One such destination for camping existing in the ideal world is Munnar, perched on the Western Ghats of Kerala. Known for the adorning lush green tea estates, hills wrapped in mist, and serendipity, Munnar offers an experience of unmatched camping. From relaxation in the lap of nature to going on adventurous treks, tent camping in Munnar offers just the right blend of relaxation coupled with fun. The cool climate and varied flora and fauna, thick with an almost palpable graciousness of the region, make it a nature lover’s heaven.
Location
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Munnar is located in the Idukki district, Kerala in the Western Ghats at an altitude of about 1,600 metres above sea level and is known for its expansive tea plantations, rolling hills, and lush green landscapes.
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How To Reach
By Road: The place has good road connectivity. The place is regularly connected to nearby cities like Kochi, Coimbatore, and Madurai by bus and taxi.
By Air: The nearby airport is the Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of about 110 km. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Munnar.
By Train: The nearest railway stations are at Aluva and Ernakulam, 110 and 130 km away, respectively. One can get to Munnar from the railway station by hiring a taxi or taking a bus.
Places To Camp In Munnar
1. Koodaram Camp
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Enjoy the lush green surroundings of aromatic tea plantations with mesmerising views of the Muthirapuzha River, and Attukadu waterfalls.
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2. Cloud Farm
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Witness a wide variety of rare flora and fauna while camping in this biodiversity hotspot. Also, the panoramic views from the viewpoints are one of a kind to allure you.
3. Suryanelli Camp
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Suryanelli is located at a height of 1880m this spot offers breathtaking scenery and amazing views of the Valley of Theni.
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4. Black Eagles Camp
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This place in Munnar is famous for its night sky views along with tea gardens and chilly breathtaking valleys. Black Eagles Camp is one of the suitable spots for camping in Munnar.
5. Camp Woody
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The location is ideal for camping in Munnar, here you can enjoy trekking, cycling, birdwatching, plantation walks and more with beautiful views of nature.
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Places To Visit In And Around Munnar
1. Top Station
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Top Station is the highest point in Munnar and offers brilliant views of the valley down below and distant mountains. It’s an excellent spot for witnessing the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years, covering the hills in a vibrant blue. It is a photographer’s paradise in the early morning mist with the all-round vistas.
Entry Fees: N/A
Location: 32 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: Early morning for the best views
2. Eravikulam National Park
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A sanctuary to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Eravikulam National Park offers beautiful views and high biodiversity. The undulating hills carpeted by green grass make the park popular, along with the Anamudi Peak, which happens to be the highest peak in South India. It is an excellent place for trekking and wildlife spotting.
Entry Fees: ₹90 for adults, ₹65 for children
Location: 15 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: November to April
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3. Mattupetty Dam
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It’s a beautiful picnic and boat ride location. The dam’s reservoir reflects the beauty of the surrounding hills and forests, which provide an excellent scenic view. You can relax on the boat ride while enjoying the scenery or rush to visit the dairy farm that is known for its high-yielding cattle.
Entry Fees: N/A
Location: 13 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
4. Anamudi Peak
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At an altitude of 2,695 meters, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in South India. It’s celebrated for its marvelous view of the West Ghats, covering a complete expanse. The route to Anamudi through thick forests and rich grasslands is contentious but overwhelming.
Entry Fees: Permits required
Location: Inside Eravikulam National Park
Best Time To Visit: November to May
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Where To Stay
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Munnar provides every type of accommodation. This ranges from low-budget season-going guesthouses to star-rated hotels. Popular camping sites are Suryanelli and Chinnakanal, which provide a view and close-to-nature experience. One can choose from a variety of resorts and hotels, ranging from the luxurious, The Tall Trees and Windermere Estate, to the budgetary, Tea County or Zina Cottage. In most of these resorts, sightseeing, trekking, and other adventure sports are organized, which also makes this sojourn worthwhile.
Where To Eat
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Munnar has several eating joints that are sure to suit every taste and budget. Saravana Bhavan is a known destination for traditional Kerala cuisine, relishing a whole range of vegetarian varieties. Hill Spice and Bamboo Hut go best for the taste of authentic locals. Many resorts also have in-house restaurants that source fresh produce from nearby farms, offering a ‘farm-to-table’ experience for guests. While strolling around the town, street food stalls and small eateries offer scrumptious snacks and beverages.
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Other Factors To Consider
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Cost of the Trip
A camping trip in Munnar will cost an average of ₹5000-15000 per person, depending on the type of accommodation and activities to be undertaken.
Tips for Travellers
- Arrive at the places early to avoid crowding.
- Respect animals and maintain the decorum of the zoo.
- Take your camera with you to capture the beauty of moments.
Camping in Munnar is one such experience that couples the serenity of nature with adventure at its best. Starting from the serene moments spent among the lush tea plantations to misty hill treks to starry nights beside the campfire, Munnar offers a very different getaway to every camper. Plan a trip with TripXL and get soaked into the enigmatic charm of Munnar.
Cover Photo: Arshad.ka5 / Wikimedia Commons