Tucked away in the lush green hills of Kerala lies a little piece of paradise called Munnar. Known for its sprawling tea estates, pristine valleys, exotic flora and fauna, gushing waterfalls, and craggy peaks that pierce the clouds. Munnar casts a magical spell on every visitor.
My recent trip to this bewitchingly beautiful hill station was nothing short of enchanting. Through this blog, I want to take you along on my enthralling journey and help you uncover the treasures that Munnar has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid trekker, or simply someone looking for a quiet getaway, Munnar will sweep you off your feet!
Arriving in Munnar
After an early morning start from Kochi, we drove past vibrant green hills carpeted with tea bushes on both sides. The fresh crisp air and the overcast sky set the perfect mood. As we left the chaos of Munnar town behind, the views became increasingly breathtaking. Layers of hills gently blanketed in mist loomed in the distance. Our spirits were already soaring high.
We drove higher up the winding ghat road, the air turning chillier. The clouds were now floating right next to us! It felt like being suspended mid-air in a plane. And just when the fog had engulfed everything, the sky suddenly cleared. We were left spellbound by the magnificent panorama unfolding around us. I had seen many photos of the famed scenic highways of Munnar, but nothing prepared me for this surreal spectacle.
After this heavenly pitstop, we continued upwards toward our cosy homestay overlooking a lush green valley. The drive itself was therapeutic with hardly any vehicles in sight and soothing music playing in the background. The rich fresh oxygen with a subtle aroma of wet mud and flowers infused new energy. As we took in deep breaths, all the stress evaporated away.
The Charming Tea Gardens of Munnar
The next morning, after a rejuvenating sleep, we set off to explore the famed tea estates of Munnar. We learned about the process of tea cultivation and picked a few tender leaves ourselves. I was intrigued to know that it’s mostly women who skillfully hand-pick the most delicate tea leaves here.
As we walked through perfectly manicured rows of tea shrubs, the fresh floral scent and the sheer greenness purified our souls. The hills in the distance swathed by cottony clouds presented a painting-like backdrop. Every turn revealed resplendent new vistas. It was a proud moment to know that the tea produced here gets exported worldwide.
Mystical Mountains and Spotting Exotic Wildlife
The next adventure on our itinerary was conquering the mystic hiking trail leading up to the peak of the Mattuppetty hill. Although overgrown in parts, the trail was bursting with captivating sights – colorful wildflowers, chirpy birds, curious squirrels and butterflies dancing around. The higher we went, the more splendid was the unfolding panorama around. And suddenly the sky darkened with menacing clouds. Sensing approaching rain, we climbed down halfway and luckily found shelter in a cave just in time!
The rain only added drama to the atmosphere. We watched mesmerized as veils of rain transformed the forest into a lush green wonderland. A rainbow appeared like magic as the clouds parted. We filled our lungs with refreshed mountain air, soaked in the raw natural beauty for as long as we could and began descending.
On our way back, we stopped by the Mattuppetty lake hoping to spot exotic wildlife. Luck was on our side and we saw majestic elephants with cute calves drinking water on the banks. Just this single sighting made the arduous hike worthwhile! Driving through the wildlife sanctuary, we also spotted playful monkeys and few species of deer grazing.
Reveling in Picture-Postcard Natural Wonders
On our last day, after exploring tea estates and wildlife, it was now time for some sightseeing! Munnar has no dearth of picture-postcard locations and splendid natural wonders. Our first stop was the magnificent Attukal Waterfalls surrounded by dense evergreen Shola forests and rolling hills. Known as the Niagara of the East, it was a treat to watch the water gushing down several hundred feet with full fury. The fine drizzle from the waterfall droplets felt beautifully refreshing.
We then drove to the quaint hill station of Chinnakanal where we enjoyed delicious local food at a shack with bird’s eye views of the valley. Our final stop was the charming town of Marayoor encircled by mountains and known for its sandalwood forests, unique rock formations, ancient dolmenoid cists and natural caves with Stone Age carvings. It gave us a glimpse into the intriguing human history of Munnar going back to the Neolithic times.
Bidding Adieu with Exquisite Memories
As the sun went down on our last evening, we stood silently overlooking the pristine hills and valleys of Munnar one final time. The kaleidoscope of memories from our trip kept playing in my mind. From tea estates to waterfalls, from diverse exotic wildlife to Neolithic sites… Munnar had revealed its many treasures to us over the past days. Its raw and untouched beauty had revived our senses and infused us with pure joy.
Though it was now time to return, I know for sure Munnar’s magic will keep beckoning me back again! Its splendid landscapes are forever etched in my memories and my heart.
Complete Travel Guide to Munnar – FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about traveling to Munnar to help you plan your own trip to this paradise tucked away in God’s own country – Kerala!
When is the best time to visit Munnar?
The months from August to May are perfect to enjoy the lush green landscapes and moderate weather. March to May is also great for trekking enthusiasts. Avoid the monsoon months of June and July due to heavy rainfall.
How to reach Munnar?
The nearest airport is Kochi, about 130 km from Munnar. From Kochi, you can hire a taxi or board the state-run bus. There are also overnight and day buses available from nearby towns like Kottayam and Coimbatore.
What are the top attractions in and around Munnar?
Top attractions include Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, Tata Tea Museum, Attukal Waterfalls, Top Station Viewpoint, Echo Point, Kundala Lake, Marayoor Sandalwood Forests, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and more.
What are the best outdoor activities in Munnar?
Trekking, rock climbing, camping, wildlife safaris, cycling tours of tea estates, bamboo rafting, boating in reservoirs, nature walks, and bird watching are some top outdoor activities.
What is the best way to experience Munnar’s tea estates?
Joining a tea plantation walking tour, visiting the Tata Tea Museum, shopping for tea and spices, staying in heritage colonial-style bungalows, and sipping the finest tea overlooking sprawling estates are the best ways.
“Capturing the Spellbinding Beauty of Munnar, the Crown Jewel of Kerala’s Hill Stations”