Munnar is a famous hill station in Kerala and located at an elevation of 1700 meters above the sea level. It draws a large number of tourists every year because of its pleasant climate, lush green landscapes, and beautiful tea plantations. Munnar is located in the Western Ghats and has a large cover of the area under protection as it houses some of the rare species of flora and fauna. It also offers many places to travelers and tourists where they can have a great time with their friends and family. Kochi Is the nearest airport from Munnar and taxi or private cars are the best option to travel. Kochi to Munnar cabs can be easily booked online. Here are some of our favorite places to visit in Munnar:

Eravikulam National Park:

The protected forest area is situated at an elevation of 2000 meters above sea level and is home to more than 750 rare species of Flora, Fauna and Reptiles. In the Eravikulam National Park you can find some endangered species of animals like the Tiger, Nilgiri Leopard, Gaur, Golden Jackal and Jungle Cat but it also serves as a sanctuary for the nearly extinct mountain goat of South India, The Nilgiri Tahr. We enjoyed wandering through the park while trying to get a glimpse of the Nilgiri Tahr and were glad to find a few just before we could leave. A must visit place in Munnar for the panoramic and scenic views that are breathtakingly beautiful.

Tea Museum:

It is one of the unique museums which depict the history and growth of tea plantations in the area. It is located in the Nullatanni estate in Munnar. It is a must visit for tea lovers like me and hence we decided to visit and learn about the process of how my favourite brew is made. The Tata Tea Museum diligently portrays the growth of Munnar tea estates, veritably conveyed through some of the displays like the rudimentary tea roller to the modern fully automated tea factory. Visitors to the museum can satiate their curiosity on various stages of tea processing, and also learn a thing or two about the production of black and green tea. We went back with bags full of tea to take home as souvenirs and gifts.

Kalarikshethra:

The temple of Kerala’s traditions. Experience the masters of Kalaripayattu and Kathakali.Kathakali is one of the major forms of classical Indian dance. It is another “story play” genre of art, but one distinguished by its elaborately colorful make-up, costumes and face masks wearing actor-dancers, who have traditionally been all males. WhereasKalaripayattu is a martial art sword fighting, which originated as a style in southern India. The word Kalari first appears in Sangam literature to describe both a battlefield and combat arena.We suggest watching the 2 hour show of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu at Kalarikshethra it costs about Rs 400/- for both.

Matupetty Dam: The dam is built on Mattupetty Lake which houses several species of birds and animals due to the continuous supply of water through the reservoir. One of the ideal destinations for boating at Munnar in Kerala. Constructed to conserve water and generate hydroelectricity, the Dam is now one of the famous picnic spots in Munnar. The most attractive part of Mattupetty dam is its still water which reflects the tea gardens around it.

Unfortunately due to a fast-paced schedule of only 2 days in Munnar, that’s all we were able to do. However our friends and travel mates suggest you also visit the following:

Atukkad Waterfalls:

These waterfalls are a prominent tourist destination in Munnar. Located amidst thick forests, the serene and romantic surroundings make this place special. It is also considered to be among the best trekking spots in the area and must be surely included in your Munnar itinerary to truly feel one with nature.

Dolmens of Muniyara:

The Neolithic burial spot is a famous archeological site in Munnar. It is located in a village called Marayur and can be reached through a car or taxi. You will also experience some panoramic views of the mountains covered in a lush green plantation.

Kundala Lake:

It is an artificial reservoir located at a distance of 20 km from Munnar. The lake is formed by an arch-shaped dam congregated between the mountain ranges. You can enjoy a great picnic time alongside the lake and there is also boating facility which can be used.

Echo Point:

There is a sound echo effect at this point and it is named after that. The spot has a beautiful lake beside the mountains and it’s a great place for photography and camping. A rare flower species called Kurunji can be found here.

Chithirapuram:

Located at a short distance of 10kms from Munnar, this place is famous for its lush green tea plantations. It also houses some colonial style old bungalows and cottages. The whole surroundings exuberates an old world charm that should not be missed.

Marayur: This ancient place finds mention in the Mahabharata and it is believed that Pandavas visited this place during their exile. You will find some amusing Neolithic era rock paintings here. It is also home to one of the few natural sandalwood forests in Kerala.

Every place visited are unique in their charm and offerings, and almost impossible to find them anywhere in India. Hence they must be visited on your trip to Munnar. If you have included Kochi to Munnar travel in your Kerala itinerary, you can quickly book a Kochi to Munnar taxi service through Savaari.com, it offers the most affordable options for Kochi taxi service.

Here’s a quick video of our entire trip through Kerala: