Things To Know About Munnar

Munnar is a popular tourist destination located in the Western Ghats mountain range of Kerala, a state in southern India. Here are some key things to know about Munnar:

1. Location and Geography: Munnar is situated at an elevation of about 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest points in Kerala. It is surrounded by lush green hills, tea plantations, and mist-covered valleys. The region’s picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate attract tourists from around the world.
2. Tea Plantations: Munnar is renowned for its extensive tea plantations that stretch across vast acres of land. The tea estates contribute to the region’s scenic beauty and are a significant part of Munnar’s economy. Visitors can explore the tea gardens, witness the tea-picking process, and even participate in tea-tasting sessions.
3. Neelakurinji Blooms: Munnar is home to a unique flower called Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana), which blooms once every twelve years. The flowering of Neelakurinji paints the hills of Munnar in a mesmerizing shade of blue, creating a stunning spectacle. The last bloom occurred in 2018, and the next one is expected in 2030.
4. Eravikulam National Park: Located near Munnar, Eravikulam National Park is a significant attraction known for its rich biodiversity and as the habitat of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a mountain goat species. The park is also home to several other wildlife species, including elephants, langurs, leopards, and various bird species. It offers trekking opportunities and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
5. Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake: Mattupetty Dam is a popular tourist spot situated about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Munnar. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys and is an excellent location for picnics. Kundala Lake, located nearby, is an artificial reservoir famous for its boating facilities and scenic surroundings.
6. Top Station: Top Station, situated at an elevation of around 1,700 meters (5,580 feet), offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the nearby valleys. It is one of the highest points in Munnar and is a favorite spot among tourists for witnessing stunning sunrises and sunsets.
7. Adventure Activities: Munnar provides opportunities for various adventure activities, including trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and camping. The rugged terrain, waterfalls, and forests offer ample scope for adventure enthusiasts to indulge in thrilling experiences.
8. Local Cuisine: While in Munnar, make sure to savor the local cuisine, which features a blend of Kerala’s traditional flavors. Some popular dishes to try include appam with stew, puttu with kadala curry, fish curry, and banana fritters. Munnar is also known for its refreshing tea, which is a must-try for tea lovers.
9. Weather: Munnar enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The summer months from March to May are generally mild, while the monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall. The winter months from November to February are cooler, with temperatures occasionally dropping to single digits.
10. Accessibility: Munnar is well-connected by road to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. The nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (approximately 110 kilometers or 68 miles away) and Madurai International Airport in Tamil Nadu (approximately 140 kilometers or 87 miles away). Regular bus services and taxis are available for transportation within the region.

These are just some of the highlights and essential things to know about Munnar. The region’s natural beauty, tea plantations, and serene landscapes make it a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Munnar is a beautiful hill station located in the Idukki district of the Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its stunning landscapes, tea plantations, and cool climate. Here are some things to know about Munnar:

1. Location: Munnar is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range, at an elevation of around 1,600 meters (5,200 feet) above sea level. It is surrounded by lush green hills, valleys, and tea estates.
2. Tea Plantations: Munnar is famous for its extensive tea gardens that stretch as far as the eye can see. The region has a long history of tea cultivation, and the tea estates contribute significantly to the local economy. Visitors can explore the tea gardens, learn about the tea-making process, and even participate in tea-tasting sessions.
3. Neelakurinji Blooms: Munnar is renowned for the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once every twelve years. These vibrant blue-purple flowers cover the hillsides and valleys, creating a breathtaking sight. The last bloom occurred in 2018, so the next one is expected in 2030.
4. Wildlife and Nature: Munnar is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Eravikulam National Park, located near Munnar, is known for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat) population. The park also offers trekking opportunities and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Other nearby attractions include Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, and the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India.
5. Climate: Due to its high elevation, Munnar enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. Summers (March to May) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which enhances the natural beauty of the region. Winters (November to February) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a cool escape.
6. Adventure Activities: Munnar offers various adventure activities for thrill-seekers. Trekking and hiking are popular, with opportunities to explore the surrounding hills and forests. You can also go rock climbing, rappelling, and mountain biking. The region is also known for its excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
7. Local Cuisine: Munnar offers a range of culinary delights for food enthusiasts. Don’t miss trying the local Kerala cuisine, which features dishes like appam, puttu, and fish curry. Munnar is also famous for its delicious tea, and you can visit tea cafes and restaurants to savor different flavors.
8. Accessibility: Munnar can be reached by road from major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. The nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (around 110 km away) and Madurai International Airport (around 140 km away). The town is well-connected by buses and taxis, and there are several accommodation options available for tourists.

• Munnar Panchayat in the Devikulam block is the largest Panchayat in the Idukki district.
• Kottagudi Aerial Ropeway – for the transportation of tea and materials in Kannan Devan Tea Estate.
• Visit tribal hamlets, get a glimpse of peculiar tribal customs, their way of life and festivals.
• Never miss the Indo-Swiss cattle-breeding centre cum dairy project here.
• Munnar has at least 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar, among which majority of them are owned by Tata Group’s Kannan Devan Tea Estate.
• Kollukkumallai, the highest tea garden in the country, situated at 7,900 ft above sea level.
• The Duke of Wellington was the first European visited Munnar.
• Experience Elephant Safari in the Wild Life Sanctuaries of Munnar.