Munnar can easily be called as the crowned prince of Kerala. Tourist attractions in Munnar bring nature lovers from around the world every year in the lap of vast green plantations, valleys, rivers, and forests. Located at a height of 1700 meters above sea level, Munnar is every bit nature’s paradise. Enjoying a pleasant climate all round the year, there’s never a bad time to visit this amazing hill station.
The history of Munnar is associated with the earliest known inhabitants- Tamilians and Malayalis. It was mainly inhabited by plantation laborers once the ability of the soil to produce fine tea was recognized. However, in due course of time, Munnar attractions with its stunning flora and fauna, invigorating climate, and sprawling green tea plantations achieved the position of the best-known tourist attractions in India.
best places to visit in Munnar
making it one of the most loved tourist places of Kerala.1. Atukkal waterfalls
There’s nothing like watching the crystalline water flowing like a sea of milk through the green mountains in the jungle. The Atukkal waterfalls give you unimaginably beautiful and scenic cascade, thus adding to your love for natural beauty. A small tea shop located at an ideal view of the fall allows you to sip a hot cup of tea while watching the stunning Atukkal waterfall.
2. Mattupetty Dam
A reservoir located approx.13km from the main city of Munnar, Mattupetty dam is a famous tourist spot, thanks to its surrounding beauty. Adjoined by lush green trees and mountains all around, the dam is also famously known as the best place to watch elephants for it is one of their favorite waterholes. The reservoir was built to store water for hydroelectric projects. You can avail the boating facilities available to enjoy a better view of the dam.
3. Top station point
As the name suggests, the Top station point is the place located at the highest altitude in Munnar. In fact, there’s hardly a day when the place is without fog and experiences a clear sky. Although, a pretty long drive up till the top, the view is every bit worth your efforts, plus, the views along the way are stupendous. If you start early, you can stop to see two dams and a lush green tea garden on the way too.
4. Eravikulam National Park
The main reason for creating the Eravikulam National Park was for the protection of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. While the main purpose still lives, the Eravikulam National Park also records twenty-six different species of mammals along with the largest surviving population of the Nilgiri Tahr. Other animals include gaur, Indian muntjac, sambar deer, Golden jackal, jungle cat, wild dog, dhole, leopard, tiger, and more.
5. Anamudi
Anamudi peak is the highest point outside the Himalayas. Located a 2695mts above sea level, it is the highest peak in the Southern Ghats and the whole of South India. The Anamudi mountain is one of the most enchanting sights of Munnar and a perfect treat to your eyes. Adventurous souls love to enjoy treks on the mountain and experience the natural beauty up close and personal.
6. The Tea Museum
A first of its kind in India, the tea museum is situated at the KDHP’s Nullatanni estate in the city of Munnar. The museum is a way of showcasing the enormous growth experienced by the centuries-old tea plantations of the area and allowing the people to get a detailed understanding of the entire process of tea extraction from the plantations. It is a must visit the place to truly appreciate that laborious work that goes into creating a fine tea.
7. Mattupetty Dairy farm
Spread over an area of 191 hectares, Mattupetty dairy farm is famous for cattle farming. Started in the year 1963, it was originally called Indo- Swiss project. The entire project aimed to develop a high-quality cattle breed that can adapt to the local environment. The farm today is home to over 400 high-quality cattle breeding including bulls and cows. The place is loved by professionals like veterinarians, para-veterinarians, and technicians looking for detailed courses.
Amazing facts about Munnar:
• Neelakurinjini blooms, a spectacular blue flower that blooms once after every 12 years grows in Munnar, and when that happens, the entire town of Munnar is covered in a blanket of awe-inspiring blue Neelakurinjini.
• The name Munnar is believed to refer to the three rivers signifying its location at the union of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers.
• Apart from the waterfalls mentioned above, don’t forget to visit the Cheeyapara waterfalls and Lakkom waterfalls around the town of Munnar.
• Points such as Echo point and Pothanmedu Viewpoint are well- known for being a treat of natural beauty to the eyes.
• For adventure lovers, trekking and hiking at Meesapulimala mountains and Lock Hart Gap are well-known places in Munnar.
Best time to visit Munnar
With its amazing climate and pleasant temperature all year round, tourists flock the town all through the year. Munnar also experiences frequent rain showers from June to September. Even the summer months are quite pleased with the maximum temperature not going beyond 35 degrees. It is a great time to see tea plantations and gardens. However, the best time to visit Munnar is from December to February, when the weather is at its best, waterfalls flowing, and greenery all around.
