Surrounded by the misty hills and cozy weather, Munnar has always been a favourite spot for tourists. Munnar is located in the mountains of the Idukki district in Kerala, surrounded by the most stunning and calm views. Munnar is situated 1,600 m above sea level and is located at the intersection of three mountain streams: the Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.
Initially, the home of the indigenous Muthuvan tribal community was later explored by the planters, who started several plantations here. Today, Munnar is covered with tea plantations, which have become an identity of this town. Tea plantations are one of the many attractions that tourists enjoy here. In this article, we introduce you to some places you can visit in Munnar while enjoying your stay in Dream Coconut Villa Resort.
1. Munnar Tea Museum
Along with watching the mesmerizing tea plantations, you can spend some time getting to know the fascinating history, cultivation, and processing of tea by visiting the Kannan Devan Hill Plantation (KDHP) Tea Museum. Established in 2005, this tea museum aims to show you the heritage and evolution of tea farming in Kerala.
The Exhibits here include the showcase of machinery and equipment used, photographs, and audio-visual memorabilia of the tea plantation history, and a tea processing demonstration, where you can get an in-depth understanding of the tea-making process.
Here you can get a detailed understanding of the world of tea cultivation. You can opt for a guided tour here for a detailed understanding. The tea museum has an entry fee, but it is an opportunity to understand the history and beauty of the beverage you consume every day.
2. Eravikulam National Park
Located in Devikulam Taluk of Idukki district, you can visit Kerala’s first national park by road after reaching Munnar. Surrounded by tea plantations, Eravikulam National Park offers amazing views. Eravikulam is home to numerous flora and fauna, among which the Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat, and the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom every twelve years, are popular.
The national park is divided into three regions: the core area, the buffer area, and the tourism area, out of which visitors are allowed only in the tourism area. There are several trekking trails and camping sites here where you can enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls, forests, and animals.
Private vehicles are not allowed inside; instead, they offer several safari tours that can last up to 3 hours. Entry times are from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are closed during the period between February and March. There is an entry fee, which varies according to the requirements.
3. Mattupetty Dam
If you wish for a slight change of scenery and adventure, Mattupetty Dam is the perfect spot near Munnar. Here you can get the perfect view of the Western Ghats with its hills and forests, which is enhanced by the dam and its lake. Built in the late 1940s, the Mattupetty Dam is an important source of power and revenue for the district.
Here you can explore the lake and enjoy the stunning views by hiring pedal boats, speed boats, or horse riding for a minimal rate. The surrounding is an ideal spot for picnics and walks.
There is an entry fee of ₹10, and it is open daily from 9:30 am to 5 pm
4. Top Station
A hidden gem in the misty hills of Munnar is Top Station, known for its views and enchanting atmosphere. It is situated more than 1700m above sea level, offering a birds-eye view of Munnar and the peaks of the Western Ghats.
You can take a walk around and take in the stunning views and sight unique bird species and other wildlife, this is the perfect spot if you enjoy an adventurous trekking experience. Top Station is also a popular location among bikers and campers. On the way to the Top Station, you can also visit the Palani Hills Wildlife Sanctuary and Kurinjimala Sanctuary, known for the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in 15 years.
5. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Known for being the only rehabilitation centre in India for the Indian Star Tortoise, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular spot to visit while enjoying your stay in Munnar. It is a unique, protected area with rich biodiversity consisting of rare flora and fauna.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary has a diverse landscape with forests and grasslands, making it a perfect location for diverse plant and animal species. There are over 1000 species of flowering plants, including many rare plants. The sanctuary is also known for its wildlife, like the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Tahr, Spotted Deer, and many more. This gives you the opportunity to witness the wildlife in its natural environment.
You can explore Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in different ways according to your interests. The sanctuary offers guided safaris and bird-watching tours, and there are multiple trekking trails, including the popular Thoovanam Waterfalls Trek. You can also explore the area culturally by interacting with several indigenous tribal communities, like the Muthuvas and Hill Pulayas, and understand their culture, lifestyle, and practices through organized visits.
There is an entry fee for the visitors and an extra fee for the camera. It is open daily from 8 am to 2 pm.
There are many more places to visit in and around Munnar that offer exquisite experiences, both popular and hidden. Munnar is the perfect location if you are looking for a peaceful atmosphere and love being close to nature. You can reach Munnar via bus or taxi from Cochin International Airport or Aluva Railway Station.