Travel Guide - Munnar

Munnar

Munnar, situated at the confluence of Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala mountain streams, is one of the most popular hill stations in South India. Blessed with well manicured tea estates, exotic scenery, abundance of flora and fauna and craggy peaks, Munnar has everything that makes it a perfect holiday destination. The town, which was once the summer retreat of the British, today is known as place of haven and serenity. Lush green tea estates and salubrious climate attracts holiday makers and honeymooners alike. Besides being home of the enchanting Ernavikulam National Park, Munnar also serves as the perfect gateway to explore the nearby attractions.

Getting There

Air: Kochi (130 km) has the nearest airport. Regular flights are available from Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. The prices of tickets are very economical (Rs 2,500-4,000). Train: Nearest railhead is at Angamaly (120 km), but the connectivity is not so good. The next nearest railway station is at Kochi (130 km) and direct trains are available from Delhi (Trivandrum Rajdhani), Mumbai (Netravati Express), Kolkata (Gurudev Express), Bangalore (Trivandrum Express) and Chennai (Alleppey Express). Bus: Regular buses are available from Kochi (130 km, 5 hours, Rs 100 for semi deluxe), Trivandrum (360 km, 9 hours, Rs 400 for semi-deluxe), Bangalore (330 km, 14 hours, Rs 700 for deluxe) and Coimbatore (250 km, 6 hours, Rs 300 for semi deluxe). Car: Taxis are a very common means of transport between Bangalore and Munnar. Tourists can follow the route - Bangalore-Hosur-Krishnagiri-Dharmapuri-Salem-Perundurai-Avanashi-Madattukkulam-Udumalaippettai-Maraiyoor-Munnar. Another route is - Bangalore-Hosur-Krishnagiri-Dharmapuri-Thoppur-Mettur-Bhavani-Perundurai-Dharapuram-Udumalpet-Chinnar-Munnar, which is less crowded and offers scenic views. Taxis take around 8-9 hours to cover the distance and can charge approximately Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 for a round trip. For tourists coming from North India (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Hyderabad), the best option is to fly to Kochi or take a direct train and continue their onward journey by bus or taxi.

When To Go

The climate of Munnar remains moderate throughout the year. Summers (March to May) are the best time to visit as the temperature does not exceed 35°C, making it ideal for enjoying a visit to the tea gardens. Winters (October to February) are also good times to visit Munnar as the temperature drops to as low as 10°C, making it ideal for honeymooning. Monsoons (June to September) should preferably be avoided as the area receives heavy rainfall, bringing an abrupt halt to normal life.

Eat & Drink

Munnar does not have many fancy restaurants but the small eateries and food stalls serve finger licking food. For breakfast, tourists should look out for food stalls in the bazaars that serve breakfast, snacks and cheap meals. Tourists should visit the Rapsy Restaurant (0486-230456) at the Bazaar to savour the paranthas, Spanish omelets and Israeli Shakshuka, that the restaurant is famous for.

For pure vegetarian options, tourists can go to Hotel Saravan Bhavna (0486-5231129) where tourists can enjoy top-value veg banana-leaf meals. For multi-cuisine options, tourists should head to SN Restaurant (0486-2530212) on AM Road, that are known for their dosas and butter chicken. Silver Spoon (0486-2531735) on AM Road also specializes in its Kerala- style fish curry meals and the river view from the restaurant is mesmerizing.

Shopping

Shopping in Munnar can be enjoyed while on a leisure stroll, as there are only a few shops scattered in the bazaar area. Tea and spices are the most important shopping items. Tourists should not miss to buy tea that is sold by the KDHP (Kannan Deven Hill Plantations).

History

Munnar, the beautiful hill station of Kerala, has been a favourite place of summer retreat of the British. The history of this place can be traced back to pre historic ages, although not much written records are available about the city, before the 10th century.

The town was established by Mr. John Daniel Manro with the assistance of Kannan Thevar (who belonged to the tribe that is said to have been the first inhabitants of South India). It was only after the permission of the then ruling king, Maharaja of poonjar, that the British adventurer was allowed to possess 588 sq. kms of the land in the town.

The first plantations on the land of Munnar were that of Cardamom, Coffee and Zinchona. It was A.H. Sharp, who planted the first tea sapling at Munnar in the early 19th century. He planted the sapling at Parvathi, which now form a part of the Sevenmullay estate.

The city of Munnar was declared as the summer capital of the British and Duke of Wellington is said to have visited the city. In the year 1895, Munro’s land was bought by the Messrs Finlay Muir and Company. In1976, Tata Finlay purchased the tea estate and a little later James Finlay Group sold all their shares to Tata, thus paving way for the birth of Tata Tea Ltd, the largest integrated tea company in the world.

Travel within city

Munnar is hill station located in Kerala and is very popular tourist destination among Indians and foreigners. The modes of travel within the city are not numerous; however it is easy to find a method of transportation. Some of the modes of transportation are taxis, government buses, auto rickshaws and package tours. Cochin is around 150 km from Munnar and Cochin also has the nearest airport.

Bus

Government buses are an easy way to get around the town and they are easy to find. They usually stop if the traveler uses a signal. They are inexpensive with tickets costing around Rs 5 to 25. They are not usually crowded. However, the buses are usually old and the hilly roads make for a bumpy ride.

Auto Rickshaw

Auto rickshaws are another way of getting around the city. Most of them have meters and are relatively cheaper than taxis. They are fast and easy to find. Some autos may not have meters and the prices have to be negotiated in advance.

Local Tour Operators

There are many tour operators that offer packaged tours to the places around Munnar. They are a good option as they cover all the interesting places with an approximate cost of around Rs 500 per person per day.

Attractions

Anamudi Peak

    mustsee Located inside the Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the area and offers breath taking views of the dense forest. Trekking is a popular adventure tourists can indulge in as good facilities are available.

Mattupetti Dam

    mustsee

Located 13 km from Munnar in Kerala, Mattupetti dam with a height of about 1700m above the sea level is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. Close to the dam are a cattle farm and a lake, making it a charming picnic spot. The Kundala tea plantations nearby is also an exotic attraction.

Rajamalai National Park (Eravikulam National Park)

    mustsee The most famous wildlife park in Kerala, Eravikulum National Park is located approximately 13 km from Munnar. The most commonly sighted animals here are Elephant, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, small-clawed otter and a rare tiger or leopard. It is also known as Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary. Contact: 04865-530487  Timings: 7 am to 6 pm, The park remains closed for 45 days from February 1st onwards during the calving season.  Charges: Entry fee : Indians: Rs 15, Foreigners: Rs 200, Heavy vehicles: Rs 200, Light vehicles: Rs 50, Other vehicles: Rs 25, Camera: Rs 25, Video Camera: Rs 200  

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (Thattekkad Sanctuary)

    mustsee One of the most popular bird sighting hubs in Tamil Nadu, Dr Salim Bird Sanctuary or Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is located around 80 km from Munnar. The main highlight of the park are the rare species of birds like the Malabar Grey Hornbill. Timings: 6 am to 6 pm  Charges: Indians: Rs. 10, Foreigners: Rs. 100. Light vehicles: Rs. 25, Heavy vehicles: Rs. 150, Camera: Rs. 25, Video Camera: Rs. 150, Guide: No Fixed Charges  

Echo Point

    popular

An popular tourist point in Munnar, the Echo Point is located around 15 km from Munnar. Tourists can reach the point by trekking. The invigorating air and the view of the surrounding hills is simply magical.

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

    popular Located at a distance of 35 km fom Munnar, Kolukkumalai tea estate is popular for its lush green vista. The tea garden is reputed to produce one of the world's most flavorsome tea. Located on a height of 8,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Contact: Herbert Monickam (04546-283563)  Timings: Open Mon-Sat 7am-6pm  Charges: Rs 75 per adult, children free  

Kundala Lake

    popular Located at a distance of 28 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a popular tourists attraction in the region. The main attraction here is the panoramic natural vista and shikara & boat rides tourists can enjoy on the lake. The lake is situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar and is equally popular for its serene and calm ambiance. It is ideal for picnic as well.

Marayoor

    popular A quaint rain-shadowed hamlet around 40 km from Munnar is thronged by nature lovers. The enchanting landscapes and varied species of wildlife are the main attractions here. The place is also believed to be belonging to times of the Stone age civilization.

Mattupetti Indo-Swiss Farm

    popular Mattupetti Indo Swiss Farm is located on the outskirts of Munnar and is known for breeding cattle. The farm 15 km from Munnar, is abundant with natural vista and is managed by Kerala Livestock Development and Milk Marketing Board. Contact: 0486-530389  Timings: Daily 9 - 11 am and 2 - 3:30 pm  Charges: Rs 5 per head  

Tata Tea Museum

    popular A very popular tourist attraction in Munnar, Tata Tea Museum is located around 12 km from Munnar in Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea. The museum showcases various antiquities and the most famous among them is the burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate, dating back to 2nd century. Curious, old photographs and machinery are also displayed in the museum. For the tourists, to get a glimpse into the history and culture of the region, a video presentation is screened here. Timings: Timing: 10.00 am - 5.00 pm  Charges: Admission Fees: Rs 50 (For Adults), Rs 10 (For Children)  

Top Station

    popular

A scenic point located 41 km from Munnar, Top Station is famous for being the historical transshipment location for the tea that was delivered up here from Munnar and Madupatty by train and then down by rope way to Kottagudi. The main attraction here are the Neelakrinji flowers which bloom once in twelve years and the panoramic views. Charges: A round trip to this place by jeep would cost about Rs 400  

Trekking

    popular The beautiful town of Munnar offers plenty of trekking routes that can be undertaken by adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Some of the most popular trekking routes are from Gap Road to Bisonvalley Spices Village and from Pothamedu.

Blossom International Park

   3 km from Munnar, on the way to Cochin is the famous Blossom International Park. Sprawling on an area of 18 acres, the main attraction of the park are varieties of flora, provision of water cycling and boating & skating for children. Tree house, rope ways and different types of swings also form an important attraction in the park. Charges: Rs 10 for Adult and Rs 2 for child.  

Cheeyappara Waterfalls

   Located very close to Valara Falls, Cheeyappara waterfall lies between the towns of Neriamangalam and Adimali, along the national highway linking Cochin with Madurai. It is 42 km from Munnar.

This is a seven step waterfall and watching it cascading down is a memerising sight. An ideal picnic spot, tourists can take a bus, taxi or auto rickshaw to reach this spot.

Chinnakanal Waterfalls

   The beautiful Chinnakanal Waterfalls is situated at a distance of 16 km from Munnar. Flowing from a height of 800 mts, the waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Encircled by the Western mountain ranges, the view of the crystal clean water falling down, is a sight to behold.

High Range Club

   High Range Club in the hands of corporate planters of Munnar is a major tourist attraction in the region. Associated with other 41 clubs in the country and also with 2 overseas clubs, the club offers many activities to be explored even within its proximity.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling

   Rock climbing and rappelling are popular activities that one can enjoy in Munnar. Such activities give an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Munnar.

The Christ Church

   Built nearly 110 years back by the British tea planters, the Christ Church is a spectacular place to visit in Munnar. With its unspoiled sanctity, the church is sure to admire by the visitors and its peaceful atmosphere.

Valara Falls

   Scenically bounded by Neriamangalam town in the east and Adimali in the west, the Valara Falls is a treat to watch. Fed by the Deviyar river, Valara falls is considered to be one of the most popular waterfall bodies in Kerala. Valara town is around 14 km from Adimali and around 40 km from Munnar.

Excursions

Devikulam

Devikulam is a hill station that is located in the State of Kerala in the Idukki District. The town is located around 16 km from the popular hill station of Munnar. The main attraction in the town is the lake which is known as Sita Devi Lake. There are many myths surrounding the lake and it is said that Goddess Sita bathed in the lake. Hence, many pilgrims flock to the place and it is popular among many Hindus in the State and other nearby places. The entire place is surrounded by lush green hills, and the scenic beauty is also one of the reasons that many people visit the place. The place can get crowded during the summer months as people travel from the lowlands to escape the heat. There is a waterfall called that Palivasal Waterfall a nice spot to to visit. The many tea plantations in the area are worth a visit. Since Munnar is located nearby, visiting the town is also an option.

Sita Devi Lake

    mustsee Sita Devi Lake, also known as Devikulum Lake is a must see tourist spot near Munnar. A thermal water spring is what attracts picnickers. The lake has some religious importance and is also revered by the locals.

Mattupetty Lake

  

Located close to Devikulum, Mattupetty Lake is a well known tourist spot in the area famous for its pristine beauty.

Pallivasal Falls

  

Pallivasal Falls is a small waterfall near Devikulum. The waterfall serves as an ideal place for picnicking and enjoying the peace & calm amid the scenic environs.

Tea & Spice Plantation

  

Devikulum is extremely popular for its tea gardens and spice gardens. Tourists should come here to enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding and sight some of the most exotic and rare species of flowers.

Thoovanam Falls

  

Thoovanam Falls is a beautiful waterfall that gets its water from river Chinnar. The waterfall is not easily accessible and can be sighted easily from Chinnar wildlife sanctuary.

Idukki

Idukki is one of the 14 districts of Kerala, also known as God’s Own Country. During ancient times, Idukki was a part of Chera Dynasty while its modern history begins with the European planters who settled in the region. Almost 97 % of the district is covered by mountains and forests. The Anamudi, which is the highest peak in India, south of the Himalayas, is located in Idukki. The city also has the largest arch dam in the country. The major towns of the district are Thekkady, Thodapuzha and Adimali. The famous Periyar national park is a part of Thekkady and is a favored tourist destination. The park is covered with hill forests along with thick vegetation and it also served as a tiger reserve. Murrikaddy is located about 5 km from Thekaddy, and comprises of coffee & tea plantations. Cellar Kovil is also a favored tourist destination and is dotted with cascades and waterfalls. It is very serene and extremely beautiful. The Mangala Devi temple is another tourist destination for the spiritually inclined. The temple is located at an altitude of 1337 m above sea level.

Hill View Park

    mustsee

Being a popular tourist destination in Idukki, Hill View Park offers magnificent views of the Cheruthoni and Idukki Dams. The site also offers visitors to have a glimpse of wildlife in its natural habitat. Timings: Throughout the Year.  Charges: Rs 10 for adults and Rs 5 for children.  

Idukki Arch Dam

    mustsee An architectural marvel, the Idukki Arch Dam is a famous tourist spot in Idukki. Built across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills, with a height of about 550 feet, the Idukki Arch Dam is a perfect destination to have a panoramic view of natural environs.

Kulamavu

    popular Kulamavu is a well known hill station located in Idukki. It is an ideal place for trekking and one would sure to enjoy the ariel view of the area along with trekking.

Kalvari Mount

    popular Kalvarimount in Idukki is a steep slope from where tourists can enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding.

Nadukani

    popular A beautiful hill station situated 25 km from Idukki, Nadukani is a popular tourist spot. It offers visitors a panoramic view of the mountains, Muvattupuzha River along with many rare species of fauna.

Painavu

    popular Being the headquarters of Idukki district, Painavu serves as a stopover for tourists visiting to Idukki and Cheruthoni Dam.

Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam

    popular Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam, a popular spot situated at a distance of 35 km from Thodupuzha, is an ideal place for meditation, relaxation and watching sunset.

Itineraries

1nt Alleppey, 2nt Munnar cab from Kochi
Day 7:	Depart from AlleppeyStart: 10:00 AM, Depart from Alleppey (0 min)

Distances from Munnar

Thekkady 91 km 3h Kochi 130 km 4h Kumarakom 153 km 3h Sabarimala 158 km 2h, 30m Coimbatore 170 km 6h Alleppey 172 km 5h Trivandrum 276 km 4h Wayanad 340 km 5h, 10m Kovalam 360 km 9h Bangalore 480 km 10h Chennai 589 km 14h, 10m

Idukki 101 km 1h, 40m

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