Munnar Travel Information
Munnar, a picturesque hill station in Kerala, is renowned for its lush tea gardens, stunning landscapes, and serene environment. Here’s a comprehensive guide for first-time foreign tourists visiting Munnar
Tea Gardens
- Description: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations. A visit to the tea estates provides insight into tea production and offers breathtaking views of the verdant hills.
- Key Attractions:
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Known for producing some of the highest quality tea and offering panoramic views.
- Tata Tea Museum: Explore the history of tea cultivation and manufacturing in Munnar
Eravikulam National Park
- Description: A protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. It also offers scenic trekking routes.
- Key Attractions:
- Anamudi Peak: The highest peak in South India, offering stunning views (trekking requires prior permission).
- Nilgiri Tahr Sanctuary: Spot rare wildlife and enjoy the lush landscape
Mattupetty Dam
- Description: A picturesque dam surrounded by lush greenery and hills. Ideal for boating and enjoying the tranquil environment.
- Key Attractions:
- Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the reservoir.
- Viewpoints: Scenic spots around the dam offer great photo opportunities
Attukal Waterfalls
- Description: A beautiful waterfall located amidst dense forests and hills, ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions:
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the cascading water and the surrounding natural beauty
Rose Garden
- Description: A well-maintained garden with a wide variety of roses and other flowers. A pleasant spot for leisurely walks and photography.
- Key Attractions:
- Flower Varieties: Admire the different varieties of roses and other flowers
Blossom Park
- Description: A landscaped park with a variety of flowers, trees, and manicured lawns. It’s a great place for relaxation and picnicking.
- Key Attractions:
- Recreational Activities: Enjoy facilities like boating, cycling, and children’s play areas
Lakkom Waterfalls
- Description: A serene waterfall located in the midst of lush greenery. A great spot for a peaceful retreat.
- Key Attractions:
- Natural Beauty: Relax by the waterfall and enjoy the tranquil surroundings
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Description: Located near Munnar, this sanctuary is known for its dry deciduous forests and wildlife, including the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel.
- Key Attractions:
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot various species of flora and fauna in their natural habitat
Where to Stay in Munnar
Mid-Range Hotels
- Fort Munnar: A well-located hotel with comfortable rooms and good amenities.
- Deshadan Mountain Resorts: A resort offering stunning views and a range of activities.
- Abad Copper Castle: Known for its picturesque setting and comfortable stay
Mid-Range Hotels
- Fort Munnar: A well-located hotel with comfortable rooms and good amenities.
- Deshadan Mountain Resorts: A resort offering stunning views and a range of activities.
- Abad Copper Castle: Known for its picturesque setting and comfortable stay
Budget Hotels
- Hotel Hillview: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a convenient location.
- Green View Residency: Affordable accommodation with good facilities.
- The Silver Tips: Offers comfortable stays at a reasonable price
Where to Eat in Munnar
Fine Dining
- Ragamaya Resort & Spa: Offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local and international cuisine.
- The Panoramic Getaway: A restaurant offering a mix of Kerala cuisine and continental dishes with great views
Local Cuisine
- Saravana Bhavan: Famous for its South Indian vegetarian fare and traditional Kerala dishes.
- Hotel Annapoorna: Known for its authentic Kerala meals and variety of options.
- The Tiffin Room: Offers a range of Indian and Kerala delicacies in a cozy setting
Street Food
- Local Markets: Try street food like vada, idiyappam, and fresh fruits from local vendors
Activities for Tourists in Munnar
Tea Garden Tours
- Description: Explore the tea estates and learn about tea processing. Enjoy scenic walks through the tea gardens.
- Popular Spots: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Tata Tea Museum
Trekking and Nature Walks
- Description: Munnar offers several trekking trails and nature walks through its lush landscapes.
- Popular Trails: Anamudi Peak, Eravikulam National Park
Boating
- Description: Enjoy boating in serene locations like Mattupetty Dam and Pothamedu View Point.
- Popular Spots: Mattupetty Dam, Pothamedu View Point
Wildlife Safaris
- Description: Explore the local wildlife and scenic beauty in nearby wildlife sanctuaries.
- Popular Spots: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park
Visit Local Markets
- Description: Shop for local handicrafts, spices, tea, and souvenirs at local markets.
- Popular Markets: Munnar town markets, local spice shops
Ayurvedic Treatments
- Description: Enjoy traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages at wellness centers and resorts.
- Popular Spots: Ayurvedic wellness centers in and around Munnar
Popular Souvenirs to Buy in Munnar
Munnar is a fantastic place to pick up souvenirs that capture the essence of Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some popular souvenirs to consider buying when visiting Munnar
Tea
- Description: Munnar is renowned for its tea plantations. You can buy high-quality tea leaves, including varieties like black tea, green tea, and specialty blends.
- Where to Buy: Tea estates like Tata Tea Museum and local tea shops
Spices
- Description: Kerala is famous for its spices. Freshly packed spices such as cardamom, pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and turmeric make for great souvenirs.
- Where to Buy: Spice markets and local spice shops in Munnar
Kerala Handicrafts
- Description: Traditional handicrafts including wooden carvings, brassware, and coconut shell products. Items like decorative elephants and traditional lamps (Nilavilakku) are popular.
- Where to Buy: Handicraft shops and local markets
Handmade Pottery
- Description: Pottery items such as clay pots, vases, and decorative pieces made using traditional techniques.
- Where to Buy: Artisan workshops and local craft stores
Local Honey
- Description: Pure honey produced in the region, known for its natural flavor and health benefits.
- Where to Buy: Local markets and specialty stores