Munnar, often called the “Kashmir of South India,” is Kerala’s most celebrated hill station. Understanding the best tourist places in Munnar helps travelers plan a memorable trip that blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and thrilling activities. Nestled in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 1,600 meters, Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries. It is a paradise for honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
This article provides a detailed 1500-word guide to the best tourist places in Munnar, covering attractions, activities, travel tips, and sample itineraries.
1. Eravikulam National Park
Highlights: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr.
Experience: Trekking to Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India.
Tip: Visit during the Neelakurinji bloom (once every 12 years).
2. Mattupetty Dam & Lake
Highlights: Scenic reservoir surrounded by hills.
Experience: Boating, picnics, and photography.
Tip: Early morning visits offer serene views.
3. Tea Museum (KDHP Museum)
Highlights: Showcases Munnar’s tea history.
Experience: Learn tea processing, explore artifacts, and taste fresh brews.
Tip: Ideal for history buffs and tea lovers.
4. Top Station
Highlights: Highest point in Munnar, offering panoramic views of Tamil Nadu’s plains.
Experience: Trekking, photography, and sunrise views.
Tip: Carry warm clothes as it gets chilly.
5. Kundala Lake
Highlights: Artificial lake surrounded by forests.
Experience: Pedal boating, shikara rides, and cherry blossoms.
Tip: Visit in spring for blooming flowers.
6. Echo Point
Highlights: Natural echo phenomenon.
Experience: Shout and hear your voice bounce back.
Tip: Combine with visits to Kundala Lake and Top Station.
7. Attukal Waterfalls
Highlights: Cascading falls amidst lush greenery.
Experience: Trekking, photography, and picnics.
Tip: Best visited during monsoon for full flow.
8. Blossom Park
Highlights: Scenic garden with flowers, playgrounds, and cycling tracks.
Experience: Family-friendly spot for relaxation.
Tip: Ideal for morning walks.
9. Pothamedu View Point
Highlights: Panoramic views of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations.
Experience: Sunset photography and trekking.
Tip: Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
10. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Highlights: Dry deciduous forest, home to grizzled giant squirrel.
Experience: Trekking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Tip: Best for adventure enthusiasts.
11. Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Highlights: Only natural sandalwood forest in Kerala.
Experience: Visit sandalwood factory, explore caves with ancient paintings.
Tip: Seek permission for guided tours.
12. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Highlights: World’s highest tea plantation.
Experience: Jeep rides, tea tasting, and sunrise views.
Tip: Wear warm clothes for early morning visits.
13. Lockhart Gap
Highlights: Scenic valley with misty hills.
Experience: Trekking and photography.
Tip: Best for couples seeking solitude.
14. Anamudi Peak
Highlights: Highest peak in South India (2,695 meters).
Experience: Trekking, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views.
Tip: Requires special permission for trekking.
15. Devikulam
Highlights: Serene hill station near Munnar.
Experience: Devikulam Lake, tea plantations, and fishing.
Tip: Ideal for peaceful retreats.
16. Nyayamakad Waterfalls
Highlights: 1,600-meter-high cascade.
Experience: Trekking and photography.
Tip: Visit during winter for clear skies.
17. Meesapulimala
Highlights: Second-highest peak in South India.
Experience: Trekking through grasslands and forests.
Tip: Book treks through Kerala Forest Development Corporation.
18. Chithirapuram
Highlights: Colonial-era charm with tea plantations.
Experience: Walks through estates, photography.
Tip: Ideal for heritage lovers.
19. Rajamala
Highlights: Part of Eravikulam National Park.
Experience: Spot Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy panoramic views.
Tip: Carry binoculars for wildlife spotting.
20. Cultural Highlights in Munnar
Festivals: Onam, Vishu, and local temple festivals.
Cuisine: Kerala delicacies like appam, stew, and fish curry.
Handicrafts: Buy tea, spices, and bamboo products.
21. Best Time to Visit Munnar
Winter (October–March): Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
Summer (April–June): Cool retreat compared to Kerala’s plains.
Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, though trekking may be challenging.
22. Travel Tips
Transport: Local taxis, jeeps, and buses available.
Accommodation: Options range from luxury resorts to homestays.
Clothing: Carry warm clothes, especially for higher altitudes.
Guides: Hire licensed guides for trekking and safaris.
23. Sample Itinerary (5 Days)
Day 1: Tea Museum, Blossom Park, Pothamedu View Point.
Day 2: Eravikulam National Park, Rajamala, Anamudi Peak.
Day 3: Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, Echo Point.
Day 4: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Lockhart Gap, Devikulam.
Day 5: Attukal Waterfalls, Nyayamakad Falls, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
24. Sustainable Tourism Practices
Avoid littering in forests and plantations.
Support local artisans and farmers.
Respect cultural traditions and dress modestly.
Choose eco-friendly accommodations.
25. Why Best Tourist Places in Munnar Are Special
Natural Beauty: Misty hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations.
Adventure: Trekking, camping, and wildlife tours.
Spiritual Depth: Serene retreats and temples.
Global Appeal: Attracts honeymooners, families, and nature lovers worldwide.
Conclusion
Best tourist places in Munnar are timeless treasures that blend natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re sipping tea at Kolukkumalai, trekking to Anamudi Peak, boating at Mattupetty Dam, or spotting Nilgiri Tahr in Eravikulam, Munnar offers unforgettable journeys.
For nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers alike, Munnar is not just a hill station—it is an experience that connects you to serenity, tradition, and exploration.
