A popular tourist destination in Kerala, Munnar is noted for its extensive tea plantations, charming villages, winding alleyways, and distinctive flora. It is without a doubt the top tourist destination in Kerala. One of South India's premier hill resorts, Munnar is also a significant tea-growing region. This lovely town is located in Kerala's Western Ghats at an elevation of 6000 feet. Munnar was the summer resort for the British colonial administration and was once known as the High Range of Travancore.
Kerala's stunning Munnar is known for its infinite stretch of tea farms and green belt of lush forests. There are recognised habitats for the endangered Neelakurinji and Nilgiri Tahr. The most popular hill station in Kerala is renowned for its breathtaking mountains, valleys, and rare plant and animal species. The Mattupetti, Periavaru, and Nallathanni rivers, which pass through this region, increase its fame and bring a large number of tourists there each year.
The area's misty hills, lovely lakes, and rocky terrain have helped it grow into a popular walking and camping destination. While hiking or camping in this region, stop at one of the many overlooks to take in the stunning valleys, alluring hills, and magnificent rivers.
Learn How to Go to Munnar!
The hill resort of Munnar, which is located in Kerala, a state famed for its magical beauty, is one of the most well-known in God's Own Country. Idukki is where Munnar is situated. It is full of lovely tourist attractions that provide a wide range of things to do and see. Do you need directions to Munnar? Getting here is not at all difficult. Munnar is easily accessible by plane, train, or road with good services.
There is neither an airport nor a train terminal in this hilly region. Nonetheless, a few airports and train terminals are nearby. Excellent access to these airports and railway stations from Munnar is made possible by state and federal motorways. You don't need to worry about how to go from these airports and train stations to the town of Munnar because public buses and private taxis are readily available.
By Air: Cochin International Airport, the closest airport, is around 125 kilometers from Munnar. Excellent connections are available from the Cochin airport to all of India's major cities as well as locations throughout the globe. Due to the numerous cab services that operate from the airport, you may go to Munnar from Cochin.
By Rail: Kochi or Ernakulam are the closest major rail hubs. The Kochi or Ernakulam Junction connects Munnar to a variety of Indian cities, including Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Mangalore, and others. Aluva, the closest train station, is around 110 kilometers away. Nonetheless, it is not a big railway station, and it is not connected to any significant cities around the country.
By Road: Munnar has good access to other parts of the country thanks to a comprehensive network of state and federal roads. You may either rent a car or take the buses from the bus station to Munnar. Take in the breathtaking surroundings and cooling mountain air by renting a vehicle and driving.
When to Go to Munnar
The best time to travel to Kerala and Munnar is usually right now. But October through November and January through May are when Munnar is at its best. The monsoon had essentially ceased by September's end. The end of the monsoon causes the environment to start turning greener in the months of October and November.
Munnar begins to bid winter a fond farewell around the end of February. Once the severely cold winter is through, you may expect the temperature to rise to an excellent level and stay there through the end of May. You should plan your vacation to Munnar between October and November and January and May to experience it at its most lovely.
Climate in Munnar
The foggy hills of Munnar have a different narrative to tell in each season. Due to its beautiful surroundings, Munnar should be everyone's first stop when visiting Kerala. The tea estates, magnificent waterfalls, and adventures draw tourists from all over the world. At Munnar, a quick stroll through the lush trees is more than enough to put you at peace.
Here is all there is to know about Munnar's weather.
Winter in Munnar
(December to February)
Winter is one of the best times to visit Munnar due to the picturesque and chilly weather. The temperature drops to 10 degrees Celsius at this time, making it cosy to remain. Also, it is a great time to go trekking, mountain climbing, and rappelling. Considering how frigid the evenings may be, make sure to pack enough of warm clothing.
Summer in Munnar (March to May)
In Munnar, springtime begins in March. The season of summer is still wonderful. Yet, the temperature rises from 19 to 35 degrees Celsius. Summer is the ideal time to visit Munnar's Tata Tea Museum and tea houses. Bring lightweight cotton while it's summer. Furthermore, bring an umbrella. Drizzles are common around this time.
Monsoon in Munnar
(June to September)
This monsoon season is a great time to travel to Munnar. The monsoon season in Munnar has its own appeal. Here is a rare chance to see Munnar's splendour without throngs of other tourists. Bring an umbrella with you to fend off the rain.
Despite the fact that January through May and October through November are the months that are highly encouraged, pick the time of year that works best for you to visit Munnar!
See & Do
Munnar is the ideal setting for a serene and rejuvenating getaway in the Western Ghats. There are plenty of places to visit and things to do in and around Munnar. These are all perfect to spend the full holiday with your friends and family. Be sure to heed the advice listed below for a successful vacation in Kerala.
1. Visit a Tea Plantation and Tea Factory
Every trip to Kerala revolves around tea. Tea is all around in this beautiful environment. Because of the climate and altitude of the area, the valleys of Munnar are ideal for growing several species, most notably Tea. Tea has been the primary cash crop since the colonial era. The majority of the plants in this area are owned by the TATA Group and other significant private tea estates.
Even if there are multiple neighboring tea farms, you can't merely jump the fence to get to the plantations. On these privately held estates, trespassing is not allowed under any circumstances.
If you want to visit the plantations, stop by this museum to learn about tea production.
2. Hiking in Munnar
Some of the best climbs in Munnar (note that all have to be done only with a guide)
Hiking via Tea Plantations: Munnar offers a variety of half-day and full-day hikes through tea plantations. These are your greatest option if you really want to get outside and enjoy the surroundings. These missions aren't very challenging or drawn out. Treks often go between 10 and 12 and 16 and 20 kilometres.
Phantom Mountain's short yet lovely ascent is lovely. There is an ascent of 400 metres. This stroll provides breathtaking views.
Meesapulimala Trek: This hike is the most appealing for many tourists. The distance, which is around 40 kilometers from Munnar, may be reached with a reliable automobile and four to six hours of hiking. The path leads to a stunning top that is located far above the clouds.
Guesthouse Hikes: As an additional option, there are guesthouse treks. All you have to do is stay at a locals-run guesthouse. The owner of these inns takes guests on a brief, stealthy walk.
Not all places to stay involve a stroll.
3. Try a Thali with Locals
The six distinct flavors of sweet, salt, bitter, sour, astringent, and spicy are all represented by at least six little dishes in a thali, a balanced meal served on a banana leaf.
There are mountains of locally produced fat-spotted rice accompanying this Keralan meal. In Kerala, it is commonly served as a quick lunch and is referred to on the menu as just a "meal" or "meals."
4. Visit the Wild Elephant Village at Anakulam
Do you have a pet? If so, you must not overlook this spot.
About 40 kilometres separate Anakulam from Munnar. Visit Anakulam to witness an elephant family from a respectful 50-meter distance in their natural habitat. In the bush, elephant herds may be seen making frequent trips to the river to drink and play. You get to watch them when they inevitably come to the lake to drink and play. Interacting with humans is utterly prohibited.
5. Visit a Spice Farm
It's strange to go to a spice plantation. Here, you may learn how to cultivate pepper, cardamom, turmeric, and ginger. Some of the owners even go into great depth on the medicinal advantages of each spice. This journey will act as a subtly powerful reminder of how little thought we pay to where our food comes from.
6. Take an Auto-rickshaw or Taxi Tour
The most common way to explore some of Munnar's most famous sites is to take a private auto-rickshaw or cab ride. Have you not thought of going anywhere specific? These drivers provide pre-planned day trip itineraries, and the costs are typically flexible.
You may tour the neighborhood in these taxis or autorickshaws while taking in the sights. Additionally keep in mind that admission costs are not included.
The most popular local sightseeing tours include;
Tour of Echo Point and Top Station Tour of the Eravikulam National Park Nature Sanctuary and Waterfalls Excursion in Chinnar
Places To Visit In Munnar
Munnar is renowned for its enchanting beauty. Its seductive appeal will make your trip more pleasurable and unforgettable.
The top 5 spectacular spots in Munnar are listed below;
Mattupetty Dam
Kundala Lake
Top Station
Mattupetty Dairy Farm
Echo Point
Mattupetty Dam:
A water storage facility located around 13 kilometers from the town's center in the Idukki region. Due to the easy access to water, it is surrounded by a wide variety of exotic plants and animals. You might even be able to observe Asian elephants here if you time it right.
Kundala Lake:
This artificial lake is around 20 kilometres away from Munnar. It is well known for having a lot of charm and beauty. The "NeelaKurunji," a flower that only blooms once every twelve years, can be found near this lake, which is a well-liked vacation spot for people who like the outdoors.
Top Station:
See the expansive views of the Western Ghats from Top Station. About 40 kilometres from Munnar, Top Station offers a fantastic vantage point over some of the region's most stunning landscapes.
Mattupetty Dairy Farm:
The Mattupetty Dairy Farm is home to a well-known Indo-Swiss dairy farm. It is imperative that you visit this dairy farm because it is one of Munnar's most alluring attractions.
Echo Point:
If you were looking for the most picturesque places to visit in Munnar, you could have come across Echo Point. There is also Echo Point, one of the most enigmatic locations in the region that is 15 kilometers from Munnar.
Other Places To Visit In Munnar:
1. Eravikulam National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site – home to endangered Nilgiri Tahrs.
2. Tea Museum: Century-old Tea Museum in Munnar
3. Attukad Waterfalls: Most picturesque waterfalls in God’s own Country!
4. Blossom International Park: Home to rare and exotic flowers.
5. Lakkom Waterfall: A stunning cascade with its surreal beauty and evergreen vistas.
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