekking sites in Munnar.

Situated on Kerala-Tamil Nadu boarder, it is bordered with Eravikulam National Park, Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home for 34 species of Mammals, including Panthers, Spotted deer, Indian Elephants, Gaur, Tigers, Sambar Deer, Common langur, Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman monkey, Nilgiri Tahr, etc.

There are multiple entry points to the safari – at Kerala boarder checkpost, at Chinnar checkpost and Alampetty checkpost. There are no organized safaris in Chinnar Sanctuary. The sanctuary can be explore by taking different trekking …..

Thoovanam waterfalls

Thoovanam waterfalls are one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala. It is located inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary near Kerala – Tamil Nadu boarder. This is one of the best among Munnar places to visit and also a popular trekking trail in Munnar. The falls are formed by Pambar River.

At a distance of 4 Kms from Alampetty Junction Checkpost on Munnar – Udamalpet Road, Thoovanam waterfalls is also a popular trekking route in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. This cascading falls is a wonderful place to enjoy the nature, dip & swim in the crystal clear water of Pambar River.

The waterfall has to be reached by 4 Kms trek from Alampetty Checkpost, which is situated on Munnar – Udalampet highway and connected by buses from Munnar. The Thoovanam waterfalls trip is a guided trek (forest guides must be accompanied) and usually takes 2-3 …..

Rose Garden

Rose Garden is a well maintained flower garden situated on Munnar – Top Station Highway in Munnar, Kerala. It is one of the top places to visit in Munnar.

Munnar Rose Garden is a beautiful garden with hundreds of rare varieties of flowers and herbal plants. With large tea plantations in the background, this place can be visited during a trip to Munnar. The garden is operated by Kerala Forest Development Centre (KFDC), a Govt. of Kerala undertaking. Spread across a few acres of land, this place has an amenity center for tourists and a sales outlet, in addition to hundreds of rare varieties of flowers, cactus, shrubs, creepers and herbal plants. The amenity center inside the garden has toilets, shop, snacks, coffee etc.

Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 30 for Person

Nyayamakad Waterfalls

Nyayamakad Waterfalls is one of the highest cascading falls in Kerala. It is located on Munnar – Udamalpet road close to the entrance of Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the best waterfalls around Kerala.

The water here drops from a height of more than 1500 meters cascading through rocks over several steps. The water is collected into a big pool at the bottom which is great place to spend some time. This waterfall Is close to the Rajamalai entrance and can be visited along with Rajamalai / Eravikulam Park. It needs about 10 minutes walk from the main road.

Trekking is a popular activity here. One can enjoy the marvelous views of surrounding valleys of Western Ghats including Anamudi and other peaks. Trekking to some of the upper levels of the falls is possible through rock climbing though it’s little risky in Monsoons.

Chinnakanal & Anayirangal

Power House Waterfalls (also called as Chinnakanal Waterfalls) is located near Chinnakanal village after Devikulam about 1 Km from NH49 (towards Thekkady – Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary).

Falling through a steep rock from a height of about xx feet, this cascading waterfall is a wonderful place to spend few hours. The stream is said to be originated from scenic & sacred Devikulam Hills. It is one of the best waterfalls in Munnar. There is a natural pool at bottom of the falls.

Best time to visit the falls is during post monsoon season. It is possible to reach the bottom of the falls by trekking down the hills. Swimming in the pool at bottom of the falls is a memorable experience.

Anayirankal Dam is a lovely place located on NH49 (towards Palani, after Devikulam).

The surroundings of the falls are full of tea plantations & forests and appear like a green carpet. It is one of the earliest Dams built in India using concrete. Elephants are also spotted in the vicinity of reservoir.

Valara Waterfalls

Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49), near Cheeyappara Waterfalls.

Valara features a chain of waterfalls falling from a height of about 1000 feet and provide a magnificent view. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush, dense forests that are home to a variety of animals and birds. It is one of the top waterfalls near Munnar.

Though the falls are visible from highway, it demands good amount of trekking to reach the bottom of the falls. The surrounding places of the Valara Falls are good for trekking. The falls offer spectacular views in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.

This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

Lakkam Waterfalls / Lakkom Falls

Lakkam Waterfalls is one of the popular falls around Munnar and a wonderful tourist attraction. It is situated between Rajamalai and Marayoor on Munnar – Udamalpet road.

With a height of over 50 feet, this wide and scenic waterfall is situated in dense forest. The water is collected into a small pool at the bottom and it offers a great opportunity to play in the cold mineral waters of the Lakkam Waterfalls. The waterfall is formed by Eravikulam Stream which is originated in the Eravikulam National Park. This stream is a tributary to Pambar River which is merged in to River Cauvery.

The waterfall is situated close to the main road and needs a little walk for 10 minutes to reach from the road. Post monsoon season between October and January is the best season to visit the falls for best experience though the falls carry good flow of water till March.

Idukki

Idukki is one of the beautiful hill stations in Kerala and among the most beautiful Kerala places to visit. It is the second largest district in Kerala state (Painavu as headquarters). Idukki district is also home to South India’s highest peak, Anamudi (2695 meters), along with 13 other peaks with a height of over 2000 meters. It is a popular for Idukki Dam which also offers beautiful rides in backwaters of the lake.

Idukki offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation centers and mountain treks. The district was formed on January 26, 1972 carving out Devikulam, Peerumedu and Udumbanchola taluks from Kottayam district and Thodupuzha taluk from Ernakulum district. High ranges and wooded …..

Distance(FromMunnar): 45Kms

Trip Duration (From Munnar – Including Travel): 1-2 Days

Thommankuthu Waterfalls, Near Idukki

Thommankuthu Waterfalls is a marvelous seven step cascading waterfall dropping from a height of over 300 feet with pool at each level.

It is a best place to spend a day watching the nature and drown in the waters of the falls. Trekking into the surrounding picturesque hills is another popular activity at this place.

This place is connected by bus from Munnar and Thodupuzha. There are no accommodation facilities available near the falls.

Distance (From Munnar): 48 Kms Trip Duration (From Idukki – Including Travel): 3 Hours

Kalvari Mount / Calvary Mount, Near Idukki

Kalvari Mount, also known as Calvary Mount is an important tourist place in Idukki District.

The view point is situated near Thankamani Junction on Thodupuzha – Puliyanmala highway.

Distance (From Munnar): 50 Kms Trip Duration (From Idukki – Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Keezharkuthu Falls / Rainbow Waterfalls, Near Idukki

Thodupuzha, Keezharkuthu Waterfalls (also known as Rainbow Waterfalls) is a popular tourist sport near Idukki.

It is a cascading waterfalls falling through several steps from a height of over 1500 meters. It is also an ideal place for rock climbing & mountaineering. This place is good to visit throughout the year

The falls are located in deep forest and can be reached by trekking through the forests for over 2 Kms.

Nearest town to the falls is Udambannoor, which is connected by Bus with Idukku, Munnar and Thodupuzha. From Udambannoor, the falls are about 6 Kms and there is approach road for about 4 Kms which can be reached by Jeep / Auto. The remaining 2 Kms is trek path.

Distance (From Munnar): 63 Kms Trip Duration (From Munnar – Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day

Nadukani

Nadukani is a small hill station in Ernakulam district. It is 35 Kms from Thodupuzha, close to NH49 near Kothamangalam.

At an altitude of 3000 feet, Nadukani is an ideal destination for trekking and mountaineering. On the sunny day Nadukani offers a clear view of the areas extending to Thodupuzha. The excellent view of the Muvattupuzha River that forms Malankara Lake on Malankara Dam is feast to the eyes.

Malankara Dam

Malankara Dam & Lake (in Idukki district) is a lovely place located at a distance of 7 Kms from Thodupuzha on Thodupuzha-Erattupetta route.

Malankara Lake, spread over 11 Kms is an artificial lake formed as part of Muvattupuzha Valley Irrigation Project. The Dam is constructed across Thodupuzha River for irrigation purpose. This place is a very good picnic spot with boating facilities in the lake.

It is located on SH8 and easily accessible from Thodupuzha by Bus, Auto & Cab. Thodupuzha is accessible by Bus from all parts of Kerala.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls is about 27 Kms from this place which is connected by Bus from Thodupuzha.

Distance (From Munnar): 80 Kms Trip Duration (From Munnar – Including Travel): 4 Hours/Half Day

Tea Museam

The Tea Museum, previously known as Tata Tea Museum, is the first such museum situated in Kerala. It’s built with the purpose to show and educate visitors about the good old tea business in the area and how today’s tea business evolved over a period of time. You will know how much efforts it really takes to make a cup of tea. Thank You Sir JRD TATA. Read more about Tea Museum in Munnar