7 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN MUNNAR

Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, lush tea plantations, and cool climate.

GARIMA NAIN

3/29/20243 min read

Here are seven unique things to do and see in Munnar:

  1. Eravikulam National Park and Nilgiri Tahr: Explore Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat species endemic to the Western Ghats. Visitors can enjoy a scenic park tour and spot these majestic creatures amidst rolling hills and grasslands.

  2. Tea Plantation Tours: Embark on a guided tour of Munnar's tea plantations, where you can witness the entire process of tea cultivation, plucking, and processing. Visit places like Tata Tea Museum to delve into the history and significance of tea in Munnar.

  3. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Venture to Kolukkumalai, the world's highest organic tea estate situated at an altitude of over 7,000 feet. Enjoy a unique experience of witnessing the sunrise amidst sprawling tea gardens and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

  4. Mattupetty Dam and Lake: Visit Mattupetty Dam, a picturesque reservoir nestled amidst rolling hills and dense forests. Enjoy boating in the tranquil waters of Mattupetty Lake or take a leisurely stroll along the dam's scenic surroundings.

  5. Anamudi Peak: Embark on a trek to Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and neighboring landscapes. The trek takes you through lush forests, pristine streams, and diverse flora and fauna.

  6. Top Station: Journey to Top Station, a scenic viewpoint located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Marvel at the stunning vistas of rolling hills, cloud-kissed mountains, and expansive valleys blanketed with mist. It's an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.

  7. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Embark on guided treks through dense forests, where you can spot diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, spotted deer, and exotic bird species.

These unique attractions and experiences in Munnar offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and biodiversity of this enchanting hill station in Kerala.

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MUNNAR : ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Before visiting Munnar, it's essential to gather information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here's everything you need to know before you go:

1. Best Time to Visit:

  • Munnar experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from September to March when the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

2. How to Reach Munnar:

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 110 kilometers away from Munnar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munnar.

  • By Train: The nearest railway stations are Aluva and Ernakulam, located about 110 and 130 kilometers away from Munnar, respectively. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Munnar.

  • By Road: Munnar is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. You can either drive or take a bus from cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Bangalore.

3. Accommodation Options:

  • Munnar offers a wide range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, homestays, and guesthouses. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

4. Local Transportation:

  • While in Munnar, you can hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or motorcycles for local transportation. Many hotels and resorts also provide transportation services for sightseeing tours.

5. Things to Carry:

  • Light woolen clothing (if visiting during the winter months)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat

  • Insect repellent

  • Umbrella or raincoat (if visiting during the monsoon season)

  • Camera and binoculars for wildlife and nature photography

6. Currency and ATMs:

  • The currency used in Munnar is the Indian Rupee (INR). Make sure to carry sufficient cash as ATMs may be limited, especially in remote areas.

7. Local Cuisine:

  • Don't miss out on trying authentic Kerala cuisine, including appam, dosa, idiyappam, Kerala seafood dishes, and traditional desserts like payasam.

8. Responsible Tourism:

  • Respect the local culture, traditions, and environment. Avoid littering and follow designated trekking trails and wildlife viewing guidelines.

9. Safety Tips:

  • Munnar is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take precautions like safeguarding your valuables, staying hydrated, and avoiding isolated areas, especially at night.