Munnar is a beautiful hill station in Kerala, known for its stunning tea gardens and cool climate. It’s a perfect escape from the summer heat, with lovely hills, waterfalls, and wildlife. Popular places to visit include Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, and Anamudi Peak. With its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, Munnar is a great destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure.

Getting to Munnar

Munnar is well-connected by road, and the nearest airport is in Cochin (around 130 km away). You can also take a train to Aluva or Ernakulam and then hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar.

7 Best Munnar Places to Visit

Munnar, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a nature lover’s paradise. Known for its rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and stunning landscapes, Munnar offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here are the seven best Munnar places to visit that will leave you spellbound.

Eravikulam National Park

Renowned for its unique Nilgiri Tahr (an endangered mountain goat species), Eravikulam National Park is a nature lover’s delight. The park offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and the opportunity to spot various other wildlife species, including the Nilgiri langur and the Indian elephant. It is open from 7 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee for Indians is INR 65, while for foreigners, it’s INR 265.

Near Eravikulam National Park, you can enjoy a variety of activities:

1. Wildlife Spotting: Look for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and other wildlife.
2. Trekking: Explore the park’s scenic trails, including the popular Anamudi Peak trek.
3. Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant flora.
4. Nature Walks: Take leisurely walks to soak in the natural beauty and serene environment.
5. Bird Watching: Spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Tea Museum

No visit to Munnar is complete without exploring the region’s rich tea-growing heritage. The Tea Museum, located in the Nullatanni Estate, offers an insightful look into the history and processing of tea. You can learn about the different stages of tea production and even witness a live demonstration. The museum is open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee is INR 75 for adults and INR 25 for children.

Activities Near the Tea Museum in Munnar:

1. Tea Tasting: Sample different varieties of freshly brewed teas and learn about their unique flavors.
2. Tea Plantation Tours: Take a guided tour through lush tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process.
3. Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the rolling tea plantations and picturesque landscapes.
4. Shopping: Buy fresh tea leaves, local spices, and souvenirs from nearby shops.
5. Visit Rose Garden: Explore the beautiful Rose Garden nearby, featuring a variety of colorful flowers and plants.

Mattupetty Dam and Lake

The serene Mattupetty Dam and Lake offer a perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll. The dam, surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills, is a popular destination for boating and enjoying the scenic beauty. The lake is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and the boating charges range from INR 100 to INR 200, depending on the duration.

Near Mattupetty Dam and Lake, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities:

1. Boating: Take a relaxing boat ride on the calm waters of Mattupetty Lake.

2. Picnicking: Enjoy a scenic picnic by the lake with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
3. Horse Riding: Experience horse riding along the scenic trails near the dam.
4. Trekking: Explore the nearby hills and forests with guided trekking tours.
5. Photography: Capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife around the dam and lake.

Top Station

Top Station, located at an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level, offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal route and is a popular spot for trekking and camping. The area is open 24/7, and there is no entry fee.

Top Station in Munnar offers a range of exciting activities for visitors. Here are some popular ones:

1. Trekking: Enjoy scenic treks with breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and lush valleys.
2. Photography: Capture stunning landscapes, especially the sunrise and sunset views.
3. Nature Walks: Explore the rich flora and fauna of the region with leisurely walks.
4. Picnicking: Relax and have a picnic with family or friends amidst the serene environment.
5. Sightseeing: Visit nearby attractions like Echo Point and Kundala Lake for more beautiful scenery.

Kundala Lake

Kundala Lake, a serene artificial lake, is a popular spot for boating and picnicking. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. It is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, and the boating charges range from INR 100 to INR 200, depending on the duration.

Kundala Lake, nestled in the picturesque hills of Munnar, offers a variety of fun activities for visitors. Here are some popular activities you can enjoy near Kundala Lake:

1. Boating: Rent a rowboat, pedal boat, or shikara to explore the serene waters of Kundala Lake.
2. Horse Riding: Enjoy a peaceful ride along the scenic paths around the lake.
3. Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, lush greenery, and blooming flowers.
4. Picnicking: Have a comfortable picnic by the lake with family and friends.
5. Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the calm waters.

Elephant Arrival

Witnessing the majestic elephants arriving at the Munnar Elephant Camp is a must-do activity. You can watch these gentle giants being bathed, fed, and interacting with their mahouts (caretakers). The camp is open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and the entry fee is INR 50 for adults and INR 25 for children.

Activities near Elephant Arrival:

1. Elephant Rides: Experience the thrill of riding majestic elephants through scenic trails.
2. Wildlife Safaris: Explore the lush greenery surrounding Elephant Arrival and spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
3. Nature Walks: Take strolls through the nearby forests and soak in the serene atmosphere.
4. Photography: Capture stunning moments of elephants arriving or roaming in their natural surroundings.
5. Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional performances and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Pothamedu View Point

Pothamedu View Point, located at an altitude of 1,650 meters, offers breathtaking views of the entire Munnar town and its surroundings. It is a popular spot for photography and is open 24/7, with no entry fee.

Near Pothamedu View Point, you can get in some exciting activities like:

1. Trekking: Explore the lush greenery and scenic trails surrounding Pothamedu View Point.
2. Bird Watching: Spot a variety of bird species amidst the picturesque landscape.
3. Photography: Capture stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
4. Tea Plantation Visit: Learn about the tea-making process with a visit to nearby tea estates.
5. Picnicking: Enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature’s beauty with your loved ones.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply aiming a peaceful getaway, Munnar has something to offer everyone. With its stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, Munnar is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, Munnar is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From the breathtaking tea gardens and rolling hills to the serene lakes and vibrant wildlife, every corner of Munnar offers something unique and memorable. Whether you’re exploring the majestic Eravikulam National Park, enjoying the tranquil Mattupetty Dam, or taking in the panoramic views from Top Station, Munnar promises an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this Kerala gem.

FAQs

Q: What is the great time to visit Munnar?

A: The best time to visit Munnar is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and dry, ideal for sightseeing and activities.

Q: What are some of the best Munnar places to visit?

A: Some of the best places to visit in Munnar include Eravikulam National Park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty Dam, Top Station, and Kundala Lake.

Q: What adventures can one do in Munnar?

A: In Munnar, you can set in trekking, camping, boating, jeep safaris, and witnessing the majestic elephants at the Elephant Camp.

Q: What is the approximate cost of visiting Munnar?

A: The approximate cost of a 3-day visit to Munnar can range from INR 8,000 to INR 12,000 per person, including accommodation, food, and sightseeing.

Q: What can one do on a 3-day visit to Munnar?

A: On a 3-day visit to Munnar, you can explore the tea plantations, visit Eravikulam National Park, take a boat ride at Mattupetty Dam, and witness the elephants at the Elephant Camp.

Also Read:

7 Amazing Munnar Places To Visit

 References:

https://www.keralatourism.org/

https://www.incredibleindia.org/content/incredible-india-v2/en.html

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Munnar