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Munnar

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Western Ghats, one of the popular hill stations of India, Munnar is located in the state of Kerala. The meaning of the word “Munnar” is three rivers since it is situated at a place where three rivers Nallathanni, Kundaly and Madhurapuzha met. This hill station is a part of Idukki district.

This hill station with verdant slopes all around attracts the attention of tourists from all over the country. The tea gardens available here are located at the country’s highest altitude. The place is truly surreal and seems to be filled with mysticism in the early morning mist. Several wildlife sanctuaries also located in this area where some unique species of wild life are housed. It is fun to take a stroll between rows of tea gardens. The fragrance of tea can be smelled in the atmosphere. 

History

In erstwhile times, this hill station was a popular summer retreat for the Britishers who used to live here. It is they who initiated tea plantations in this area. Earlier coffee, Zinchona and Cardamom were grown here. Spice plantations can also be seen here but in comparison to tea plantations, it is very less. British touch can be still seen in this destination in the bungalows and buildings located here.

How to Reach Munnar


By Air

Cochin International airport is the main airport located close to the destination. It is about 125 km away from the airport from where frequent taxi services are available. About Rs 3000 is charged by taxi providers.

By Train

Alwaye is the nearest railway station located near this destination. It is about 120 kilometres away from Munnar. Several trains bring visitors from all over India to this place.

By Road

Munnar is well connected to other towns and cities in the state of Kerala and neighbouring states by state government public transport buses.

Getting Around

The best way of knowing more about Munnar and explore it is by walking. This is a picturesque destination and the essence of the place can be caught only when people explore it at a leisurely pace. The hill sides and the waterfalls offer mesmerising view. The virgin beauty of the place can also be seen. Cycles can be taken on rent and the area can be explored easily and conveniently without feeling tired. Local buses can be used to visit nearby places like Thekaddy.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

The hill ranges in Munnar are located at a height that falls in a range of 1,450 mt to 2,695 mt above the level of the sea. During winters, temperature hovers around 5 °C and 25 °C and during summers, it is 15 °C and 25 °C. Sometimes, in Munnar’s Sevenmallay region, the temperature goes as low as −4 °C. The months, September to May are the perfect time to visit this destination.

Attractions


Tea Museum

Munnar destination is famous for its tea plantations. To offer knowledge about how tea is cultivated and processed to bring to their usable form, there is a tea museum that exhibits some interesting aspects of tea plantation. This museum was opened by Tata Tea few years back and the museum displays photographs, curios and machineries that offer a wide range of knowledge. In Nallathanni Estate, this museum is located.

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is one of the popular attractions at this destination. This national park is situated about 15 kilometres away from Munnar and is known to house the Nilgiri Tahr, one of the endangered species. Sprawled in an area of 97 square kilometres, several rare species are residing here. People also love to trek here. While trekking, a magnificent view of the destination can be enjoyed. Neelakurinji is a flower that blooms here. The reason why it is famous is that it blooms once in a 12 years.

Anamudi Peak

Located within the area of Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the southern part of India. Its height is about 2700 metres. For trekking in this area, permission from Forest and Wildlife departments needs to be taken.

Mattupetty

About 13 kilometres away from Munnar, Mattupetty is situated that is known for the storage dam and a magnificently beautiful lake close to it. Boat rides can be enjoyed in this lake. The backdrop of hill adds charm to this already charming place. A dairy farm is also situated here that is managed by a Livestock project with Indo-Swiss venture. Rolling grasslands also attracts visitors to this place.

Shopping in Munnar

When visiting Munnar, shop for best quality tea, Lemon Grass, Aloe Vera products, Eucalyptus Oil, candles, scents and spices.

Activities to Do in Munnar


Bird Watching

Since the place is surrounded by forests, bird watching is one activity in which visitors can indulge.

Flora and Fauna

Some unique flora and fauna can be seen here. The area resides some unique birds, animals and vegetation.

Nearby Places

Some popular nearby places are Marayoor, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and many other places.

Eating Out

In this town, tourists can try local dishes as well as multi cuisines in the restaurants available here.

Festivals and Events in Munnar

Onam is the most important festival celebrated with great exuberance in Munnar.

Hotels in Munnar


Sienna Village Hotel Munnar

The location of this hotel makes it very appealing to the guests staying here. The backdrop of mountains and a wonderful view from the windows mesmerises guests. Excellent facilities and services are offered to the guests.

Munnar Woods Resort

Travelers, especially family travelers love to stay in this resort as unlike hotels, resorts offer several in-house activities to enjoy. Kids love to enjoy in a wide array of activities.

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