Munnar
is another gem in the already star studded list of Western Ghat wonders.
Situated in the Idukki District of God's Own Country Kerala, Munnar is
probably the most famous attraction of Kerala after the world famous
Backwaters. This hill station nestles at an altitude of nearly 1600 m above
sea level and is almost half covered with lush green tea gardens, which
truly are the best attraction of this quiescent hill station. Munnar used to
be the summer capital of British Government in South India.Munnar is located at the confluence of three rivers namely Nallathani, Kundale and Muthirapuzha; The name Munnar literally means three rivers. The nature is at its generous most in Munnar. The blue flower 'Neelakurinji', is found only in Munnar. Its specialty is that it blooms only once in twelve years and it last bloomed in December 2006. The highest peak in entire South India, Anamudi, which rises to a height of 2695 m, is in Munnar. The green surroundings and the pleasant climate makes it a favorite for tourists, especially honeymooners. From the cultural point of view, Munnar will give you glimpse of culture of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Munnar is also a conducive destination for adventure sports like trekking, rock climbing and aerosports. Apart from indulging in adventure, do not forget to shop for coffee, tea and spices. The best time to visit Munnar is after monsoons in September when the hill station is at its most green.
Main Attraction of Munnar
- Mattupetty
At a distance of 13 km, Mattupetty is most famous for its cattle breeding farm. The Mattupetty farm is a joint venture between India and Switzerland where more than 100 breeds of cattle are reared. There are in all 11 sheds but only 3 are open to visitors. You can visit Mattupetty farm between 9 AM to 11 Am and 2 PM to 3.30 PM. Other attraction of Mattupetty includes a dam and a lake. You can enjoy a refreshing round of boating in the lake where you could hire a five seater speed boat or a 20 seater boat. However, this facility is only available from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM. - Solar Observatory
Covering an area of 97 sq km, Ervikulam National Park, Ervikulam became a wildlife Sanctuary only in the year 1975. Ervikulam Park proudly flaunts its population of the rare Nilgiri Tahr. This is one of the very few natural habitats of this species. Till 1950s, the area was a hunting reserve, but timely intervention by an NGO helped preserve the population. The highest peak Anamudi is also located in the park premises. You can visit Ervikulam National Park from 7 AM till 5 PM. The park is 15 km away from Munnar. - Devikulam
Just 7 km from Munnar, Devikulam is a destination for solace and rejuvenation. It is a splendidly quiet destination with beautiful surroundings and clean environment. Sita Devi Lake is what brings hundreds of tourists and locales to Devikulam. This picnic spot offers an ideal setting for anglers. You can indulge in angling in Sita Devi Lake but you cannot use a live bait. You will have to use artificial fliers or spinners on your fishing rod. Before angling in Sita Devi Lake, make sure you have gained permission from the secretary of High Range Angling Association. - Marayoor
Marayoor is famous as the only place in entire Kerala which is conducive to the natural growth of Sandalwood Tree. So don't be bewildered if you are greeted into Marayoor with a strong scent of sandalwood. Other attraction of Marayoor are the numerous natural caves which are filled with murals and relics dating back to stone age. Also visit the huge Children Park which covers an area of nearly 1 hectare. The rare Neelakurinji flower which blooms once in 12 years is also found here. You will be amazed to know that large part of this 1 hectare park is shaded by a single Banyan tree. Marayoor is situated nearly 40 Km from Munnar and is a perfect one day trip from the hill station. - Nyayamakad
Nyaymakad is a heaven for trekkers. The steep slopes proves to be a challenge for the trekkers. But the stunning view of the surroundings more often than not, takes your mind off your tiredness. The views of waterfalls falling from the height 1600 m is an absolute treat which are hard to come by.
Accommodation in Munnar Munnar sees a huge number of tourists throughout the year. And to accommodate them, there are numerous resort catering to different budgets. Kashmeeram Resort, Kaippalil Resort, Munnar Inn are few of the well known budget resorts in Munnar. For a more lavish stay, you can look for the following options; Ayur County, Camp Noel, and Windamere.
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Hotels
in Munnar
How to Reach Munnar
- Air
Cochin is the nearest airport to Munnar which is at a distance of 121 km. The airport receives flights from all major cities of India. From airport, you can hire a taxi to Munnar which will take nearly 4 hrs to cover the distance. - Rail
The nearest railhead too is in Ernakulam. There are two railhead in Ernakulam, North and South but are close to each other. - Road
Munnar is well connected to all the major cities of Kerala and few cities of Tamil Nadu. The closest important cities are Cochin, Kottayam, Coimbatore and Madurai. five daily), Coimbatore (six hours, two daily) or Madurai (six hours, one daily).