Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Munnar, an inky hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a stunning hill station known for its tea estates, misty hills and tranquil atmosphere. Nature lovers, honeymooners, and adventurers love it. Whether it’s a romantic retreat or a refreshing break, Munnar has something for everyone. In this Munnar travel guide, we will take you through all the aspects of Munnar, from places to visit and things to do to places to eat and stay. Let’s start exploring and make your memories in this amazing jewel of South India!
Location
Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
Munnar is in the Idukki district of Kerala, at an altitude of 1,600 metres above sea level. It sits at the convergence of three mountain streams, Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. Thus providing a perfect location for views and a refreshing breeze.
How To Reach Munnar
Photo: Binu jayakrishnan / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport ((approx. 110 km away). From here, taxis and buses take you to Munnar.
By Road: Munnar is well connected via road to Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore. Buses and private cabs are widely accessible by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
By Train: Aluva Railway Station (prox. 100 km) and Ernakulam Junction (approx. The closest railheads are 120 km away.
Things To Do In Munnar
Explore these top things to do in Munnar with the Munnar travel guide. It covers trekking options, tea plantations and camping spots.
1. Trek To Anamudi Peak
Photo: Mdmadhu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The highest point of South India, Anamudi, is an ideal trekking spot. The trails are moderately strenuous and wind their way through forests, prairies and bubbling streams. Walking here is a great opportunity to see exotic plants and animals like the Nilgiri Tahr. When you arrive at the top, the views of the Western Ghats take you to awe. It’s a perfect day trip for novice or advanced hikers, though permits may be required from the forest service. Don’t forget to bring water, snacks and sturdy footwear.
Location: Inside Eravikulam National Park
Best Time To Visit: November to February
2. Visit A Tea Plantation
Photo: Jan J George / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are in Munnar, do visit the lush tea gardens. The plantations provide a hands-on experience of tea production and refinement. The Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, at 7,900 feet, is especially impressive for its organic farming practices and stunning surroundings. The tour guides give you an idea of how tea is made, from plucking to packing. Tea tastings allow you to taste locally produced blends, and visitors can also buy top-quality teas directly from the estates.
Location: Various estates across Munnar
Best Time To Visit: All year round
3. Camp Under The Stars
Photo: Varkeyparakkal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Camping in the wild at Munnar is a great experience. Places such as Suryanelli and Chinnakanal are well known for their outdoor experiences. Campers will have the opportunity to make bonfires, gaze into the sky, and listen to nature’s sounds. A few campsites even arrange activities such as trekking, cycling, and sightseeing. Most camping packages offer food, tents and guides to make it hassle-free. It’s the perfect time to turn off your devices and unwind in nature.
Location: Suryanelli and Chinnakanal areas
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Places To Visit In And Around Munnar
Explore this heavenly hill station in the lap of the Western Ghats with this Munnar travel guide covering some nice places to visit in and near Munnar.
1. Mattupetty Dam And Lake
Photo: Mohsin Bin Latheef / Wikimedia Commons
Mattupetty, an ideal picnic and boating area, lies amid greenery and hills. The dam, designed to save water and generate electricity, is an engineering icon. The placid lake provides pedal and speedboat rides and is ideal for families and couples. It also has birding available around the surrounding hills and forests, with many migrating birds abounding here. Remember to bring your camera—the landscapes are too much to pass up! Just down the road, there is the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, with its high-growth cattle herds.
Location: 13 km from Munnar town
Best Time To Visit: October to February
2. Eravikulam National Park
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 15 km away from Munnar, this park is a haven for wildlife lovers. It is the cradle of the threatened Nilgiri Tahr and of meadows stretching out to sea. The park is also home to the fabled Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India and a prime trekking destination. Tourists can enjoy its abundant bio-diversity and the park’s serene nature, particularly in the period when the Neelakurinji flowers bloom every 12 years. Guided walks ensure you can see some rare plants and animals.
Location: Near Rajamalai, Munnar
Best Time To Visit: January to March and September to November
3. Tea Museum
Photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra / Wikimedia Commons
This museum, which is run by Tata Tea, provides an intriguing look into the tea culture of Munnar. It describes the history of the region’s tea plantations, which date back to the 19th century. It features antique machines, photographs, and an audio-visual tour that shows how tea is produced. The museum also conducts tea tastings, during which you can taste new blends. Both the tea smell and the peaceful atmosphere make this an experience for both history and tea lovers. In the museum shop, you can purchase fine teas to take home.
Location: Nallathanni Estate, Munnar
Best Time To Visit: All year round
4. Kundala Lake
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
The Kundala Lake, known for its clear water and beauty, is the best destination for a tranquil vacation. The artificial reservoir mirrors the surrounding hills and offers postcard-esque views. Rowboats, pedal boats and shikara boats are among the many ways to enjoy the lake’s beauty. The beauty of the place is enhanced by the cherry blossoms blooming in January and February, as well as the Kundala Dam nearby. There is a particularly special glow in the early mornings and evenings as mist descends on the waters.
Location: 20 km from Munnar town
Best Time To Visit: August to February
5. Top Station
Photo: Varkeyparakkal / Wikimedia Commons
Top Station has a good view of the Western Ghats, and it is one of the highest places in Munnar. It lies on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border and is noted for its stunning valley views and the spectacular Neelakurinji flowers that bloom only once in 12 years. The place takes its name from being the highest railway station on the ancient Kottagudi Tea Estate road. Photographers and nature enthusiasts flock here for the stunning landscapes and occasional cloud squalls through the valleys.
Location: 32 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: April to June
6. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread over 90 square kilometres, the sanctuary boasts a range of habitats, from thorn woodlands to moist meadows. It’s also home to rare plants and animals, such as the rare Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Indian Star Tortoise, and dozens of birds. The sanctuary is accessible to its visitors through guided trekking trails, including a trek to Thoovanam Waterfalls, an inaccessible part of the sanctuary. The reserve is also conducive for camping, bird-watching, and wildlife photography, which makes it a risky yet peaceful escape from Munnar.
Location: 60 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: November to May
7. Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Photo: Sanandkarunakaran / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Close to Munnar, the Marayoor Sandalwood Forests are a distinct place for the fragrance of sandalwood trees and the culture it has. The woodlands are dotted with dolmens (tombs) from the Stone Age, which provide an insight into the past. You can even visit the sandalwood factory owned by the Kerala Forest Department and get a feel of how the valuable wood is processed. The beauty of the land, the babbling streams and hillsides, makes it a destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Its beauty is enhanced by the sugar cane groves and jaggery factories in the neighbouring village.
Location: 40 km from Munnar
Best Time To Visit: December to May
Where To Stay
Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Munnar boasts a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. For luxury seekers, Fragrant Nature Resort and The Panoramic Getaway offer world-class amenities with breathtaking views of the hills. Mid-range options like Tea County Munnar and Elysium Gardens Hill Resort combine comfort with affordability. Backpackers and budget travellers can explore homestays such as Zina Cottage or hotels like Misty Mountain Hostel, which provide cosy stays at reasonable prices. For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Chandys Windy Woods offers an eco-luxury experience amidst tea gardens. Many accommodations also arrange activities like plantation tours and guided treks, making your stay both relaxing and adventurous.
Where To Eat
Photo: MattiPaavola / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Munnar offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers. For authentic Kerala cuisine, Rapsy Restaurant is a must-visit, serving delicious beef fry, Kerala parotta, and flavorful curries. Saravana Bhavan, a vegetarian delight, is perfect for those seeking traditional South Indian dishes like dosa, idli, and sambar. If you’re a seafood lover, head to SN Restaurant, known for its fresh fish curry and prawns. For a more upscale experience, try Tea Tales Café, which offers fusion dishes and artisanal teas. Don’t miss the homemade chocolates and aromatic spices available at local markets and bakeries, which make for excellent snacks or souvenirs.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Munnar, Kerala, depends on the season and preferences. Budget trips can start at ₹8,000–₹12,000 per person for a 3-day trip, including travel, accommodation, and meals. Mid-range trips may cost ₹15,000–₹25,000 per person, with stays in premium resorts and guided tours. Luxury experiences can go up to ₹40,000 or more, offering exclusive stays, private transport, and curated activities. Costs may vary based on travel mode, duration, and additional activities.
Tips For Travellers
- Take warm clothes, especially in the winter because it can get really cold.
- Accommodation should be booked well in advance in busy months such as December and January.
- Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) if you want to spend time in the wilderness.
- Consider hiring a guide in town and treks and explore to the fullest.
- Bring cash, as some small shops and restaurants don’t take credit cards.
Munnar is a paradise where nature plays out at its best. From strolling through lush tea gardens and climbing to lofty peaks to relaxing by the lakes, Munnar is a rich break from urban life. With the help of this Munnar travel guide, explore this paradise freely. So take your bags and explore this scenic hill station. Plan your trip to Kerala with TripXL now.
Cover Photo: Bimal K C / Wikimedia Commons
