places to visit in munnar for 3 days

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Munnar Travel Guide for 2024

• by Vishnu Ramachandran
• April 5, 2023 March 7, 2024

At an elevation of 5200 feet above sea level, Munnar is one of Kerala’s most beloved hill stations. Home to endless tea plantations and foggy mountains, this beautiful hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala is a wonderful place to spend a great vacation. Beautiful views of the Western Ghats, amazing tea plantations and spice gardens are among some of the treasures that await you at this gem of a place. This is a curated 3 days Munnar Travel Guide. This Munnar Itinerary covers most important places to visit & things to do in shortest route & time.

Table of Contents

How to reach Munnar

By Road -The best way to enjoy your journey to Munnar is to take a bus ride. There are frequent buses to Munnar from most major South Indian cities, and the journey through the winding terrains and the tea plantations is really a memorable experience!

By Air – The Cochin International Airport is is nearest airport at around 110 km from Munnar. It is easy to get a bus to Munnar once you arrive at Cochin.

By Rail – The nearest railway station is  located at Aluva at around 110 km from Munnar. One can take a bus to Munnar after arriving at Aluva.

Best time to visit

Munnar climate is known to be very pleasant throughout the year, making it an year-round tourist destination in Kerala. Summers (March to May) are pleasant with crisp blue skies and it is the perfect time to indulge in sight-seeings and trekking. The temperature usually do not go beyond 25 degrees and evenings are always cool.

Monsoons (June to September) are the wettest time at Munnar. Landslides are common which causes delays in travel plans due to safety issues. Winters (October to February) are considered the best time to visit Munnar. The temperature tends to drop to minus degrees and slight snowfalls are also seen in some high points.

What to pack?

It is good to pack some jackets and woolens while visiting Munnar as the climate remains cool throughout the year. Pack comfortable shoes and good breathable socks if you plan to hike or trek.

Make sure to carry sunscreen lotions as winter sun tends to damage your skin and even in the cold, your skin needs protection! It is always a good idea to carry your own first aid kit while traveling.

Where to stay and transportation

Munnar has a variety of choices for accommodation starting from home stays to luxury resorts. It is advisable to pre-book your accommodation as last minute bookings can prove to be expensive and difficult. There are various tree houses in Munnar which will make your stay memorable.

Check the price of Munnar Hotels – Check Now

Hiring jeeps from Munnar town is a good option to explore & complete your Munnar Itinerary perfectly, if you do not have a vehicle of your own. You can bargain with the drivers to get best rates.

Munnar Itinerary for 3 Days

Top station.

Its better to start your day early as the morning fog is something you shouldn’t miss while at Munnar! Start your journey towards Top station early in the morning .

The Top Station is located around 17.3 km from Munnar town. At an elevation of 5577 feet above sea level, Top Station is the highest point in Munnar.

It offers a panoramic view of the Munnar town and the Western Ghats from its view point and is an important place to add to your Munnar Itinerary. You can also taste some of the best roasted sweetcorn on cob.

The visiting time is from 6 am to 6 pm and there is no entry fee. It takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to visit Top Station. After visiting Top station start your journey towards Vattavada .

Vattavada –  Kerala’s first self-sufficient village

Vattavada is located around 8 km from Top Station which will take around 30 minutes to reach. It is famed to be Kerala’s only self-sufficient village .

They produce a variety of vegetables and crops that are rarely seen in other parts of Kerala like apple, orange, plum and strawberry .

The Kurinjimala Sanctuary and the Pampadum Shola Sanctuary are some of the best places to visit near Vattavada. Due to time constraint we are not adding those to this Munnar itinerary.

After finishing Vattavada village, start your journey back to Munnar Echo point .

Image source

Located 31.5 kms from Vattavada, the Echo Point, as the name suggests, showcases the echo phenomenon. Visitors are often seen to yell out to the cliff and hear their echos in return. Other than this, boating facilities are also available here.

The Echo point is also a view point for the famous ‘ Neelakurinji ‘ flowers that bloom only once in 12 years! The visiting time is from 7 am to 6 pm , with an try fee of Rs.30 for adults and Rs. 15 for children . Finish Echo point and move to Madupetty Dam .

Madupetty Dam

The Madupetty Dam is located at 1.3 km from Echopoint. This picturesque lake with crystal clear water and a backdrop of beautiful emerald mountains is a must visit spot in your Munnar itinerary.

The dam visiting hours are from 9:30 am – 5 pm , with an entry fee of Rs.10 . Boating prices vary according to type of boat being hired from Rs.200 to Rs.700 .

Leave for Suriyanalle

After boating start your journey to Suriyanelli by around 4 pm as it takes 3 hours to reach Suriyanelli from Munnar town. Stay overnight at Suriyanelli.

Check hotel prices at Suryanelli – Click Here

Sunrise at Kolukkumalai

Witnessing the sunrise at Kolkkumalai Sunrise Point is one of the most popular things to do while at Munnar. Located in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu, the foothills of Kolukkumalai lies at a distance of 8.7 km from Suriyanalle town. It is famed to be the highest tea plantation in the world.

The Kolukkumalai Jeep Safari is the only way to reach the top and it is available at a fixed rate of Rs. 2000 per Jeep. Most of the time the Jeep is arranged by travel agencies or you can always find one at the Jeep Safari counter at the Kolukkumalai estate entrance.

We recommend you to read our Munnar travel guide on Kolukkumalai – Trip to World’s Highest Tea Plantation

It is necessary to take this safari early in the morning to be able to catch the Sunrise. Once back at Suriyanelle town, you can opt for breakfast at Hotel Siva, which is the only restaurant in Suriyanalle.

Return to Munnar Town

Return to Munnar town and opt for lunch at Hotel Maharani or Saravana Bhavan. By around 2 pm, leave for Eravikulam National Park.

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park is located at a distance of 7.6 km from the Munnar Town. A treasure trove of a variety of flora and fauna, the Eravikulam National Park is also the first national park to be established in Kerala. 

The Anamudi peak which is also one of the highest peak in Kerala at an elevation of 8841 feet above sea level is situated within the park. Private vehicles are not allowed in the park. It is one of the most recommended place in this Munnar travel guide.

The park provides safaris and also it is accessible by feet. The park is known be the perfect spot for sightings of the Nilgiri Tahr , which is classified as an endangered species.

The visiting hours is from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with an entry fee of Rs.15 for Indians and Rs.200 for foreigners. Extra charges maybe be applicable for cameras.

Drive back to Munnar town from national park and stay overnight. Pre-book your stay at Munnar town for the night to avoid last minute rush.

Leave for Marayoor

Marayoor is located at a distance of 32 km from the Eravikulam National Park. Famous for its sandalwood forest and rock paintings, Marayoor is a great place to add to your Munnar itinerary. It is also said to be a part of the ancient stone age civilization, and you can also find rock paintings dating back to the 10000 B.C.

Marayoor cultivates sugarcane in huge numbers. It is also the producer of some of most purest jaggery in Kerala.

Marayoor Sandalwood Forest

This natural Sandalwood forest is protected by the Forest Department of Kerala. The visitors often walk through the forest trail enjoying the unique aroma of the sandalwood. The visiting hours are from 6 am to 6 pm and there is no entry fee.

Plan to leave the Sandalwood forest by around 1-2 pm. Have lunch at the Marayoor town. After the lunch leave to Kanthalloor. The road towards Kanthalloor is so beautiful. You will be able to see beautiful mountains and greenery.

Kanthalloor

Kanthalloor is located at a distance of around 14 km from Marayoor. The Kanthalloor Waterfalls is one of the most popluar places to visit in Munnar. Visitors can enjoy a cool bath because of the chilling mountain waters in this waterfall. Kanthalloor also cultivates a variety of fruits and vegetables not commonly seen in other parts of Kerala.

Stay at Kanthalloor or Marayoor for that night.

Check Hotel Prices at Kanthalloor – Click Here

Return back to Munnar town and say good bye to Munnar.

Hope this Munnar travel guide helps you to plan your Next Munnar Trip. If you need any help to know more about Munnar you can contact us with your query.

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Munnar faqs.

Distance to Munnar from Coimbatore is around 157kms. Take NH83 to reach Udumalpet. Take Munnar-Udumalpet road to reach Munnar. There are several private and public buses running between Coimbatore and Munnar

Munnar is located around 439kms away from Bangalore. If coming through road take NH44 towards Coimbatore. Take turn towards Udumalpet from Avinashi. Take Munnar-Udumalpet road to reach Munnar. Private buses runs between Munnar and Bangalore.

Total distance from Chennai to Munnar is around 590kms. By road take NH32 to reach Tiruchirapalli. Take NH83 towards Theni. Take turn towards Bodimettu and reach Munnar.

• Author Details

A proud Malayali, Lover of solo travel, photography & Poetry.

2 thoughts on “Munnar Travel Guide for 2024”

Very nicely detailed guidance for those coming for first time to Kerala and in particular to Munnar

Hi Vijay, Thank you so much.

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3-Day Munnar Itinerary

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• Munnar in 3 days
• 1-Day Munnar Itinerary
• 2-Day Munnar Itinerary
• 4-Day Munnar Itinerary
• 5-Day Munnar Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: southwest side of town, day 3: keep it simple, mattupetty dam.

Photo point

The Blossom Hydel Park

Kundala dam, pothamedu view point, eravikulam national park, where to eat, blackberry hills munnar resort's hornbill restaurant, alibaba & 41 dishes - munnar, al buhari restaurant, purohit restaurant.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Dream Land Fun and Adventure

Wonder valley adventure and amusement park, macofa chocolates (manna chocolate factory), punarjani traditional village, the underground charcoal grill, misty mountain resort, salkara hotel.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Attukad Waterfalls

Ripple waterfalls, kanan devan hills plantations company (p) limited sales outlet, kolukkumalai tea estate, chinnar wildlife sanctuary, rapsy restaurant munnar, saravana bhavan, new york fried chicken.

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Popular road trips from Munnar

What's the weather like in munnar.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Munnar for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Munnar in January
• Weather in Munnar in February
• Weather in Munnar in March
• Weather in Munnar in April
• Weather in Munnar in May
• Weather in Munnar in June
• Weather in Munnar in July
• Weather in Munnar in August
• Weather in Munnar in September
• Weather in Munnar in October
• Weather in Munnar in November
• Weather in Munnar in December

All road trips from Munnar

• Munnar to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Munnar to Bengaluru drive
• Munnar to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Munnar to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) drive
• Munnar to Mumbai drive
• Munnar to Kodaikanal drive
• Munnar to New Delhi drive
• Munnar to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
• Munnar to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Munnar to Hyderabad drive
• Munnar to Madurai drive
• Munnar to Jaipur drive
• Munnar to Coimbatore drive
• Munnar to Pondicherry drive
• Munnar to Kalpetta drive
• Munnar to Alappuzha drive
• Munnar to Agra drive
• Munnar to Kanyakumari drive
• Munnar to Rameswaram drive
• Munnar to Pune drive
• Munnar to Udaipur drive
• Munnar to Mahabalipuram drive
• Munnar to Kathmandu drive
• Munnar to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Munnar to Madikeri drive
• Munnar to Panjim drive
• Munnar to Thrissur drive
• Munnar to Yercaud drive
• Munnar to Tiruchirappalli drive

Explore nearby places

• Chithirapuram
• Kannan Devan Hills
• Chinnakanal
• Kanthalloor
• Blathykavala
• Nedumkandam
• Ramakkalmedu
• Chinnamanur
• Kothamangalam
• Muvattupuzha

All related maps of Munnar

• Map of Munnar
• Map of Pothamedu
• Map of Pallivasal
• Map of Devikulam
• Map of Chithirapuram
• Map of Kannan Devan Hills
• Map of Chinnakanal
• Map of Rajakkad
• Map of Adimaly
• Map of Suryanelli
• Map of Kanthalloor
• Map of Kottagudi
• Map of Marayur
• Map of Vattavada
• Map of Blathykavala
• Map of Valparai
• Map of Nedumkandam
• Map of Idukki
• Map of Ramakkalmedu
• Map of Thattekad
• Map of Thodupuzha
• Map of Chinnamanur
• Map of Cumbum
• Map of Theni
• Map of Kothamangalam
• Map of Vagamon
• Map of Dhali
• Map of Kodaikanal
• Map of Ayyampuzha
• Map of Muvattupuzha
• Map of Kumily

Munnar throughout the year

• Munnar in January
• Munnar in February
• Munnar in March
• Munnar in April
• Munnar in May
• Munnar in June
• Munnar in July
• Munnar in August
• Munnar in September
• Munnar in October
• Munnar in November
• Munnar in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Munnar?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 3-Day Kodaikanal Itinerary
• 3-Day Idukki Itinerary
• 3-Day Valparai Itinerary
• 3-Day Vagamon Itinerary

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• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Munnar, Kerala, India The perfect 3 days itinerary

Munnar is a town in the Western Ghats mountain range in India’s Kerala state. A hill station and former resort for the British Raj elite, it's surrounded by rolling hills dotted with tea plantations established in the late 19th century. Munnar is also known for its wildlife, especially the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and its breathtaking landscapes. Let's dive into the itinerary for your 3-day trip to this serene town.

What to do in Munnar?

This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Munnar. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Explore the Tea Estates and Museums

Start your day with a visit to the Tata Tea Museum , where you can learn about the history of tea plantations in Munnar. Take a short walk to the nearby tea estates and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea.

Head to the Eravikulam National Park , home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided tour to explore the park and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.

Visit the Blossom Park , a beautiful garden filled with a variety of flowers. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the park and relax amidst the beautiful surroundings.

Day 2: Discover Munnar's Wildlife and Scenic Beauty

Visit the Mattupetty Dam , a storage concrete gravity dam built in the mountains of Munnar. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Head to the Anamudi Peak , the highest peak in the Western Ghats. Take a trek to the top and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Visit the Carmelagiri Elephant Park and enjoy an elephant ride through the jungle. Learn about these majestic creatures and their conservation.

Day 3: A Day of Leisure and Shopping

Visit the Munnar Market , a bustling local market where you can buy spices, tea, and local handicrafts. Take a leisurely walk around the market and interact with the locals.

Head to the Pothamedu View Point , a popular spot for trekking and hiking. Enjoy the panoramic views of the tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations.

End your trip with a visit to the KDHP Tea Museum . Learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of fresh tea from the estate.

Did you find this helpful?

4 mins read

The Best 3 Day Itinerary For Munnar

By Ruchi Joshi

20 Mar, 2023

The bountiful greenery stretched to hundreds of acres and the pristine white puffy clouds hanging lower than usual. The absence of jarring sounds of traffic and the music of nature gently tugging the strings of your heart. That’s our Munnar. Located at the height of 1,600 m above sea level, Munnar is the much-loved and quiet hill station of Kerala. It is popularly described as the “Kashmir of South India”. Whether you are a solo backpacker or a group of college friends, visit it for the much-needed peace and calm. Here is a 3 day Munnar itinerary to help you plan your trip better.

Read This 3 Day Munnar Itinerary To Plan Your Trip Better - 

Picture - Unsplash

How To Reach Munnar

Munnar neith er has an international airport nor a domestic one. If you are planning to fly to Munnar, the nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (at a distance of approximately 110 km) and Madurai International Airport (at a distance of approximately 140 km). Hire a cab or the state transport buses for your journey further.

Munnar, a green heaven, does not have a railway station. If you are planning to arrive by train then you can choose to get down at either Aluva Railway Station (at a distance of approximately 110 km) or Ernakulam Railway Station (at a distance of approximately 130 km) or Madurai Railway Station (at a distance of approximately 135 km). Rent a car or travel through state transport buses to reach Munnar. Just a couple of hours and you will be right at your desired destination.

The best and cheapest way to reach Munnar is by bus. Whether you take a state transport bus or a private one, your journey will be smooth and one with great views. Munnar is well connected to all the major places through roads.

If you have your own car or choose to rent it, the journey will be much easier and more comfortable. Considering Munnar does not have an airport or railway station, a journey by road is inevitable. If you are getting off at the nearest airports or railway stations, it will take you 3-4 hours by road to reach Munnar.

Picture - Unsplash  

Eravikulam National Park

Spread across a 97 sq. km. area, the animals that you can see here are Nilgiri Marten, Ruddy Mongoose, Small Clawed Otter, Dusky Striped Squirrel, etc and approximately 48 species of mammals. Not just animals but it is also home to some of the rarest plants like - Neelakurunji which blooms only once every 12 years (they will next bloom in 2030). It is also a treasure trove of over 700 medicinal plants. On the first day of your 3 day Munnar itinerary, visit one of the most beautiful spots of South India located inside the national park - Lakkam Waterfalls.

Entry : The entry fee for Indian nationals is a little over ₹100 and for foreign nationals is a little over ₹400. You will have to pay extra fees to carry in cameras and other filming equipment. The timings for visiting the park are 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Tata Tea Museum

Munnar is famous across the country for being home to the best tea plantations and tea estates. Do learn about the rich history of the region and its ‘thick as thieves’ friendship with tea and tea plantations. Tata tea museum was established in 2005 which shows you the pictures and process of tea production through the years. It is quite interesting and worth it. You can be a part of a special show which happens twice a day at 10 am and 2 pm where they demonstrate different kinds of tea and taste them.

Entry : The museum is open on all days except Mondays and Good Friday. It is open for visiting between 9 am to 4 pm. The entry is nominal at ₹75 per person and extra for cameras.

Tea Tales Cafe

Visit one of the best café in Munnar – Tea Tales café. It offers a wide variety of tea and coffee and the ambience is so comfortable and cosy that you will definitely end up spending more time here. Oh hey, our vegan friends, you will not be disappointed here because they also have some amazing vegan food and beverage options. You should try their Hot Chocolate and Grilled Sandwich during your 3 day Munnar itinerary.

C.S.I Christ Church

This British-era church is one of the oldest churches in the region. It was built in 1910 by the British. You will be left mesmerized by the architecture and beauty of this place. Get some amazing pictures clicked for your Instagram at this rustic church.

Entry : You can visit the church on all days of the week between 9 am to 5 pm. The best part is NO ENTRY FEES!

Lockhart Gap Viewpoint

Lockhart Gap viewpoint is a vantage point named after the gap between the two mountains forming the shape of a heart. You will find yourself amongst the bandwagon of clouds at this point and the panoramic view leaves your senses numb from its beauty. Spend some time here to take in the vibes and feel as your 3-day Munnar itinerary is incomplete without this.

Entry : There is no entry point or fee to visit this place. You can go at any time of the day as per your liking and have fun.

The most famous spot near Munnar is Echo point. It is situated at a height of 600 feet above sea level. The view offered is picturesque and enthralling. You can indulge in more self-talk and bird-watching at this location. Trekking up to Echo Point is easy and worth all the hard work.

Entry : Entry is quite nominal at ₹30 per person. If you want to try boating, it'll cost extra depending on the boat you choose. It can be visited between 6 am to 7:30 pm.

Mattupetty Dam  

The next destination in our 3-day Munnar itinerary was established in the 1940s for the purposes of hydropower generation and water conservation and now it is also a popular tourist spot. Observe the nature surrounding this dam and try the adventurous speed boating ride. Maybe try an old-school picnic set up here.

Entry : The entry here is ₹10 per person. For a 15-minute boat ride around the lake, it costs anywhere between ₹300 - ₹700 depending on the boat. You visit it from 9:30 am to 5 pm.

Pothamedu Viewpoint  

One of the best vantage points in Munnar, Pothamedu is a must-visit. You will get to enjoy the Muthirapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam from that height. The mountains overlapping each other covered in a layer of green plantations, it is definitely a view to behold.

The view that you saw on the previous day from Pothamedu gets even more beautiful up close. Located between two mountains – Kuravan Mala and Kurathi Mala, Idukki Arch Dam is built upon the Periyar River. It is one of the highest arch dams in Asia and the double arcs and curvature make the view even more enchanting. Definitely, you should keep this in mind and witness a marvel.

Entry : With ₹10 as the entry fee per person, you can visit this beautiful place without spending much. Although a 15-minute boat ride can cost around ₹600 per person. Visit the dam between 10 am to 5 pm.

2nd Mile Viewpoint

Explore the 2nd Mile viewpoint for some spectacular views of the mountains, valleys and the sky merging with the greens. Just imagine having a piping hot bowl of Maggi at such a magical view. Nothing can be better than this.

Entry : There is no entry fee and you can visit it any time of the day.

Attukad Waterfalls

A white strong stream of water falling from a height with plants and trees surrounding the fall, that’s the image you will carry back home about Munnar and that image you will find at Attukad Waterfalls. You can swim and relax by the natural pool of the waterfall. This place becomes especially more beautiful during the monsoons.

Entry : It is free for everyone to visit but a guided tour might cost up to ₹100 per person. It is open for visiting during the hours from 10 am to 6 pm.

Where To Stay?

Travelling on a budget? Our hostel in Munnar offers budget-friendly accommodation options without compromising on comfort. Guests can choose from our affordable room rates, bunk beds, or dormitory-style accommodation that are perfect for solo travellers or backpackers. Check out, The Hosteller Munnar .

What to do now?

Enjoy longer stays at Munnar with us. Book here.

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Don't just wonder, wander too. (travel destinations), munnar travel guide and itinerary : places to visit in munnar for 3 days.

Among the hundred hill stations in India, Munnar is one of the most popular. Munnar comes from the Tamil word “moon-aar” which means three rivers. It is believed to be referring to the confluence of Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala Rivers.

Munnar is sitting in the Idukki district, Kerala, India. Munnar is approximately three hours away from Kochi. Munnar is a must-visit in India since it boasts the highest tea plantation in the world. It also has several sanctuaries that protect a wide variety of flora and fauna.

In this article, I’d like to share the places and activities you can do in when in Munnar, a short list of accommodation, and something about a side trip to the Windermere Riverhouse, Neriamangalam . But, first, here’s how to get to Munnar.

How to go to from Cochin to Munnar

There are buses from Kochi going to Munnar but then it’s quite hard. Travel time from Kochi going to Munnar via bus may take more or less 5 hours. Bus ride may cost around INR 181 (Php 143.77). You may find them at KSRTC Bus Station, Ernakulam.

It’s best to hire a taxi or a car. We hired a car through Suburban Travels & Holidays Cochin, Kerala. Recognized by Ministry of Tourism, India, the Suburban Travels is a go-to travel agency who knows the ins and out of India. They can assist you with car rentals, local and overseas transportation services booking, hotel reservations, and tour packages. You may also check other places that they cover through their website http://suburban.travel/ .

Car rental from Cochi going to Munnar costs us more or less INR 3,750 (Php 2,978.75). It was a hassle-free drive. The road to Munnar is scenic but very winding. Good thing our driver, Vishnu, drove safely. He had ample stops for tea and what not that ease the motion sickness. For those sensitive to motion sickness might as well take meds before this four hour-drive.

What to do in Munnar

Ride the jeep safari.

The best way to explore the uphill greenery of Munnar is by riding jeep, especially when going in a group. You can expect a bumpy ride through tea and spice plantations of Kolukkumalai, winding roads, Lock heart gap and scenic view.

Our road trip in Munnar was made happened by Route 49 Adventures . It is a travel and tour company which specializes in nature tripping around Munnar. You may contact them through their Facebook page .

Being the adventurous girl that I am, asked if I could sit on top of the jeep and they said yes. The ride was very bumpu and I had to hold on tight but I loved the unobstructed view from up there so I’m glad I asked .

2.Tea Plantation

For a breathtaking view of the valley of tea plantation, you can go for a short or long trek at Lockhart Gap Viewpoint. Lockhart Gap, sometimes spelled as Lock heart Gap, got its name from the gap between two mountains that appears like a locked heart. No entrance fee is required in Lockhart Gap.

3.Tea Factory KTDC

The Lockhart tea factory is among the first tea factories in India and is first built by British British East India Company. Every year, the Lockhart tea factory produces approximately 20 million kilograms of tea. Portions of these are exported to countries like England and China. When you arrive at the Lockhart tea factory, you’ll learn some facts about the tea like its history and its health benefits. You can find some old machinery which was first used to make tea. You can personally see how they manufacture their products. They still use orthodox or traditional process. There’s a tea tasting section so you can try out their flavored teas. Then, you can also buy at their factory outlet. About 20 minutes away from the Lockhart tea factory, you can also visit the first tea museum in India which is the Kannan Devan Hill Plantation (KDHP), Nallathanni Estate. Hotels and resorts in Munnar, like KTDC Tea County, offers tea plantations tour. Further below are services offered by KTDC Tea County and three other hotels.

There are a lot of beautiful hikes in Munnar. Unfortunately, there was a trek ban when we were there. We really enjoyed the tea plantations though. A list of the best trails in Munnar includes Kannan Devan Hills which is a difficult 5-hour trek through tea and spice plantations and rocky slopes; and Chokramudi which is an easy trek from the first level but difficult at the third up to its highest peak.

5. See the Jacaranda trees

6. Eravikulam National Park

Best Place to Stay in Munnar

The fog hotel.

The Fog Hotel is a luxury and an award-winning hotel located in Chithirapuram, Munnar. It is about 30 to 40 minutes away from Munnar Bus Station and Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation. Behind it is a spice plantation you can go visit. The Fog Hotel can also help arrange your tour activities within Munnar. Basic room amenities of their room includes aircon, ceiling fan, tea and coffee maker, minibar, bathroom with rain shower head, separate living room space and balcony with valley view. Its hotel amenities include barbecue and picnic area, fitness center, spa treatment service, billiard table, swimming pool, and kiddie pool.

KTDC Tea County

Tea County is a Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) controlled premium hotel. It is near Munnar Tea Museum and 32 minutes away from Eravikulam National Park. Basic room amenities include flat screen TV, living room, bathroom with shower. Its hotel amenities include Ayurveda treatment center, multicuisine restaurant, and beer and wine parlor.

Blanket Hotel & Spa

View from the rooftop of Blanket Hotel Munnar

Blanket Hotel & Spa is also a luxury hotel. It is at least 20 minutes away from Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation, Munnar. On the east side of the hotel, you can get a great view of Attukad falls.

Most of the rooms may have that relaxing view of the Attukad falls as well as a tea plantation. Aside from the view, each suite basically has aircon, flat screen TV, and bathroom with bathtub. Its hotel facilities include an infinity pool, fitness gym, recreational center, mountain garden facing the Attukad waterfalls, spa treatment center, and more.

The Windermere Estate – Plantation & Retreat

The Windermere Estate covers approximately 55 acres of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations. 5 acres of the Windermere Estate is a strategic retreat house at a walking distance away from Pothamedu Viewpoint.

The ambiance of the Windermere Estate is very homey, feels like a log cabin. The rooms are spacious with balconies, I loved the view. The bathrooms are huge.

This property felt super homey. Like you can just sit in your porch and chill while admiring the view.  At night, there are fireflies, so that’s lovely too. This was my favorite among all the places I’ve seen just because it felt so homey and family oriented. It felt more chill.

The owner, John and his workers are so lovely.  They try to make everyone’s visit special. Because it’s not that big a resort, the whole atmosphere is very welcoming. Over lunch or over dinner, you will see families mingling with each other. John said that his motto is “Come as guests and leave as friends” which I pretty much felt like what he is doing.  They make time to talk to all the guests and make conversations with them.

There is no buffet but they serve good homemade food in the on-site restaurants they call the Barn and the Hut. They use handed down family recipe of Syrian Christian Malayali. To ensure the quality of the meals, they have different fruits and vegetables on the estates like bananas, passion fruit, guava, and tree tomatoes. I seriously loved the tomato soup.  Of course,  the others were really good too but then the tomato soup surprised me. I seriously wanted to ask for more but then more food was served that’s quite enough for everyone cause we were all so full.

Alongside the homemade food, they also serve Continental, Oriental and Indian cuisines for breakfast. And in the Hut, they served homegrown tea from 3:30 PM until 6 PM. No alcoholic drinks but mocktails only. You may bring your own alcoholic drinks and can consume them inside your rooms.

In the Hut, they have cooking demonstrations. We learned how to do fish curry and fried vegetables when we were there.

Other hotel amenities of Windermere are the swimming pool near the Barn. This swimming pool overl looks the tea plantation so it has a calming effect.  Pool with an awesome view. This would be good for the afternoon, it is not heated so it can be cold in the morning but it’s perfect in the afternoon.  They also have a  Library on the second floor of the Barn. The Library mostly has books and magazines about different plant and animals, the culture of Kerala, and so on. There are hammocks around the estate where you can unwind, soul search or read a good book. They call this area as the Glenn.

Twice a week, they invite all the guests to gather for a bonfire in the Boulder area of the Estate. Barbecue and vegetarian kebab are served and shared plus good talk, laughter or singing among the group. This is one of the visions of the Windermere Estate which is to allow all the guests to get together and befriend each other. Thus, making the experience at the retreat house even more memorable and meaningful.

The Windermere Estate offers optional outdoor activities for guests like yoga classes, two-hour walk along cardamom plantation and bird watching tour. The Estate is also an ideal place for bicycling. So, they also offer bike rentals.

Ideal Itinerary in  Munnar with Windermere Retreats

On day one, you can arrive and check-in between 1:00 PM and 10:30 PM. Then, in the early afternoon, do the two-hour walk along the cardamom plantation. By 3:30 PM until 6 PM, the homegrown tea is served on the Hut. After that, you can schedule your cooking class or cooking demonstration. Then, chill for a while. Don’t forget your dinner.

Wake up and watch the sunrise. Go out for bird watching around the estate. Then, explore the other destinations in Munnar through Jeep safari. Jeep safari tour can cover some of the most important places in Munnar like tea factory, spice plantations, and museums. You may book via Route 49.

You can opt to go to a 4 hour guided trek or to a 7 to 8-hour difficult trek through the second highest peak in the Western Ghats. You can also opt to visit the town, villages or the school for specially-abled children, Srishti Trust.

Chill, relax, enjoy the view or go trekking or go to the national parks. Then, take a road trip to see jacaranda trees.

Side Trip to Windermere River House, Neriamangalam

Roughly two hours away, the Windermere Estates has another property in Neriamangalam. Neriamangalam is a small town located on the borders of Ernakulam and Idukki districts and along the Periyar River.

They named the property as the Windermere River House. This is relatively new but worth the visit as well. It is open as an accommodation. Just like the Windermere Estate in Munnar, it’s very homey. This one only has 5 rooms but I loved it. It has all the basic facilities the guests will need. Four of these rooms has the view of the river.

The Windermere River House has an al fresco dining area. They use all organic and homegrown ingredients. It has the pool similar to that we saw on Windermere Estates, Munnar. Yoga class is conducted behind the main building and near the riverbank.

The Windermere River House offers many outdoor activities within and near its vicinity. At the Periyar River behind the retreat house, you can go out for canoeing.  This is definitely something you should try. I loved the calmness of the water. Although you shouldn’t move too much so the canoe won’t tip over— but the likelihood of that is slim. I mean, I kept moving to adjust my view ( you know by now that I get restless) but the guide was good that we didn’t tip. Perhaps no big movements like jumping or what not.

You can also go for a nature walk or cycling across a hanging bridge, nearby village and into the forest temple.  We went here during sunset and  the view was awesome. Children were swimming under the bridge, others were canoeing— felt like a very local area.   We talked to people passing the bridge, they kept asking where I am from but a lot of them seem to know about or a lot of  Filipinos and the Philippines so whenever I mention I am from the Philippines, they talk about people they know.

We saw the biggest moth, Atlas, and the rhino ladybug in the property so that could be interesting too. For those up for bird watching, you can visit the first bird sanctuary in Kerala, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary.

You can then drop by a nearby Toddy shop. A toddy shop is their local tavern whose specialty is a mild alcoholic drink. They call this local drink as Kallu. Basically, it is a palm wine. In the Philippines, it is called tuba.

12 thoughts on “ Munnar Travel Guide and Itinerary : Places to Visit In Munnar for 3 days ”

I really love how beautiful and how well your trip to Munnar went. Such a very inviting place to visit and I would really love to try to visit the tea plantation, as I look at surroundings, I feel really relaxed and all in all the view everywhere is perfect. I really love all of the photos, thanks for sharing all about Munnar!

What an incredible trip! Visiting Kerala is so high on my list- that jeep safari looks super fun, and the tea plantations are gorgeous!

I would love to do the river cruise in this region but in all fairness after reading this, I would love to check out the region and explore it. Those retreats look worth staying at. would love to wake up every morning to the sunshine and have a cup of tea outside.

Wow that is one fantabulous experience in Munnar. I too had a similar itinerary years back in analog days. Nothing much has changed except that some new hotels have come up. I am glad Munnar is preserved so well. Lovely pics of you and your friends.

Going to the highest tea plantation in the world sees like an interesting proposition. I love love love the picture of you in the field with the jacaranda trees. I used to live in San Diego and the streets are lined with jacaranda. When they bloom, it’s a magical tunnel of purple. Beautiful photography.

I’ve never been to a tea plantation before, so I’d love to come here to see the highest tea plantation in the world! I’d love to go for a walk on the hanging bridge too.

This looks absolutely epic…especially that Safari! Munnar has been on my mind for years now, and currently I am the only one in my family who hasn’t been there!

Love your pictures too…captures the essence of the place beautifully 🙂

Munnar seems ideal for nature lovers! The Jeep safari tour sounds amazing and a visit to a tea plantation in India seems to be a must. I loved your pictures, you really traveled me there!

That’s a really thorough guide! I think I’d probably want to take a tour with Route 49 Adventures too and just follow in your footsteps. Looks like some really beautiful places around there, especially the national park, and I’d love to go on some hikes while I’m there.

Ms. Karla, I am just so proud to see a Filipina going out there, exploring the world, and just be an inspiration! The trip to the tea plantation seems like a great experience ans you absolutely look stunning in your photos!

I absolutely love the idea of drinking exotic tea!!! But as the proud owner of Jeep Wrangler I would absolutely love the Jeep Safari!!! Awesome. Those Jacaranda trees are absolutely beautiful. Its look like a painting, so beautiful. Oh and i love the rooftop of Blanket Hotel Munnar. That looks cool…

OHHHH you would definitely love the Jeep safari! I really really did,.

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Exploring the world, one place at a time.

A complete travel guide to munnar: the tea capital of kerala, india.

• Post published: July 28, 2021
• Post category: India
• Post author: Charu Goyal

Home to misty waterfalls, winding paths, and an unending expanse of tea plantations, Munnar in Kerala is one of the most popular places to visit in South India. Blessed with pristine valleys, endangered flora and fauna, calming lakes, and verdant forests, it may very well be one of the most beautiful places in India too.

Situated at an altitude of 1600 metres above the sea level, Munnar is a picturesque hill station and town in the Idukki district of Kerala. Accessed via an encircling road that passes through a myriad of scenic waterfalls, thriving vegetation, and mesmerising views of the Western Ghats, it is a sightseeing gem that once served as a summer resort for the British colonists.

Being the first stop on my Kerala trip in February last year, I spent two days exploring Munnar with my best friend. Meandering around acres of tea estates nestled between humongous mountains covered with low-lying clouds, I instantly comprehended Kerala’s much enthused title of God’s own country. So much so that I nearly teared up at the thought of leaving.

However, planning our trip to Munnar wasn’t equally wistful. There is a lot of information out there about what to do and see in Munnar, but barely anything that clarifies the mystery that Munnar’s layout is. I kid you not, I must have spent hours looking at the map of Munnar and reading Kerala guides after guides to just understand which area to stay in.

So, if you are planning to visit Munnar and are in the same boat as I once was, then worry not. In this guide, you will find all the essential topics ranging from the different areas to stay in Munnar, how to get there, best places to visit, which tea plantations to go to, where to eat and so on. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using any of those links, I may get a small commission. Thank you for your continued support!

Table of Contents

Where exactly is Munnar in India?

Munnar is the tea capital of Kerala, the southernmost state in India. Renowned for its natural beauty and wealth of pictorial sights, Kerala is one of the most incredible destinations to visit in Asia. Bordering the Arabian Sea on the west; it is an Indian state that is admired globally for its humid tropical wet climate.

Munnar is located at the union of Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala mountain streams in the South-Western Ghats of India. Its name fittingly translates to “three rivers” in Malayalam, the local language of Kerala. Sitting on the Kochi-Dhanushkodi National Highway (N.H. 49), Munnar is around 130 km from Kochi. Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu is also close at a distance of roughly 157 km.

Although Munnar is commonly referred to as a hill station and trains did go up to its town centre and beyond once, that is simply not possible anymore. There was a dreadful flooding in the area in 1924, which ended up destroying much of the railway and ropeway, connecting Munnar to other major Indian cities. You can find remains of the old railway tracks on the Kundala-Top Station route even today.

The longstanding railway station, however, now operates as the local office of Tata Tea. The old platform outside it has also been converted into a road. Yet, this doesn’t mean that Munnar isn’t easily reachable nowadays. Being one of the most sought-after hill stations in South India, Munnar is still well connected to nearby airports and stations via road.

How to best reach there?

Whether you are travelling from domestic Indian cities or visiting directly from international destinations, there are many ways to get to the town of Munnar. Here are the most common transport options to help you decide the best mode for you:

Since Munnar doesn’t have an airport of its own, the nearest one that you can fly into is in Kochi. Cochin International Airport is located about 125 km away from Munnar. It is well connected to most cities in India and around the world. From there, you can hire a private taxi to Munnar directly when you arrive or pre-book one and have it ready for you at arrivals. Check flights to Cochin International Airport here!

I flew into Kochi from Mumbai early in the morning and just booked the transfer to our hotel in Munnar at the airport itself. There is a booking counter right after baggage claim in the arrivals lounge and you can easily get fixed price transports from there (No, haggling wouldn’t make a difference). The entire process is really organised and hassle free as you get a booking slip upon payment and meet your driver outside.

CG’s tip: Just make sure to have the proper address of your accommodation with you and not of Munnar town simply. Munnar refers to both the town and its surrounding areas, so accommodations are sometimes further out or nearer to the centre. Depending on where yours is based, you might be asked to pay a little extra or less, so it is better to check beforehand. 

Our accommodation was actually higher up from the general drop-off point, so our AC taxi with two large suitcases cost us INR 3350 for the drop-off . If you are travelling alone or are tight on budget, then you can even get a bus transfer. There are several bus companies running frequent buses between Cochin International Airport and Munnar. Though, none of them are direct as of yet. If you would prefer a direct bus, then you can head to the closeby Aluva bus stop (12 km away) and get a bus to Munnar from there .

The closest railway station to Munnar is in Aluva (110 km), which is slightly nearer compared to the centre of Kochi. Angamaly (Kalady) Railway Station is also at a similar distance. But if you are looking for better connectivity to other parts of India with frequent express trains, then Ernakulam might be the best option.

The Ernakulam Railway Station in Kochi is at a distance of 130 km from Munnar and has more daily trains arriving from faraway cities like Mumbai and Delhi . The Madurai Railway Station in Tamil Nadu is also around 135 km away, so you can check online and see which one might be a better choice for your departure city.

Irrespective of which railway station do you arrive at out of the mentioned above, there are onward buses and taxis available for Munnar from all. You can either walk to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus stand near your station and take a local bus, or get a prepaid taxi from arrivals / book a taxi from Kochi to Munnar online .

Snuggled between splendid hills, Munnar is one of the most beautiful places to drive to. Regardless of how you choose to get there, chances are that you will be arriving into town by road. One of the popular ways to travel to Munnar is hiring a car to self-drive or booking a taxi . Since most places to see in Munnar are very spread out, I personally think having your own vehicle can be a bliss whilst there.

Munnar is also well connected to numerous state and national highways across India via public transport. You can book buses online via redBus or turn up at a stop and buy a ticket in person. However, the local, state run buses by KSRTC might be a better choice as they operate more frequently to mountainous areas where many public buses don’t often go. When taking a KSRTC bus from Kochi to Munnar, you can expect to pay somewhere around INR 130 per person.

CG’s tip: If arriving in a private vehicle, do not forget to make pit-stops on the way to enjoy the abundant viewpoints as you gain elevation and snap pictures by the oodles of waterfalls that will surprise you en route. If coming by bus, then get a window seat and purely admire the verdant visions from your ride!

Onward Transport from Munnar

When it’s nearly time to leave, you can simply arrange for the transport in Munnar itself. Our next stop on the Kerala trip was Kumarakom and we got a private taxi for INR 3300 in Munnar town the night before. There are various travel agents and ticketing shops around town from where you can book your preferred onward transfer.

Buses operate daily from / to Kumarakom, Alleppey, Kochi, Coimbatore, Madurai and more. You can browse bus routes on the KSRTC website here. Alternatively, you can book a taxi or hire a car to anywhere you would like to go.

What is the best time to visit Munnar?

Munnar is one of those destinations that can be enjoyed throughout the year due to its adequate climate. Whether you are looking to find some solace during the scorching Indian heat in summer, or are thinking of a mountainous getaway during the winter season in India; Munnar, being a hill station, is a treat anyhow.

Summer (March to May)

Summer starts arriving in Munnar from March and usually lasts till May. With temperatures ranging between 19-35 degrees Celsius , it is a great time to visit Munnar and enjoy the cool air amidst acres of tea plantations. Early morning and night time in Munnar are generally cool throughout the year, so you will still get a hill station feel even in summer.

Munnar is also known to have less humidity and rainfall during the summer months. Because of this, you might notice a surge of prices when travelling to Munnar during this time as many domestic tourists head there to escape the heat. From hiking in the Western Ghats to going camping and exploring waterfalls, there are a plethora of activities that you can take part in in summer.

This time of the year is also when many seasonal activities like paragliding, rock climbing, rappelling and other adventure sports are available. You can also go on a trek to Anamudi – the highest point in India (outside the Himalayan Mountain Ranges) at 2,695 metres above the ground.

CG’s tip: Munnar could still experience light rain showers in the summer. It is a good idea to carry a light sweater or jacket and an umbrella or raincoat for your visit.

Monsoon (June to September)

Monsoon season in Munnar comes with its own charm. The arrival of shimmering rain transforms the sprawling tea estates and lush forests of Munnar into an even more alluring, verdant and vibrant scene. Cloudy skies and heavy waterfalls further add to the overall atmosphere and make way for a pleasant time.

Munnar experiences heavy rainfall with an average of 533 mm rain during the months of June and July. If you are planning to visit Munnar during monsoon s , then keep in mind that many touristic activities might not be available . The roads leading to Munnar and around it can also be slippery during this time, so I would advise to head there only during the day and not at night.

Having said that, most accommodations in Munnar are typically cheaper during monsoon (due to off-season). You can even book a room overlooking the lush hills and enjoy the view with a hot cup of chai when the rain pours. The town in general is quieter too, so it can be a more relaxing time to visit. However, with rain comes leeches, so be careful when going into grassy areas during monsoon. There could also be road blockages and landslides in monsoon, so I would personally avoid visiting then.

CG’s tip: Trekking and hiking might not be possible to do in Munnar during monsoon as the surface becomes slippery. Though, it might still be a good idea to carry footwear that you would not mind getting dirty along with some warm clothing and an umbrella or raincoat .

Winter (October to February)

Winter is the best time to visit a hill station like Munnar. With crisp afternoons, icy dawns, and pleasant dusks, it is easy to understand why most tourists head to Munnar between October and February. The average temperature in Munnar during this time is around 10 degrees Celsius . But since it is situated on high terrains and is surrounded by vast empty lands, the air tends to feel colder than that.

I visited Munnar in the beginning of February and loved the climate. The afternoons were hot enough to wander around in a t-shirt, but a jacket was still needed during auto-rickshaw rides and at night time. From hiking, trekking and mountain climbing, to gazing at waterfalls and walking amidst tea plantations, there were plenty of activities to engage in. Just remember that it is the busiest tourist season in Kerala, so you should expect to see large crowds!

From the month of November to January, Munnar sometimes experiences occasional snowfall and cold waves with recorded temperature dipping down below 0 degrees Celsius. If you are planning to visit during the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers, then September to October might be a better choice. But if weather is the deciding factor, then I personally found February to have been perfect .

CG’s tip: When packing warm clothes for the trip, make sure to bring layers with you. Since the temperature increases in the day and then drops again at night, it would be comfortable to have easily changeable options with you.

How many days are enough?

In order to see the best of Munnar, I would recommend visiting there for three full days. I was there for a short trip so could only stay for two days and thus, ended up missing a few things that I would have liked to explore and do. 

Most places to see in Munnar are spread out from each other and divided into routes according to their location. You will most likely have to dedicate a day to each route in order to see the touristic spots in that area. Since I was there for only two days, I could only do two routes. 

We were able to see quite a few places, but I have to admit that I felt a little rushed on the first day. Since we made our way from Kochi airport on the same day, we could not begin the tour early in the morning and hence had limited time. Even though the driving distance between Kochi and Munnar isn’t that much, the duration often takes longer due to the windy, singular road.

However, if you are short on time, then it is possible to do a private day trip to Munnar from Kochi. You’ll usually begin your journey at sunrise and be back in Kochi for dinner!

Where to stay in Munnar?

This is one question that I struggled with the most when planning my trip to Kerala. Since Munnar refers to both the town and its general surrounding area, many nice hotels and resorts there are actually located far off the centre. Having not been there before, I personally found it difficult to gauge how far away would it be okay to stay in terms of food, transport, touristic sites and so on.

I had always dreamt of staying at a beautiful accommodation with panoramic views of the plantations and the greenery that Munnar is known for. However, resorts like that can be scattered anywhere up to 20-25 kilometres of radius from the centre. So, if you do not have your own vehicle with you, it can become costlier to get around and to access the restaurants in the town centre for dinner.

So how do you choose where to stay? Well, know that Munnar is divided into three broad areas that each have something different to offer. Depending on what your preference, budget and purpose of the trip is, you can see which one suits your needs best and stay there. 

Old Munnar is a small settlement that is not too far from Munnar Town. It is a decent area with many budget accommodations and some nice viewpoints close by. If you are arriving to Munnar in a bus from Kochi, then Old Munnar is where the buses would usually stop first. Being in close proximity with a bus stop, Old Munnar is a convenient area to get to and from.

I visited Old Munnar to see some photo points and spice gardens around there, and the neighbourhood looked acceptable. I wouldn’t go as far as saying that this is the best area to stay in Munnar. But if you are after economical properties that are away from the town centre noise and traffic, then Old Munnar is a decent choice. Especially since it is still close enough to easily get there if needed.

From the research that I have done, Grand Plaza and Greenview Holiday Inn look like the best options in Old Munnar. Greenview Holiday Inn is located right on the Main Street connecting Munnar to Kochi, while Grand Plaza has some rooms with beautiful views going for it. Other properties like Deshadan Mountain Resort and Fragrant Nature Munnar are a tad further away, but come with beautiful tea estate views and luxury that is otherwise rare in the hills. The Abad Copper Castle Resort is also nearby and has great balcony views.

Munnar Town

Munnar Town is the commercial centre of the area. If you are looking to stay somewhere with easy access to restaurants, accommodations, ATMs and other tourism related services, then this is the best option for you. Though, it may not be the most postcard worthy choice. 

With many hotel buildings and shops nearby, the view in Munnar Town is merely ordinary. I stayed at a walking distance from the main market there and felt like I missed on the proper hill station experience that one would go to a place like Munnar for. Most places to sightsee in Munnar are also not actually in the centre, so it certainly lacks when it comes to scenery.

However, with an array of eateries present in almost every nook, I admit that it was convenient to grab a quick albeit delicious bite at any given time and just go for an escapade. Containing the town’s main taxi stand near the market, Munnar town also ended up being a convenient base to hire auto rickshaws or private cabs for day tours in and around Munnar.

You can check out my hotel in Munnar Town here . We just went there to sleep, so I cannot say much about the service. But, it was easy on the pocket. If you are looking for something more decent, then the nearby Tea County looks great.

Out of Town Munnar

If commercialised areas aren’t your thing and you would rather enjoy the idyllic views that Munnar is mainly famous for, then staying a little out of town might be the best choice for you. With numerous guesthouses, hotels, resorts and treehouses (!!) spread around a 20-30 minute drive from Munnar, there is a wide list of options to choose from for every budget when staying out of town.

Depending on what you choose (eg: a guesthouse by the tea plantations), there may be less restaurants situated close to your accommodation. But since most places like that have an on-site restaurant, you can always double check before making a booking or request for arrangements in advance. Nearly all out of town properties also have a concierge service and can make transportation s and day-tour s bookings for you. 

CG’s tip: If you are taking a bus to get to Munnar, then make sure to check which bus stop is closest to it. A lot of the properties are in or near Munnar Bypass, so buses usually stop there first before heading to the town.

One of the best out of town properties is the luxurious Kaivalyam Wellness Retreat . It is situated midst a beautiful spice plantation and has free shuttle bus services to the main town. The Elixir Hills Suites Resort and Spa and Blanket Hotel Spa also look equally stunning. If you like waterfalls, then you can even get a room with a view of a mesmerising waterfall at Blanket Hotel Spa. Last but not the least, The Panoramic Getaway also is a great choice.

How to get around Munnar?

Since most places to see in Munnar are far (like covering national parks and forest reserves far!) from the centre, you cannot simply walk to a landmark and explore independently. If you have your own vehicle with you, then yes, you can drive in any direction you like. But for most travellers, you will either need to use a public bus, hire an auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk) or a private taxi.

CG’s tip: If you want to drive your own vehicle or take a bus, then remember to write down the timings, directions and other necessary information for the way back. Since some spots are situated even higher up than Munnar town, cellular network doesn’t really work there so you might not have any connectivity from time-to-time.

Public buses run all the way to Top Station and are easy to find from the town centre. However, due to the winding nature of the road taking you there and the distance involved, these buses can take longer than anticipated. 

I wanted to have more freedom in regards to being able to stop wherever I liked, so I didn’t personally try this option.

Auto Rickshaw or Taxi Tour

Because there are so many wonderful spots and directions to go explore when in Munnar, getting around in a privately hired vehicle may be your best bet. Depending on your budget, you can book a taxi or auto rickshaw for a day tour and have the drivers take you around your chosen spots and back.

Since most touristic sights around Munnar fall on a certain route, you will find taxi and auto rickshaw drivers offering customised tours for various different ones. These drivers almost always carry a route card / brochure with pictures of the most famous spots with them, so you can have a look at the options and go with the one that interests you best.

Depending on how further you opt to go and the duration of your chosen tour, a price will then be quoted to you. Auto-rickshaw tours are typically around INR 700-1000 per day and the taxi charges are nearly double that. The asking price can be at least twice these figures (especially if you are not from around there) so don’t forget to haggle beforehand. 

The four most common routes are towards the Mattupetti, Marayoor (or Coimbatore), Cochin, and Thekkady directions. We decided to take the Top Station / Mattupetti tour on Day 1 from the town centre and it cost us INR 900 for an auto-rickshaw option. For Day 2, we chose the Cochin direction tour (with the same driver) which cost us INR 1000 with a hotel pick-up and drop off. 

The best thing about our tour was that the driver was very accommodating and didn’t mind stopping at random stops for pictures. He was also very knowledgeable about the places we visited, so it was like getting a tour guide and a driver for the price of one. But, keep in mind that none of these tours cover entrance fees for any attractions.

Renting a Motorbike

This used to be a very popular means of getting in and around Munnar up to a few years back. With an encircling road situated right in the lap of nature, adventure loving travellers often enjoyed touring around in pocket friendly motorbikes to explore Munnar on their own. However, due to reasons unclear, this is no longer possible.

Though based upon my chat with my auto-rickshaw driver and other locals, it did look like there are actually multiple causes behind it. There seemed to have been some accidents involving the rental motorbikes in the past (which for a hill station like Munnar sounds likely) and seemingly fatalities too. 

However, I was also told that since other tour operators and locals weren’t benefitting with tourists hiring their own vehicle for cheap, the government had to intervene and prohibit motorbike rentals.

Places to see and things to do in Munnar

Where do I even begin with this one? For a town oozing with touristic sights and hidden gems, saying that there is plenty to see in Munnar would be an understatement. From seeing elephants in their natural habitat to visiting the most elevated tea plantation in the world, here are some places that you can explore on your next trip to Munnar:

Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is a concrete storage gravity dam that is used to generate hydroelectricity in the area. It was constructed in the Idukki district in the late 1940s and is said to be the first of its kind in the entire state of Kerala. 

Surrounded by lush forests and verdant tea plantations that reflect beautifully on the water in the lake, it is also a much renowned picnic spot in Munnar. There are several stalls offering local delicacies like roasted corn and coconut water around. You can also bring your own food there and enjoy it by the lakeshore.

Mattupetty Dam is also known for spotting Asiatic Elephants. Due to the water availability in the lake, many such wild animals and birds can be occasionally seen from there. And if you like adventures, then there is also a beautiful trekking path leading to nearby forests. Water activities like speed and motor boating in the dam are available too.

Distance: 13 km away from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 09:30 am – 05:00 pm

Echo Point is a beautiful spot located at an altitude of 600 feet on the banks of a glistening lake. With panoramic views of three mountain ranges and evergreen forests, it is one of those places that is destined to leave you spellbound. 

Echo Point is also famous for its natural phenomenon of echoing. So, when visiting, make sure to shout something by the shore of the lake and hear your voice reverberate back to you in sometime. I will admit that I didn’t really expect much from it at first, but the moment you first hear your own echo, it truly is enthralling.

You can also walk around the gentle slopes, trek, or go on a boating expedition while there. I, for one, even loved sitting and gazing at the incredible landscape in front. Echo Point is also home to misty low-lying clouds and some very tall trees.

CG’s tip: Echo Point is a beautiful spot to take Instagram photos in Munnar. So don’t forget to carry your camera with you and take some pictures to remember this natural paradise by.

Distance: 15 km away from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours : 06:00 am – 07:30 pm

Kundala Lake

Snuggled between green valleys, Kundala Lake is one of the most beautiful places to see in Munnar. Located at a height of 1700 metres above sea level, it is a tranquil spot situated on the way to Top Station. One of the well-known attractions to see when visiting Kundala Lake is the artificial Kundala dam. Also known as Sethuparvathipuram dam, it is said to be Asia’s first ever arch dam.

The lake is also a popular spot for boat rides such as the traditional Kashmiri Shikara boat. Other types of boating like row boating, paddle boating or speed boating are also available for hire. With the sun reflecting on the clear water and making it gleam in every direction possible, Kundala Lake is indeed a must visit sight for nature lovers. 

This area is also a significant place to see cherry blossoms. Blooming only twice a year, the cherry gardens surrounding Kundala Lake turn the entire lake into a more magical location. Being a paradise full of beautiful flowers, Kundala Lake is also home to the famous Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. The next sighting of the Neelakurinji flowers is supposed to be in 2030!

CG’s tip: Kundala Lake looks even more mesmerising under the first rays of sun. Make sure to arrive here early in the morning to see it in all its glory.

Distance: 20 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm (Boating closes at 04:30 pm)

Top Station

Top Station is the last stop on the Mattupetti direction route. If you are looking to enjoy panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Theni district valley, then driving to the Top Station should definitely be on your Munnar list. It might not technically be a ‘top station’ anymore due to the destruction of the railway tracks there, but it is certainly still the ‘top’ of Munnar. On a clear day, you can even see Tamil Nadu from there!

Like most touristic sights in the Kanan Devan hills, Top Station is also best enjoyed early in the morning. Because it is located 1880 metres above sea level, it can get surrounded by clouds more easily. Once the clouds come in, it becomes harder to see the incomparable views that the location is famous for. Top Station is also popular to spot the rare Neelakurinji flowers. There are a few tea farms nearby too. If you like chai, then you can even grab a cuppa and some snacks at the Top Station and enjoy the misty view in front.

However, do keep in mind that it can get really crowded there. When I visited around sunset time in February 2020,  tourists in Munnar were very limited due to the coronavirus. I was told by my auto-rickshaw driver that sometimes it can even take an entire day to get there and back due to the traffic in peak season. 

Distance: 40 km from Munnar Route : Munnar to Top Station / Mattupetti Direction route Opening hours: 06:00 am to 06:00 pm

Spice Gardens

There are many spice gardens in and around Munnar. Although a tad touristy, doing a tour of spice plantations is interesting if you want to see how the indigenous spices (like turmeric, ashwangandha , pepper, etc.) of the region grow. Typically, you will start by buying your tickets from the counter and have a guide take you around. You can try the species you like, learn about them, take some photographs and then exit through the gift shop.

The one that I visited was part of the auto-rickshaw tour in Cochin direction. It is called Spice County and the tickets cost INR 100 per person. We were taken to the starting point of the plantation in a rather adventurous jeep drive. Our tour lady was nice and wasn’t giving any unnecessary information to try to sell the products from the gift shop. However, others could insist on purchasing something.

The Cinnamon Gardens Spice Plantation is another popular one to visit in Munnar.

Distance: 6 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Cochin direction Opening hours: 08:00 am to 06:00 pm

Tea Plantations and Museum

You cannot go to Munnar and not visit a tea plantation or factory! With more than 1500 acres of land covered with tea, it is truthfully present in every corner there. You can drive past them and stop on the highway to take photos from the various viewpoints that you will come across. Or, go on a tour, learn how it is cultivated, engage in tea tasting and bring some back home.

But if you are looking to get those Instagram perfect pictures of yourself strolling around in tea fields, then know that most aren’t open to the public. The Tata Group actually owns the majority of them, so you will need a special permit to enter as they are usually surrounded by pointed wires. Nonetheless, there are hiking and jeep tours in Munnar that go through the tea fields, so you can do one at sunrise and get some beautiful photos.

Some plantations like Chinnakanal Tea Fields, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and Lockhart Tea Estate also allow visitors to explore the tea fields with a purchase of a ticket. The Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the highest organic tea factory in the world. A jeep tour of it was recommended to me by many locals and tourists. This walking tour takes you amidst tea plantations and involves tea leaf picking and tea tasting as well!

CG’s tip: I was only in Munnar for a short while so I didn’t get the chance to do a tour. But, the auto-rickshaw driver we went with knew some tea plantations that were open to enter (I double-checked with the staff there too) and on the way. If you can, I would recommend doing a tour though as I do feel that I missed out on it.

Pothamedu Viewpoint

Nestled amidst tea and coffee plantations, the Pothamedu Viewpoint offers panoramas of the nearby valley, is a good place for photographs, and is said to be beautiful at sunset time. 

We visited around noon on Day 2 and I personally felt that it wasn’t worth going out of our way to reach there. It might have been because I went to more scenic places the day before or the weather condition, but it didn’t wow me like the other places did.

Having said that, I did enjoy walking around the Pothamedu viewpoint and found a tea plantation that was open to visit. The area is also known to be a good hiking and trekking spot. But if you are visiting with young kids, then be careful as the drop on the other side is really high and there is barely any safety.

Distance: 5 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Cochin direction Opening hours: 09:00 am to 07:30 pm

Eravikulam National Park

The Eravikulam National Park is one of the many wildlife parks near Munnar. Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr mountain ungulates, the highest peak of Anamudi, and the famous Neelakurinji flowers; it is a much-loved tourist destination in Kerala. 

Unlike other national parks around the world, the Eravikulam National Park actually gives visitors the rare freedom to walk around instead of doing a traditional (jeep) safari. There is a designated area where you can stay as long as you wish to and try to spot a Nilgiri Tahr. If interested, you can also book a private hiking tour with the park in advance and go on a 2-3 hour guided expedition. The Eravikulam National Park requires everyone to buy a permit to enter.

In their attempt to do right by the Nilgiri Tahrs, the Kerala government ensures that they remain undisturbed during the calving season. So keep in mind that each year the park remains closed sometime from January for three months straight. Since I visited Munnar in February last year, I could not go to Eravikulam National Park because of this reason.

CG’s tip: The park might be closed during monsoon too, so if you are heading to Munnar to view it, then don’t forget to check in advance.

Distance: 15 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Marayoor / Coimbatore direction Opening hours: 07:30 am to 04:00 pm

Lakkam Waterfalls

Lakkam Waterfalls is a beautiful stream close to the Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the most serene places to see in Munnar and is also known as Lakkom waterfalls. You can visit here to simply admire the waterfalls amidst rich flora or go swimming in the crystal-clear plunge pool that forms at the bottom of the lake. The water is usually icy cold, which can be both a blessing or suffering depending on the season you are visiting in.

Lakkam Waterfalls is also known as a great trekking spot in the area, so you can also book a tour for the same if you like. Just remember to not hike there during the monsoon season as the rocks can be slippery. The waterfall is also surrounded by beautiful Vaga trees that make the area even more appealing.

Distance : 25 km from Munnar Route: Munnar to Marayoor / Coimbatore direction  Opening hours: 08:00 am to 05:00 pm

Some other noteworthy waterfalls to visit in Munnar are Attukal (aka Attukad) waterfalls, Cheeyapara Waterfalls, Chinnakanal Waterfalls and Kuthumkal Waterfalls. But since cascades are in abundance there, you will probably come across many more during your time in Munnar.

Where to eat in Munnar?

South Indian food is one of my all-time favourites so I was really excited to eat my weight in the local delicacies of Munnar. Here are some places that I would recommend for good vegetarian food in Munnar:

Saravana Bhavan: Saravana Bhavan is a well-known, vegetarian South Indian chain around the world. You can expect to find good quality and hygienic local specialities like dosas, idlis , appams, thalis and more here. It is situated in Munnar market and is easy on the pocket too. I had a Rava Masala Dosa along with some idlis and found everything really tasty. I also loved that the food was served on an authentic banana leaf. Unfortunately, we only went here on our last night; otherwise we could have gone back for seconds!

Tea Tales Café: Tea Tales Café is a newly opened eatery by an adventure company in Munnar. It is situated on a higher floor on a busy street in Munnar Town, making it less noisy if you sit inside (outdoor seating is available too). If you need a break from the local food, you can find good vegetarian and vegan options like sandwiches, pastas, smoothies, etc. there. They also have a huge spread of coffees and local teas.

Hotel Gurubhavan: Hotel Gurubhavan was located a mere 5-minute walk from our hotel, so we decided to visit it for dinner one night. We arrived earlier than the standard Indian dinner time, but the place was packed with local tourists within minutes. The price was very reasonable and the food was decent too (we ordered a dosa and some Indian curry with naan). However, they did make another family sit on our table and have us share it with them without even asking which was a little weird.

County Cuisine: Tea County is a hotel operated by the Kerala Government and its multi-cuisine restaurant on site is called County Cuisine. I personally didn’t get to visit it, but from the recommendations I got and the reviews online, it looks like a nice place to get some Indian and Asian food. The restaurant is vegetarian friendly and offers some nice views.

Rochas Restaurant: Rochas restaurant was another eatery in Munnar that was near our hotel. We had jeera aloo and paneer butter masala with some garlic naans and everything was nice. I personally wanted to eat idlis , but for some reason a lot of the South Indian food was available only for breakfast. Not something that I was expecting in Kerala, but it was a touristy place so maybe that’s why.

Other than this, we just had our meals in decent looking places close to where we were. Since Munnar is a hill station, you might not find a huge number of modern restaurants around. Our hotel didn’t have a restaurant on site, but if yours does, then you can always eat there.

What to buy in Munnar?

Munnar is known for many things so if you like souvenir shopping or bringing a loved one a little something, then don’t forget to check out the local markets in the town. Since Munnar is also referred to as the tea capital of Kerala, some tea is always nice to remember it by. I also brought some coffee home for my family and they seemed to really enjoy it.

There are also many shops in Munnar town selling homemade chocolates. You can get flavours like fruit and nuts, chilli chocolates, white/dark, etc. The spice plantation I visited also had a chocolate shop near it, so it might be better to buy from them directly instead of a convenience store in the town.

Last but not the least, since Kerala is known for its Ayurveda practices, you can also buy essential oils, handmade soaps, incense sticks and other natural care products.

What to pack for Munnar?

•  It is really common for showers to appear from nowhere due to the high altitude of Munnar, so make sure to bring an umbrella or waterproof clothing.
• If you plan to take an auto-rickshaw tour, then it might be better to pack something to cover your face or eyes. There is a lot of dust when it’s windy, so we were thankful to have face masks and some eye gear .
•  A jacket ! Even if you are coming in the summer, places like Munnar do get cold at night, so it is useful to have a light layer in case you need it.

• Getting some light cotton clothes is also a good idea. The temperatures seem to fluctuate a lot so it can get really hot and humid during the day. I was there in February and was only comfortable in sleeveless maxi dresses or t-shirts during the day.
• Mosquitos are quite common in Munnar, especially near water bodies. Make sure to take some mosquito repellent with you.
• And of course, a camera! There are going to be countless photo opportunities for you in Munnar, so don’t forget to pack it. This is the one that I’m currently using.
• Munnar and especially Eravikulam National Park is great for wildlife photographers. So, if you have one, then bringing a zoom lens is also recommended.

Some things to know before visiting Munnar

• Even though there are ATMs in and around Munnar, I would recommend to always have some cash on you. The network in Munnar isn’t all that reliable and the auto-rickshaw and roadside vendors only take cash.
• If you are arriving into Munnar on the same day as taking a tour then I would recommend leaving the Top Station one for your second day instead. Since we could only start ours around mid-day, I felt a little rushed towards the end as it started getting dark before we could cover some spots.
• Even though there are a lot of hiking and trekking spots in Munnar, most are only accessible with a guide. If you rather go independently, then research in advance to double check if you are even allowed to access your preferred location.
• If you want to trek to the Anamudi Peak inside the Eravikulam National Park then you can get permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.
• Last but not the least, please do not support elephant villages and other places that use animals as an attraction. Munnar is a place where you can watch them in their natural habitat drinking water by the lake, so there really is no good reason to contribute to animal cruelty.

Final Thoughts

Munnar is a truly incredible destination and it boosts so many interesting lakes, waterfalls, national parks and tea estates that you will never experience a dearth of options when visiting there. It may look like a small town at first, but the surrounding areas are so vast that there will always be new places to stumble upon. Aptly known as ‘Kashmir of the South’, Munnar truly is one of the best places I have visited in India so far!

I hope this detailed guide about Munnar helped you get a good hold of Kerala’s tea capital and inspired you to discover more of South India. If have any questions or would like to add anything, then please do not hesitate to leave a comment below. I love hearing from you! For additional information, you can also find highlights from Kerala trip on my Instagram account .

Safe travels, Charu xx

Want to keep reading? You may like “ Staying at Kumarakom Lake Resort in Kerala ” and “ 50+ Best Kerala Quotes That Make The Perfect Instagram Caption ” too.

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This Post Has 15 Comments

Did you visit Thekkady? That’s another stunning place in Kerala.

Hi Pradeep. No, I did not get to visit Thekkady on this trip unfortunately. It looks really beautiful though and I hope to travel there sometime soon!

Guess What? I was planning to go to Munnar and thought to visit your blog to see what you’re up to and whether any new post has been uploaded by you or not.

And I saw Munnar in the recent post :), you have covered everything in detail. Can you tell me something about the treks in Munnar? from your experience if you have managed to do?

Hi Vansh, thank you so much for reading the post. I am happy to hear that it has been helpful in planning your Munnar trip.

Since I was there only for two nights, I did not get the time to go on a trek myself. But I have heard some good things about the guys at Tea Tales Cafe. They also run their own adventure company, so if you like, you can enquire about treks in person when visiting their cafe in the town centre.

Please let me know if you have any other questions. And have a safe trip!

Thanks Charu for the Info. Keep Inspiring!

Wow, stunning! I will most definitely visit when I’m back in that part of the world because I LOVE tea and nature 🙂 And that food looks delicious!!

I hope you get to return this side soon, Natalie. It wouldn’t even be an exaggeration to say that the air in Munnar smells of tea. You’d really like it!

These tea fields look absolutely stunning and I love your photography! I think we would also love to visit the tea markets in town. Markets, in general, are always so interesting to us because we don’t have anything like that in the US.

Thank you for your kind words, Shelby. And yes, I get what you mean by that. Markets in India are a big thing and although noisy, they do have a charm of their own.

your photos are gorgeous, and all the food looks amazing! i’d really hope to visit munnar, when it’s safe, and i will use your post as a guide… it was so thorough & inspirational 🇮🇳

Thank you so much, Shelley. I hope that the situation here becomes better soon and that you are able to visit when it does. The entire state of Kerala has some of the best food that I have had in the country- I am sure you will like it too!

Lovely post, thanks for sharing! Munnar is on my bucket list and hope to visit soon.

Thank you for reading, Camilla! I hope you can explore Munnar really soon 💗

Interesting Travel Guide of Munnar-Kerala ! Thank you for this amazing post .I am surely going to explore this place.

Thank you for reading it, Pramod. I am pleased to read that you found it useful. Hoping you can go explore Munnar really soon 😊

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Places To Visit In Munnar

Top hotel collections.

Family Resorts

Tree Houses

Must Visit Places in Munnar

Tea Plantations

Kalari Kshethra

Atukkad Waterfalls

Echo Point, Munnar

• Filter (50)
• Waterfall (9)
• Farms & Plantations (5)
• Viewpoint (4)

1. Echo Point, Munnar

11 km from city center 1 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located at an altitude of 600 ft. and at a distance of about 15 kilometres from Munnar, Echo Point is situated right in the lap of a quaint lake and misty hills covered with lush green trees. As the name suggests, this place is well known for its enthralling illustration of the phenomenon of echoing. As you scream, it is fun to hear your voice reverberate around the attraction.

2. Atukkad Waterfalls

1 km from city center 2 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Nestled 2 km away from Munnar amidst beautiful hills and lush green jungles, this pristine waterfall makes for romantic escapades and picnics site. However, the road to Atukkad is very narrow and needs a lot of experience to drive on. The pool formed at the base of the waterfall is suitable for taking a dip!

3. Munnar Tea Plantations

3 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Perched at several feet over the sea level and boasting of misty skies above and green carpeted fields below, these splendid Tea gardens in Munnar are a must-visit for every traveller. Sprawling over vast acres of lands, the umpteen tea plantations are sure to lure you with their bewitching beauty and charm.

4. Tata Tea Museum (KDHP Museum)

1 km from city center 4 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located in the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea around 2 km from Munnar. The KDHP Museum showcases a variety of antiquities, the most famous being the burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periakanal Estate, dating back to the 2nd century AD. A 30-minute documentary feature by the museum will take you through a historical sojourn of the place. Visitors then proceed to the factory to understand how tea is processed.

Munnar Travel Packages

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5. Eravikulam National Park

13 km from city center 5 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located a 45-minute drive away from Munnar, the Eravikulam National Park (also known as Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary) is a UNESCO world heritage site. Elephant, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, Atlas moth (largest in the world), lion-tailed macaque, small-clawed otter, and a rare tiger or leopard are some of the main animal species that can be spotted here.

6. Rose Garden Munnar

7 km from city center 6 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The Rose Gardens of Munnar is spread over 2 acres of land, is an excellent stretch that is brimming with a variety of plants, including spices, crops like cardamom and vanilla, and a variety of other fruit trees. These agricultural plantations exude mesmerising and wonderful aromas, which make your stay at the gardens a rewarding experience.

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7. Mattupetty Dam

7 km from city center 7 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Mattupetty Dam, situated 13 km off Munnar at 1700m above the sea level, is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. This picnic spot is also popular among its visitors for various activities like speed boating and horse riding.

8. Top Station

21 km from city center 8 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Top Station is the highest point in Munnar at 6276 ft. It is the top place to visit in Munnar to enjoy the panoramic view of the majestic Western Ghats and valley of Theni District of Tamil Nadu. Every 12 years, the rare Neelarkunji flowers bloom here.

9. Munnar Jeep Safari

9 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The Jeep safari in Munnar takes visitors through the many attractions of Munnar including its sprawling plantations , forests and valleys, providing glimpses of the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Kolukkumalai , a picturesque hamlet, is one of the attractions explored on the safari; it is known for its Tea Trail and for its views of the magnificent mountains. One can also get down to see the famous Tea Factory.

10. Tree Houses in Munnar

10 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Staying in a Tree House is emerging to be the new vacation thing and it is definitely going to be one of the most exotic experiences of your life. Located amidst lush green spice plantations and tea estates, living here is one of the most unique things to do in Munnar.

11. Pothamedu View Point

2 km from city center 11 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Pothamedu View Point, situated 6 km off Munnar, is adorned with stretching hills and lush green mountains. One can witness the spectacular wide views of tea, coffee and cardamom plantations of the area. Trekkers and hikers would love the adrenaline rush of this place.

12. Punarjani Traditional Village

27 km from city center 12 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Nestled 8 km away from Munnar, Punarjani Traditional Village is a performing arts theatre where you can watch live performances of two traditional art forms of Kerala, namely Kathakali - the classical dance form, and Kalaripayattu - one of the earliest-born & deadliest martial arts in India. It is an eccentric & reposeful tourist attraction in Munnar.

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13. Trekking in Munnar

34 km from city center 13 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Munnar is a trekker''s paradise offering some of amazing trekking trails here. Trekkers would love the trails from Gap Road to Bison Valley Spices Village and from Pothamedu.

14. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

17 km from city center 14 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located 35 km off Munnar is the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, perched at an altitude of 7000 ft. above sea level. This orthodox tea factory lays claim to being one of the highest in the world and is famous for its flavoursome tea. It takes about 52 minutes to reach here by jeep from Munnar. At the tea factory here, tea leaves are still handpicked, rolled, cooled, fermented and manually packed for distribution.

15. Chokramudi Peak

8 km from city center 15 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located in the Eravikulam National Park at an altitude of 7200 feet, Chokramudi Peak is one of the highest peaks in Munnar. It is quite isolated from the range but provides a fabulous view of the surrounding valleys & mountains covered with stunning dense forestation and the lush green tea plantations. One can also get a beautiful view of the Idukki Dam located nearby.

16. Cheeyappara Waterfalls

25 km from city center 16 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Situated close to Valara Falls is another beautiful waterfall known as Cheeyappara Waterfalls. These falls serves as a major attraction of the region cascading over seven steps. One can easily reach the place by a bus, taxi or auto rickshaw.

17. Anamudi Peak

13 km from city center 17 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Anamudi or Anai Mudi Peak in Munnar is well known to be the home for the largest surviving population of Asian elephants in India. The peak itself is within the boundaries of the Eravikulam National Park and is a famous trekking destination. It is also famous for the Neela Kurinji flower which is known to blossom only once every 12 years.

18. Photo Point

8 km from city center 18 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Photo Point is located on the way to the Madupetty Dam. It is a picturesque site perched atop the low rolling slopes and undulating plains of Nilgiris in Munnar. In the backdrop of the stretches of tea gardens, this point serves as an excellent photographic opportunity.

19. Meesapulimala

16 km from city center 19 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The second highest peak in Southern India, Meesapulimala stands elevated at an altitude of 2641 meters (8660 feet ) above sea level. The densely covered terrain has eight peaks that together resemble a moustache and is, therefore, called Meesapulimala. Also, considered as a hotspot of diversity, Meesapulimala has been recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site.

20. Kalari Kshethra

7 km from city center 20 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Kalari Kshethra is the centre of the oldest form of martial arts, Kalarippayattu and the traditional form of Indian Classical Dance, Kathakali. The centre conducts performances, workshops and classes but is famous for the Kathakali and Kalarippayattu show held every day.

21. Tea Shopping

21 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Besides tasting delicious steaming tea, you can also buy premium quality tea leaves from Munnar to take away with you as a souvenir. You can explore the local markets for dried tea leaves, aromatic oils, coffee variants, essential oils and other spices as well. The oils extracted from citriodora, eucalyptus and lemongrass are very useful to treat body and joint pains and are used in cooking and everyday products as well.

22. Kundala Dam & Lake

20 km from city center 22 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Situated in the laps of the lush jungle is Kundala Dam & Lake laying 23 km off Munnar. This arch dam is famous for its Kashmiri-Shikara boat rides and pedal boat rides. The area also has cherry blossom trees that bloom twice a year.

23. Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Farm

1 km from city center 23 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Indo Swiss Dairy Farm is a cattle development and research centre that spreads over an area of 469 acres of lush green grasslands and is home to a variety of high-quality cattle. The farm rears about 400 heads of cattle and is the headquarter of the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project that was launched in 1963 on mutual agreement between the Swiss and the Indian Government.

24. Wonder Valley Adventure and Amusement Park

7 km from city center 24 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Wonder Valley is an adventure and amusement park with facilities for rock climbing, paint ball, rope course and a video arcade. It is a perfect attraction for adventure freaks and for those who want to face and get rid of their fears. There's no age bar and the activities are designed for children, as well as for adults.

25. Lock Heart Gap

12 km from city center 25 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Named so because it looks like a locked heart, Lock Heart Gap is a viewpoint in Munnar famous for a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys, mountains, the tea plantations and its thrilling trekking trails through the densely covered, cloudy, misty terrain. The view from the top during sunsets are a must-see.

26. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

29 km from city center 26 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Being one of twelve wildlife sanctuaries among the protected areas of Kerala, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary houses species like grizzled giant squirrel, gaur, spotted deer, tufted grey langur, slender loris, crocodile, wild elephant, tiger, leopard and many birds.

27. Spa & Massages in Munnar

27 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Taking and Ayurvedic spa and/or a massage in the hills is the best form to rejuvenate and relax. The hill town is best known for its Ayurvedic massages and you can choose from shirodhara, deep tissue massage or a Balinese massage.

28. Sevenmallay Tea Estate

0 km from city center 28 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Established in 1900, Sevenmallay Tea Estate is owned by the Tata Tea Company. The estate sprawling over hundreds of acres of land is a like a paradise on earth. A quaint charming bungalow located right in the heart of the estate adds to the charm of the place. You can also buy tea produced at the estate-outlet.

29. Mountain Biking in Munnar

29 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Mountain Biking is undoubedtly one of the best things to do in Munnar. The thrilling activity is taken up by localites and tourists alike as the picturesque areas like Suryanelli, Vandanmedu, Anamudi Shola, Kundala, and Marayoor can be best explored on these bikes. Besides being a form of exercise, you can also wander about the beautiful tea estates without any fear of pollution or fuel availability.

30. Marayoor

23 km from city center 30 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Located just 40 kilometres away from Munnar is Marayoor, which is famous for its naturally growing sandalwood forest and dolmens from the Stone Age Civilisation. Wrapped in a wispy blanket of glorious clouds, Marayoor has hamlets, sugarcane fields, waterfalls, and bamboo forests making it an enchanting landscape of exquisite green beauty.

31. Lakkom Water Falls

23 km from city center 31 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

This small little waterfall 25 km from Munnar is a part of Eravikulam stream of Eravikulam National Park. It is one of the main tributaries of Pampar River and is ideal for swimming in privacy.

32. Blossom Park

2 km from city center 32 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Spread across a lush expanse of 18 acres, Blossom Park is famous for its activities such as water cycling, boating and skating. It is covered with a wide variety of flora and has romantic little provisions of tree houses and ropeways. It is located at a mere distance of 3 km from Munnar.

33. Pallivasal Falls

4 km from city center 33 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Pallivasal Falls is a stunning natural water body in the midst of dense forestation. It is famous as a picnic and sightseeing attraction in Munnar and draws nature lovers for soul-satisfying nature walks. The waterfall cascades down a rocky slope and doesn't quite have a height but the force it gushes with is sure to captivate one and all.

34. Chinnakanal Waterfalls

14 km from city center 34 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Flowing from a height of 800 m, Chinnakanal Waterfalls is a sight of sheer beauty. These falls lays just 16 km away from Munnar.

35. Chithirapuram

6 km from city center 35 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Situated 10 km off Munnar, Chithirapuram is a place famous for its rustic environ and old world charm. It also houses old playgrounds and courts, bungalows, sleepy little cottages and tea plantations adding to the charm of the village.

36. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

39 km from city center 36 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Bird watching and spotting can become an addictive joy with the help of trained guides. The Thattekkad Sanctuary is home to some of the rare species of birds such as Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black winged Kite, and the Night Heron.

37. Lockhart Tea Museum

7 km from city center 37 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Situated at a distance of 9 km from Munnar on the Thekkady Road, Lockhart Tea Museum is one of the newest editions to the tourist places in the city. Opened on the 22nd of January, 2014 for the public, the museum is a part of the Lockhart Estate which is a major tea plantation estate. The museum offers a historical insight into the first ever tea plantations of Munnar which date back to 1879.

38. Nyayamakad Waterfalls

5 km from city center 38 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Nyayamakad Waterfalls is situated 10 kms from Munnar between Munnar and Rajamala in Kerala. Falling down at a height of 1600 m, the waterfalls are a popular picnic and trekking spot. The perfect time to visit the waterfalls is during monsoons.

39. Pallivasal Tea Garden

4 km from city center 39 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Pallivasal Tea Garden is situated a few kms away on the outskirts of Munnar in the village of the same name. The tea gardens are known for their haven like beauty and beautiful meadows of tea plantations. From these gardens you can also see the Sahya mountain range in the backdrop.

40. Kuthumkal Waterfalls

17 km from city center 40 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Kuthumkal Waterfalls is situated 24 kms from Munnar in Rajakkad. The waterfalls are a popular picnic spot in the region and boast of pleasant climate and mesmerizing water cascading down a lengthy height from a cliff.

41. Elephant Arrival Spot

0 km from city center 41 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Lying 18 km from Munnar, you can board an Elephant ride here to explore the wilderness of the region. This is a fun spot for both adults and children equally as you get to view the expanse of Munnar hills and forest riding an elephant.

42. Rock Climbing and Rappelling in Munnar

9 km from city center 42 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Rock climbing and rappelling are some of the popular activities offered in and around Munnar.

43. High Range Club

2 km from city center 43 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Run by Corporate Planters, this High Range Club is associated with 41 other clubs in the country and also with 2 overseas clubs offering a variety of amusement activities.

44. Floriculture Centre

1 km from city center 44 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Against the backdrop of tea plantations, you will find a well-manicured garden called Floriculture Centre. The park features a large variety of flowers and some herbal plants maintained by the Kerala Forest Development Corporation.

45. Valara Falls

24 km from city center 45 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Fed by the Deviyar river, Valara Falls is located at 40 km from Munnar. Enveloped by Neriamangalam town in the east and Adimali in the west, the place offers some absolutely stunning sights.

46. CSI Christ Church

1 km from city center 46 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

CSI Christ Church is over a century old church famous for its religious & historic significance and its gothic style architecture. The church was built in the memory of the beloved wife of Henry Knight, Ilianor Knight, in the early 1900s. The site also served as a cemetery for the British Planters. The structure is made of granite and is adorned with beautiful stained glass work and brass plaques.

47. Elephant Lake

47 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

Situated amidst exuberant tea plantations, dense green woods, rolling hillocks and vibrant grasslands, Elephant Lake, also known as Anayirangal or Elephant Arrival Lake is one of the most idyllic and picturesque spots located at a distance of 22 kms from Munnar. The scintillating lake offers panoramic views of the calm reservoir and foggy clouds, all in the backdrop of lush green Tata Tea Estates.

48. Anayirankal Dam

2 km from city center 48 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The Anayirankal Dam is located right in between a verdant carpet of tea plantations and a thicket of evergreen forests. It is one of the largest earthen dams and was completed in the 1960s. It is also one of the earliest dams made with concrete.

49. Ripple Waterfalls

49 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The Ripple Waterfalls is located in the beautiful hill station of Munnar in Kerala. Formed by the Muthirapuzha River this natural waterfall is set amidst dense forests and is situated at a height of 1,600 meters. The Ripple Waterfalls got its name from the rippling sound that it creates as the water flows down from the rocks. This destination is extremely popular amongst photographers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts.

50. Munnar Chocolate Factory

13 km from city center 50 out of 50 Places To Visit in Munnar

The Munnar Chocolate Factory was established in 2007 and is now one of the best producers of these scrumptious delights. Apart from indulging in some of the tastiest chocolates produced in India, the Munnar Chocolate Factory also offers a plethora of activities to keep you occupied. The factory also has a cafe where you can relax and try some of the decadent desserts along with their beverages.

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Munnar Itinerary: 22 Must-Try Activities and Offbeat Adventures

If you’re searching for a Munnar itinerary, it’s likely that, just like me, you’ve been lured in by Munnar hill station in Kerala’s misty Western Ghats.

Surrounded by sloping tea plantations, spindly silver oaks, and dense vegetation, it’s no wonder that small-town Munnar is high up on many travellers’ Kerala bucket lists. The evergreen tea plantations are certainly striking.

In fact, the Munnar region is one of the largest tea-growing regions in the whole of India. With that title comes a host of tea-themed activities ideal for your Munnar itinerary, including tea plantation treks and factory visits.

However, that’s not the only way to experience the hill station and its surrounding mountains. This is hub for adventure adventures, which includes everything from trekking and bamboo rafting to abseiling and ziplining.

It’s also culturally rich, hosting temples, sacred art form performances, and opportunities to try traditional Kerala dishes. Whether you’re looking to witness endangered species in the wild, pump up some adrenaline, or take a peaceful break in the hills, Munnar is the right place to do so.

You may be looking for things to do at Munnar hill station for one, two, or three days. You might even be lucky enough to have a whole week or two to carry out your Munnar itinerary.

No matter your time limit, I’ve put together a round-up of the best 22 activities for your Munnar trip itinerary. This includes what I view to be the most essential activities in Munnar, along with offbeat travel experiences that will give you something special to tell your family back home.

In case you’re in need of some practical advice for Munnar too, I’ve also covered what Munnar is famous for, the best time to visit, and a one-day and two-day itinerary.

If you’re putting together a full Kerala itinerary, check out my guides to places to visit near Thekkady and things to do at Alleppey and its backwaters and what to wear in Kerala depending upon the season and destination.

Table of Contents

Munnar Itinerary: What is Munnar famous for?

It’s hard to ignore the jumbo-sized tea plantations that make up the Munnar region. The cooler mountain climate is ideal for growing tea, which is why the hillsides are carpeted with bristly tea bushes and tall silver oaks used in the tea production process.

Aside from its role in tea production, the Munnar region also has a reputation for being a refuge from Kerala’s sometimes-intense heat. At between 1500 and 2500 metres above sea level, the Munnar region has a cooler climate than the rest of Kerala.

This is one of the reasons why adventure sports are so popular on every Munnar itinerary. Plus, the scenery is fantastic; there are sections of dense jungle, tea plantations, designated nature reserves, lakes, and waterfalls.

To sum it all up, Munnar is best known for:

• Tea plantations and tea factories.
• Scenic mountain roads.
• A cooler climate than most of Kerala.
• Mountains and nature reserves.
• Wildlife such as nilgiri tahr mountain goats, elephants, and tigers.
• Outdoor activities, including adrenaline sports.

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Munnary Itinerary: What is the best time to visit Munnar?

The best time to visit Munnar is during the winter months  between December and March , when the average temperature is 22 degrees celsius.

This is especially true if you’re planning on including outdoor activities such as treks and cycling in your Munnar itinerary. The cooler weather makes intense activities far more pleasant.

As soon as April hits, the temperature begins to climb.  July and August are monsoon season , so you should bear in mind that you might experience more rainfall than usual. The benefit of this is that the waterfalls will be more impressive.

Munnar Itinerary: Must-Try Activities in Munnar

1. visit the highest tea plantation in the world..

Munnar has more than 50 tea plantations that stretch for miles over the region’s hillsides. So, visiting Munnar without getting to know the inner workings of a tea plantation would be a shame.

Not all tea plantations run tours. In fact, most restrict access to tea pickers and workers only. There are a few plantations that let visitors look around.

These include the long-standing  Lockhart Tea Museum , the first tea estate planted in Munnar, and the peaceful, more offbeat Chinnakanal Tea Plantation.

Perhaps the most notable of all of Munnar’s tea plantations is the  Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation , the highest tea plantation in the world. The tea estate is based 7900 feet above sea level and it’s so huge that it spans across Kerala and Tamil Nadu (the neighbouring state).

Established in the 1920s, Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation has a tea factory, a tea museum, and an organic café so that guests can have one of the highest cuppas of their life. They produce tea (or ‘mind medicine’, as the estate calls it) the traditional way, without any pesticides or chemical fertilisers.

The estate runs sunrise tours, factory visits, tea estate hikes, and tent camping, ideal for any Munnar itinerary. The only way to get there is by jeep.  Route49,  an offbeat tour company based in Munnar, runs a jeep safari and tea tour that will transport you 25 kilometres through the valleys and Lockhart Gap, before heading onto the tea plantation.

The tour also has the possibility of heading into rural Tamil to meet the plantation workers or stopping for views of South India’s second-highest mountain on the way there.

2. Watch Kathakali, Kerala’s sacred art form

Kathakali may sound like a musical theatre show on the surface: actors and actresses with elaborate makeup and costumes take to the stage to tell a story through dance and music.

However, the dance drama is also a  sacred Kerala tradition  that has carried the stories of Hindu epics through generations in an easy-to-understand art form that is accompanied by narrated music.

It combines classical dance with expressive techniques such as eye dancing.  Punarjani Traditional Village  runs Kathakali performances everyday at 5pm and tickets are available on the door for just 200 rupees.

3. Spy on endangered mountain goats in Eravikulam National Park

With two sharp horns that curl back over the skull, nilgiri tahr are endangered mountain goats that are indigenous to the mountains in southern India.

One of your best shots at spotting these dignified creatures is in Eravikulam National Park, 15 minutes’ drive from Munnar hill station.

A trek through the national park also provides spectacular views over the misty tea plantations. If you’re lucky enough to be there at the right time, once every 12 years, neelakurinji plants paint the Western Ghat hills purple – an attraction that brings in thousands of tourists.

4. Build and float your own bamboo raft

One excellent day trip from Munnar hill station is Periyar Lake, which is located two to three hour’s drive from Munnar.

Bamboo rafts have been used for centuries by tribespeople to cross the rivers in Kerala. This activity will give you the chance to weave your own raft from bamboo poles, coir ropes, and inflated rubber tyres.

Not only does this provide an insight into the artisanship behind building a raft, but there’s also an exhilarating four-kilometre trek through the jungle to get to the launch point.

If you stand in the shallows long enough, expect to have your feet nibbled by harmless red garra fish – a free pedicure before you board the raft and navigate using a bamboo stake.

5. Take the Top Station trek

Top Station used to be home to the highest railway station on the Kundala Valley line, but nowadays, there’s little evidence of such a thing. Top Station is a hot trekking destination instead. There are views of the Western Ghats and miles of tea bushes, but one of the most interesting places en route is Echo Point. Stop and call out your name – or another personal sentiment – and the echo will reverberate off the hills for a few seconds.

6. Zipwire over tea plantations

Taking in the tea plantations on foot may give you a sense of the life of the workers, but zipwiring will give you a bird’s eye view. There are several zipwires in Munnar that will send you gliding over the bristles.

In fact, Munnar has the longest zipline in India at nearly two kilometres in length. It’s called Eagle’s Flight (although, note that it’s currently closed for maintenance, so you’ll need to keep an eye out to see if it reopens).

7. Watch  Kalaripayattu,  Kerala’s traditional martial arts form

In ancient times, Kalaripayattu was reserved for the ‘kalari’ (the battlefield). Now, visitors in Munnar can watch the martial arts in action at 6pm everyday at Punarjani Traditional Village.

Fighters use hand combat and weapons such as staffs, knives, and spring swords to compete against each other. The fighters also use acrobatic techniques to dodge attacks, including rolls and dives.

8. Go tea tasting

It’s likely you’ve seen enough tea plantations by now and hopefully you’ve learnt how the leaves go from bush to brew too.

A tea tasting session will help you to distinguish between different types of tea too. The  Tata Tea Museum  on the Nallathanni Estate turns back time to the beginning of Munnar’s tea tales and records how tea was brought to India by the British.

The demonstration room is where you’ll get to put your tastebuds to work. A local guide will teach you how to tell the difference between different types of tea leaves from around the world, as well as the unique aromas of the teas cultivated in Munnar.

21. Fill up on Sadya, a traditional Kerala meal

With so many treks and outdoor activities on a typical Munnar itinerary, it’s likely you’ll be looking for something substantial as fuel.

Luckily, Sadya (Kerala’s traditional meal) is fit for a banquet. Sadya is served on a banana leaf and features a range of condiments such as pachadi (pickle), thoran (a vegetarian coconut-style curry), salt, chilli, and sides such as banana coated with jaggery and pappadam. It’s one of the best food in Kerala district .

One by one, the server adds fluffy rice, sambhar (lentil and ghee stew), and other dishes such as kalan, kurukku kalan, puliserry, and moru curry. With your right hand, you’ll get to combine, scoop, and slurp this delicious vegetarian meal that has been served at banquets in Kerala for centuries.

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Munnar Itinerary: Offbeat Things to Do in Munnar

1. go on a tea plantation village tour.

Without workers and pickers from the village, the tea plantations’ work would roll to a halt. However, many visitors to Munnar miss out on learning more about this integral puzzle piece in Munnar’s misty tea plantations.

Route49  runs a tour of a tea plantation village, where generations have dedicated their lives to tea picking and live in vegetable farms and houses built by the British. The guide will introduce you to the tea plantation workers, and over a brew, of course. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about their lifestyle and their working conditions, and you may be lucky enough to watch them at work too.

2. Sink your teeth into parotta and egg curry

If there’s one dish that Munnar hill station is known for, its parotta and egg curry. Delectably flaky and crispy, the flatbread is made up of a series of thin layers that crumble to the touch, similar to pastry.

Traditionally, the Munnar version of parotta is a panfried mix of maida flour (Kerala-style wheat flour), oil, ghee, water, and egg.

In Northern India, this is usually served with a meaty stew, but the roadside stalls in Munnar serve parotta with egg curry.

3. Take a jeep into rural Tamil Nadu

Munnar is only an hour’s drive from Kerala’s border with Tamil Nadu, the neighbouring Indian state. If you fancy seeing two states in one trip, book a jeep to take you on the mountain passes and over the border.

The journey itself is thrilling enough, with views over the Western Ghats range, lakes, ravines, and roads that cling to the edge of the mountain.

You might want to arrange a farm tour to see how they grow chilli, red bananas, lime, mango, and other plants. Look out for the ox carts too, which are used to transport the harvest to the auction.

4. Abseil from the mountains in Munnar

Scenic as they may be, Munnar’s mountains aren’t just there to look good. It’s also possible to get up, close and personal with the rock faces by abseiling (or rappelling, as many tour operators call it).

It’s not quite as strenuous as the region’s rock climbing activities, which will require you to scale the rock faces from the bottom to the top.

Instead, abseiling involves wearing a harness and lowering yourself backwards down a vertical rock face while pushing with your feet.

One thing is for sure: there will be plenty of views over the evergreen landscapes and your heart-rate will increase.

5. Check out a cardamom plantation

Munnar is ideal for growing cardamom, a spice that flavours Kerala dishes such as biryani and dry beef curry. Seeing the inner workings of a Cardamom plantation is just as exciting as a tea plantation visit.

The difference is that the cardamom pods thrive in limited sunlight, so the thicker foliage attracts a cluster of wildlife such as squirrels and birds.  Windermere Estate , a British colonial-style resort with peaceful bungalows, is based on a cardamom plantation and runs a four-kilometre plantation trek for its guests every evening.

6. Go trekking in the Lakshmi Hills

With seven misty peaks and steep, uphill paths above the clouds, the Lakshmi Hills are a peaceful trekking destination for your Munnar itinerary.

You might want to set yourself the goal of covering all seven hills or head there for a shorter trek and plenty of pitstops or picnics over the tea plantations.

Most treks take between four hours to a full day.

7. Cruise  Kundala Dam in a  shikara boat

Shikara boats are used across Kerala for everything from transporting cargo to fishing and harvesting aquatic food.

On Kundala Dam, under an hour’s drive from Munnar hill station, visitors can take a peaceful round of the reservoir on shikara boats. They seat six people and a driver, who paddles at the rear of the boat.

8. Cycle between eucalyptus trees in Vattavada

Cycling is popular in Munnar, given its hills, hairpin bends, and intense scenery. Many resorts or hotels arrange biking tours around areas such as Anamudi Shola, Suryaneli, and Kundala, but Vattavada (an hour’s drive from Munnar) is a unique setting for a two-wheel ride.

Here, the scenery takes a slight break from purely terraced tea plantations and features tall eucalyptus trees, conifers, and vegetable farms.

9. Go temple hopping in Devikulam

In Devikulam, half an hour’s drive from Munnar, you may want to begin by going trout fishing on the Sita Devi Lake or snapping a few pictures of the Pallivasal Falls.

However, the hill station also has several Hindu temples. These include the Ganesh Temple, Mariamman Temple, and Ayyanar Temple.

10. Hunt down the Attukad Waterfalls

Surrounded by dense jungle and hiking trails, the Attukad Waterfalls are as much a trekking destination as they are a great place to snap a few pictures.

There’s a natural pool at the base of the falls where you can cool off after a trek. The waterfalls are at their fullest between July and August, which is monsoon season in Kerala.

11. Go boating and elephant-spotting on Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam, 25 minutes’ drive from Munnar, is on a known elephant crossing, so it’s one of the likeliest places for spotting a wild elephant herd (taking a bath, no less).

If there aren’t any elephants frolicking in the water, you’ll just have to make do with a peaceful boat ride while gazing over the Western Ghats.

12. Hike between Marayoor’s sugarcane farms and prehistoric murals

An hour and 15 minutes’ drive from Munnar hill station, Marayoor is a hamlet carpeted in sandalwood forest and sugarcane plantations.

As well having scenery other than tea plantations, the Marayoor Forest Range has a 2000-year-old prehistoric site where there are rock paintings and relics.

Once you’ve explored the sandalwood and prehistoric paintings, you might want to stop by one of the open sugarcane plantations and taste jaggery fresh from the boil.

13. Go on a nighttime jungle patrol

Strap on your sturdiest hiking boots and join arms with a group of armed guards as they take their nightly jungle patrol in the  Periyar Tiger Reserve .

Their role is to look out for poachers, who are most active between 4am and 7am, and a small numbers of visitors can join the patrol to experience the jungle during the dead of the night.

The reserve is located a few hours’ drive from Munnar, so this activity should be part of a one-night excursion or form your next destination.

Munnar 1-Day Itinerary: How can I spend 1 day in Munnar hill station?

While it’s impossible to cover the entire Munnar region in one day, the trick to spending one day in Munnar is to plan a quality activity for the early morning, late morning, afternoon, and evening.

You don’t want to waste too much time commuting between destinations, so you should stick to activities that are within a short drive of each other.

Early morning:  Take a sunrise tour of the  Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation

Late morning:  Take a tea plantation village tour with  Route 49

Afternoon:  Go zipwiring and/or mountain biking

Evening:  Enjoy a traditional Sadya meal, followed by a Kathakali and Kalaripayattu show at  Punarjani Traditional Village

Munnar 2-Day Itinerary: How can I spend 2 days in Munnar hill station?

If you’re spending two days Munnar, there’s more scope to travel to spots further away from Munnar.

To make the most of your time, schedule activities for each day that are within a short drive of each other and closely consider where you’ll stay the night to maximise your time effectively.

For example, you might want to experience a treehouse stay, go camping, or sleep on a cardamom plantation.

Early morning:  Take a sunrise tour and factory visit at Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation

Late morning:  Go tea tasting at the Tata Tea Museum

Afternoon:  Go zipwiring over a tea plantation or cycling on Munnar’s mountain passes

Evening:  Take a traditional Sadya meal, followed by a stay on the cardamom plantation at  Windermere Estate

Early morning:  Take a sunrise trek to Top Station

Late morning:  Go for a Shikara ride on Kundala Dam

Afternoon:  Visit Echo Point and go boating and elephant-spotting on Mattupetty Dam

Evening:  Return to Munnar and watch a Kathakali and Kalaripayattu show at Punarjani Traditional Village

Munnar Itinerary: How To Get Around Munnar

1. Autorickshaw or car taxis

The easiest and most convenient way to get around Munnar is by  autorickshaw tax i. They cost a fraction of the price of a  traditional car taxi . However, cars provide more comfort for longer journeys and more protection in the event of a crash.

If you are visiting an offbeat destination in Munnar, you can arrange for your taxi driver to pick you up from your destination at a pre-arranged time.

2. Rent an autorickshaw for the day

Renting an autorickshaw and driver should cost you around 600-800 INR for one day. There are often autorickshaw drivers offering their services on busy streets in Munnar.

Local bicycle rental is possible in Munnar, often from bigger hotels. This is a slow but scenic method of transport and should be reserved for safer, less-busy roads and short journeys. You should be experienced with road cycling.

While the hill stations of Ooty and Munnar are deserving of an individual trip, Ooty has a cooler climate than Munnar and a higher elevation. Both destinations are popular for their wildlife, lakes, waterfalls, and outdoor activities. Munnar is best-known for its tea plantations, while Ooty is known for its scenic steam railway line.

Munnar is famous for its tea plantations, wildlife, nature reserves, lakes, outdoor activities, and wildlife such as nilgiri tahr, elephants and tigers.

Ideally, at least two days should be spent in Munnar due to the longer journey times across mountainous terrain and diverse attractions. The ideal amount of time to spend in the Munnar region is between two days and five days.

Katie Treharne

I’m Katie, the owner of Escape Artist Katie. I have been travel writing since 2018, including writing for luxury travel magazines and publications such as Wanderlust.

As well as being a digital nomad who works and lives abroad permanently, I’m a big advocate for  offbeat travel  and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

I hope you found my article useful – find out more  about  me here or keep up with my travels on  Instagram .

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Places to Visit in Munnar in 3 Days

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Places to Visit in Munnar

• Places To Visit

Munnar Tourist Places

Here is a list of the best places to visit in munnar:.

Trek, walk, stroll or indulge in boating because Echo point in Munnar is a place where you see the creamy clouds floating and rolling down the hilltops, the lush vegetation creates a sight which is often captured in cameras to boost the beauty of Munnar. At 600 ft. above the sea level, people scream with utter enthusiasm to hear it resound and then laugh out of pure amazement. 

Top Experiences To Do in Echo Point

Attukad Waterfalls

It is one of the four main waterfalls of Munnar and is very popular among adventure seekers, as the dirt mountain path through the forest gives chills on every step towards Attukad Waterfalls. Take your swimwear as the pool at the bottom of the fall has enough water to dip and bath. It is highly recommended that you visit Munnar during Monsoon season if waterfalls top the list of ‘places to visit in Munnar.

Pothamedu View Point

Drenched in the mist and greenery, Pothamedu viewpoint is a spot worth trekking to. This viewpoint enables a panoramic vista of the valley and if the day is clear, you can also see Muthirapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam from quite a height. The view is made of a series of emerald hill slopes where tea, coffee, cardamom, and pepper make a blanket of green all over the hills. While you are enjoying the mesmerizing view of the valley, take a sip of ginger tea from the only tea shop nearby and you would love spending your evening at Pothamedu. Watching the sun slide down the horizon in the vast expanse of the Sahyadri ranges is one perfect way of spending your vacation in this quaint town.  Pothamedu is one of the many places to visit in Munnar which have a refreshing environ. Location:  Pothamedu, Munnar. Timings:  9 AM to 7:30 PM Entry fee:  None.

Tata Tea Museum

If you are lucky enough to make it during the show timings, you will learn a lot that day. From the early history of Tea Plantation to how British brought Tea culture and cultivation in the region, the toil and hard work of the people who endured during those days, the machineries and tools, the entire process of cultivating, plucking, drying and final packaging of Tea; almost everything you learn in just a half an hour documentary that is played here.  You will also get to see the typewriters, magneto phone, the hand tea roller, and manual calculators and iron oven which have been very useful tools during the earlier days. This is one of the best tourist places in Munnar. Location: Nullatanni, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings:  It remains closed on Monday and opens from 9 AM till 5 PM on all the remaining days of the week. Entry fee: The entry fee for adults is INR 75 per head and for children of a particular age group is INR 35. Check Out:  Best Time of the Year to Visit Munnar  

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is located at a drive of 45 minutes from the City Centre of Munnar and is situated atop a summit of Western Ghats. Spread around a land stretch of 97 kilometers, this is one of the most sought place  for Munnar sightseeing. It houses a plethora of flora and fauna and accounts itself amidst the other UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Managed initially as a Game Reserve, Eravikulam National Park is also known as the Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Eravikulam National Park is a massive blend of wildlife. There are around 132 different species of birds, 19 amphibian species, 26 mammalian species, 101 species of butterflies, and 20 different orchid species here. Nilgiri langur, Atlas moth, Nilgiri marten, small-clawed otter, Lion-tailed macaque, and a rare variety of the leopard and lion are some of the chief wildlife to be spotted here. If you are an avid bird watcher, be ready to treat yourself with the sight of Black & Orange Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, White Bellied ShortWing, Kerala Laughing Thrush, and Nilgiri Verditer Flycatcher.Apart from the vast array of wildlife that thrives here, you can easily spot on the Nilgiri Tahr. It is renowned as the endangered species of a mountain goat from South India. Eravikulam National Park is also accounted for the ravishing beauty of its rolling grasslands and Shola forest cover. 

If you want to try something new here, participate in its eco-tourism activity. Under this activity, you will be trespassing several attractions and experiences located in and around the national park. Besides, regular educational camps are scheduled here for benefiting youngsters and inculcating a sense of environment conservation in them. Lastly, before you are on your return journey, do not forget to visit the highest peak of Kerala here – the Anamudi Peak.

Top Experiences To Do in Eravikulam National Park

Best of Coorg

Wonder Valley Adventure & Amusement Park

This amusement park in Munnar is one of the few places to visit in Munnar to enjoy myriads of fun activities such as Dashing Cars, 12D Rider, Zip Line, Charlie Chaplin Walk, and Natural Waterfall under one roof. This one and only amusement park are situated at Anachal in Munnar. From rain dancing to Lazy river and Wave pool; the water activities are as thrilling as the adventure activities like rock climbing, rainforest trek trails.

Kundala Lake

Embark on a journey to Top Station and find this beautiful mirror-like lake after around 20 KM of a drive. The breath-taking backdrops of green hill slopes, the majestic sunrises, the unparalleled beauty of cherry blossoms and a blue blanket of the famous Neela Kurunji flowers which bloom only once every twelve year makes this place a dreamy location and is one of the main places to see in Munnar. This artificial lake has Asia’s first Arch dam and the water engages the tourists in different kinds of boating experience such as rowboats, Kashmiri shikara boats, and pedal boats. A vast golf course that belongs to Tata Tea Ltd and a nearby waterfall known as Aruvikkad Waterfall is also situated in proximity to the lake which can be visited in a single trip. Location: Kundale Lake, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685615 Timings:  All day. Price:  None.

Top Experiences To Do in Kundala Lake

Marayoor dolmens.

This interesting place has 15 different types of Dolmens belonging to Neolithic age and some of which belongs to the Iron age which make this place best for Munnar sightseeing. These prehistoric dolmens are situated around 55 km from Munnar and are worth taking a long trip to reach and witness the remnants of Dolmenoid cists which date back to the Megalithic age. One has to trek through Muniyara to see these magnificent burial chamber designed with four stones placed by the edges together and then covered by granite slabs which belong to different ages. Muniyara is also famous for prehistoric paintings, thick sandalwood forest, and these prehistoric structures. Marayoor Dolmens is a peek into our past heritage. This archaeological site is blessed with nature and rich history and it is one of the best places to visit in Munnar. Location: Near old Siva Temple | Kovilkadavu, Marayur. Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Skirted by Eravikulam National Park in the south and by the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in the north, Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is home to the famous endangered India grizzled giant squirrel, and also a soothing habitat for Elephants, Hanuman Monkeys, tufted grey langur, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Crocodile, Tiger, slender Loris, Leopard along with a plethora of plant and bird species which makes this place best for Munnar sightseeing. The Forest Department and the Eco-development Committees of the local tribal communities encourage eco-tourism in the sanctuary enabling a wild encounter in a friendlier manner. Location:  Munnar - Udumalpet Road, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings : 8 AM - 5 PM Entry fee: INR 10 for Indian adults, INR 5 for children and INR 100 for foreign nationals. Popular Read: Best Munnar Houseboat stay to have experience of a lifetime

Carmelagiri Elephant Park

As the name suggests, at Carmelagiri Elephant Park, one gets to indulge in some exhilarating excursions which take around the park while you settle atop the back of an Elephant. Take a half- day or an hour-long tour of the rolling verdant slopes, sprawling tea plantation, and a vibrant park full of sky touching trees, you would love the wilderness of the place. Keep your camera ready as you traverse around this scenic destination to click or to get yourself clicked. Hitching on the back of a Huge Elephant and traversing the park is a fun activity and can only be enjoyed at Camelahiri Elephant Park in Munnar. Location:   Mattuppetty Road, Munnar, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685612 Timings:  9 AM to 5 PM Entry fee: INR 400 per head for a 15-minute ride.

Best of Wayanad

Chinnakanal Waterfalls

Drive 20 KM on the NH leading to Thekkady and you will spot this tempting waterfall right on the side of the road. The source being River Devikulam and the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery. One can take snaps, bath, enjoy the fall and sit there for hours; you just can laze around the fall as much as you want.

During the monsoon season, it appears like gallons of milk are being thrown from a height and it becomes a little tricky to bath under it, however, it still can be done. Chinnakanal is one of the impeccable places to visit in Munnar for a memorable experience. Location: Main Road | Opposite Chinnakkanal Health Hospital, Chinnakanal 685618 Timings: From 6 AM onwards. Entry fee :   None.

Chokramudi Peak

This isolated elevated piece of a hill is a site that hooks you for hours. Chokramudi is situated at 7,200 ft above sea level in the Eravikulam National Park. It is short and easy trek which can be done in a day and since it comes under the national forest it is masked by lush green Shola forest.  Pothamedu is the trek base which is situated an hour drive from Munnar and the trek can be of 4 to 5 hours covering a distance of 10 KM upwards. Soak in the fresh air when you reach the top of the peak, if you do an early morning trek, you can also witness the fiery sunrise and herds of Nilgiri Tahr departing for livestock.  Chokramudi is indeed a great experience and one of the incredible places to visit in Munnar. Location:  Idukki, Kerala 685565 Timings: All day. Price: Prices may vary depending on the trek group you chose. Recommended Read:  Places To Stay in Munnar for comfortable vacay!

Mattupetti Indo Swiss Farm

Mattupetti Dairy farm, also known as Indo-Swiss farm is a dairy farm started under the Indo-Swiss project in Kerala. Dedicated to cattle development and research, the Indo-Swiss project started in 1963 to improve livestock farming in the state. Also known as ‘cattle village’ Mattupetty is a tiny, charming village famous for its green lands and forests. Home to several varieties of high-quality cattle, one should visit Mattupetti Indo-Swiss farm for its beautiful gardens, picturesque views and for a chance to meet the many cattle breeds. 3km away from Mattupetty Dam, the dairy farm is one of the offbeat Munnar tourist places you should visit.   Location: 3 km from Mattupetty Dam, Mattupetty, Idukki, Munnar, 685612. Timings: 9 AM – 11 AM | 2 PM – 3:30 PM Entry fee: INR 5 Suggested Read:  Enticing Places to Visit in Munnar in 2 Days

Tree House Stay

Photo Point

This is a picturesque curve on the Nilgiri slopes which is located at a distance of around 3 km from Munnar on the way to Top station and Mattupetti. Photo point truly justifies its name and if you do not think the location has nothing as such to offer while driving through the undulating plains, take a pause, come out of your car and get clicked here, you would notice how photogenic the place is.  The flickering leaves of the tea garden and the twittering brooks, the scenic hills, and the floating clouds; everything in one picture, it is really an amazing location to take out your camera which makes it one of the best Munnar tourist places. Location: SH18, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685612 Timings:  10 AM - 8 PM Entry fee:  None. Holiday Special:  Inexpensive Munnar Tour Packages

Best of Chikmagalur

Lakkom Water Falls

This waterfall is part of the Eravikulam National Park and falls on the route to Udumalaipettai from Munnar. It originates from the Eravikulam stream at around 30 km off Munnar. Travel through the thick tea plantation on a narrow winding trail and witness this silky white magic of nature. In the clear water of the pool below, you can even see your toe twiddling on the rocks. The water takes a plunge out of a thick green forest from afar and the sight of this small yet charming waterfall is spellbinding. There is a small shop situated a little away from the fall that serves mouth-watering Kerala food, like fish, rice, sambhar etc. It is one of the sightseeing places in Munnar which commands your attention. Location: Munnar - Udumalpet Rd, Marayur. Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM Entry fee: INR 20  Recommended Read:  Amazing Places to Visit in Munnar in One Day

The most sought-after destination in Munnar is Anamudi peak (8842 ft), the highest peak of South India. Trekking in Munnar on the misty path Rajamalai (Eravikulam) National Park and then following a view of what we know as “the Himalayas of South India” can leave you in a state of ecstasy. The place is a delight for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, mountaineers, trekkers, and photographers and also one of the best places to see in Munnar. The hill is covered by variety of floras such as trees of sp.Bamboos, black wood, and teak trees and the famous Neelakurinji flowers which bloom once every 12 years, the wet grass on the slopes of the hill make trekking a difficult sport and that is you need to take special permission from Eravikulam National Park authorities to trek to the peak top. Location:  Idukki District, Munnar 685602 Timings: All day. Entry fee: None. Must Read: Best Camping Sites in Munnar

Devikulam is a quaint little hill-station tucked between lush greenery and beauty. Located very close to Munnar, this is an ideal destination to visit as a day trip. Home to make scenic attractions and sites, Devikulam, which literally translates to ‘pond or lake of the Devi’, is a great alternative to other Munnar tourist places. The exotic flora and fauna have made the village is a must-stop place for those in the vicinity. Sita Devi Lake, the closest site to the village, is a top attraction in Kerala. You can also find many tea and spice plantations in this area. Alternatively, you can also visit the nearby Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. If you are looking for some spiritual or physical rejuvenation, positively stop by this hill-station during your trip. Location: Sita devi lake, Munnar. Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

The emerald tea garden and the bright blue sky make the best backdrops for postcard-perfect pictures. Hidden in a mist of clouds are these emerald tea grounds, the rippling sound of serenity in the wind and vast land of greenery; Munnar is definitely more than just a tourist spot, it is more like an abode of Gods. It would be unfair if you visit Munnar and do not travel a little further to see Kolukkumalai, a lesser known tea estate which is close to the border of Tamilnadu and claims to be the highest tea plantation in Munnar at a height of 8,100ft above sea level. Location:  Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar. Timings:  7 AM - 6 PM Entry fee: INR 75

Mattupetty Dam

Top Experiences To Do in Mattupetty Dam

Best of Ooty

Blossom Park

From several swings to a small canal, from a maze of colorful flower on the banks to the soft grasses; The Park is an ideal location to unwind and relax in Munnar. Embrace the lush green vegetation around and relax listening to the chirps of migratory water birds.  This refreshing piece of land is surrounded by hill slopes and is a place where serenity has its own voice. Location: Aluva - Munnar Highway, Moolakadai, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings:  9 AM to 7 PM Entry fee: The entry fee for children is INR 2 and for adults, it is INR 10 per head.

Top Experiences To Do in Blossom Park

Meesapulimala.

Around 15 KM from Munnar lies Rhodovalley which is famous for the blooming Rhodendron trees and there sits the peak of Meesapulimala at an elevation of 8000 ft above sea level. This is the first highest peak in the Munnar region that can be trekked as Anamudi has restrictions. The peak shares the border of Kerala and Tamilnadu and is a moderate trek of one day that goes through passing eight hills to reach the top.

Lockhart Gap

Refreshing, picturesque and serene; Lock hart Gap is the landscape where floating mist is found on the blue layers of hills which can be seen from this spot in Munnar. Lockhart Gap is located at around 12 to 13 km from Munnar on the way to Mattupetti.  The expansive panorama of green tea slopes, the streaks of white cotton mist and the ultra blue skyline made of mist-clad hills and the sharp winding mountain roads; the place is remarkably special if you want to spend an hour of solitude in this cave quiet valley.  The name is referred to a gap between two mountains which looks like the shape of a heart which can be witnessed from this vantage point. Breathe the fresh tea scent and watch the clouds settling on the hilltop while the Sun is ready to leave, you will realize that you are at one of the best Munnar tourist places. Location: Munnar-Madurai National highway, Mattupetti, Kerala. Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Rose Garden

The aromatic floating fumes of a plethora of plant species, fruits, flowers and crops in a 2acre stretch, brimming with varied colors on a 360-degree pan is a place that only lies in Munnar. One of the perfect Munnar tourist places which you just cannot afford to miss while you are in Munnar.  This is actually a maze of a number of pretty flowers like Dahlias, Rose, Chrysanthemums, and plants like pepper, cardamom, vanilla etc at a height of 3500 feet above the sea level. The name sounds a little misleading in that way because there are a variety of flowers which are following the contours and slopes and beautifying the place and not just Roses.  However, this is one of the attractions in Munnar that leaves a mark on the visitors.  The spices and other fruits which are planted in this garden along with other flowers release unique fragrances in the air which makes you feel very refreshing while you are enjoying the sheer bliss of watching the beauty around. Location: Karadippara, Kerala 685561 Price:  INR 20 per person Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

Top Station

Greeting visitors all around the year, Top Station Munnar lies amidst three mountain streams, at the confluence of Mudrapuzha, Kundala, and Nallathanni mountain ranges. Top Station is a part of reckoned Kannan Devan hill station encircled all around by magnificent views. Turn around your eyes and lose yourself in the sophistication of rich green valleys! Here, there are ample of Neelakurinji flowers blooming once after every 12 years.

Top Experiences To Do in Top Station

Best of Alleppey

Kalari Kshetra

Kalari Kshetra is a traditional training center or arena dedicated to the practice and teaching of Kalaripayattu, an ancient martial art form originating from Kerala, India.

Nyayamakad Waterfall

Nestled amid Munnar and Rajamala, this is one spectacular waterfall in the valley which is loved and adored by the tourists. Embark on a journey to the largest waterfall in Munnar and witness the rustic local lifestyle of women picking tea leaves in the long stretches of the estates, the 10 KM long winding route from Munnar and small rivulets chiseling down the green hilly slopes; Nature has its own way of giving brief ecstatic moments.  You may also come across tea pickers and encounter Nilgiri Tahr from a distance. The place is masked under mist as the water falls from a great and it proves as a paradise to every visitor who hails here seeking adventure or peace. Location:  Near Rajmalai, Idukki district, Kerala. Timings:  It is always recommended to visit during the daylight. Entry fee:  The transportation charges are the only money you pay to witness this cascading beauty. Also Check Out: Beautiful Waterfalls in Munnar

Cheeyappara Waterfalls

Top Experiences To Do in Cheeyappara Waterfalls

Sevenmallay Tea Estate

During your trip to Munnar, do what Munnar is known for best - its tea plantations. Plan a visit to one of the largest tea plantations in Munnar, Sevenmallay Tea Estate. Owned by Tata Tea Company, the stunning tea estate is located very close to Kanan Devan hills. Started in 1900, the estate’s name is an ode to the Hindu god ‘Shiv’ and ‘Mallay’ representing a hill. Over the years, the anglicization of the name gave the estate its current name, Sevenmallay. Boasting a paradise-like scenery, lush green tea gardens and a colonial bungalow in the centre, the tea estate has become one of the top places to visit in Munnar.    Location: Sevenmallay Tea Estate, The Tea Sanctuary, KDHP House, Munnar 685612 .      Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Top Experiences To Do in Sevenmallay Tea Estate

Pallivasal falls.

Pallivasal Falls is a famous waterfall in the village of Pallivasal, site of Kerala’s first hydro-electric project. Located 8km away from Munnar city, you should visit the waterfall during your trip to Munnar. Surrounded by lush green forests, Pallivasal Falls is a well-known spot for picnics and sightseeing. Nature lovers and peace seekers, the waterfalls should definitely be on your “places to visit in Munnar” checklist. Rich in diverse flora, the area around the waterfalls provides the perfect setting for hikes and nature walks. With unspoilt scenic beauty in abundance, the waterfalls is a perfect attraction for photographers and lovers of nature. Location: Pallivasal village, Devikulam, Idukki, Kerala, 685613 Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Best of Dandeli

Kuthumkal Waterfalls

Ranked amongst the top Munnar tourist places, Kuthumkal waterfall is an ideal place to spend some quality time with your family or friends. Located 28 km from Munnar go for a quick getaway to the waterfalls for some peacetime and serenity. What stands out about the attraction is the constant mist emerging effect created by the high-velocity water flow from the waterfalls. Popular as a picnic spot, Kuthumkal Waterfalls and its ambiance is perfect for nature lovers. Those seeking an offbeat activity to do during your trip to Munnar, pack a picnic basket. drive outside the main city and spend an afternoon amidst the greenery near the waterfalls. Location: Kuthumkal, Near Rajakkad, Kerala 685566. Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM Entry fee: None.  

C.S.I Christ Church

This clean, well maintained and highly quiet British era church utters history in every brick of its wall. This old church is loved by the visitors for the tranquillity which they find while visiting C.S.I Christ church on a small hillock in Munnar. The stained glass windows, the gothic style architecture, the granite floors, and the brass plaques; all of these make the church look like a link that connects the past to the present.  It was built in the year 1910 by British missionaries and since then it is worship house for the believers. This is one of the best Munnar tourist places that is well maintained, clean and very charming. Location:  Kochi - Dhanushkodi Road, Moolakadai, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM Entry fee: None.

High Range Club

Nestled amidst the greens of Munnar, High Range Club is a quaint mansion bursting with British culture and heritage. You can choose to spend time with your family, unwinding from the hustle bustle of the city. Originally an elite tea planter’s club, this place has retained its century-old charm and ambience. Choose to indulge in one of the activities High Range has to offer to all its guests. The 6-acre property has a 9-hole golf course along with other facilities like Tennis, Squash and Billiards. There is also a children’s park for the younger ones to play in. You can also indulge in a unique, classic dining experience in their dining room. Location: High Range Club, Munnar 685612. Timings: All day. Entry fee: INR 100 Must Check:  Resorts in Munnar For Comfortable Stay!

Power House Waterfalls

Located 18km away from Munnar, Power House Waterfalls, also known as Chinnakanal waterfalls, is the perfect midway stop on your way to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. Boasting of splendid waterfalls, the area around Power House waterfalls is bursting with unseen lush greenery and beauty. Located almost 2000m above sea level, the waterfalls is surrounded by the spell-binding charm of tea plantations, magnificent hills and trees. The scenic beauty of western ghats near the waterfalls is a sight for your eyes.  During your visit here, you can also choose to take a dip and relax in the natural pool at the bottom of the falls. Location: Near Chinnakanal village, Munnar, Idukki, Kerala 685612. Timings: All day. Entry fee: None.

Valara Falls

Wedged between Neriamangalam and Adimali, Valara falls is one of the gorgeous waterfalls in Munnar which is located at a distance of around 12 km from the city center on the Kochi-Munnar highway. For a wild encounter in the jungle trek to this stunning waterfall and get clicked against this cascading background.  Deviyar River is the source of many waterfalls in the region some of which is Valara falls and Cheeyapara falls. However, you cannot access the waterfall; one has to view it from the roadside as it is even visible from the NH. The thick forest cover and the slanting rocky slopes of the hills create a canvas of beauty together and are one of the few places to visit in Munnar which can add some awe-striking pictures to your Munnar diary. It is suggested that you take a tour of this waterfall on your return trip from Munnar as it will fall on the same side of the road. Location: NH 49, Chillithodu, Kerala 685561 Timings: All day. Price: None.

Best of Kodaikanal

Anayirankal Dam

Ranked amongst the top scenic places to visit in Munnar, Anayirankal Dam is an ideal picnic spot for travellers and locals alike. Almost 22km away from Munnar, the dam is located amidst tea plantations and dense green forests. The word Anayirankal is a mix of two words, ‘Aana’ meaning ‘elephants’ and ‘irankal’ meaning ‘coming down’. The name ‘Anayirankal Dam’ denotes the dam where elephants come down to drink water. If you’re lucky you might just spot herds of elephants from nearby forests coming down to the lake for some water. You can spend time boating or at the café/food court inside the park.    Location: Anayirankal, Kerala 685613. Timings: All day. Entry free: Adult – INR 20 | Child – INR 10

Rock Cave (Malayil Kallan Guha)

On the way to Thekaddy, after around 13 to 14 KM from Munnar you will spot a Board opposite to a cave entrance right on the NH and the board reads a very interesting story about the Rock cave, also known as Malayil Kallan Guha where Malayil is said to the one who leaves on the mountain or rock, Kallan is a thief and Guha means a cave in Malayalam; which together tells the story of the thief who lived in the cave and robbed people taking a journey on this road, in earlier days. 

It is just opposite to the Lockhart Gap which provides some breathtaking vistas of the entire town, soaked in fumes of clouds and mist. This is one of the Munnar tourist places which is a good spot to stop your car and take a short break.

Location: Munnar: Madurai National Highway, Mattupatty, Munnar 685613

Thirumeni Cultural Centre

Thirumeni Cultural Centre bestows you the chance of spending an evening in the beautiful set up of green hills, aromatic tea plains, misty skyline accompanied with goose bumping performances of Kalarippayattu and Kathakali, the two very famous and respected art forms of Kerala.  You can also head to the make-up room to see the artists getting ready and ask questions if you have any of the Kathakali artists. In the one hour duration, the performance gives an overview of Kathakali art form. Enjoy the spellbound performance of Kathakali art piece which tells stories in a form of dancing movements, gestures, and expressions. Kalarippayattu at the same time is a form of Martial art and includes agile gymnastic movements, the hard work, practice, and training is highly visible in this one-hour performance of Kalarippayattu. You would not stop clapping once the artists duel with knives, swords, and spears and somersault flawlessly. Location: Silent Valley, Munnar, Kerala 685612 Timings:  5 - 6 PM & 7 - 8 PM(Kathakali shows), 6 - 7 PM & 8 - 9 PM(Kalarippayat) on all seven days of the week. Entry fee: INR 300 per person.

Chithirapuram

Located 10 km away from Munnar city, Chithirapuram is a charming hill-side village that is amongst the top Munnar tourist places. Home to many palaces, tea gardens and lush green valleys, witness picturesque colonial heritage and old town charm here. For those looking for peace and tranquillity, this place offers just that. Chithirapuram is a famous spot amongst tourists interested in outdoor activities such as paragliding, hiking, trekking, boating, parasailing, mountaineering, etc. Many also visit Chithirapuram to access nearby attractions like Muthuapetty Reservoir, Eravikulam National Park, Elephant Dam & Lake, Mattupetty Dam, Marayoor forests, Thoovanam waterfalls and Echo Point. On a beautiful day, you can also choose to have a lovely picnic overlooking the beautiful green landscapes and lakes.     Location: Chithirapuram, Munnar 685565. Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM Entry fee:  None.

Floriculture Centre

Munnar Floriculture Centre, also known as Munnar Rose Garden is one of the top places to visit in Munnar. Floriculture Centre is home to hundreds of rare varieties of flowers and other plants including cacti, herbs, shrubs, and creepers. Operated by the Kerala Forest Development Centre, it is spread across acres of land in the city of Munnar. Located close to other main attractions, you can visit the place in under 30 minutes. The amenities inside the garden include toilets, café and other shops. With many tea plantations in the background, this spot is the perfect place for a quick photo-op! Location: 526, Ward No. 10, Mattupetty Road, Munnar 685612. Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM Entry fee: INR 10 per person | INR 20 - camera | INR 50 - video camera.

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15 Best Things to Do in Munnar, Kerala: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Read about the things to do in Munnar with top Munnar sightseeing attractions along with the best places to visit near Munnar. Munnar is the most beautiful hill station in South India, nestled between tea plantations, rolling hills, waterfalls, and wildlife with the best breathtaking views which must be included in the Munnar sightseeing itinerary. Whether you are in Munnar for one day or two, you will love this Beautiful and fascinating hill station of Kerala.

Munnar is located 4 hours away from Kochi and 3 hours from Thekkady a prominent place in Kerala. This beautiful hill station has everything you ask for! From tea plantations and tastings, scenic valleys, numerous streams, swimming in waterfalls, visiting wildlife parks, and being amongst the clouds with epic viewpoints. You will be surely spoilt for your choice!

Adorned with rolling hills and tea plantations covered with cotton-white mist with ultra-blue skies flying right over your head, Munnar is definitely the go-to place once in your lifetime. There are so many things to do in Munnar and there is something for everyone- whether adventure seeker, honeymoon couple, or solo traveler!

Here are the top 15+ things to do in Munnar – the ultimate Munnar Travel Guide!

There is no dearth of interesting  things to do in Munnar . Plan your itinerary by picking your preferred activities from our list below that will enhance your travel experience in Munnar on your blissful vacation in Kerala.

• 1 Where is Munnar in Kerala?
• 2 What is the Best Time to Visit Munnar?
• 3.1 Are there any trains from Kochi to Munnar??
• 3.2 Kochi to Munnar by Bus
• 3.3 Kochi to Munnar by taxi or a Tour
• 4.1 Admire the Views from Anayirangal Viewpoint
• 4.2 Visit the Tea Plantations at Devikulam
• 4.3 Learn how Tea is made at Lockhart Tea Factory 
• 4.4 Pothemedu Viewpoint and Attukad Waterfall
• 4.5 Spot the Nilgiri Thar at Eravikulam National Park
• 4.6 Drive up to Top Station to See Tamil Nadu 
• 4.7 Chase the Flowers at Munnar Botanical Garden
• 4.8 Visit Mattupetty Dam
• 4.9 Make an echo at Echo Point
• 4.10 Watch the Kalariyapattu Show- the ancient art of Kerala
• 4.11 Try adventure and Trekking in Munnar- Anamudi Peak OR Meesapulimala
• 4.12 Visit Chocolate Factory in Munnar
• 4.13 Kolukkmalai Peak at Sunrise and Tea Estate
• 4.14 Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Lakkam Waterfalls
• 4.15 Lakkam Waterfall
• 5 How many days of trip is good for a trip to Munnar?
• 6 How to Get Around Munnar
• 7 Best Places to Stay in Munnar
• 8 Shopping in Munnar

Where is Munnar in Kerala?

Munnar is a hill station in South India, in the state of Kerala, in Idukki District which is located 1,600 meters above sea level!  Blessed with abundant natural beauty, Munnar is often referred to as the Kashmir of South India.

The Munnar as we know it today, with its tea plantations and factories, was founded by British explorers in the 19th century. Since then, it expanded and became accessible to tourists all over the world! It is a favorite destination among many people and people visit it for its cooler climate throughout the year.

Of all places, I have visited in Kerala, Munnar is one of the best among them. I would love to return here again and again. The popular tourist places in Munnar are replete with charming vistas of tea plantations, rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and stunning waterfalls.

Also Read: Beautiful Hill Station of South India- Kodaikanal

What is the Best Time to Visit Munnar?

No matter the time of year, Munnar manages to entice travelers to taste the serenity! so, be it winter, summer, or monsoon, Munnar is equally beautiful and as thrilling. The Peak season of Kerala is from October to March which is the best time to visit for the weather. During this time, the general climate is cozy and snuggle-worthy! But due to peak season, expect big crowds and jammed roads due to traffic.

April – June is the summer months, which although hot, is the perfect time for wildlife spotting. The climate can get quite warm during the daytime, while evenings incline towards being chilly. It will be busier due to everyone wanting to escape the heat in the clouds.

Another great time to visit is in Monsoon from July to September. The rains make the jungle nice and lush, while mist cloaks the atmosphere, plus there will be lots of waterfalls to enjoy in full force!  One must experience this natural beauty when it is at its freshest. Although the region is absolutely breathtaking during this time, it is still deemed as the off-season. As such, travel and accommodation will be more affordable, and one can optimize on great deals.

I would suggest the months of March or the end of September which is still counted as the ‘offseason so everything will be cheaper and you can avoid the heavier crowds too. 

How to Reach Munnar?

Kochi is the nearest airport to reach Munnar. The most easiest and convenient way to reach Munnar is by taking a taxi or cab from Kochi. Kochi is 130 km from Munnar, so it may take 3-4 hours if there is no traffic! Otherwise, you can self-drive a car.

If you are traveling from Alleppey then take a halt at Thekkady and if you are traveling from Kochi- you can take many pitstops along the way for waterfall visit or pitstop for sightseeing whenever you like! it is totally safe to drive from Kochi to Munnar.

If you are on a shoestring budget, you can take Public transport and reach by bus to Munnar.

Are there any trains from Kochi to Munnar??

The Kundala Valley Railway, set up by the Kannan Devan Company for the transportation of tea, is one of them which was devastated by a flood in 1924. They had set up the railway station. There used to be a train that would run up to Munnar and even Top Station, but now both of those are relics and what is left was moved to museums. 

The building that acted as the main railway station is today the regional office of Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Company Private Limited (KDHP). The remains of the railway and the ropeway still exist on the Kundala – Top Station route.

Today, the only way that you can get up to Munnar from Kochi is to drive up the winding hills by car or bus .

Kochi to Munnar by Bus

Munnar is well connected by Road from major south Indian states like Kochi, Bangalore, Madurai, etc. You can always take an overnight bus from these cities to reach Munnar. If you are traveling from Kochi, then you can opt for Kerala Road Transport Corporation(KSRTC) Buses and you can book the tickets online.

Deluxe and super deluxe buses are also available to reach Munnar from Kochi. The cost may vary according to the services you choose from INR 200- to INR 300 per ticket and takes 3-4 hours.

Kochi to Munnar by taxi or a Tour

Most tourists or travelers opt to hire a taxi or cab to reach Munnar. If you have your car with a driver, means you have more freedom and can stop where you like and all your sightseeing can be done without hassles. It makes perfect sense to hire a cab/car to get around Munnar.

But, if you are on a budget or you have no transport option, then, Book this Day trip to Munnar from Kochi .

10+ Best Things to do in Munnar- Complete list!

Read about the Best recommendations for Munnar Bucketlist and below is a great mix of things to do in Munnar. As I said Munnar has everything from tea plantations, rolling hills, viewpoints, and historical places to wildlife! You will not get bored for a moment when you visit this beautiful hill station in India.

Here are the top tourist attractions of Munnar that you can easily cover in 2 days.

Admire the Views from Anayirangal Viewpoint

Munnar has so many tea plantations and rolling hills of tea gardens. Munnar has so many man-made wonders like dams that are built around lakes. The dams here have the ability to beckon visitors with their architectural majesty and stunning beauty. Munnar has a plethora of lakes and dams, but Anayirangal Dam stands out and deserves a special place in your Munnar itinerary. 

The name ‘Anayirangal’ is the amalgamation of two Malayalam words; ‘aana’ which means elephant and ‘irangal’ which means descend. As the name suggests, elephant herds come down to drink water from the Dam. There are lakes and tea plantations adjacent to the Dam, which adds extra gorgeousness to this reservoir.

You can take a boat ride in the reservoir and it will take you close to the dense forest. The boat will help you steal glimpses of wildlife in the forest. The boating timing is 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

You can take a view of the whole reservoir and dam from the road adjacent to it and you can search on the GPS map ‘ Anayirangal Viewpoint ‘. The views from the top are stunning and give you a panoramic view of the landscape.

So, when you are doing a road trip through Munnar, don’t miss this must-visit sightseeing place Munnar for its views.

Visit the Tea Plantations at Devikulam

Devikulam is about 7 KM from Munnar and is famous for its tea plantations. Seeing a tea plantation is one of the top things to do in Munnar. But, you may be surprised to know that many of them are blocked off by the public so you can’t enter them.

But you can find Devkulam Viewpoint and it has an entry fee, which may allow you to enter the tea Plantations with beautiful surrounding views. You can take lots of photographs here with picture-perfect views with the backdrop of the mountains.

You should visit this place early in the morning to get the best experience. The morning mist, the fresh air on the hills, and the panoramic views from the top are what make this trip unforgettable.

Alternatively, you can always take a Private 4WD Jeep tour at many of such Plantations like Lockhart Tea Plantation if you really want to explore a tea plantation and escape the tourist circuit. There are so many local tour agencies that can book it for you.

Learn how Tea is made at Lockhart Tea Factory 

If you are really keen on knowing about Tea and the history of Tea, you must stop by one of the Tea factories in Munnar. I have visited tea factories in Darjeeling, so I was not very keen on the Process of it. But if it is your first visit, I highly recommend taking a Private Tea Estate and Tea Factory tour.

I visited Lockhart Tea Factory in Munnar which is one of the oldest tea factories in the area that still produces tea today. The factory follows the Orthodox Tea Manufacturing process instead of Modern machinery.

In their factory, you can go on a guided tour to see the whole cycle of tea production, from the wilting process to oxidation which decides which type of tea it will be, to packaging. They give insights into the making of black tea, green tea, and white tea in traditional ways.

But, you can browse around the museum to see photos and equipment that were used during the colonial era. Plus, they also have a tasting area, café, and some fantastic viewpoints that you can relish in too.

Inside the Factory, you can also visit Munnar Tea Museum. This is the oldest and largest tea production factory in Munnar and produces 22 million kilos of tea each year.

Tour Cost: INR 200 per person for Indian tourists and INR 400 for foreign Nationals.

Chase the Waterfalls of Munnar – Chinnakanel Waterfall

Munnar has so many waterfalls which you can chase during your Munnar sightseeing itinerary. You will spot this tempting waterfall right on the side of the road. The source of the waterfall is the river Devikulam and it is surrounded by lush greenery. One can take snaps, bath, enjoy the fall, and sit there for hours; you just can laze around the fall as much as you want. During the monsoon season, it appears like gallons of milk are being thrown from a height!

You can also visit nearby Seethadevi Lake(Devikulam Lake). According to legend, Mother Sita, the wife of Lord Ram of the Ramayana epic, once took a bath in the Lake. Since then this came to be known as Sita Devi Lake.

You can find pristine beauty, untouched and unspoiled by the works of mankind at this lake. If you are a water baby, must visit the waterfalls of Munnar and Chinnakanal should be one of the best places to visit in your Munnar sightseeing itinerary.

Other waterfalls you can visit in Munnar are Lokkam Waterfall, Nayamakad waterfall in Kanan Devan Hill, Cheeyapara waterfall on the way to Kochi, and Thoovanam waterfall in Chinnar. The waterfalls are the top places to visit in Munnar.

Pothemedu Viewpoint and Attukad Waterfall

Pothamedu View Point is known for its scenic environs, which offer a panoramic view of Munnar and its adjoining valley blanketed in lush green. You can gauge the height at which the viewpoint is, when you look down upon the winding serpentine roads, with tiny cars and vehicles making a climb up the mountain top. 

During the Monsoon time, you can spot the waterfalls flowing through the valleys and tea plantations from the height. The best time to visit the Pothemedu viewpoint is at sunrise or sunset. The exquisite location is perfect for those who seek to be amidst nature and love to view the refreshing tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations. Also, who love adventure sports, Pothamedu Viewpoint offers hiking and trekking opportunities as well.

Pothemedu is one of the must-visit tourist places in Munnar which offers 360-degree views of Munnar.

You can visit nearby Attukad waterfalls which flow through the mountains overlooking the tea gardens.  The Attukal waterfalls are popular for their cascading flow and which makes them appear like white froth due to the force. The falls are especially mesmerizing in the monsoon due to the mightier force and greenery all around.

Spot the Nilgiri Thar at Eravikulam National Park

One of the Top Places to visit in Munnar is Eravikulam National Park, which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The National Park is located 8 km from Munnar town, covers an area of 97 sq km, and stands out for the ravishing beauty of its rolling grasslands and sholas.

The Eravikulam National park is famous for housing the endangered mountain goat of South India , the Nilgiri Tahr – the native mammal of the Western Ghats. Also, Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom just once every 12 years, are another highlight of this park, which is located on the 2,700-meter-high Anamudi hill .

The Nilgiri langur, Atlas moth (largest in the world), lion-tailed macaque, small-clawed otter, Indian bison, and a rare tiger are some of the main animal species that can be spotted here. You can also behold a view of the Anamudi Peak from the Park, which is the highest peak in all of South India . The Eravikulam national park is one of the most popular places to visit in Munnar which will surely make your Munnar sightseeing quite interesting.

This park allows a walking safari from a drop point. It is ideal to book a ticket online in advance so as to avoid the line in the Park.

Timings: 08.00 AM to 02:00 PM Entry Fee: INR 200 for Indians and INR 500 for foreign Nationals

September to November and April to June is the best season to visit Eravikulam National Park.

Drive up to Top Station to See Tamil Nadu 

The ultimate destination among places to visit in Munnar is a Top Station and must-see places in Munnar. At an elevation of 1700 Metres in the Kannan Devan Hills, Top Station is the highest point in Munnar, overlooking the silent valley of Tamil Nadu. Also, you may be surprised to know it’s actually on t along with the Kerala-Tamil Nadu states.

Its name as it used to be the highest railway station in the valley. It was the uppermost railway station of the Kundala Valley Railway way back in the early 1900s. It used to be a terminal shipment station for transporting tea that was part of the Kundala Valley Railway until 1924. After the great flood of 1999, it was never rebuilt. 

Top Station offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and lush valleys below.

Top Station is heaven for hikers and adventure lovers. It provides a 360-degree view of the Western Ghats with mountains, trekking trails, and waterfalls on a clear day.

The best time to visit Top Station is Sunset. The rolling hills provide a perfect backdrop for stunning views of the sunset.  Kurinjimala Sanctuary is close to Top Station which is popular for the rare Neelakurinji flowers. These flowers bloom once in 12 years. 

Chase the Flowers at Munnar Botanical Garden

The weather of Munnar is perfect for flowers that bloom throughout the year. Located on the highway, near Government Engineering College Munnar- it attracts so many tourists throughout the year. The botanical garden has a wide variety of flowers and plants that are spread across 5 acres.

You can enjoy the spectacular garden which houses around 150 varieties of flowering plants, an open theatre, beautiful landscapes, walkways, a canteen, a souvenir shop, and spice shops. Don’t miss this one of the best places to visit in Munnar.

Entry Fees: INR 20 per person and INR 10 for children below 12 years Timings: 09:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day

Visit Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is one of the popular tourist Places in Munnar. The dam of Mattupetty is a dam storing waters from the confluence of the mountain streams of the Muthirappuzha River, Chanduvarai River, and Kundale River. More than the dam, the catchment area has lovely scenery overlooking the hills and also serves as a picnic spot. 

The dam has an abundance of water at all times of the year which makes it a biodiversity hotspot. The Munnar Tourism Government has also set up many activities around the dam which include watersports, boating, Zorbing Paddleboarding, etc. Many families bring picnics and you can also find a lot of stalls selling food, hats, and gifts to bring home too.

You can even go for a hike inside the Shola forest surrounding it. So, Mattupetty Dam is one of the best places to visit in Munnar if you are looking for some adventure activities.

Make an echo at Echo Point

There are a few activities that are worth stopping for on the Top Station route and Echo Point is definitely one of them. It is actually a gorgeous reservoir that sits in the hills and a phenomenon happens here where if you make a loud noise, it echos back! Hence the name.

It is a great way to spend time here while taking a walk in the lush greenery surrounding the place. It is an ideal picnic spot. A lot of families stop here for picnics and for boating on the lake.  This is also a prime viewing spot for the Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. Don’t forget to add this one of the top things to do in Munnar to your bucket list.

Watch the Kalariyapattu Show- the ancient art of Kerala

Kalaripayattu is an ancient form of Martial Arts that originates from the time when the warriors of Kerala used to be here! The training for Kalaripayattu starts when a boy or girl is young and is seen as a lifelong profession. 

With each level of training, the weapons get more intense. For example, you start off with wooden sticks and make your way up to swords and maces. I saw Men fight with sticks, and swords, kicking footballs triple their height, and even jump through burning hoops of fire!

It is well worth going to see a Kalaripayattu in the evenings here in Munnar.

Try adventure and Trekking in Munnar- Anamudi Peak OR Meesapulimala

If you think Munnar is just about tea plantations or a relaxing Hill station, you are totally wrong here! Anamudi is the highest Peak of Munnar and Meesapulimala is the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats. Situated on the top of the Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi peak is the pride of Kerala. Also, it is the highest point in India outside the Himalayan-Karakoram Mountain range and offers a view of lush green valleys and tea plantations.

Declared a world heritage by UNESCO, Meesapulimala consists of eight hills spreading across like a mustache, giving it its name. Once you are at the peak of Meesapulimala, you can witness the true beauty of Munnar. It is priceless! 

Meesapulimala Trek

This trek requires one full day of dedicated trekking. Meesapulimala is located 40 km away from Munnar Town and requires 4-6 hours of walking along the route and the trail leads to a wonderful mountaintop above the clouds.

Also, you can trek to the Anamudi Peak and experience how it feels to be on top of the world but make sure you have taken permission from Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.

Apart from it, there are other few Munnar trekking destinations and you can do night camping along with it! Who knows Munnar offers this experience too! Don’t miss visiting Meesapulimala which is one of the best Munnar tourist places.

The prices are common and some include meals and/or snacks:

• Sunrise trekking – 600 INR
• Soft trekking – 450 INR
• Full-Day trekking – 900 INR

Visit Chocolate Factory in Munnar

When you are leaving Munnar, you will come across so many chocolate shops across the city center. but how about visiting a Chocolate factory in Munnar??

Surely, the chocolate capital of the world is ‘ Brussels ’ in Belgium, which is the home of the two biggest chocolate companies in the world  Godiva and Leonidas. But In Kerala Munnar is the natural hub of homemade chocolates, where anyone with a sweet tooth love to visit and taste chocolates.

I visited the MACOFA chocolate factory on the Kochi-Munnar road. I was surprised to see the chocolate factory and buy fresh chocolates straight in front of me! Even it was more surprising that Munnar offers a large amount of Cocoa to chocolate manufacturers making Munnar a favorite spot for Homemade chocolate.

Here you can learn about cocoa production, processing, chocolate making in factories, and all. The best thing is that Cocoa beans are used instead of cocoa butter in making homemade chocolates in Munnar. Homemade chocolate is the real attraction of Munnar for sweet tooth lovers.

The factory has a processing unit and a shop that sells different varieties of chocolates. You can also buy dark chocolates here.

You can visit the MOCOFA factory from   8:00 AM – 7:00 PM from Monday to Sunday

Places to Visit Near Munnar

Kolukkmalai Peak at Sunrise and Tea Estate

If one of the most beautiful places you want to visit in Munnar then it is – Kolukkmalai! Located 40 km from Munnar Kolukkumalai is a small village located near Suryanelli in Kerala. The place actually belongs to Tamilnadu! Perched at an approximate height of 8000 ft above sea level, the world-famous Kolukkumalai Tea Estate has its record as the world’s highest tea plantation on the lofty Kolukkmalai hills.

In addition, Kolukkumalai’s time-tested tea factory still sticks to the orthodox (handmade) methods of tea processing it has practiced since the colonial era. Due to the rough and crooked pathway, the estate is accessible only by jeep from a drive through the town of Suryanelli and tea plantations owned by Harrisons Malayalam Ltd onto a narrow, serpentine, and rocky dirt path leading up to Kolukkumalai tea estate.

Kolukkumalai Trekking

When you arrive at the estate, there is a trek of around 3 km to see the most captivating and sparkling dawn. The Sunrise is the feature of Kolukkumalai amid mists and clouds, the sight is stunning. You have to start the trek from Suryanelli and it needs uphill climbing for 4-5 hours. It is a total of 15 Km trek up and down.

You can book the trek and day excursions package from Kolukkmalai Tea estate . They have a camping facility in the estate for the sunrise treks. After the trek, you can visit Kolukkmalai’s top viewpoint, Tiger faces rock, and the nearby top station view and Tea Estate along with the tea factory. The sunrise at Kolukkmalai is one the best places to visit in Munnar if you are a sunrise seeker.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Lakkam Waterfalls

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is 1.5 hours away from Munnar Town. Located on the Kerala-Tamilnadu border in the Anaimalai Hills is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to the Great Grizzled Squirrel of India. Numbering less than 200, they are among the most endangered species on the planet. One can view herds of gaur and elephants strolling around casually in this area.

While making the journey to Chinnar one can spot the Deer, Sambar, Hanuman Langur, and peacocks alongside the road along with many species of birds in the sanctuary.

You can combine the trip to Chinnar with the beautiful sandalwood forest, some caves, and the gorgeous Thoovam waterfall.

Lakkam Waterfall

Lakkam waterfall is located near Chinnar wildlife sanctuary and you can get to swim in the lagoon beneath it!

You don’t need a permit to enter the waterfall and it only costs INR 20 for a standard ticket. But, if you want to explore further, you can do some treks too.

How many days of trip is good for a trip to Munnar?

Munnar is the most beautiful place in Kerala, I would say to make the very most of the area you will need at least 3 days. Munnar is split up by certain road ‘routes’ and it’s better to stick to one route per day. The most popular is the Top Station route, so if you don’t like crowds or traffic, you can avoid it and look for a different way to spend your time. 

With proper planning, you can still cover all the tourist places in Munnar in 2 days. You cannot do everything in just 1 day! You can cover all the mentioned places in 2 days trip to Munnar. Here are the suggested 2 days Munnar itinerary for you .

Day 1 : If you are arriving from Kochi, on the way visit the Cheeyapara waterfalls, and Devikulam Tea Plantations, then go to the tea factory visit Lockhart Tea Museum, and the Chinnakanal waterfall. Visit the Pothemedu viewpoint in the afternoon and if time permits Attukal waterfall. Keep the evening reserved for shopping in Munnar Town.

Day 2: Visit the Top Station(40 km from Munnar), Visit Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and Botanical Garden. Keep the evening reserved for the Cultural show Kalariyapattu or Kathakali. Later go for some tea-tasting sessions at one of the cafes in Munnar town.

Day 3 : Start Early Morning and reach Eravikulam National Park and later visit Chocolate Factory and Head to Thekkady/Kochi.

How to Get Around Munnar

Depending on your budget, you can rent a bike, or auto-rickshaw, go by car or move around on the state bus. The common price for hiring an autorickshaw for the day is 800-1000 INR.

Most of them will offer the following options:

• Mattupetti direction : Rose Garden, Forest Honey Bee Hive, Photo Point, Elephant Park, Mattupetti Dam, Elephant arrival spot, shooting point, echo-point, Kundala Lake, Top Station.
• Marayoor direction (in some local booklets Coimbatore direction) : Tea museum, Nyamakad waterfalls, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak View, Luckom waterfalls, Sandalwood forest, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Cochin direction : Blossom Park, Pothamedu View Point, Spice plantation visit, Attukad waterfalls, Dream Land Fun Park.
• Thekkady direction : Lockhart Gap & Rock Cave, tea plantation view, Chinnakal Waterfalls, Anayirangal Dam view, Spice plantation view.

As I said each of the directions above takes almost the whole day, so take it easy and do a one-direction trip every day whether by auto or by car. Alternatively, you can skip a few places and can combine other places as per your choice and sightseeing Munnar itinerary.

Best Places to Stay in Munnar

Shopping in munnar.

Munnar is famous for its Tea Gardens, so of course, you should buy fresh tea from here. Other than tea, you can buy Coffee and spices. Being famous for its exquisite taste and aroma, the tea grown here comes in many different varieties. So are the coffee and spices. 

If you want to shop in Munnar do so in the street shops in the local markets. They are the best places where you can find local produce, handicrafts, tea, coffee, spices, and hand-woven garments. Also, Munnar is famous for its handmade chocolates- a must-buy from Munnar. You can visit Main Munnar Town Market for shopping. Also, almost many tourist places in Munnar have small markets surrounding them, which you can explore for shopping in Munnar.

I hope this Munnar travel guide on Things to do in Munnar will help you to plan your trip. Pin it for the later!!

Mayuri Patel, owner of the fernwehrahee Blog loves to travel and helping you to plan your Next Trip! She is full time Travel Blogger, dreaming about her next adventure! Join her Journeys where she takes you to destinations around the world with the pinch of history & culture!

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Best Munnar Itinerary for 4 Days : A Comprehensive Guide With PDF

Last Updated on April 18, 2024

Planning a trip to Munnar and feeling overwhelmed with the myriad of options? Let me share with you a detailed Munnar itinerary with practical travel tips for the perfect trip. As usual, I’ll give you a plethora of ideas to modify your trip plan based on your needs.

Located in Kerala, Munnar is one of the British-era hill stations famous for tea gardens and breathtaking views. Having travelled extensively in the Western Ghats of India, the mesmerizing beauty of Munnar still stands unmatched in my travel memories.

My first trip to Munnar was a comedy of errors during heavy rain. I fell in love with the place despite the weather playing a spoilsport.

My second trip to this Queen of hills was in November 2018, just a few months after the devastating floods that rocked the region. And yet, even amidst the remnants of Mother Nature’s fury, Munnar remained the epitome of beauty in my eyes.

I visited it again last year and have also helped people plan their Munnar vacation. So, if you’re looking for authentic insights and a stress-free travel plan, you’ve come to the right place. Let me guide you to this journey of exploring the most beautiful hill station in south India .

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A Quick Outline

A Glance at the Munnar Itinerary for 4 Days

I visited Munnar on extended weekends from Bangalore and tried to make the best out of the three days. However, if you are planning a road trip to Munnar, this 4-day 3-nights Munnar itinerary will be perfect. I have also shared ideas to modify the plan for shorter duration of stay.

It will give you time to rest, take care of the kids, and explore the local cuisine and the markets. This is the best Munnar itinerary for a family trip.

🌟If you have only one day at Munnar then I highly recommend this Munnar tour package for a day trip to Munnar from Kochi . You will love it and will be motivated to come back for a longer trip I promise.

Day 1 of Munnar itinerary:

Drive to Chinnakanal via Munnar, with a lunch-stop at Munnar town. Stop at a couple of viewpoints on the way.

Day 2 – Explore Chinnakanal:

• Excursion to Kolukkumalai Tea Garden in the morning
• After lunch visit the Elephant Abode Boating Center and then drive to Munnar
• Check-in to hotel in Munnar

Day 3 in Munnar:

• Visit Eravikulam National Park in the morning.
• Trek to Lakkham Falls (optional)
• Then after lunch drive to Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, and Echo Point

If you are planning to return on the same day, you should skip the Lakkham Falls trek. Then leave Munnar by 2 p.m. after visiting the lakes.

Day 4 – Departure:

Check out of the hotel and drive to Marayoor Sandalwood Forest.

Then visit Attukal Falls, CSI Christ Church, and Rose Garden in that order before you depart.

Why did I suggest staying so far away from Munnar town? And why do you need to shift hotels the next day? Do you really need to? How can I plan my Munnar sightseeing for each day?

You will find the answers to all these questions below. But let’s start with reaching Munnar.

Download Munnar Travel Guide PDF

How to reach Munnar

We have usually taken a long drive to Munnar from Bangalore. However, there are several ways you can reach Munnar.

By Air: The nearest major airport to Munnar is the Cochin International Airport (COK), which is approximately 110-120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar .

By Train: The nearest railway station to Munnar is Aluva Railway Station, which is about 110 kilometers away, followed by Ernakulam Junction Railway Station in Kochi which is 122 kilometers away.

From either of these stations, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Munnar. It will take around 3-4 hours depending on Kochi’s traffic.

By Bus: If you are based out of Bangalore, you can take an overnight bus to Munnar bus station . There are several private and state-run buses connecting Munnar to prime cities in the southern India.

A road trip to Munnar is absolutely amazing. Be it on motorbikes or by car. If you are traveling from Bangalore, the plan below includes a map that you can use for planning your road trip. It is one of the finest routes to go for long drives around Bangalore .

Book a reasonably-priced, car transfer from Kochi to Munnar to avoid the last-minute rush.

However, reaching Munnar by overnight bus will help you optimize your trip in the best possible way. Board an overnight sleeper bus and wake up to the lush green scenery in the early morning. Reach Munnar before noon and have half a day to explore around.

Travel Resources for Munnar

🏨 Booking.com  & Agoda the best hotel prices (Price match and free cancellations)

🛏️ If you prefer hostels/zostels, check Hostelworld

🚗Get discounts on package tours and special experiences with Viator

💸Secure your vacation with travel insurance from Visitors Coverage

🚗Book local transport on 12Go

ℹ️ For any information on government properties, phone numbers visit the official site .

Munnar Trip Plan in Detail – Day 1

Road Trip to Chinnakanal via Munnar

Living in Bangalore, I’ve generally traveled to Munnar by car. A road trip to Munnar promises a memorable journey that’s both thrilling and scenic. A long drive through the winding roads of the Western Ghats , the lush greenery and mist-covered mountain ranges are worth waking up at 4 a.m. for

Because if you are driving 400 km from Bangalore, you need to hit the road early and leave the city before the crazy traffic kicks in. You can read in detail about our monsoon road trip here .

However, if you are planning this vacation from anywhere else, then Kochi is the most likely starting point for you. It is well-connected to all major locations in India by rail and flights.

Assuming you start from Kochi the drive to Munnar is relatively shorter, taking about 3 to 4 hours. Let’s hope the dreaded Kochi traffic shows some mercy.

Lunch in Munnar

By the time you hit Munnar, hunger pangs may kick in. If you want vegetarian food, head to Saravana Bhavan. Otherwise, Rapsy restaurant is a nice multi-cuisine restaurant serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Stop at Chinnakanal Falls

Rightly known as the “Power House Waterfall” , the Chinnakanal Waterfall is your first treat in the region. Displaying nature’s raw power and beauty, its waters plunge with fervor. Though it’s a perennial fall, monsoons certainly add to its charm.

Best part? There is no entry fee, and you don’t even need to hike to see this. It’s right on the roadside on your way to Chinnakanal.

Stop at Lockhart Gap or the Gap Road viewpoint

Another stop on your way to the hotel can be the Lockhart Gap, also called the Gap-road viewpoint. This is the most famous viewpoint on the road to Chinnakanal, near the Lockhart tea factory. It’s named after the heart-shaped gap formed by two mountains here.

🌟But here’s a nugget from my experience. If you find the place crowded by too many cars parked at the famous site mentioned in almost all travel guides, just drive ahead. Munnar’s got many such nameless viewpoints at every turn on the road for you to see on your 3-day trip. They are equally beautiful, so don’t just fall into this tourist trap .

Best Places to Stay around Chinnakanal

Finally, it’s time to check in to your hotel and rest. You can choose from Chinnakanal’s vast range of accommodations.

Whether it’s a luxurious resort or a quaint homestay, you’re sure to find a perfect match for a quick rest and refresh. These are my top picks in this area.

🥇 Sterling Munnar

☑️Best Location ☑️Family-friendly ☑️Sustainable

It’s my top pick mainly because of its location. It’s located opposite the Tata tea estate. Besides it has a beautiful garden, children’s park, daily activities planned for families in the morning, magic shows, and Karaoke nights in the evening.

You can get in with a camera in your hand and explore the garden and the views freely. The watchtower within the resort’s premises also gives a spectacular view. You can see the Ayyankere Dam from here.

*Unfortunately, the price of this hotel has hiked since our last stay(possibly due to the location factor). At roughly Rs.7000 might not be the ideal mid-budget hotel for many.

🥈 Elephant Passage Resort

☑️5-star luxury ☑️Jacuzzi ☑️Infinity Pool

Just slightly higher than the current rates of Sterling Munnar, you can book a stay in this 5-star luxury resort. With breathtaking views, a jacuzzi room and an infinity pool, it is one of the best resorts in Munnar.

However, it is located in Anachal closer to Pothmedu , and further away from Kolukkumalai which we plan to visit next.

Check out other options and get best prices below.

🥉 The Sienna Village

☑️Great Location ☑️Affordable Luxury

Much cheaper than the other two and is located close to Sterling Munnar. This location is perfect as it is close to the highlights of day 2.

Fort Munnar is also a good option in this area. The tariff is similar to Sterling, but its restaurant is much cheaper.

Day 2 – In and around Chinnakanal

While most guides would point you to a tea factory in Lockhart or Kanan Devan Hills, I’ve got something different in mind: Suryanelli Tea Estate in Kolukkumalai . Not only is it among the highest tea estates in the world , but it’s also home to one of the oldest tea factories.

🌟 And hey, you might hear about catching the sunrise here, but I’ll not hype about it. From my experience, Munnar mornings are typically overcast, so it’s unlikely to catch the sunrise!

So, enjoy a good night’s sleep to replenish your body from the long journey yesterday.

Start off for Kolukkumalai

Have an early breakfast and try to start off by 9 am though. Breakfast should be light! Soon you’ll know why. 😉

Kolukkumalai is located in Tamil Nadu’s Theni district, right at the border of Kerala’s Idukki. Even though it’s technically in Tamil Nadu, Munnar is the best gateway to this hidden treasure.

You need to park your car and hire a jeep from the Suryanelli tea estate gate. From there, brace yourself for 9 kilometers of pure, adrenaline-pumping off-roading.

Kolukkumalai’s tea estate sprouted back in 1920. Hovering around 8000ft, this historic site offers captivating views of the valley.

You can also see Kodaikanal from here!

The Jeep Ride through Suryanelli Tea Estate

An hour of bumpy, thrilling jeep action costs you around Rs.2000 for a group of four. It’s totally worth it.

They’ll pause at waterfalls, a watchtower, and a viewpoint – and trust me, each stop is a camera moment. We needed more than an hour to let the joy sink in, and they didn’t do anything extra for that.

Suryanelli Tea Factory Tour

Here’s where you get up close with the art of tea-making at the Suryanelli Tea Factory.

See the factory machinery chug along and workers in their element, followed by some tea tasting. Pro-tip: grab some orange pekoe tea; it’s a steal here.

🎟️Entry fee to the tea factory : Rs. 100/-

Neela Kurinji Hike

Back in November 2018, I was hunting for the Neela Kurinji blossom here, but they were past their prime. Nonetheless, other hill-flowers kept the trek lively. It’s a year-round treat, and a great place of camping.

2 PM: Refuel in Chinnakanal

Chinnakanal is not a bustling city like Munnar. On your way back you will find a couple of small-scale no-frills restaurants serving hot and tasty meals. You can have lunch there or return to your hotel for lunch.

4 PM: Anayirankal Elephant Abode Boating Center

A vast reservoir from the 1960s, Anayirankal (aka. Anayirangal) Dam sparkles at the backdrop of the lofty mountains. In Malayalam (Kerala’s native language), it literally means “where elephants come”.

The clear blue lake with beautified lakefront is one of my favorite places in Munnar. It’s way less crowded than the famous Mattupetty dam and I love it for that.

It’s about 7km from Chinnakanal and a bit further from Munnar town. The rates? Adults pay Rs. 20, kids for Rs. 10, and if you drive, parking is Rs. 30.

The Speed Boat ride for a group of 5 runs at Rs. 750. For a more leisurely cruise, the Pontoon Boat fits 20 and costs Rs. 1600 for half an hour. Keep your eye out for the deer and elephants who come to the lake to quench their thirst.

Cruise Back to Munnar Town

Munnar’s winding roads and scenic landscapes are not just about the destinations they lead to; the journey itself is equally enchanting.

As you drive back to the heart of Munnar, the transition is palpable. The quiet trails of the tea gardens gradually make way for the lively hum of the city.

Do you really need to shift hotels?

You might not. The hotels in Munnar are usually less luxurious and more expensive than in Chinnakanal. But it’s important to reach Eravikulam National Park as early as possible the next day. So, it will be ideal, (though not compulsory) to shift to a closer location, that is in Munnar town.

Best Places to Stay in Munnar

After a day’s excursion, having a comfortable place to crash is crucial. Munnar offers a range of stay options to cater to varying preferences and budgets.

While most luxury resorts away from the town, here you can get no-frills hotels with great amenities.

I recommend staying closer to the market.

🥇 Isaacs Residency

☑️ Luxury Stay☑️Great Location

This is located near the city center, close to Hydel Park. With a hot tub, spa, and spacious mountain-view rooms, this is one of the best places to stay near the city center. It is 16 km from Eravikulam National Park, so you can drive there in 30 minutes.

🥈 Abad Copper Castle

☑️ Affordable Luxury☑️Great Views

This popular Spa resort is located 16 km from Eravikulam National Park and 2km from the city center. It has great amenities and is also much cheaper than Issac Residency

🥉 Rheinberg Town Haus

☑️Pocket-friendly ☑️Good Location

Located 250m from Munnar bus station, it’s a convenient place for those who have a bus to catch for departure. It’s just 5km from Eravikulam National Park, so a great location for a neat budget hotel.

Check out other options and get the best prices below.

Shopping and Dining in Munnar Market

If you’re someone who loves to take back a piece of every place you visit, Munnar’s market won’t disappoint.

• Spices : Think cardamom, cloves, and more. Authentic and aromatic.
• Handmade Chocolates : A sweet souvenir, literally!
• Tea and Coffee : Munnar’s signature. Best enjoyed with memories of the trip.
• Al-Buhari : Known for its scrumptious array of dishes. Perfect to satiate those post-shopping hunger pangs.
• Rapsy’s Restaurant : If you’re in the mood for some comforting Indian-style Chinese or a hearty Kerala meal, this is the spot.

Day 3 – The Quintessential Munnar Sightseeing

Today we will see the main attractions of Munnar that everyone seems to talk about. Starting with Eravikulam National Park, we move on to Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and other places. Throughout our road trip, we will see a lot of tea plantations and stop to take pictures.

We will also skip some of the popular tourist places of Munnar like Carmelagiri Elephant Camp and Top Station. I will tell you why, later.

Explore Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park, a sanctuary for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr , is a major highlight when visiting Munnar. It’s situated about 15 km from the town of Munnar, and it always has a long queue for parking as well as entry tickets.

Getting inside the park requires a ride on the safari bus. Given that the average wait time for the bus is around an hour, I’d advise getting there early.

As you’re whisked away inside, you’ll catch glimpses of cascading waterfalls from your seat.

Eravikulam is unique, having both eco-sensitive zones and specific tourist zones. These designated areas ensure both wildlife protection and sustainable tourism. The jungle safari is also unique. The bus actually drops you at the safe zone and leaves. From here you can explore the place on foot and seek the elusive Tahrs.

Explore Lakkham Falls (Optional)

If the idea of trekking piques your interest, the park offers a guided 1-hour trek to Lakkham Falls. But if you prefer a drive, then you can take a detour outside the park right to the base of the falls.

Nestled within the forest, it’s an idyllic spot for those wanting to take a dip. The best time to visit? During or just after the monsoon. However, by summer and winter, the flow diminishes, making it less appealing.

Kanan Devan Tea Estate

Eravikulam is located in the Kanan Devan Hills – an ecological hotspot. But outside that you have the Kanan Devan Tea garden and tea museum. You will not have the time to visit the museum. However, you can still see the tea garden and try spotting the Anaimudi peak. It’s the highest mountain peak in Kerala.

2 PM Lunch at Munnar Town

With the morning’s adventure behind you, head back to Munnar town for some grub. Whether it’s a local delicacy or a familiar dish, there’s something for everyone here.

Drive to Kundala Lake via Mattupetty Dam

Kundala and Mattupetty dams are both significant in their own right. While Mattupetty Dam is a favorite among tourists, buzzing with activities like boating, street food, and shopping, Kundala Dam provides a more serene experience.

If you’re someone like me who prefers the road less traveled, Kundala Lake might just be your spot.

Stop at Echo Point on Your Way Back

Just a stone’s throw away from Mattupetty (around 15km from Munnar), Echo Point is exactly what it sounds like. It’s one of those fun spots where you can shout out and hear your voice reverberate back. It’s especially a hit among kids, so if you’re traveling with family, this is a must-visit.

Dinner at Munnar

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner back in Munnar town. Whether you crave traditional Kerala dishes or something more pan-Indian, the town caters to all palates. And hey, if you’re still in the mood for some local shopping, the night markets are worth exploring.

Day 4 of Munnar Itinerary – Bidding Adieu

As the sun rises on your last day in Munnar, there’s a mix of eagerness and nostalgia. The trip is coming to an end soon, so let’s make the best out of it.

Explore the Marayoor Sandalwood Forest and Ancient Dolmens

Marayoor, approximately 42 kilometers from Munnar town, stands distinct due to its natural sandalwood forests. To reach the forest, expect a drive of roughly an hour.

The allure of Marayoor isn’t just limited to its fragrant trees. Scattered across the forest are mysterious structures known as dolmens. These megalithic tombs, often associated with prehistoric burial practices, offer a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Wandering amid these historical markers, you’ll be enveloped in the forest’s tranquility and history. Allocate 1-2 hours here; the ambiance and the historical intrigue warrant it.

If you’re setting a course for Bangalore by car, Marayoor Forest is conveniently located on your way back. You shouldn’t waste any more time and head back to Bangalore.

But if you are heading to Kochi from here or have a late-night bus to Bangalore, there’s a bit more that you can squeeze in.

Kanthalloor Waterfalls (Optional)

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous you can drive to the Kanthalloor Waterfalls, 13 km from Marayoor. It requires a short downhill trek in scenic forests.

Besides the lovely waterfall, Kanthalloor village is famous for orchard of apples and oranges. Remember this will take another hour or more, so you can skip this and head to Munnar town if you don’t have that time.

Visit Attukal Waterfalls

Located only 9 km from Munnar’s city center, Attukal Waterfalls is a sight to behold. After your Marayoor Trip, if you have enough time, you can drive to this spot.

Cascading waters set against lush greenery ensure your camera gets its due, and your spirits get a little lift.

Stop by CSI Christ Church

On your journey back to Munnar town, make a quick stop at the CSI Christ Church. Rooted in history and standing testament to time, this church, built in 1910, has a Gothic aura. The stained-glass windows and the serene ambiance inside allow a moment of introspection before you continue your journey.

Visit the Rose Garden

Before the final goodbye, make your way to Munnar’s Rose Garden. The array of flowers, not just roses, paints a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a sensory delight. It’s a gentle reminder of the beauty Munnar has offered over the past few days.

Depart from Munnar

While the aroma of tea gardens still linger, it’s time to set forth. Whether you’re driving down the winding roads to Bangalore, catching a bus, or heading towards Kochi, the memories of Munnar will accompany you, urging a return someday. Safe travels!

Some Munnar Highlights I Skipped in this trip.

Munnar is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be explored at every corner. While optimizing the trip plan so that you could see the best in 3 or 4 days, I intentionally skipped some major tourist places in Munnar. Here’s a list of those attractions, with a bit of my take on each.

Boating in Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is often buzzing with tourists eager to sail its waters. But if you’re like me and prefer a quieter ambiance for boating, Anayirangal is where you’d want to be. Given the limited time in a 4-day trip and the crowd in the ticket-queue, I recommend skipping the Mattupetty boating experience.

Boating at Kundala Lake 👍

A serene alternative to the bustling Mattupetty is Kundala Lake. If you couldn’t boat in Anayirangal lake, you can kayak here. The scenery here is spectacular.

Elephant Riding at Carmelagiri Park 👎

Personally, I prefer observing elephants in their natural habitat rather than in a park. The thrill of spotting them in the wild during Anayirangal boat rides or on forest drives is unparalleled. Therefore, I haven’t included this in my top picks.

However, you may enjoy bathing the elephants which usually costs about Rs. 2000 for one hour.

You can also book an offbeat excursion to Anakulum Elephant village to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. Besides that, the tour also includes hike to Anakulam waterfall and stops at smaller waterfalls and tea estates on the way.

Tea Museum at Kanan Devan Hills 👍

The Kanan Devan Hills tea garden, with its serene landscape, offers a reprieve from the crowd at Munnar Tea Museum or even Lockhart Tea Garden. However, if you’ve experienced Kolukkumalai, and toured the highest and oldest tea factory in India, then most other places pale in comparison.

Munnar Top Station 👎

Top Station holds historical significance as it used to be the highest railway station in the valley long ago. Now the railway station doesn’t exist but it’s a famous tourist spot in Munnar which is said to offer amazing panoramic views.

However, the heavy traffic coupled with endless queues can dampen the experience. My visit in November left me underwhelmed, as the view wasn’t clear. Didn’t help that it started to rain a bit as soon as we reached the Top station.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary 👍

While I haven’t personally set foot here, the tales I’ve heard paint a vibrant picture of biodiversity and pristine nature. Located roughly 60 km from Munnar, it offers trekking, wildlife watching, and an opportunity to experience the region’s flora and fauna. Tariffs vary based on activities, but typically, entry fees start at INR 90 for adults.

You can book a guided day trip to Eravikulam National Park and Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary in this tour by Munnar Info. I haven’t experienced this first-hand, but the itinerary looks promising and reasonably priced for someone without a car in Munnar.

Idukki Dam 👍

If Marayoor doesn’t fit into your plans, consider driving to the architectural marvel that is Idukki Dam. Standing tall at 169 meters, it’s one of the highest arch dams in Asia. Approximately 65 km from Munnar, it’s an excellent spot for picnics and boasts of panoramic vistas.

Culinary Delights in Munnar

Munnar, with its rich cultural tapestry, extends its wealth to the culinary arena. While the verdant slopes of Munnar are known for their teas, the kitchens in this region are brimming with flavors that beckon the gastronome in every traveler.

It’s also a great place for vegetarians and vegans. Puttu with Kadala curry, appam with vegetable stew and idiyappam with coconut milk are some of the most famous vegan dishes in Munnar. Kerala sadya , the full platter of rice, vegetables, curry, payasam and fruits served in banana leaf is a must-have when in Munnar.

In essence, Munnar’s culinary landscape is a testament to Kerala’s age-old traditions and rich flavors. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or a meat-lover, the town promises a gustatory journey that lingers long after the trip ends.

If you have read this far, you must have got your Munnar itinerary sorted by now. I want Munnar travel guide to be a comprehensive resource for your trip planning. So, here are a few more questions about the trip planning answered for you.

But before that, bookmark the best travel sites for Munnar, and India in general.

Munnar Itinerary Map

What is the best time to visit Munnar?

The ideal time to visit Munnar is between October and January. The heavy rain subsides in October leaving behind light showers and pleasantly cool weather. While the monsoon, from June to August, offers sensational views of hills studded with seasonal waterfalls it may bring intermittent heavy showers. Avoid the peak summer months, as it can get quite hot.

How about a 3-Day Munnar itinerary?

A Munnar itinerary for 3 days is the same as following my 4-day trip plan from Day 1 to Day 3. Since you need to depart on day 3 itself, depending on when you plan to leave, you can start right after your trip to Eravikulam, or after visiting the Kundala dam and Echo Point at Mattupetty.

Have an even shorter holiday? You can visit Munnar in 2 days but it’s not ideal . You should then confine yourself to the places in and around Munnar town. Visit the tea gardens, tea museum, Kundala Dam and Echo point on the first day. On the second day explore Eravikulam National Park and Attukal Waterfalls before you depart.

If you only have one day in Munnar, drive to the Kanan Devan Hills and enjoy the lovely views on your way. If interested, visit the tea museum before you drive to Mattupetty Dam which is the closest. You can stop at small waterfalls and abundant viewpoints on your way.

If time permits you can also visit the rose garden or hydel blossom park. Don’t trust absurd guides on internet which say you can explore Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park), Attukad falls, Kundala dam all in one day. Book this one-day sightseeing tour to best optimise your schedule.

How to pack for Munnar?

Munnar has a pleasant temperate climate throughout the year. For people living in cooler regions, the bright sunny days of Munnar can feel quite hot. So just pack in comfortable clothes and a pair of good walking shoes.

No need to pack woolens in winter. Just a light jacket will be enough. Don’t forget to pack rain-jackets or umbrella to account for light showers all-year-round.

Hope this post helps you in Munnar trip planning. I have tried to include all important information. However, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

What’s Next?

Munnar and Alleppey are the two unmissable places in your Kerala itinerary . So, don’t forget to check out everything that you can experience in just one or two days in Alleppey here . From Munnar, you can drive to Thekkady for an exhilarating experience in the Periyar National Park.

Check out the best places to visit in Kerala to add to your bucket-list. To get more inspirations for making time for travel, subscribe to my newsletters and join the Backpack & Explore travel community.

I will leave you with the list of my favorite travel sites for planning you vacations in India.

Sinjana Ghosh is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. Backpack & Explore is a journal of her travel stories and tips she collected from her experience. She is the author of the travel book “Postcards from India” which is available on Amazon, Flipkart and Notionpress.com

Wow, what an amazing and informative post! I really know nothing about this area, but thanks to you, now I feel like I do!

Some great tips here! I’m off to India in April and will definitely be saving this for later

Thanks Emma! That’s great to know that you are headed to India. Do keep Kerala in your itinerary

Munnar looks beautiful. There’s something about those rolling hills and tea plantations that takes you back to a different age. Although I would like to see it now, post-colonialism etc! Thanks for this comprehensive guide, I will bookmark for later use.

Thanks a lot Hannah. The rampant tea plantation by colonisers had a damaging effect on the ecosystem of western ghats. But they look gorgeous. Now there have been measures taken to protect eco-sensitive zones from commercialisation.

I’m not familiar with Munnar so found this post so educational. All of your recommendations are so beautiful and your itinerary is perfect!

Munnar is our favorite hill station in the whole of India! I love those carpeted tea fields, the tea museum and the scenice beauty. The waterfalls add to the beauty of this place. I must make another visit to Munnar to tick off all the places worth visiting 🙂

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Places to Visit in Munnar | Munnar Tourism

Munnar, South India’s most sought after hill station is not only a favorite tourist spot but also the centre of tea estates in Kerala. Munnar, an exotic hill station with enclosed calm of serenity and beauty is the most visited destination in South India.

This hill station is a heavenly beauty situated at an altitude of about 1600 meter from the sea level was once the summer resort of British government in South India. The colonial Bungalows in the hillocks boasts of the glorious past of this place.

The pleasant romantic climate and the laid back atmosphere in Munnar made it the most preferred honeymoon location in the country. The word Munnar literally means three rivers. As the name refers Munnar lies in the confluence of three rivers Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala at Idukki district.

One of the major attraction of Munnar is the Tea plantations. There are more than 12000 hectares of lush manicured tea fields forming an picturesque background for the place. For adventure lovers there is the challenge of climbing the highest peak of South India.

The beautiful valley covered with coffee, tea and spice plantations, the misty hillsides sheltering so many endangered species of wildlife and stunning waterfalls will be a refreshing experience. But the most refreshing is the pure unpolluted air.

There are also a variety of interesting things you can do here. You can see wild animals, play golf or do some trout fishing. The list is endless. You can also visit any tea plantations to understand the process.

The aroma of the place will stay with you for long. Neelakurinji flower one of the rarest and most beautiful flower which blooms once in twelve years is found in the valleys over here. When these flowers blooms it covers the entire region with its beautiful violet colour. Enjoy the rare sight of this flowers.

Places to Visit in Munnar

1. eravikulam national park.

This national park was the once the hunting place of the British. Today this park protects wild animals at its best. This national park is situated at an elevation of 7000 feet above the sea level. This sanctuary is famous Nilgiri tahr, a highly endangered wild goat. This is the proud of Munnar.

The outstanding beauty of the grasslands is another attraction of Eravikulam National Park. Anamudi, the highest peak in South India is situated in this park. There are many kinds of rare flora in this hills.

Rajamalai, the tourism zone in this national park is an ideal place for seeing high elevation shola grassland system and visitors are taken to this place for enjoying this beautiful sight.

Learn more about Eravikulam National Park..

2. Munnar Tea Museum

Run by the Tata Tea, the museum tells us about the evolution of tea industry in Munnar. There is an interesting array of relics and artifacts and photographs from the past. You can also understand the complex tea processing from the adjacent tea processing centre. This is an aromatic experience.

3. Pothanmedu View Point

Located on an elevated cliff at the entrance of Munnar this scenic spot offers the magical view of Munnar. From here one can see the beautiful valleys as a green carpet covered with Tea, Coffee and Cardamom plantations. Not only the pleasure of watching but also this place is a challenge for adventure lovers. This place is ideal for trekking and hiking in Munnar.

4. Mattupetty

Located at a height of 1700 meters Mattupetty is famous for its dairy farm. Close to this wonderful farm is the beautiful Mattupetty lake and dam which is a famous picnic spot. Mattupetty Dam has a huge reservoir. A visit to this place is an exhilarating experience with boating and occasional sight of various wild animals like elephants and Sambar.

5. Attukal Waterfalls

Located deep in a valley at a distance of 8 km from Munnar this is a must visit place. Attukal in Munnar is an ideal place for long trekking. With undulating hills and rocking waterfalls Attukal offers an awesome sight.

6. Nyayamakad

For a breathtaking beauty of Talayar Valley on one side and Munnar Valley on the other visit Nyayamakad Gap located on Munnar Coimbatore road. This beautiful spot with incredible waterfalls is a pleasure to watch. Nyayamkad is located at distance of 10 km from Munnar.

The breathtaking beauty of water falling from a height of 1600 meters is an amazing experience with its surrounding natural beauty. This is a popular picnic spot as well as an ideal spot for trekking. You can spend some quality time with your loved one’s or enjoy the adventure of trekking.

7. Devikulam

The most sought after destination in Munnar, Devikulam is an ideal hill station with exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain breeze. The Sita Devi Lake in hear is an ideal picnic spot with its charming ambiance and mineral rich water.

Devikulam offers the visitors the delight of trout fishing. Devikulam lake is just 13 km away from Munnar. before trout fishing you have to get a permit and also have to bring the equipment. Another location for trout fishing is Gravel Banks which is situated at the remote corner of Nyayamakad Estate.

There are many more places around Munnar which worth a watch. Some of them are Top Station, Marayoor, Kollulkumally Tea Estate, Chinnar wildlife Sanctuary etc.

Shopping in Munnar

Munnar is the perfect place for buying high quality fresh tea. You can search for different flavors of tea in Munnar. Tata Tea sales outlet is the best place to purchase tea in a reasonable price without any worry. Also there are small roadside shops and markets.

Next to tea the strawberries and spices are the specialities of Munnar. Strawberries are available seasonally in selected outlets. At Tata Tea’s Srishti Welfare Centre you can buy high quality delicious strawberry preserve and handmade greeting cards.

Spices are available in almost all shops. You can buy different varieties of spices here. Spices are packed in small transparent packs. If you purchase bulk amounts there will be attractive discounts.One can also buy souvenirs from here.

Where To Stay in Munnar

Munnar being a popular tourist destination has so many good hotels and resorts for all budgets. It's better to reserve accommodation in advance specially on holidays and weekends. Some of the best hotels and resorts in Munnar are Tea County, Abad Copper Castle, Edassery Eastend, Hotel Royal Retreat, Munnar Inn, Hotel Hill View, Hotel Las Palmas, Cloud9 Resort, Lakeview Resort, Oak Fields Resort, Hotel Lonely Planet, Hotel Autumn Trees etc.

Places to Eat in Munnar

Munnar is dotted with so many small eateries. In a very cheap price you can have Delicious Vadas, bondas, Bhajis, chapatis, Puris and Dosas with hot tea. You can also have all veg and Non Veg dishes in various restaurants in Munnar.

Rapsy Restaurant and Hotel Azarika are famous for chicken and Mutton Biriyani. For vegetarian Saravana Bhavan and Arya Bhavan is there.

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• Best of Munnar in 3 Days (from Kochi)

BEST OF MUNNAR IN 3 DAYS (FROM KOCHI)

ITINERARY SUMMARY

Day 1 : travel from kochi to munnar & munnar sightseeing day 2 : eravukulam national park - marayur day 3 : munnar sightseeing & travel from munnar to kochi, trip starts from: kochi, mode of travel: car (or cab), trip ends at: kochi, total places visited: 12, trip starting point: kochi city, total distance (round trip): 450, travel time (round trip): 11 hr, trip duration: 3 days, ideal start time: 7 am (day 1), 8 am (day 2) & 9 am (day 3), sightseeing time: %%itinerary_sightseeing_time%%.

DAY 1 : TRAVEL FROM KOCHI TO MUNNAR & MUNNAR SIGHTSEEING

Travel from kochi to munnar, 1 valara waterfalls.

At a distance of 39 Kms from Munnar, the magnificent Valara Waterfalls is located between Adimali and Neriamangalam on Munnar to Kochi highway (NH49), near Cheeyappara Waterfalls. Valara features a chain of waterfalls falling from a height of about 1000 feet and provide a magnificent view. These waterfalls are surrounded by lush, dense forests that are home to a variety of animals and birds. It is one of the top waterfalls near Munnar. Though the falls are visible from highway, it demands good amount of trekking to reach the bottom of the falls. The surrounding places of the Valara Falls are good for trekking. The falls offer spectacular views in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. This place is connected by buses running between Munnar and Kochi.

2 Tea Museum

At a distance of 3.5 km from Munnar Bus Station, Tea Museum is a wonderful place to visit in Munnar town. The museum is owned by Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Limited owned by Tata Group. Visit to Tea Museum is one of the top things to do in Munnar. The museum exhibits different equipment used in tea manufacturing from early 20th century to late 20th century. Some of the items exhibited in the museum include the tea leave cutting machines, power making equipment, etc. The process of tea manufacturing is also explained in the museum. The museum is situated in a scenic location on Pooyankuty Road on the outskirts of Munnar town. Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM. Monday Holiday. Entry Fee: Rs. 75 for Adults, Rs. 35 for Children below 12 years, Rs. 20 for Camera

3 Rose Garden

At a distance of 4 km from Munnar Bus Stand and 2.5 km from Top Station, Rose Garden is a well maintained flower garden situated on Munnar - Top Station Highway in Munnar, Kerala. It is one of the top places to visit in Munnar. Munnar Rose Garden is a beautiful garden with hundreds of rare varieties of flowers and herbal plants. With large tea plantations in the background, this place can be visited during a trip to Munnar. The garden is operated by Kerala Forest Development Centre (KFDC), a Govt. of Kerala undertaking. Spread across a few acres of land, this place has an amenity center for tourists and a sales outlet, in addition to hundreds of rare varieties of flowers, cactus, shrubs, creepers and herbal plants. The amenity center inside the garden has toilets, shop, snacks, coffee etc. Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM Entry Fee: Rs. 30 for Person

4 Pothamedu Viewpoint

At a distance of 3 km from Munnar Bus Station, Pothamedu Viewpoint is a spectacular vantage point situated on Bisonvalley road in Munnar. It is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Munnar and among the must-visit places as part of Munnar packages . Pothamedu Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Kannan Devan Hills of the Munnar region and it also offers a great view of the surrounding tea gardens. This stunning location is perfect for tourists, who love to view the refreshing plantations of coffee, tea, and cardamom and spend some time in the lap of nature with great views. If the day is clear, you can also see the Muthirapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam from quite a height. Watching the sun slide down the horizon in the vast expanse of the Sahyadri ranges is one perfect way of spending your vacation in this quaint town. Counted among the most scenic Munnar places to visit , this .....

Overnight Stay in Munnar

Day 2 : eravukulam national park - marayur, resume munnar sightseeing, 1 rajamalai / eravikulam national park.

At a distance of 16 km from Munnar, Eravikulam National Park is a protected wildlife reserve located in Munnar. Situated on Munnar - Udumalpet Road, it is one of the popular national parks in Kerala , and among the must visit places during Munnar tour . The Eravikulam National Park was established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr. Earlier, the area was managed as a game preserve by the Kanan Devan Hills Produce Company. The government of Kerala resumed control in 1971 and declared the Eravikulam-Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary in 1975 and became a National Park in 1978. The national park is spread across an area of 97sq. km and is a protected area. The park is extended into Tamil Nadu and is known as Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. This region is famous as the natural habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Nearly half the world's population of this rare species is found in the area. Other .....

2 Dolmens / Muniyaras

At a distance of 5 km from Marayoor Bus Stand, Dolmens or Muniyaras are the prehistoric burial chambers situated at Kovikadavu village near Marayoor, Kerala. This site is one of the popular heritage sites near Kochi , and among the must include places in Marayoor packages . The magnificent Muniyaras or Dolmens belong to the Stone Age and are older than 10, 000 BC. More than 2,500 Muniyaras can now be seen in the entire region comprising Kanthaloor, Marayoor, and Chinnar. There are dozens of Dolmens around the area of old Siva temple, also known as Thenkasinathan Temple, at Kovilkadavu on the banks of the River Pambar and also around the area called Pius Nagar, and rock paintings on the south-western slope of the plateau overlooking the Pambar River. A lot of archaeologists from all over the world visit this fascinating place to explore the remnants of Dolmenoid .....

3 Lakkam Waterfalls

At a distance of 15 km from Marayoor Bus Station and 26 km from Munnar, Lakkam Waterfalls is a mesmerizing waterfall situated at Gundumalai village near Marayoor. Located between Marayoor & Munnar, it is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Munnar and among the must-visit places in Marayur. The beautiful Lakkam Waterfall is set amidst dense flora and rolling hills, which add to its bewitching beauty. It is formed by Eravikulam Stream which is originated in the Eravikulam National Park and is a tributary to the Pambar River. The fall cascades down from a height of about 50 feet into a small pool at the bottom which offers travelers an opportunity to enjoy its cold mineral-rich waters. The spectacle of the gushing waters crashing against the rocky terrain is a feast to the sore eyes. It is the perfect spot for those who love to photograph and explore the natural beauty. The waterfall is equally popular for trekkers as they get immense opportunities to explore the dense jungle & .....

DAY 3 : MUNNAR SIGHTSEEING & TRAVEL FROM MUNNAR TO KOCHI

1 photo point.

At a distance of 4 km from Munnar Bus Station, Photo Point is a beautiful spot on Mattupetty road lined up with tea gardens on both sides. As the name suggests, this place is a famous photography point in Munnar due to its breathtaking background of mountains surrounded by lush green tea gardens. Photo Point is one of the best tourist places to visit in Munnar . The tea gardens are owned by Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Limited owned by Tata Group and it is a private property. Visitors can take photographs at the entrance of garden without disturbing the plantations. This place is situated on the main road with running traffic and tourists are advised to be careful while taking pictures standing close to the road.

2 Mattupetty Dam

At a distance of 10 km from Munnar Bus Station, Mattupetty Dam is a storage Concrete Gravity dam situated on Top Station Road in Munnar. It is one of the best Munnar places to visit to experience the beauty of Munnar along with boating. Constructed in 1953, Mattupetty Dam was constructed under the Pallivasal Hydro-electric project for water conservation and power generation. Now the dam is a vital source of electricity generation in Munnar and also a haven for many wild animals and birds due to its constant water availability. The most attractive part of Mattupetty Dam is its still water which reflects the tea garden around. Visitors can engage themselves with water sport activities like speed boating organized by the District Tourism Promotion Council of Idukki (Munnar) and enjoy the pretty natural surroundings of this beautiful dam as part of Munnar holiday packages . Adventure .....

3 Echo Point

At a distance of 15 kms from Munnar, Echo Point is a beautiful place situated on the way to Top Station between Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake. This is one of the major tourist places to visit in Munnar . Echo point is situate on the main road towards Kundala Lake on the backwaters of Mattupetty Dam amidst rolling hills. This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Every loud call made from a spot on the lake embankment is returned manifold by the echo from the surrounding hills. Trekking and nature walks are popular activities in this scenic destination with beautiful views of the green hills. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit. This is a wonderful place for photography. Boating is also available at Echo Point.

4 Kundala Lake

At a distance of 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a picturesque lake situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar. It is one of the scenic places to visit in Munnar . The lake is formed by Kundala artificial dam, which is a small dam in cured shape. The lake offer boating facility. The unique experience of boating in Kashmiri boats in this lake is a special attraction. These boats are also known as Shikara Boats. Kundala Lake is one of the best places for sightseeing in Munnar. The tea estates spread across Kundala are a real feast to the eyes. There is also a golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd in Kundala village. Boating Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM Boating Fee (30 minutes): Shikara Boat - Rs 200 for 2 persons, Row Boats - Rs 150 for 4 persons, Pedal Boat - Rs 100 for 2 persons

5 Top Station

At a distance of 32 Kms from Munnar, Top Station is a breathtakingly beautiful place on Kerala - Tamilnadu boarder. From here, one can get 360 degrees view of the Western Ghats. This is one of the best Munnar tourist places and among the prime place to visit on a Munnar tour . At an altitude of 2200 meters, this place is also known for the Neelakurunji Plant, which flowers only once every 12 years (next flowering year is 2018). The view point is at a distance of 2 kms from the road point and has to be trekked down. The trek path is very steep with deep valleys one side. One should be very careful while trekking to the view point, which offers lifetime memories. Top Station is the highest approachable road in South India. The viewpoint at Top Station offers breathtakingly beautiful views of Kannan Devan Hills. The valleys all around, the misty mountains and distant waterfalls all .....

Travel from Munnar to Kochi

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• 26 Captivating Tourist Places In Munnar All Nature Lovers Must Visit In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

A mesmerising hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, Munnar derives its name from the 3 rivers that merge here. Adorned with lofty mountains amidst swirls of pale mists and low flying clouds; rich green slopes and velvety carpets of tea and spice plantations ; hints of pinks, yellows, and sparkling blues dotting the landscapes; pine and oak trees lightly swaying to the cool mountain breeze filled with the refreshing aroma of tea – Munnar may just be the reason Kerala is often referred to as ‘God’s own Country’. With a plethora of  Munnar tourist places  to visit, this destination sweep one off the feet with utter delight. 

Top 26 Tourist Places In Munnar

There is an enthralling assortment of things to do in Munnar for visitors like plantation visits, trekking, camping, boating, parasailing, bird watching, wildlife spotting, rock climbing, fishing, & photography, which is why visiting all tourist places in Munnar makes up for an awesome getaway.

1. Echo Point: Hear The Hills Call Out Your Name

Image Source Scream your name out loud at this point and it will reverberate back within 3 seconds! Echo Point is a beautiful combination of cool, sweet breeze, green slopes, and a rejuvenating environment altogether.

Distance From Munnar: 15 km Perfect For: Nature walks, trekking, camping, picnic with family, & boating in the lake Highlight: The rare Neelakurinji flower (strobilanthes) blooms here Timings:  6 am – 7:30 pm

Suggested Read: This Couple Took A Munnar Trip From Bangalore To Celebrate A Birthday

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2. Kundala Lake: The Blue Stretch Of Magnificence

Image Source

Kundala Dam and lake is among the top tourist places in Munnar . It offers splendid natural beauty and serenity, with magnificent views of the hills on either sides of the crystal clear water of the lake.

Distance From Munnar: 20 km (on the way to Top Hill) Perfect For: Boating and Shikara ride Highlight: The artificial Kundala dam is India’s first arch dam Timings:  8:30 am – 5 pm

Suggested Read: Amandeep’s Kerala Travel Experience That Made His Awesome Vacay Memorable

3. Atukkad Waterfalls: The Furiously Gushing Ecstasy

Located between Munnar and Pallivasal in the Idukki district and accessible only via a wooden bridge, the Attakud waterfall is among the prominent places to visit in Munnar, especially in the rainy season.

Distance From Munnar: 9 km Perfect For: Jungle Trekking, picnic with friends and family, photography Highlight: The water is cascading at full force from a height of over 1,500 meters Timings: 10 am – 6 pm

Suggested Read: 7 Incredible Places Near Kumarakom That Make The Best Road Trips!

4. Elephant Lake: A Delight For Kids

The Elephant Lake is a serene lake surrounded by lush green carpets of tea plantations in every direction the eye can see. Elephants come down to the lake in order to drink water and take a bath, which is a fascination to watch for the tourists visiting the lake.

Distance From Munnar: 22 km Perfect For: Picnic with family and kids, trekking (in nearby tea plantations) Highlight: Spot a herd of two of elephants with their little ones who come here to drink water Timings:  All day

Suggested Read: 6 Days In Kerala & Rakesh Was Head Over Heels In Love With God’s Own Country

5. Anamudi Peak: The Highest Peak In South India

Image Source If one wishes to witness the beauty of the rolling hills and valleys with shimmering blue rivers weaving through them, the expanse of tea and spice plantations and the wildlife dotted about here and there in the Eravikulam National Park , they should trek to the Anamudi Peak. Located inside the park itself, the peak is among Munnar’s best tourist attractions.

Distance From Munnar: 15.6 km Perfect For: Trekking (with permission from forest authorities) Highlight: Highest peak in the Western Ghats and South India and highest outside the Himalayan mountain range! Timings:  Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: Best Things To Do On A 3 Day Honeymoon Trip To Munnar

6. Top Station: Best Of Both Worlds

Image Source Top Station, named after the railway station located on a massive height at Kundala Valley , this place offers mesmerising vistas of the town below. The cotton clouds enveloping the hills and valleys, the soft, bluish look of the destination owing to the presence of the rare Neelakurinji flowers , & the panoramic views of the Western Ghats , together make it a must on the list of Munnar’s tourist places one needs to explore.

Distance From Munnar: 32 km Perfect For: Trekking, camping, photography, visiting the Neelakurinji Sanctuary Highlight: Located on the Tamil Nadu- Kerala border, it provides one stunning views of the Western Ghats in Kerala on one side as well as the valley of Theni district of Tamil Nadu on the other. Timings:  6 am- 6 pm

Suggested Read: 20 Places To Visit Near Munnar For That Are Pretty As Well As Exciting

7. Tata Tea Museum: Temple For All Tea Lovers

Image Source Established by Tata Tea many years ago, the museum exclusively showcases the origin and evolution century-old tea plantations in Munnar. The museum essentially pays homage to the fact that Munnar houses some of the best tea estates in the world, and is thus among the most significant places to visit in Munnar.

Distance From Munnar:  1.3 km Perfect For: Trying a hand at tea plucking and tasting different exquisite varieties of tea Highlight:  You can enjoy a cup of best tea here.  Timings: 9 am – 4 pm

Suggested Read: 5 World-Class Villas In Munnar That Offer The Best Of Stay In This Town!

8. Chithirapuram: Carpets Of Lush Green Tea Plantations

Distinguished by its old bungalows, cottages, playgrounds, & and lush green dunes of tea and spice plantations spread up till the horizon, Chithirapuram is listed among the must-visit tourist places in Munnar owing to its old-worldly charm.

Distance From Munnar: 10 km Perfect For: Trekking Highlights: Aroma of tea and spice plantations. Timings:  Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: 35 Things To Do In Munnar For A Delightful Vacation

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9. Devikulam: The Sanctum Of Spirituality And Divinity

The town of Devikulam  apart from offering a breathtaking view of the Pallivasal falls and the Sita Devi Lake is heaven for pilgrims and temple-goers. With an assortment of temples located at the town, like the Ganesh Temple, Mariamman Temple, and Ayyanar Temple , Devikulam is among the important Munnar tourist places for worshippers.

Distance From Munnar: 9 km Perfect For: Rock climbing, fishing, trekking, hiking, picnic, & photography Highlight: The water of the Sita Devi Lake is considered to be holy water, and is believed to cleanse and rejuvenate visitors! Timings:  Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: 10 Munnar Travel Tips For An Easy-Peezy Vacation In This Blissful Destination

10. Chinnakanal: The Untouched, Well Preserved Part Of Nature

Image Source A small village near the town of Munnar, Chinnakanal is unperturbed and rather well preserved, which has earned it a place among the must see Munnar tourist places. The Chinnakanal waterfalls in the region are an absolute enchantment. Pouring from a height of 800 meters, the water forms a pale, frothy stream below while the air around bears a lingering fragrance of the fresh water and tea leaves. And the best part- the beauty of these falls is still hidden and undiscovered.

Distance From Munnar town: 20 km Perfect For: Trekking, taking a dip in the falls, nature photography Highlight: The beautiful waterfalls in their pristine, untouched form that are bound to leave one speechless Timings:  Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: 15 Pristine Beaches Near Munnar That You Can’t Miss Out

11. Eravikulam National Park: Trekking Through The Wilderness

Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park has the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and is home to 26 species of mammals. The park is also famous for providing magnificent views of the Western Ghats. The park’s continuous efforts towards protection and safety of endangered animals makes it one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India .

Distance From Munnar: 15 km Perfect For: Nature trekking, wildlife spotting, wildlife photography Highlight: The Nilgiri Tahr Timings: 8 am – 4:30 pm

Suggested Read: Top 4 Temples In Munnar That Are Beautiful And On Every Pilgrims Must-Visit List

12. Mattupetty Lake & Dam: Water Conservation & Sports

Mattupetty has a few places of interest for tourists, out of which the lake and the dam built over it attract majority of them. The lake, surrounding hills, and nearby tea plantations offer a splendid view to visitors, and the presence of different bird species at the lake never fail to enchant bird watchers, owing which it is among the prominent places to visit in Munnar.

Distance from Munnar: 13 km Perfect For: Boating (motorboats, speedboats, row boats, pedal boats), trekking, bird watching Highlight: The storage masonry dam constructed to conserve water and generate hydroelectricity. Timings: 9 am – 3:30 pm

Suggested Read: 8 Munnar Honeymoon Places For The Laid-Back Couples

13. CSI Church: A Regal Blend Of History And Architecture

An important landmark and one of the eminent places to see in Munnar, the CSI Church was built in 1910 as a protestant church by the Scottish tea estate workers and managers. The key feature of this church are it’s awesome interiors which include stained glass windows, brass plaques, rows of rosewood benches and a grand chandelier.

Distance From Munnar: 1.4 km Perfect For:  History lovers Highlight: The rich, lavish interiors Timings: 8 am – 5 pm

Suggested Read: 25 Hotels And Resorts In Munnar For That Divine Holiday

14. Pallivasal: A Heaven For Peace Seekers

Image Source Famous for the picturesque Pallivasal falls and the state’s first Hydro Electricity Project that was set up here, Pallivasal is another untouched, pristine, & peaceful location in Munnar. Rich in natural beauty, the town takes pride in being one of the best Munnar tourist places.

Distance From Munnar: 8 km Perfect For: Peace and relaxation, photography, picnic Highlight: Kerala’s first Hydro Electricity Project Timings: Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: Munnar In Summer: A Guide For Holiday In Munnar Telling You All That Must Be Done

15. Rose Garden: Chirps And Colors

Image Source A famous spot among nature lovers and couples, the Rose Garden near Mattupetty Lake is a sight for sore eyes. Home to a sea of almost every colour of rose known on the planet and a vast variety of bird species, this gorgeous garden is frequented by nature aficionados, rose lovers, and bird watchers.

Distance From Munnar: 13 km Perfect For: Trekking, bird watching, nature photography Highlights:  A wide variety of rose species. Timings:  10 am – 5 pm

Suggested Read: Try Out These Adventure Sports In Munnar For A Thrilling Vacay

16. Photo Point: Capture Nature’s Beauty

Image Credits: Jaseem Hamza for Wikimedia Commons

Sitting on the rolling grasslands of the Nilgiris plains is the most picturesque site one has ever witnessed named Photo Point. The vast stretches of tea gardens, the aromatic winds, and the swaying towering trees combine to offer the experience that this point has hidden. One of the beautiful places to visit in Munnar , Photo Point is as beautiful as it can get with the blessings of mother nature showering on it periodically. There are also many other aromatic species of plantations that can be found in this destination near Munnar.

Distance From Munnar: 5 Kms Perfect For: Nature lovers Highlight: There are several tea plantations covering the estate. Timings: NA

Suggested Read: 7 Hotels Near Munnar That’ll Surprise You With Its Facilities

17. Pothamedu View Point: Witness The Sunsets

Image Credits: Vasant944 for Wikimedia Commons

One of the beautiful places to visit in Munnar is actually located just five kilometers on the outskirts of the main town. For those who seek to get away from the city hustles and get closer to what mother nature has to offer, this is the place to be. The massive stretches of small hills covered in plantations and the forest-clad hills are, indeed, as beautiful as the landscapes can get. There are various plantations that one can witness including coffee, tea, and cardamom. If you are on a romantic getaway, this is the idyllic spot to witness the beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

Distance From Munnar: 4.5 Kms Perfect For: Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, couples Highlight: It is perfect to witness sunrises and sunsets. Timings: Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: 10 Churches In Munnar You Will Love The Architectural Brilliance Of

18. Wonder Valley Adventure & Amusement Park:  Walk With Nature

Image Credits: wondervalley

When we say that Munnar is one of the blessed destinations when it comes to mother nature, we don’t lie. But what makes this destination extraordinary is that it hides something for everyone within its stash of natural bounty. One of the most action-packed places to visit in Munnar is the Wonder Valley Adventure and Amusement Park. This eco-friendly spot is sitting in the heart of nature and retains the natural landscape that the region adorns. It is perfect for travelers to get closer to nature as well as satiate their thirst for some adventure. From the little ones to the adults, there are several activities for one to be a part of.

Distance From Munnar: 14 Kms Perfect For: Kids, family Highlight: There are several adventure sports for one to be a part of. Timings: 8:30 am – 6:45 pm

Suggested Read: 5 Scintillating Waterfalls Near Munnar That Are Perfect Examples Of Bliss!

19. Marayoor: Soak In The Aroma Of Sandalwood

Located a couple of kilometers, Marayoor is among the top places to visit in Munnar . This destination is mostly covered while one is touring around the main city. Marayoor is a quaint, scenic locale that is renowned for sandalwood forest and also dolmens from the era of the stone age. From the tiny hamlets to the massive sugarcane fields, from refreshing waterfalls to the crazy bamboo forests, Marayoor is a destination that has plenty to offer. Sitting on the Western Ghats, this destination also boasts about many other things including pre-historic sites, pristine River Paraiba, and the solid sugar molasses!

Distance From Munnar: 39 Kms Perfect For: Nature lovers, trekkers Highlight: It is famous for its massive sugarcane fields. Timings: 6 am – 6 pm

Suggested Read: 9 Luxury Resorts Near Munnar For A Lavish Weekend Escapade

20. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit The Wild

Image Credits: Ranjithsiji for Wikimedia Commons

There are a plethora of places to visit in Munnar for every kind of traveler, from nature lover to wildlife admirer. One such place that gives one a chance to embrace both at one spot is the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. This Sanctuary is sitting in the Western Ghats and covers around 90.44 square kilometers of the area. The rich population of flora and fauna species, the tranquility in the atmosphere, and the thrilling activities that one can try out here in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary are the experiences that one cannot find anywhere else.

Distance From Munnar: 48 Kms Perfect For: Animal lovers, nature lovers Highlight: There are several species of flora and fauna found here. Timings: 6 am – 11 am, 3 pm – 6 pm

Suggested Read: 10 Scenic Hill Stations Near Munnar To Explore

21. Lock Heart Gap: Trek Along The Aromatic Plantations

There is no dearth of tourist places in Munnar that does not take away the breath of the spectators and tourists. One such destination in the heart of the town is the Lock Heart Gap. This is one of the famous viewpoints that is covering the floors of Munnar and is named after its shape that looks a lot like a locked heart. There are some of the most exquisite views that one can witness from this spot including that of valleys, mountains, trekking trails that pass along the mists, and the aromatic tea plantations. Do witness the sunset when visiting this point.

Distance From Munnar: 15 Kms Perfect For: Couples, families Highlight: It is perfect to witness the views of mountains, valleys, and tea plantations. Timings: Open 24 hours

Suggested Read: Ooty Vs Munnar: Which One Will Be Your Next Vacay Spot

22. Chokramudi Peak: Spectate The Picturesque Landscapes

Image Credits: Sasikumar for Wikimedia Commons

Chokramudi Peak is another one of the famous tourist places in Munnar that is sitting in the Eravikulam National Park. The peak can be seen sitting at an altitude of 7200 feet and is considered as one of the highest peaks of this destination. Being the highest peak, it is no doubt that this attracts several hundreds of adventure seekers. One who conquers is surely in for a treat. There are some brilliant views of the surrounding mountains and valleys covered in dense and lush green vegetation. From tea plantations to towering trees, this destination has got it all!

Distance From Munnar: 23 Kms Perfect For: Couples, trekkers Highlight: This one of the most beautiful peaks in the entire region. Timings: 9 am – 7:30 pm

Suggested Read: Coorg Vs Munnar: Which One Are You Heading To

23. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Go For Bird-Watching

Image Credits: Rajiv98761 for Wikimedia Commons

All the nature and bird lovers out there, Munnar has a surprise for you. This destination is home to several hundreds of bird species of all shapes and colors. Named after the ‘Bird Man of India’, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is nestled at the foothills of the Western Ghats and is perhaps the richest bird habitat in the entire Peninsular region of India. Various species of birds that you can encounter here include Crimson-Throated Barbet, Sunbird, Bee-eater, Night Heron, Black-winged Kite, etc.

Distance From Munnar: 70 Kms Perfect For: Bird watchers, nature lovers Highlight: There is an extensive variety of birds that are found here. Timings: 6 am – 6 pm

Suggested Read: 25 Romantic Honeymoon Resorts In Munnar You Must Visit

24. Indo Swiss Dairy Farm: For Cultural Harmony

Image Credits: wallpaperflare

For those in search of some offbeat tourist places in Munnar , Indo Swiss Dairy Farm is your best bet. As the name suggests, this is a Dairy Farm which is more of a research and development center for cattle. Spread across 469 acres of the rolling grasslands, this Dairy Farm is home to an extensive variety of high-quality cattle. This is also the headquarters of the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project that was launched in 1963 under the mutual agreement of both the Indian and the Swiss Government.

Distance From Munnar: 11 Kms Perfect For: Families Highlight: It is a research and development centre dedicated to cattle. Timings: 9 am – 11 am, 2 pm – 3:30 pm

Suggested Read: Kodaikanal Vs Munnar: Choose Your Favorite Naturescape With This Guide’s Help!

25. Meesapulimala: Serene Mountain Range

Image Credits: Niyas8001 for Wikimedia Commons

Meesapulimala is the second highest peak not only in Munnar but in the entire southern region of the country. Sitting at an altitude of 2641 meters above sea level, this destination has around eight peaks which are covered in lush green vegetation. The peaks combined form the shape of a mustache and hence, the name. There are various adventure activities like trekking and hiking that one can try out here. The starting point of the trek here is either the Rhodo Valley or the Silent Valley. The rainforests, waterfalls, grasslands, tea estates, and the stunning streams are all a great escape!

Distance From Munnar: 70 Kms Perfect For: Trekkers Highlight: It is the second highest point of southern India. Timings: Opens at 8 am

Suggested Read: 9 Incredible Places To Visit In Munnar In May For Your Summer Vacation

26. Thoovanam Waterfalls

One of the most mesmerising waterfalls in Munnar, Thoovanam Waterfalls attractions numerous travellers every year. Encircled by trekking trails couples with paradisiacal vistas, this tourist spot is the ultimate spot for adventure lovers. The falls cascade with full speed making it all the more alluring. Whether you want to spend some picnic time to indulge in trekking/hiking, AThoovanam Waterfalls truly justifies being on your itinerary. Ideally positioned in the Idukki district, this spot is sure to invigorate your senses.

Distance From Munnar: 43.6 km Perfect For: Picnic, hiking, trekking Highlight: The panoramic vistas around the place are simply mesmerizing Timings: Open throughout the day

How To Reach Munnar

Image Credits: Bimal K C for Wikimedia Commons

By Air: Take a flight to Cochin International Airport , and get to Munnar by cab services available at the airport that usually cost INR 3,000 per person. Munnar is 125 km away from the airport.

By Train: The nearest railway station from Munnar is Kochi or Ernakulum . The stations are well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Trivandrum, Chennai, & Bangalore.

By Road: Munnar is well connected to cities of Kerala and Tamil Nadu with Government-run public transport buses plying from both places to Munnar.

Further Read: Here’s Why Aditya’s Trip To Munnar With Kids Was An Experience To Remember!

Now that you know of all the amazing Munnar tourist places that have come straight out of paradise, shouldn’t you already be packing for your trip to Kerala ? Do share this with your friends and let us know in the comments below which place you’re gonna hop off to first!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click  here . 

Frequently Asked Questions About Munnar Tourist Places

Is Munnar open for tourists?

Yes, Munnar is open for tourists all year round. As it is a hill station, during the rainy season, the place can be marked as a red alert area, but otherwise it is good to visit all year round. It is also one of the top honeymoon destinations in India.

Which is the best location to stay in Munnar?

Munnar is a beautiful hill station in Kerala and anywhere here is good to stay. There are a lot of hotels in Munnar to choose from for a stay here. The best location would be from where one can enjoy the views of the tea estates. Two great areas to stay in Munnar are Chithirapuram and Tea County.

How can I go to Munnar from Bangalore?

Munnar and Bangalore are not directly connected via railways or airways. One can take a flight to Cochin from Bangalore which is the nearest airport and at a distance of around 127 km from Munnar. The nearest railhead is at Aluva which is again at a distance of around 108 from Munnar and takes 11 hours to reach from Bangalore. One can travel via road and take the state run buses which run between the two cities and take around 9 hours to cover the distance of around 476 km or hire a taxi.

What is the best time to visit Munnar?

Once the rainy season gets over, it is quite pleasant and one can plan a trip to Munnar in between October to March.

What can I buy in Munnar?

Spices, tea and aromatic oils are some of the best items for shopping in Munnar.

How many days we can spend in Munnar?

Munnar is a scenic hill station where one can spend as many days as they’d like but a minimum of 3 days should be kept to enjoy the beauty and ambiance of this city.

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Visit the beautiful hill station Munnar for 3 nights 4 days

Ever wondered what it would be like travelling to Munnar in Kerala . Not sure about what can be done in Munnar? Read below on how you can enjoy and experience a perfect holiday by travelling to Munnar for 3 nights and 4 days. With this itinerary, Enjoy the sloping tea plantation, gushing waterfalls and the chill breeze wandering around Munnar, one of the most exotic destinations in India .

The Wonderland of Munnar

Situated in God’s Own Country is a beautiful paradise to all those who love nature. Munnar is a romantic hill station in Kerala for travellers of all ages with diverse things to do . Just like the saying ” Love is in the Air”, fall in love with Munnar at every step of the way. Located over 5200 feet above sea level, the hill station is enchanting and charming. Munnar has got a wide range of flora and fauna and is also home to some of the unique plant and animal species.

Day-wise Munnar Itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrive into Munnar, Kundala Lake
• Day 2 – Lakkam Waterfall, Eravikulam National Park
• Day 3 – Echo Point, Carmelagiri Elephant Park, Kolukkumalai
• Day 4 – Ayurvedic Spa, Shopping, Departure

Munnar is a beautiful place to visit. Surrounded by tea estates and clouds, the place is truly a beauty. As soon as you arrive in Munnar, check into your hotel and get refreshed. Journeys can be long and tiring, so take a quick power nap and get refreshed. In the afternoon, head to a nearby and taste the famous dishes of Kerala cuisine. It doesn’t matter if you are vegetarian or if you eat meat, the cuisine has something for all kinds of food lovers.

After a fulfilling lunch, head to Kundala Lake. It is an artificial dam built on the way up to Top station. Spot the rarest flowers – Neelakurinji, a flower that blossoms once in 12 years only or go on a boat ride. The lake has a splendid view that every individual can view. The view is truly scenic and breathtaking. Going on a boat ride can be a beautiful way to enjoy nature. Get wet in the dew drops that are on you while you go boating amidst the foggy cloud. The Kundala can be visited by paying an entree fee of just Rs 10 per person.

Activities Covered:

• Tasting the Kerala Cuisine for lunch

If you are planning to go on a boat ride, be sure to negotiate the price for boating. There are no fixed prices as such and you might end up paying a lot. INR 350 would be an ideal amount to be paid.

Next in the itinerary, on your second day in Munnar, start the day with a scrumptious breakfast. Head to Lakkam Waterfall. Located in between Munnar and Marayoor, the waterfall is surrounded by tall trees and blissful cascades. If you happen to love swimming, head to their pool areas, known to be a safe and cleanest spot. While you are there, enjoy a picnic with your family and loved ones.

Once you are done chilling at the waterfall, head to Eravikulam National Park. Located in Kannan Devan Hills in Munnar, the park is quite famous for Nilgiri Tahr and it is one of the astonishing National Parks in Kerala . The Nilgiri Tahr, considered to be endangered has made a home at Eravikulam Park. Explore the dark forest and sanctuaries of Munnar by going a wildlife safari ride.

Daring hearts! Let’s explore the thick and dark forests, biosphere reserves, national park and sanctuaries of Munnar. Who knows, you could be lucky to spot some endangered and nearly extinct animals and birds. The largely visited and famous wildlife areas of Munnar are Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Spread across 97 square kilometres, the park is home to many animals and birds. The park is open to the public throughout the week between 7 AM – 6 PM. The entry fee for the park is INR 90/-

• Safari ride

Start your day a little early. Head to Echo Point located at Kannan Devan Hills. Go on a small trek and reach the viewpoint of Echo point. Echo point is a famous tourist spot filled with locals and travellers visiting here over the weekend. If you love nature, head here early in the morning to catch a breathtaking sunrise as the cold wind brushes your face smoothly.

Post an eye-catching sunrise head to Carmelagiri Elephant Park. Located in the rocky regions of Munnar is this elephant park. Go on elephant rides and aid your kids to learn more about them. Give them a chance to have their ‘haathi mere saathi’ moment and have fun in the wilderness.

Finish your day by visiting Kolukumalai. The region is famous for tea plantation. Breathe the fresh aroma of tea. Located above 7900 feet, Kolukkumalai is one among the highest tea plantations to exist in the world. Visit the old tea factory cum museum and obtain the knowledge of how tea is produced. Buy different flavours of tea from the factory to take something back home. The tea factory is open on all days throughout the week except on Sundays. The entry fee to enter the factory is INR 75 per person.

• Elephant ride
• Visiting the historical tea factory

Vacationing can also be tiring at time. Kerala is quite famous for spices and its aromatic and therapeutic oils and massages. Relax your body muscles by indulging in an ayurvedic spa, after all, it is what Kerala has been known for. Spend your day at leisure and head for some souvenir shopping after a good time at Spa. And then it is Adios to Munnar after your 4-day long vacation and you can head back to reality.

• A relaxing day at the spa
• Souvenir Shopping

With this amazing itinerary, Get a chance to adore the beauty of nature in Munnar with Pickyourtrail . Explore Munnar by booking Munnar tour package with Pickyourtrail or leave us a Whatsapp message with your name and other details. We will get back to you at the earliest and help you plan a beautiful vacation that will be filled with amazing memories. Unlock safe travel with Pickyourtrail.

Buvaneshwari Gopinath

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I spent 2 weeks in India. A highlight was visiting a small mountain town so beautiful it didn't seem real.

• My family and I spent two days in the mountain town of Munnar during a trip through southern India. 
• We visited tea plantations and a national park  and spent the night at a boutique hotel. 
• The scenery and relaxing atmosphere made Munnar one of the most beautiful places I've visited. 

Late last year, my family and I spent two weeks traveling through India's southern state of Kerala. We spent a week by the beach in Kovalam, Christmas Day aboard a private houseboat, and two days seeking refuge from the blistering heat in the mountain town of Munnar. As Business Insider previously reported, travelers are continuing to splurge on big trips — think international destinations and unique experiences — and this hill station situated in India's Western Ghats mountain range did not disappoint.

Renowned for its rolling miles of geometric tea plantations shadowed by impressive mountain ranges, Munnar is one of the greenest and most peaceful places I've ever visited. Here's what we did during our two-day stay and why this small town should be on your bucket list .

The road to Munnar was filled with waterfalls, lush forests, and mountain peaks.

We set off for Munnar from the river-framed city of Kochi, where we had landed the day before. The four-hour scenic drive took place along narrow, winding mountain roads.

We frequently passed by waterfalls roaring in lush jungles, families of monkeys swinging between trees, and mountain peaks peeking between gaps in the foliage.

Once we reached Munnar, we visited the Kannan Devan Tea Museum.

Munnar is one of South India's largest and highest tea-growing regions , and for good reason. The area is blanketed with rows of tea plants that stretch as far as the eye can see — I felt as if I was looking at a rolling green ocean.

Munnar's Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company is the largest employee-owned tea company in the world and boasts a legacy that dates back over a century .

At its tea museum, we learned about the history of tea plantations in the area and watched a brief demonstration on how tea leaves are picked, sorted, and dried. At the end of the tour, we purchased bags of white tea, green tea with rose petals, and aromatic spearmint tea that I could smell through the packaging.

We then headed toward the Eravikulam National Park along bumpy roads framed by emerald-green tea plantations.

Located in the Kanan Devan Hills, Eravikulam National Park was once a hunting preserve for British tea planters during their colonization of India.

It's home to Anamudi, India's tallest peak outside of the Himalayas. The area's rolling mountain ranges are often shawled in thick mists and dense vegetation.

At the entrance to the national park, we boarded an old bus that slowly took us up toward Anamudi. As we climbed between rows of tea plantations, its peak slowly came into view — I thought the image looked like a desktop screensaver.

By late afternoon, we were walking along paved trails in Anamudi’s shadow.

I admired the bird's-eye views of the area's hills and tea plantations, and the way that the late afternoon sun turned everything golden.

I also noticed many wandering groups of the indigenous Nilgiri tahr, an endangered species of mountain goat that was once hunted to near extinction. The species has been protected since the Wild Life (Protection) Act was introduced in 1972.

During our visit, they casually walked across trails and climbed up steep paths to chew on local flora, seemingly used to and unbothered by humans.

As night descended, we headed to our hotel.

Our hotel, the Windermere Estate , was positioned on a rocky promontory and completely surrounded by tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations. We had a delicious dinner of local specialties and turned in for an early night.

The next day, I woke up just before dawn to a thick fog and the sounds of birds singing. The lights of a small neighborhood in the distance below still twinkled as the stunning view came into focus.

I bundled up against the morning chill and took a walk around the hotel's empty grounds to watch the sun rise over the rows of tea plantations.

Completely immersed in nature and with no one else around, it was one of the rare times I have felt truly at peace.

The area’s rich natural beauty and history alone are why it should be on anyone’s bucket list.

Munnar's landscape was truly one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. I felt refreshed after my time in nature, and the cooler climate was a balm against the muggy heat of Kochi.

Next time, I'd like to spend a few more days in the area to fully embrace its relaxing effects, and would love the opportunity to leisurely hike through its famed tea plantations.

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Quick guide to Munnar – How to reach and places to visit

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , KERALA / Created : Apr 17, 2024, 16:00 IST

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Explore Munnar in Kerala's Western Ghats for tea plantations, misty mountains, lush landscapes. Visit attractions like Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak for nature's splendour and breathtaking vistas.

Explore Munnar in Kerala's Western Ghats for tea plantations, misty mountains, lush landscapes. Visit attractions like Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak for nature's splendour and breathtaking vistas. Read less

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10 most unreal places on Earth that you need to see to believe

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8 coolest hill stations in India accessible via direct flights!

World’s most terrifying attractions: Reserved only for the brave hearts!

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Explore Munnar in Kerala's Western Ghats for tea plantations, misty mountains, lush landscapes. Visit attractions like Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak for nature's splendour and...