MUNNAR
Popular for its lively tea gardens, Munnar is absolutely majestic and deeply romantic when it comes to the atmosphere. This is the same valleys that turns all blue during Neelakurinji, which is the blooming of a flower variety that comes once in twelve years. The best time to visit Munnar is in between the months of October to November or from January to May. A must visit places here includes names such as TATA Tea Museum, Eravilkulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam and Lake. Getting here is not difficult as the nearest train station is Ernakulam junction and the airport is Cochin International airport.
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Munnar, Kerala (updated in 2023)
| Coimbatore to Munnar 160 Km/4 Hrs • Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary • Marayoor • Muniyara • Kannan Devan Hills • Anamudi Peak • Eravikulam National Park | Munnar To Vattavada Route 45 Km/1 Hrs 30 mint • Rose Garden • CarmelagiriElephant Safari • Mattupetty Dam • Echo Point • Kundala Dam • Top Station • Vattavada |
MUNNAR TOWN | MUNNAR TOWN |
| Aluva to Munnar Route 120 Km/3 Hrs • Cheeyappara Waterfalls • Valara Waterfalls • Adimaly • Spice Plantation Visit • Pothanmedu View Point • Munnar | Munnar To Thekkady Route 90 Km/2 Hrs 30 Mints • Idily Hill Point • Lock Heart Tea Museum • Chokramudi Peak • Lock Heart Gap View Point • Rock Cave Munnar • Chinnakanal View • Towards Thekkady |
- Entry time: 8:00 am – 2.00 pm
- Indian Adults – 200/-
- Foreign Nationals – 500/-
- Ordinary Camera –50 /-
- Video Camera – 350/-
- Reservation fee Rs 50/- (Reservation counter 9 am – 3 pm at Information centre, Munnar)
- Closure Period
- Eravikulam National Park : February to March
DO’S & DON’TS
1. This National Park is declared for the protection & conservation of the Nilgiri Tahr; which is an endangered species.
2. While on safari, sighting of wildlife is absolutely based on chance; not certain.
3. Carrying of food and beverage items into the Park is prohibited.
4. Do not litter the park; leave your foot prints only.
5. Smoking, consumption of alcohol and other contrabands inside the Park is prohibited.
6. Feeding, teasing, disturbing wild animals is strictly prohibited.
7. While inside the Park, do not keep pet animals, firearms, traps, poisonous or any other substance which is injurious to the wildlife.
8. Please take care to limit your presence in the designated areas only while inside the Park.
9. Illegal entry, use of unauthorized space, unauthorized trekking and picnicking is punishable.
10. Do not play music, honk or speak loudly. Silence can help you hear wildlife
11. Do not carry plastic materials inside the park as the Park is a Plastic free zone.
Breaching any of the above don’ts or any other lawful directions of the Park management through the staff on duty will be fined suitably and/ penalised as per the provisions contained in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 or as deemed fit.
How to reach
The park is accessible from Kochi (Kerala) and Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu) Airports, which are located at about 148 km and 175 km respectively. Munnar, the nearest town (13 km) is well connected by roads from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The nearest Railway Station in Kerala is Alwaye (120 km) and Coimbatore (160 km) in Tamil Nadu.
The motorable roads inside the park includes the one that passes through the southern extremity, inside the tourism and awareness zone (Rajamala) to the Rajamala tea estate and the one in the Lakkom Muthuvakudy in the southern boundary which is connected to Lakkom in the Munnar – Udumalpet road by a road that passes through the tea estate owned by KDHP Company.
All other movements inside the park are on foot along trails and footpaths.
HONEY TREE
- See the natural wonder of Munnar.
- Timings: Open throughout the day on all days of the week
- Entry Fee: Free
POTHEMEDU VIEW POINT
Pothamedu View Point is a popular tourist attraction located in Munnar, a beautiful hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is known for offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding tea gardens, mist-covered hills, and lush green valleys. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Pothamedu View Point:
Scenic Beauty:
Pothamedu View Point provides stunning vistas of the picturesque landscapes of Munnar. The viewpoint offers an expansive view of the rolling hills, verdant tea plantations, and valleys covered in a blanket of mist. The sight is especially captivating during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky blend with the scenic beauty.
Tea Gardens:
The viewpoint is situated amidst tea estates, and you can witness the vast expanse of tea plantations spread out like a green carpet. The neat rows of tea bushes, the play of light and shadows on the hills, and the refreshing aroma of tea leaves make it a treat for the senses.
Photography Opportunities:
Pothamedu View Point is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The mesmerizing landscapes, with their layers of hills and tea gardens, provide ample opportunities to capture stunning photographs. Whether you are an amateur or a professional photographer, you can capture the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Trekking and Nature Walks:
The region around Pothamedu View Point offers several trekking and nature walk trails. You can embark on a trek through the tea gardens, enjoying the cool breeze and the peaceful ambiance of the hills. The trails allow you to get closer to nature and discover hidden spots with breathtaking views.
Birdwatching:
Pothamedu is also a haven for birdwatchers. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including exotic migratory birds. You can spot birds like the Malabar grey hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, and various species of bulbuls and flycatchers. Birdwatching enthusiasts can carry their binoculars and enjoy the avian diversity in the region.
Relaxation and Refreshment:
Pothamedu View Point is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature. You can find benches and seating areas where you can sit back, enjoy the view, and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Some vendors may also offer tea and snacks, allowing you to savor the flavors of Munnar while enjoying the view.
Pothamedu View Point offers a magical experience with its panoramic vistas, tea gardens, and serene ambiance. It is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking solace in the lap of nature during their visit to Munnar.
MATTUPETTY DAM
Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist attraction located near Munnar in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is a concrete gravity dam built across the Mattupetty Lake, which is a reservoir created for hydroelectric power generation. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Mattupetty Dam:
Scenic Beauty: The dam is nestled amidst the picturesque hills and tea plantations of Munnar. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with lush green valleys, mist-covered mountains, and the serene Mattupetty Lake. The beauty of the place is enhanced by the reflection of the hills in the tranquil waters of the reservoir.
Boating: Mattupetty Dam offers boating facilities, allowing visitors to explore the scenic lake and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Pedal boats and speedboats are available for rent, and you can take a leisurely boat ride while admiring the stunning views of the hills and the reservoir.
Viewpoints: There are designated viewpoints near the dam that offer panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. You can climb up to these viewpoints and capture breathtaking photographs of the vast expanse of the lake, tea gardens, and misty hills. The viewpoints are also great spots to relax and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Wildlife Spotting: The region around Mattupetty Dam is home to a variety of wildlife species. While boating or exploring the area, you may have the opportunity to spot animals like elephants, gaur (Indian bison), langurs, and various species of birds. Keep your eyes open and enjoy the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Trekking and Nature Walks: There are trekking trails around Mattupetty Dam that allow you to explore the surrounding hills and enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Trekking enthusiasts can embark on hikes through the tea plantations and experience the cool breeze and refreshing atmosphere of the hills.
Dairy Farm Visit: The Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm, located near the dam, is a popular attraction to visit. Managed by the Kerala Livestock Development Board, the farm houses over a hundred varieties of high-yielding cattle. Visitors can learn about dairy farming, see the cattle, and even sample fresh dairy products.
Picnic Spot: Mattupetty Dam serves as an excellent picnic spot for families and groups. The serene ambiance, lush greenery, and ample open spaces make it a perfect place for a relaxed picnic with friends and loved ones. You can enjoy a picnic lunch while appreciating the natural beauty around you.
Mattupetty Dam offers a tranquil and scenic experience, combining the beauty of the reservoir, the surrounding hills, and the tea plantations of Munnar. Whether you’re interested in boating, photography, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, a visit to Mattupetty Dam is sure to be a memorable part of your Munnar trip.
Timings & Entry Fee
Dam is functional at all times, however water based activities on the Mattupetty Lake or walk across the dam on the road built atop, you will have to adhere to certain timings.
Activities on the lake are from 9:30 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week.
- Entry fee of INR 10 for each person.
- For a 15-minute ride ,
- Ordinary boat, you pay INR 300 for the entire boat which can carry a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 5 persons.
- Speedboat, you pay INR 500 for the boat which can ferry 1 to 5 people.
- Big boat ride which runs for half an hour. With a capacity of 20 guests, the boat charges a total of INR 700.
- Riding on a horse by the banks of the lake at a cost of INR 50 per head.
ATTUKAD WATER FALLS
THE BLOSSOM HYDEL PARK
TEA MUSEUM
Entry fee: INR 75
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm
Location: Nallathanni estate of Munnar
CHINNAR WILD LIFE SANCTUARY
CHEEYAPARA WATERFALLS
Cheeyappara Waterfalls is a popular tourist attraction located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and is one of the major waterfalls in the state. The waterfall is situated on the Kochi-Madurai Highway (NH 85) and is easily accessible by road.
The Cheeyappara Waterfalls is nestled in the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, dense forests, and tea plantations, creating a picturesque and serene environment. The water cascades down in multiple tiers from a height of around 1000 feet (300 meters), forming a series of smaller falls that merge into a larger pool at the bottom.
. “GAP View” in Munnar refers to a popular viewpoint called “Gap Road Viewpoint” or “Lockhart Gap Viewpoint.” It is located on the Munnar-Bodi Road, about 15 kilometers from Munnar town. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Gap View in Munnar:
Scenic Beauty:
Gap View offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and tea plantations. The viewpoint provides a bird’s-eye view of the picturesque landscape, with mist-covered mountains, green valleys, and tea gardens stretching as far as the eye can see. It is a fantastic spot to appreciate the natural beauty of Munnar.
Tea Gardens:
The area around Gap View is known for its lush green tea gardens. You can witness the neatly manicured tea plantations spread across the undulating hills. The sight of the tea bushes, the play of light and shadows, and the refreshing aroma of the tea leaves create a delightful experience.
Photography Opportunities:
Gap View is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The expansive views and the scenic beauty make it a perfect location to capture stunning photographs. Whether you want to capture the rolling hills, the misty valleys, or the vibrant colors of the tea plantations, Gap View offers ample opportunities for breathtaking shots.
Relaxation:
RELAXATIONS
Gap View provides a peaceful ambiance and is a great spot to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature. You can sit on the benches provided, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. It is an ideal place to unwind and escape from the bustling city life.
TOP STATION
- Reach the highest station in the region and enjoy panoramic view of the enchanting scenery.
- Timings: Open throughout the day on all days of the week
- Entry Fee: Free
Top Station is a popular tourist destination located in Munnar, a picturesque hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It is known for offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Western Ghats and the expansive landscapes of Tamil Nadu. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Top Station:
Scenic Beauty:
Top Station is situated at an altitude of about 1,700 meters (5,580 feet) and provides stunning panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The viewpoint offers an expansive view of the rolling hills, tea plantations, valleys, and distant mountain ranges. On clear days, you can witness the breathtaking sight of the distant valley covered in mist, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.
Neelakurinji Blooms:
Top Station is famous for its association with the blooming of the Neelakurinji flowers. Neelakurinji is a unique shrub that blooms once every 12 years, covering the hills with a vibrant blue-purple carpet. When the flowers are in bloom, usually between August and October, the entire landscape takes on a mesmerizing hue. The last major bloom occurred in 2018, and the next bloom is expected in 2030.
Trekking:
Top Station serves as a base for various trekking trails in the region. You can embark on treks through the lush green tea plantations and undulating terrains, enjoying the cool breeze and the refreshing atmosphere of the hills. Trekking enthusiasts can explore the scenic beauty of the area and indulge in an adventurous experience.
Echo Point:
Located near Top Station, Echo Point is another attraction worth visiting. It is named for its natural echo phenomenon. Visitors can shout out their names or clap their hands to hear the echo reverberating through the hills. The spot is surrounded by tea plantations and mist-covered mountains, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop.
Photo Opportunities:
Top Station offers incredible photo opportunities with its panoramic views and stunning landscapes. Whether you want to capture the beauty of the Western Ghats, the tea plantations, or the blooming Neelakurinji flowers (during the blooming season), Top Station provides ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking shots.
Relaxation:
Top Station provides a tranquil ambiance and is an ideal spot to relax and unwind amidst nature. You can sit back, enjoy the breathtaking views, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds, enjoy a picnic, or simply rejuvenate in the lap of nature.
Top Station in Munnar offers a captivating experience with its panoramic vistas, natural beauty, and the unique Neelakurinji blooms. Whether you’re interested in photography, trekking, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature, a visit to Top Station is sure to leave you with lasting memories of the enchanting landscapes of Munnar.
VATTAVADA
DEVIKULAM
CARMELIRI ELEPHANT RIDE
KUNDALA LAKE
- Timings: Open throughout the day on all days of the week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
PHOTO ECHO POINT
- Timings: Open throughout the day on all days of the week from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 30 per person
FLOWER GARDEN MUNNAR
- Enjoy the wide variety of plants and colorful flowers.
- Timings: Open throughout the day on all days of the week from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person
MARAYOOR
Marayoor is a scenic village located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. Situated about 40 kilometers north of Munnar, Marayoor is known for its natural beauty, sandalwood forests, and prehistoric sites. Here are some highlights and attractions of Marayoor:
Sandalwood Forests:
Marayoor is famous for its natural sandalwood forests, making it one of the only places in Kerala where you can find these fragrant trees. The sandalwood trees are protected by the Forest Department, and you can explore designated areas to witness the beauty and aroma of these precious trees.
Muniyara Dolmens:
Marayoor is home to ancient dolmens, known as Muniyara in the local language. Dolmens are prehistoric stone structures that date back thousands of years and were believed to be used as burial chambers or shelters. The dolmens at Marayoor are intriguing archaeological sites and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Thoovanam Waterfalls:
Located near Marayoor, Thoovanam Waterfalls is a scenic cascade that originates from the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrains, the waterfall is a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy a short trek through the sanctuary to reach the falls and soak in the beauty of nature.
Jaggery Production:
Marayoor is known for its traditional jaggery production. The village has numerous sugarcane fields, and during the harvest season, you can witness the process of making jaggery (a sweetener derived from sugarcane juice) in traditional ways. The jaggery produced here is famous for its unique taste and quality.
Kanthalloor:
Kanthalloor, located near Marayoor, is a charming village known for its fruit orchards and vegetable farms. The village offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and is known for its apple, plum, peach, and orange cultivation. Visitors can explore the fruit farms, taste fresh produce, and enjoy the pristine beauty of the countryside.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:
While not technically in Marayoor, the nearby Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is worth mentioning. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered grizzled giant squirrel and the Indian star tortoise. The sanctuary offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
Marayoor provides a tranquil escape amidst nature, with its sandalwood forests, waterfalls, and ancient relics. The village’s unique offerings, such as the sandalwood experience and dolmen sites, make it a distinctive destination for those interested in history, nature, and cultural experiences.
