Top 30 Tourist places in Munnar

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Munnar is situated at a height of 1600 meters where the Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala mountains merge in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is South India’s largest tea growing region and is best known for its rolling hills, green valleys, tea gardens, Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurunji Flowers along with the smoothing climate round the year. The word Munnar stands for “Three Rivers”, which are  Madupetti, Nallathanni, and Periavar that edify the beauty of this town of Kerala.

Spread over an area of 187 sq. kilometers, Munnar has a lot to offer to its tourist that matches everyone’s taste and preference. It takes at least 5- 7 days to cover most of the known places in Munnar.

In this article we will let you know the top 30 places to visit in Munnar that makes it one of the most popular destinations in Kerala and brings the best of natural beauty at each step:

Rose Garden (KFDC Floriculture Centre):

Flora at Munnar Rose Gardens | by IM3847 (CC BY- SA 4.0)

Munnar’s floriculture center, the Rose Garden is a place that owns hundreds of rare varieties of flowers, cactus, shrubs, creepers, and herbal plants. The garden is located at 3500 ft, about 2 kilometers away from Munnar and covers an area of 2 acres. With the tea plantations in the backdrop, the garden provides a great leisure experience through various amenities. The Rose Gardens has various varieties of roses along with vanilla and cardamom cultivation.

Chokramudi Peak:

Chokramudi Peak  | by Sasikumar p (CC BY-SA 4.0)

The Chokramudi Peak with an elevation of 7,200 ft above sea level, resides in the Eravikulam National Park range. Unlike the other hill ranges in Idukki, it stood separately, unattached to any other hills or range of hills. The Chokramudi peak is a popular trekking trail in Munnar and comparatively an easy one as it hardly takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the highest point. The peak presents you a spectacular view of the tea plantations, Idukki Dam and the Anamudi Peak accompanied by a refreshing breeze.

Meesapulimala:

Meesapulimala Peak | by NIDHINJK (CC BY- SA 4.0)

With an elevation of 8661 ft, the Meesapulimala is the another highest peak in the Western Ghat on Indian Subcontinent. Meesapulimala is a popular trekking location is south India and presents the breath-taking view of the grasslands, rainforests, and wildlife present at the higher altitude. The trail provides a great chance of sighting Nilgiri Thar, Sambar Deer, Wild Gaur, Wild Dogs, and even the Sloth Bear.

Read more: Meesapulimala Trekking & Camping Packages from Kerala Forest Department (KFDC)

NB: The trekking path from Kolukkumalai to Meesapulimala is restricted by Forest Department.

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate:

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate | by Kishrk91 (CC BY- SA 4.0)

About 35 kilometers in the outskirts of Munnar, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is situated at an altitude of 7900 ft, making it one of the highest organic tea estates in the world. It was set up by the British back in the 1930s and still produces tea using the orthodox method in the season-tested tea factory. Kolukkumalai is known for its smooth flavored tea production. It provides the panoramic vista from the rugged mountains and greenery all around.

Read more: Kolukkumalai Trekking & Camping Packages from Kolukkumalai Tea Estate

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:

A Squirrel at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary | by Manojk (CC BY- SA 4.0)

One of twelve wildlife sanctuaries among the protected areas of Kerala, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is the only rehabilitation center for star tortoise in India. It is located in the eastern slope of Western Ghats, adjoining Tamil Nadu and is known for its diverse ecosystem. It’s a home to many wildlife that majorly includes grizzled giant squirrel, star tortoise, tufted grey langur, gaur, spotted deer, slender loris, wild elephant, tiger, leopard and several birds, insects along with medicinal plants. As Kumarikkal Mala peak, Nanadala Malai, Kottakombu Malai, Vellaikal Malai, and Viriyoottu Malai peak is present in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary hence it is also known for various trekking activities.

Read more: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Camping Packages by Forest Department

Munnar Tea Museum (KDHP Tea Museum):

Munnar Tea Museum | by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra (CC BY 2.0)

Just a 5 minutes drive from Munnar’s main town and you reach India’s first Tea Museum, the Munnar Tea Museum. The Kannan Devan Hills Plantation (KDHP) Tea Museum is officially known as the Tata Tea Museum and was opened on 1st April 2005. Being present in Nullatanni it is also called the  Nullatanni Estate. The museum preserves the photographs, machinery, and literature related to the evolution of the Tea Industry in Idukki.

Top Station:

View of the lush landscape at Top Station | by Issacsam (CC BY- SA 3.0)

Located around 32 km away from Munnar, on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road, the Munnar Top Station is an amazing location to present you the beautiful vista of Munnar and Kodaikanal especially during sunrise. Situated in 1700 meters in the Kannan Devan hills, it is the highest point in Munnar, and you can view the Western Ghats and the valley of Theni district of Tamil Nadu. The destination is also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers (Strobilanthus). The Kurinjimala sanctuary is very close to Top Station.

Anamudi Peak:

Anamudi Peak | by Arunguy2002 (CC BY- SA 3.0)

The highest peak in South India, Anamudi Peak with an awestruck height of 8,842 ft. The peak lies on the border of Devikulam Taluk, Idukki district and Kothamangalam Taluk, Ernakulam district. Anamudi literally means “Elephant’s Forehead,” as it looks so from distance and is called the “Everest of South India”.

NB: Entry to Anamudi Peak is restricted by Forest Department.

Lockhart Gap View Point:

Lockhart Gap | by Jaseem Hamza (CC BY- SA 3.0)

Located at 13 kilometers away from Munnar, the Lockhart Gap is another popular location for trekking, picnic and photographic expedition in Munnar. The amazing trail of Lockhart offers the view of green valleys, tea plantation, misty slopes and mountains covered with clouds. Lockhart Gap is often spelled as Lock heart Gap because of the gap between the two mountains which looks like a locked heart and the hilltop provides the best view of the entire region during sunset when the sky is in deep orange color.

Kundala Dam:

Kundala Dam | by Ranjithsiji (CC BY- SA 3.0)

Situated at a height of 1700 meters above sea level at about 21 km from Munnar, Kundala Dam Lake is among the top tourist attractions of Munnar. In 1946 the Kundala Dam was constructed solely for Pallivasal Hydro Electric Project. Kundala Dam is considered to be Asia’s first arch dam and hence holds an important place in Munnar Tourism. Kundala Dam is also called Sethu Parvathi Dam. Cherry blossoms appear twice in a year near the Dam making the background of the Dam absolutely beautiful. Also, the famous NeelaKurunji flowers bloom in this area

Mattupetty Dam:

Mattupetty Dam | by Jigneshgohel (CC BY- SA 3.0)

Less explored Mattupetty is an attractive small Hill Station in the valleys of Munnar. Mattupetty hill town lies at a height of 1,700 meters near to the Anamudi Peak and is known for Mattupetty Dam too. It is a Concrete Gravity dam built in the hill region to conserve water for hydroelectricity. The dam is popular among the trekkers because of its natural beauty and wildlife. It is also a hot spot for picnic and camping, hence the adventure enthusiasts are more often to this place.

Neelakurinji National Park:

Neelakurinji Flowers | by Vinayaraj (CC BY- SA 4.0)

About 32 sq. km area in the Kottakamboor and Vattavada villages in Munnar has been declared as the Neelakurinji National Park in 2006. As this region of Munnar is known for its Neelakurini flowers that bloom once in 12 years, this national park has been established solely for the purpose of conversation of the unique biodiversity of this reason. In 2006 the region was covered with Neelakurini flowers and was visited by some 5-10 lacs of tourist from Indian as well as from abroad.

Read more: Munnar Neelakurinji Flower Blooming 2018 | Online Ticket Booking

Eravikulam National Park:

Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam National Park | by Asheen Anoop (CC BY- SA 4.0)

One of the most Popular National Parks in South India, the Eravikulam National Park is mostly known of Nilgiri Tahr, which is an endangered species. It is spread over an area of 97 sq. kilometers and is one of the prime locations for trekking in South India. The Neelakurunji flower is also found in this National Park in fare numbers. One can find several species of butterflies, animals, birds and few unique species of frog here. This national park is located along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pampadum Shola National Park:

Pampadum Shola National Park | by Jaseem Hamza (CC BY- SA 4.0)

Due to the heavy presence of flora and fauna in Pampadum Shola, a total 1.3 sq. kilometers of the area has been declared as a National Park in 2003 by the Government of Kerala. The Park is located in the eastern part of Southern Western Ghats of Kerala on the way to Vattavada, close to Top Station. This area has a strong presence of Tigers along with elephants, buffaloes, lion-tailed macaque, gaur, Nilgiri langurs and various species of birds and butterflies.

Thoovanam Falls:

Thoovanam Falls | by Dhruvaraj S (CC BY- SA 2.0)

Located within the territory of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary near Kerala – Tamil Nadu border, the Thoovanam Falls is one the most attractive and famous falls in Kerala. It is 50 kilometers away from Munnar and is well known for trekking activities. The Pambar river is the primary inflow of this Fall and the crystal clear water falls from a height of 1400 ft. Along with huge varieties of flowers near the fall, one can also sport wild animals here.

Read more: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Camping Packages by Forest Department

Attukad Waterfalls:

Attukad Waterfalls | by Amal94nath (CC BY- SA 4.0)

Located at about 9 kilometers away from Munnar (between Munnar and Pallivasal route), the Attukad Waterfall is the perfect place for picnic and trekking. The fall makes its route through the dense jungle and lush green terrains. From a distance, the waterfall looks like threads of pearls. The fall can be reached only through a narrow wooden bridge. During monsoon, the entire atmosphere of this area is very attractive as the intensity of water is very high.

Blossom Hydel Park:

Located at about 3 kilometers away from the Munnar town, the Blossom Hydel Park is known for its scenic beauty and picturesque view of Munnar Valley. The fresh flowers, Muthirappuzha river, green landscape, a huge variety of migratory waterbirds, and mountain butterflies attract a lot of visitors to this park on a daily basis. As the park has been established near the Muthirappuzha river and Kannan Devam hill Tea Estates, it is a picnic and adventurous activities.

Valara Falls:

Valara Falls | by Kirtishankar075 (CC BY- SA 4.0)

Located at about 39 kilometers away from Munnar, the stunning Valara falls is situated in  Adimali and Neriamangalam, near the Cheeyappara Waterfalls. The Deviyar river, that originates from western ghats, passing through Adimali Grama Panchayath is the primary source of this fall. The Valara falls is a chain of many waterfalls that together fall from 1000 ft height making it one of the ideal location for picnic and trekking.

Read more: 50 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Kerala – Kerala Tourism

Ripple Waterfalls:

Another beautiful yet not so famous waterfall, the Ripple Falls is located 21 km away from Munnar and about 7 km away from Rajakkadu. It is located in the Sree Narayanapuram of Idukki district and is hotspot among the locals as well. Ideal for camping and picnic, the Ripple fall flows through the dense forest and surrounded with wildflowers.

Nyayamakad Waterfalls:

One of the highest cascading falls in Kerala, the Nyayamakad waterfall is located about 10 kilometers away from Munnar towards Udamalpet. The water falls from a height of about 1600m and it is an ideal picnic and trekking activities. One can spot the Nilgiri Thar and other animals like barking deer, sambar, Malabar civet, grey jungle fowl etc near the Nyayamakad waterfall very often along with wildflowers.

Pothamedu Viewpoint:

Pothamedu viewpoint | by Vasant944 (CC BY- SA 4.0)

Located at about 4 kilometers away from Munnar Bus Stand on Mattupetty road, the Pothamedu Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of Munnar and its adjoining valley carpeted with lush green. the breath-taking mountains with tea plantation all around making it one of the best places in Munnar. It is a prime location for movie shooting, photographic expeditions, and sightseeing.

Photo Point:

Photo Point | by Jaseem Hamza (CC BY- SA 3.0)

As the name suggests, the Munnar Photo Point is a picturesque site located at about 2.5 kilometers away from Munnar. Situated atop the low rolling slopes of tea plantation and heaving plains of Nilgiris, Photo Point is very close to Mattupetty Dam. All over greenery due to a tea plantation and silver oaks in between woods along with a small yet beautiful stream makes this place a picture perfect location.

Lakkom Waterfalls:

Lakkam Waterfalls | by VivekP (CC BY- SA 4.0)

About 25 kilometers away from Munnar on the way to Marayoor, Lakkom waterfalls is another important apart of Munnar tourism. It is a part of Eravikulam stream of Eravikulam National Park and is surrounded by Vaga Trees. The water falls from a height of 50 ft and gets collected in the bottom which acts as a swimming pool. This stream is a tributary to Pambar River which is merged into River Cauvery.

Muniyara – Anakottapara Park, Marayoor:

(…will be updated soon)

Cheeyapara Waterfalls:

Cheeyappara Waterfalls | by IM3847 (CC BY- SA 4.0)

The Cochin – Munnar Highway is through dense forest and is full of scenic beauty. The magnificent Cheeyappara waterfall that cascades down through seven steps thereby meets the Valara Waterfalls is the view that the Cochin- Munnar highway brings to you.

Attukal Waterfalls:

The Attukal Waterfalls is located about 2 kilometers away from Munnar. The water cascade through the towering hills between the dense forest and surrounded by seasonal flower, it is a beautiful place for leisure activities. The enchanting natural beauty makes the soothing climate much more pleasant and memorable.

Chinnakanal Waterfalls / Power House Falls:

Chinnakanal Water Falls, Munnar | by Jaseem Hamza (CC BY- SA 3.0)

Power House Waterfalls which is also called the Chinnakanal Waterfalls is located near Chinnakanal village about 14 kilometers away from Munnar towards Thekkady – Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The waterfall, cascades from about 2,000 meters of height rolling through the sharp hills. The region has a rich picturesque natural beauty with tea estates and thick vegetation all around.

Echo Point:

Echo Point | by Ruben Joseph (CC BY- SA 3.0)

One of the most visited locations in Munnar, the Echo Point is situated on the way to Top Station between Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake. This scenic destination is located at 600 ft, right next to a quaint lake and lush green mountains, making it a visual treat. As one scream out from this point, it resounds back into the surrounding breaking the serene silence of the hill station. It is also a popular location for birdwatching.

Carmelagiri Elephant Park:

Munnar  Elephant Safari | by Shijan Kaakkara (CC BY-SA 4.0)

To experience the best Elephant Ride in Kerala, one must visit the Carmelagiri Elephant Park located in Top Station Munnar. The park offers short rides on the elephant back through the Munnar forest. From the top of this park, you can enjoy the charming beauty of rolling hills and tree plantation.

Lockhart Tea Museum:

Lockhart Tea Museum | by Gnan.prabhakar (CC BY- SA 4.0)

The Lockhart Tea Museum is situated 9 kilometers away from Munnar on the Thekkady Road. Originally constructed in 1936, the museum was opened to the public in January 2014. The museum holds the photographs and machinery that was used in earlier days of tea production. It also educates the visitors with the orthodox tea processing in the making of black tea, green tea, and white tea and its benefit. Fresh tea is sold in their outlets at a cheaper rate.

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