Munnar is the gem of Kerala. The hill station attracts tourists with its rolling tea plantations, mist-covered valleys, and refreshing climate. Munnar is situated at an altitude of around 1,600 meters above sea level. The charming beauty of this place offers a perfect composition of natural beauty, adventure, and serenity. The tea estates of the town supply the finest teas in India since British colonial rule. These tea estates offer a unique experience to the tourists here.
You can witness exotic wildlife while visiting Munnar. The rare Nilgiri Tahr is found in Eravikulam National Park. The tourists love to experience boating at Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake. The breathtaking views of the Western Ghats at Top Station give an unbelievable experience. Munnar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and travelers alike.
Table of Contents
Best Places to Visit in Munnar
Tea Gardens & Tea Museum
Munnar’s Tea Plantations are famous since British colonial era. Tea Plantations are most defining feature of Munnar. It covers vast stretches of rolling hills with a lush green carpet. The climate of Munnar is cool and it is situated at higher altitude. This geographical phenomena make Munnar ideal for growing some of the finest teas in India. Tourist love to walk through these plantations to get a mesmerizing experience of fresh aroma of tea leaves.
Tata Tea Museum of Nallathanni Estate provides visitors with a deep insight into the history, cultivation, and processing of tea. Visitors can witness tea processing, from plucking the leaves to their transformation into fine tea powder. The museum also showcases old tea making equipment, photographs, and machinery from early days of tea plantation.
Eravikulam National Park
Rich bio-diversity of Munnar can be explored in Eravikulam National Park. It is a UNESCO-recognized protected area. Eravikulam National Park is spanned around 97 square kilometers. It is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a rare species of mountain goat found in the Western Ghats. The terrain of this National Park consists of rolling grasslands, rocky cliffs, and lush valleys. Tourists love to trek and engaged in wildlife photography here.
Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years, found in Eravikulam National Park. Tourists witness these flower with breathtaking blue hue over the hills. Anamudi Peak, highest peak of Southern India, is also located within the park’s boundaries. It is best for trekkers to trek this peak. The park is also home to a variety of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Visitors enjoy spectacular views and wildlife spotting in Rajamalai Region. Rajamalai Region is open for Public.
Mattupetty Dam & Lake
Mattupetty Dam is one of the most attractive spots in Munnar. This Dam is located at an altitude of 1700 meters. Mattupetty Dam is built for hydroelectric power generations and water conservation. The location of Dam makes it a popular tourist attraction. Tourists found serene surrounding at Mattupetty Dam. Dam forms tranquil Mattupetty Lake which reflects the lush greenery and misty hills. Tourists witness breathtaking view from this Lake.
Tourists love to do Boating here by renting speed boats and paddle boats. Mattupetty Lake is surrounded by dense forests. These forests sereve as a natural habitat for elephants and other wildlife. Elephants come with their herds to quench their thirst to Mattupetty Lake. You seems to be lucky if you witness this moment during the visit. Shola Forests are found nearby Mattupetty Lake. These forests are best for trekking and birdwatching. Mattupetty Dam and Lake offer perfect retreat for adventure lovers, photographers, or the tourist come for relaxation.
Top Station
Top Station is the highest point in Munnar. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the plains of Tamil Nadu. Top Station is located about 32 km from Munnar. Tourists experience breathtaking landscapes and cool mountain air at an altitude of 1,880 meters.
Top Station was a transit point for transporting tea from Munnar to the plains. Top Station is popular for its cloud-kissed valleys, rolling tea plantations, and occasional glimpses of the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years. Top Station is perfect for trekking, photography, and nature walks.
The sunrise and sunset views from Top Station are absolutely magical which combine mist rolling over the hills. The route leading to Top Station is equally scenic, passing through tea gardens, waterfalls, and dense forests. It is an unmissable destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Attukal Waterfalls
Attukal Waterfalls are beautiful waterfalls in Munnar. Attukal Waterfalls offer an amazing view of gushing white waters cascading over rocky cliffs. It is situated about 9 km from Munnar. Attukal Waterfalls is a beautiful wonder created by nature. It is surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills. The location and beauty of these waterfalls making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The waterfall is a popular spot for trekking enthusiasts. The rugged trails of this waterfall are leading to an adventurous experience. The monsoon season (June to September) is the best time to visit at Attukal Waterfalls. The waterfall is in full flow during monsoon which creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, photography, and relaxing picnics near the falls.
A small bridge near the waterfall offers a great vantage point for taking in the amazing views and click them for memories. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or simply a scenic spot to unwind, Attukal Waterfalls provides a refreshing and memorable experience in the lap of nature.
Kundala Lake
Kundala Lake is a picturesque destination located at 20 KM from Munnar. It is surrounded by lush green valleys, misty mountains, and dense forests. It is the part of Kundala Dam, which supplies water to the region and adds to the lake’s charm.
Rare cherry blossoms attracts tourists to Kundala Lake, It bloom twice a year and create a surreal pink landscape. Neela Kurinji flowers is major highlight of Kundala Lake. These flowers cover the hills in blue every 12 years. Traditional Kashmiri Style “Shikara” boats offer boating activity experience to tourists where they enjoy boating on the lake.
The lake is also a great spot for photography, birdwatching, and picnics. The cool, refreshing air and the stunning reflections of the surrounding hills on the water make Kundala Lake an ideal place for a peaceful and romantic getaway.
Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Marayoor is located about 40 km from Munnar. Marayoor is known for its natural sandalwood forests. The Sandalwood trees are grown naturally in Marayoor. These Sandalwood forests are protected by the Forest Department of Kerala. The scent of Sandalwood provides a one-of-a-kind experience to visitors.
Marayoor is also known for its ancient Dolmen burial sites. These burial sites are from date back to Megalithic Age. These prehistoric stone structures give a glimpse into the region’s rich past and add an element of mystery to the place. Visitors love to explore the Sandalwood Factory where they can see the processing of Sandalwood into estentail oils, soaps, and perfumes. Marayoor is a perfect destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature.
Things to Do in Munnar
Trekking & Hiking
Trekkers love to come Munnar. Munnar offers trails through lust forests, rolling hills, and misty valleys. Anamudi Peak Trek is one of the famous trek of Munnar. Trekkers try to succeed the highest peak in South India at 2,695 meters. Meesapulimala Trek is also one of the more explorable treks here. This trek offers breathtaking views of grasslands, rhododendron forests, and mist-covered hills. Some other popular treks of Munnar are Chokramudi, Lakshmi Hills, and Top Station. Munnar offers an amazing trekking experience with full of adventures and rewarding experience. Trekking get opportunities to spot rare wildlife, exotic birds, and stunning landscapes. These amazing scenes make them to include these treks in their must do activities.
Tea Tasting & Plantation Walks
Tea Plantation of Munnar is famous over the world. The visit to tea estates give a unique experience. Kolukkumalai is highest tea estate in the world. Kolukkumalai, Kanan Devan Hills, and Lockhart Tea Estate offer visitors to get experience of tea plucking and tea processing while walking through lush tea gardens. Tata tea Museum provides journey into the history and techniques of tea production. There are tea tasting session that attract visitor for sampling a variety of flavors like black tea, green tea, white tea, and spiced tea. It is wonderful and delightful experience for tea lovers.
Wildlife Spotting & Birdwatching
Munnar boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife. It is one of the richest ecosystems in the Western Ghats. Eravikulam National Park is renowned for the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to elephants, langurs, spotted deer, and star tortoises. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Shola forests are best destinations for Birdwatchers. Malabar Trogon, Nilgiri Flycatcher, and Great Indian Hornbill can be spotted in Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Shola forests. Visitors can immerse themselves in Munnar’s pristine wilderness through guided safaris and nature walks. Munnar offers an unforgettable experience of its diverse flora and fauna. It is the perfect place for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Camping & Bonfires
Camping in Munnar promises a unique getaway for visitor to experience natural beauty. While camping, visitors feel immense peace under the starlit sky amidst the mist covered hills and lush green tea plantations. Top camping spots like Top Station, Suryanelli, and Letchmi Hills provide the perfect setting to pitch camps. Visitors enjoy a cozy bonfire in the crisp mountain air during Camping at Munnar.
Many campsites also offer guided treks, stargazing experiences, and authentic local cuisine. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of an adventure group, or a honeymooner, camping in Munnar delivers tranquility, excitement, and stunning sunrise views over the valleys. These experiences make camping in Munnar an ideal retreat from city life to visitors.
Photography & Sightseeing
Munnar’s breathtaking landscapes, mist-covered hills, and endless tea plantations make it a photographer’s paradise. Whether it’s capturing the rolling tea estates, stunning waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam, or the blue carpet of Neelakurinji flowers (which bloom every 12 years), every frame in Munnar is picture-perfect. Top Station and Echo Point offer mesmerizing panoramic views, while sunrise and sunset at Kolukkumalai create stunning golden hues. Wildlife lovers can capture Nilgiri Tahrs, vibrant birds, and elephants in their natural habitat. With its diverse landscapes and natural beauty, Munnar is a dream destination for professional and amateur photographers alike.
Boating & Kayaking
Munnar’s pristine lakes and reservoirs offer excellent opportunities for boating and kayaking. Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake are the most popular boating spots, where visitors can enjoy paddle boating, row boating, and shikara rides amidst serene mountain backdrops. Kundala Lake’s cherry blossoms and echoing hills enhance the experience. Adventure lovers can try kayaking on the Periyar River, which flows through the forests near Munnar. These activities provide a peaceful escape from the city, offering an immersive experience in nature while enjoying the cool mountain breeze and reflections of lush greenery on the water.
Waterfall Hopping
Munnar is blessed with stunning waterfalls, making waterfall hopping an exciting activity. Attukal Waterfalls, surrounded by rocky cliffs and forests, is perfect for trekking and photography. Lakkam Waterfalls, located near Eravikulam National Park, offers a refreshing natural pool for swimming. Chinnakanal Waterfalls, also known as the “Power House Waterfalls,” cascades down from a great height, creating a mesmerizing view. Visiting these waterfalls, especially during monsoon season, allows travelers to witness gushing cascades, misty sprays, and the soothing sounds of nature, making it an essential experience in Munnar.
Visit Spice Gardens
Apart from tea, Munnar is also known for its aromatic spice plantations, which produce high-quality cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. A visit to the Spice Gardens in Munnar allows travelers to explore lush plantations, learn about spice cultivation, and buy fresh organic spices. These guided tours also introduce visitors to the medicinal properties of various herbs used in Ayurveda and traditional Kerala cuisine. Some of the most popular spice gardens include Green Valley Spice Garden, Kerala Farm, and Sahyadri Spice Garden. A trip here is both educational and sensory-rich, offering a true flavor of Kerala.
Ayurvedic Spa & Wellness
Munnar’s cool climate and natural surroundings make it an ideal place to experience traditional Kerala Ayurveda therapies. Several wellness retreats and spas offer authentic treatments like Ayurvedic massages, Shirodhara (oil therapy), and Panchakarma detox. These therapies use medicinal herbs, aromatic oils, and age-old techniques to promote relaxation, stress relief, and rejuvenation. Some popular wellness centers include Kairali Ayurvedic Spa, Ayurcounty, and TATA Tea’s wellness retreats. Whether it’s relieving stress, improving circulation, or simply indulging in self-care, Ayurvedic spa treatments in Munnar provide a revitalizing and holistic wellness experience.
Cycling & Off-Road Jeep Safari
Cycling through Munnar’s winding roads and tea plantations is a great way to explore its lush landscapes. The Kannan Devan Hills and Lockhart Tea Estate offer scenic cycling routes with breathtaking views. For thrill-seekers, an off-road jeep safari to Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (the highest tea plantation in the world) provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure through rugged mountain paths and misty trails. These safaris offer panoramic views of the valleys and surrounding peaks, making them a must-try experience for adventure lovers. Whether by bicycle or jeep, exploring Munnar this way guarantees an unforgettable journey through nature.
Best Time to Visit Munnar
September to March
This is the peak tourist season in Munnar. At this time, Munnar has pleasant temperatures (10-25°C) which make it perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. The clear skies and misty mornings enhance Munnar’s charm, while winter (December-January) adds a chilly touch. This is the best time to experience tea gardens, wildlife, and waterfalls.
April to June – Summer Charm
Summer in Munnar is mild compared to other parts of India, with temperatures ranging from 15-30°C. While the afternoons can be warm, early mornings and evenings remain pleasant. It’s the best time to explore lush tea estates, visit waterfalls, and enjoy adventure activities like trekking and camping without heavy tourist crowds.
July to August – Monsoon Magic
The monsoon transforms Munnar into a lush green paradise, with mist-covered hills, gushing waterfalls, and fewer tourists. Though heavy rains may limit outdoor activities, it’s perfect for relaxation, photography, and experiencing Munnar’s raw natural beauty. Monsoon also brings fresh tea harvests, making plantation visits even more fascinating.
How to Reach Munnar
By Road: Well-connected by road from Cochin (130 km), Madurai (170 km), and Coimbatore (150 km).
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (110 km).
By Train: The closest railway stations are Aluva (110 km) and Ernakulam (130 km).
Munnar is a dream destination that blends natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Munnar has something for everyone.