Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams in Kerala, Munnar is a haven of peace and tranquility. What makes Munnar breathtakingly beautiful is the sprawling tea plantations that carpet all over the hill station. Or, it is the pristine valleys and mountains that have given the place a unique look. Whatever be the reason, the hill station is a real treat to nature lovers.
Besides enjoying a leisure holiday in the captivating hill station, one can take it as an opportunity to trek all the way through its lush green surroundings and mountains. Once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India, Munnar has become one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in Kerala.
Dotted with lavish resorts and lodging facilities, you can find places to stay and enjoy your holiday amidst lush greenery. The exotic flora found in the grasslands here is the Neelakurinji, which blooms every twelve years and the next bloom will be in 2030. Also, the hill station is a major attraction for its highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m.
The lush green belts of this place house many endangered species of animals like Neelakurinji and Nilgiri Tahr. And, it is one of the most famous destinations in South India due to its pristine valleys, exotic flora and fauna, and lofty mountains.
Why visit Munnar?
Owing to the topography of Munnar, the pleasant weather is a major attraction here. If you are planning a honeymoon in South India, Munnar is your definite choice. The lush valleys, the soothing weather, and long romantic walks are some of the best things you can do in Munnar. Apart from this, if you are looking for a family vacation or adventure holiday, or even a backpacking trip, Munnar is a great choice. There are a lot of places to visit and things to do here that will keep you entertained on your trip.
How to reach Munnar
Being a popular tourist place in Kerala, it is well connected with national and state highways. If you are planning to reach Munnar by air then Cochin International Airport is the closest and is located approximately 109 km away. Taxi services are easily available from this airport to reach the beautiful town of Munnar.
If traveling by train, then visit Kochi or Ernakulam stations. They are well-linked to other major cities in India like Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Trivandrum, and Bangalore. There are many buses run by Kerala and Tamil Nadu state governments that can be hired to reach Munnar and enjoy the scenic views en route.
How to get around Munnar
The easiest and the most cost-friendly way of exploring Munnar is by government buses. There are taxis and cabs available to visit the main attractions. If you are traveling alone then rent a bike to move around the city or take auto-rickshaws as they are cheaper than cabs.
Best time to visit Munnar
Although Munnar can be visited throughout the year, the winter season is the best time to visit Munnar. The weather remains pleasant and you can enjoy the fresh breeze of air. It is advised to carry thick woolens with you. During the summer, Munnar attracts a lot of tourists, especially adventure lovers. It can get a little hot during this time, so make sure to wear light cotton clothes and wear sunscreen to avoid skin burn.
Monsoons are a great time to visit Munnar too as during this period, the hill station receives heavy rainfall leaving tea estates and grasslands mesmerizing.
Places to visit in Munnar
Blessed with such a diverse topography, this hill station has some of the most famous places to visit. Mattupetty Dam, one of Munnar's popular attractions, is perfect to enjoy nature's serenity. You can also catch the sight of elephants that often visit the embankments of the lake. Anamudi peak is a great place to spot Asian Elephants, Nilgiri Tahrs, and Gaurs. Eravikulam National Park, waterfalls of Nyayamakad, Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary, Echo Point, Attukal Waterfalls, and Muniyara Dolmens are some other places to visit in Munnar.
Things to do in Munnar
Munnar has no dearth of activities and experiences for tourists. While on your tour to Munnar, indulge in the following activities -
- Camping at Top Station.
- Visit Kolukkumalai Tea Plantations.
- Stay in a treehouse.
- Visit Blossom Park Day Forest.
- Visit Echo Point
- Send time at Lakkam Waterfalls.
- Enjoy a safari in Eravikulam National Park.
- Go mountain biking.
- Trek to Anamudi Peak.
- Take a Shikara ride in Kundala Lake.
How many days are enough to visit Munnar?
3 days are enough to visit Munnar.
Average Munnar Trip Cost
The average cost of traveling to Munnar will be INR 14,000 per person.
*Prices are subject to change.
Accommodation in Munnar
From hotels, resorts to luxury places of stay, Munnar has a lot of accommodation options for you. Choose from a variety of hotels - honeymoon, kid-friendly, or budget-friendly as per your needs and budget. Some of the most popular and best places to stay in Munnar are The Leaf Munnar, The Tall Trees Munnar, Amber Dale Luxury Hotel and Spa, Elixir Hills, and Chandys Windy Woods.
Where to eat in Munnar
This tiny hill station has some amazing restaurants worth trying some grub at. You can start your tour with a meal at Saravana Bhavan, Rapsy (for omelets), or the Treetop Restaurant (good food and good views). SN Restaurant is one of the oldest food joints in Munnar and is worth visiting. Other than this, the street food is a must-try, which majorly serves fresh South Indian delicacies.
Shopping in Munnar
For all the shopaholics, Munnar has a lot of places to shop at. Shopping can be a fun activity for some and therapy for others. Therefore, here are some of the famous places to shop in Munnar - Kanan Devan Hills Plantations, Abbas & Co. Tea Merchants, Greenland Spices SuperMarket, Aranya Naturals, Munnar Market, and Mattupetty Dam Market. All these places are best known for local produce, tea, coffee, spices, handicrafts, and hand-woven garments.
Useful Tips for Munnar Trip
- Winter is a peak season, so book your hotels in advance.
- Check weather conditions especially during monsoons.
- There are many Hindu temples and Muslim mosques in the area, so be respectful, and follow the rules. Remove your shoes and cover your head wherever needed.
- Do not wear revealing clothes, keep them light and simple. You may not want unwanted attention.
