Top 10 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Munnar
Munnar, nestled in Kerala's Western Ghats, is a beautiful hill station known for its lush tea plantations, serene landscapes, and wildlife sanctuaries. This comprehensive guide highlights the 10 best places to visit in Munnar, making your trip to this nature lover’s paradise truly unforgettable.
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1. Eravikulam National Park
Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the rare Neelakurinji flowers, Eravikulam National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 97 square kilometers, it offers stunning views of rolling hills and mist-covered valleys. It’s a popular spot for trekking and wildlife photography.
Entry Fee: ₹125 for adults, ₹95 for children
Timings: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed in February and March)
Best for: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts
2. Echo Point
At Echo Point, located 600 feet above sea level, you can experience an acoustic phenomenon where your voice echoes back across the misty hills. Surrounded by serene lakes and lush greenery, it’s a must-visit for families and nature enthusiasts.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
Best for: Families, nature lovers, trekking
3. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
At an altitude of 7,900 feet, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the world’s highest tea plantation. Visitors can tour the factory, learn about traditional tea-making processes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
Entry Fee: ₹75
Timings: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Best for: Tea lovers, photographers
4. Mattupetty Dam
Mattupetty Dam is a beautiful reservoir surrounded by tea plantations and rolling hills. It’s a great spot for boating and picnicking, offering panoramic views of the lush landscape.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free (boating has separate charges)
Best for: Families, couples, photographers
5. Anamudi Peak
Standing at 8,842 feet, Anamudi Peak is the highest point in South India and a must-visit for trekkers. It’s located within Eravikulam National Park, and permits for trekking must be obtained from the park authorities.
Timings: Requires permit
Best for: Trekkers, adventure enthusiasts
6. Tea Museum
Learn about the history of tea plantations at the Tata Tea Museum. The museum showcases vintage machinery, tea-making processes, and a documentary about Munnar’s tea culture.
Entry Fee: ₹75 for adults, ₹35 for children
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Best for: History buffs, tea lovers
7. Pothamedu Viewpoint
Offering sweeping views of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, Pothamedu Viewpoint is a perfect spot for trekkers and photographers. On a clear day, you can see the Muthirapuzha River and the Idukki Arch Dam from here.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best for: Trekkers, photographers
8. Top Station
Top Station is the highest point in Munnar, offering magnificent views of the Western Ghats and the Theni Valley. The spot is famous for the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best for: Couples, nature lovers, photographers
9. Kundala Lake
Located 20 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is known for its cherry blossoms and serene atmosphere. You can enjoy pedal boating and shikara rides while admiring the lush surroundings.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free (boating charges extra)
Best for: Couples, families
10. Chokramudi Peak
For adventure seekers, Chokramudi Peak offers one of the best trekking experiences in Munnar. The peak provides breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations, especially at sunrise.
Best for: Trekkers, adventure lovers, photographers
Timings: Best visited during early morning or sunset
Comparison Table: Top 5 Places to Visit in Munnar
Place | Best For | Entry Fee | Timings |
Eravikulam National Park | Wildlife enthusiasts | ₹125 for adults | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Echo Point | Families, photographers | Free | Open all day |
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate | Tea lovers, photographers | ₹75 | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Mattupetty Dam | Families, picnickers | Free | 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
Pothamedu Viewpoint | Trekkers, photographers | Free | 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM |
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Munnar?
The ideal time to visit Munnar is from September to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing.
2. Is trekking available in Munnar?
Yes, trekking is popular in Munnar, especially at places like Anamudi Peak, Chokramudi Peak, and Meesapulimala.
3. Are there entry fees for Munnar’s tourist spots?
While many spots like Echo Point and Pothamedu Viewpoint are free, some attractions like Eravikulam National Park and the Tea Museum have nominal entry fees.
4. Can I visit tea plantations in Munnar?
Yes, tea plantations such as Kolukkumalai Tea Estate offer guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about tea processing.
5. How far is Munnar from Cochin International Airport?
Munnar is approximately 110 km from Cochin International Airport, and it takes around 3.5 to 4 hours by car.
Plan your trip to Munnar and experience the beauty of these stunning attractions!
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