Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of Kerala. It is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range, at an altitude of around 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level. It is known for its lush green landscape, tea plantations, and diverse flora and fauna. The town of munnar was once the summer resort of the British government in South India. During the colonial era, it was an important center for the production of tea. Today, the tea industry continues to be an important source of income for the people of munnar and the surrounding areas. The rolling hills covered in tea bushes present a beautiful sight and attracts many tourists.
Munnar is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and several species of birds. There are several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the region, such as the Eravikulam National Park, which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, an type of wild goat. In addition to its natural beauty, Munnar also offers a number of other attractions to visitors, including the Mattupetty Dam, the Kundala Dam, and the Top Station, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. There are also several temples, churches and other places of historical interest in the area.
Munnar is a popular destination for trekking and hiking, it's perfect place for nature lover. It can be reached by road from major cities in Kerala or Tamil Nadu, as well as by air or train.
Things to do:
- Visit the tea plantations and learn about the history and process of tea production.
- Take a trek or hike in the nearby hills and forests for some stunning views.
- Visit the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and a variety of other wildlife.
- Visit the Mattupetty Dam, a popular spot for boating and picnicking.
- Take a dip in the natural pools at Atukkad Waterfall.
Tourist spots in Munnar
Some popular tourist spots in Munnar include:
- Eravikulam National Park: This national park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and also offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Mattupetty Dam: This dam is surrounded by beautiful hills and tea plantations, and it offers visitors the opportunity to go boating or enjoy a picnic by the dam.
- Tea Museum: This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of tea production in Munnar and how it has shaped the local economy and culture.
- Anamudi Peak: This is the highest peak in South India,and offers a beautiful trekking experience.
- Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a variety of animals and birds, and it offers visitors the opportunity to go trekking and explore the wilderness.
- Kundala Dam: This is a beautiful dam and a popular spot for boating, with lush green hills and valley providing a picturesque backdrop.
- Top Station: This is the highest point of Munnar and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Rajamalai: This is a scenic place which is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and also offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Echo Point: This is a popular spot for picnics, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The echoes of the sound make it an attractive destination
These are some of the most popular tourist spots in Munnar, but there are many other beautiful and interesting places to visit in and around the area.
Where to stay
Munnar offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly homestays to luxury resorts.
Accommodation in Munnar, including:
- Hotels: There are a variety of hotels available in Munnar, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
- Homestays: Homestays are a great way to experience local culture and hospitality. Many homestays in Munnar are located on tea estates and offer beautiful views of the surrounding hills. These are typically family-run accommodations that offer a glimpse into local life and culture.
- Resorts: Munnar has a number of resorts that offer comfortable accommodation, great facilities, and scenic views.
- Camping: For those who like to be closer to nature, camping is also an option in Munnar.You can find camping sites in and around Munnar where you can pitch your own tent and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Tree houses: Some tree houses are available to stay in Munnar, they are unique and eco-friendly way to stay.
When to visit
The best time to visit Munnar is from September to May, when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon season has ended.Otherwise the monsoon season can make the roads difficult to navigate and may limit access to certain attractions. It is also important to note that since Munnar is a hill station, the temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings, so it's a good idea to pack warm clothing.
How To Reach
Munnar can be
reached by bus, train, or car from major cities in Kerala such as Kochi
and Thiruvananthapuram. The nearest airport is in Kochi, which is about
130 km away.
Several modes of transportation includes,
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is about 130 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Munnar.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Aluva, which is about 110 km away. Trains connecting major cities in India stop at Aluva, and from there, you can take a taxi or bus to Munnar.
By Bus: Munnar is well-connected by road and there are regular bus services from major cities in Kerala such as Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.
By Car: Munnar can also be reached by car, it is well-connected by road and can be easily accessible from major cities such as Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram and Coimbatore.
It is advisable to check the schedule and availability of the transportation mode you choose in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Tips
- Be prepared for a cooler climate, especially in the evenings.
- Keep in mind that some of the popular tourist spots, such as the tea plantations and Eravikulam National Park, can get crowded during peak season.
- Don't forget to try the local cuisine, which includes dishes such as dosa, idli, and sambar.
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