Munnar Tourist Guide

Munnar is a town and hill station located in the Idukki district of the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. Munnar is situated at around 1,600 metres (5,200 ft) above sea level. , Munnar is one of the most beautiful and popular hill-stations of Kerala. Situated on the banks of three rivers- Madupetti, Nallathanni and Periavaru, Munnar is also blessed with natural view-points apart from the tea-plantations, Munnar is also known as the Kashmir of Kerala.

How to reach Munnar

By Air: Nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport there are no direct flights to Munnar It has two active terminals for international and domestic operations. Cochin airport is well-linked to all the major cities in the country as well as many cities abroad.

By Bus: Munnar has the bus station at the main street (bazaar). Direct regular buses from 6a.m in the morning are from Munnar. The best way to get to Munnar’s fabulous tea bushes is by road from Kochi.

By Train: Munnar does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is at Kochi, or rather at Ernakulum. The Ernakulum Junction is a major junction in the south; it gets trains from all over the country including frequent ones from Delhi, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Mumbai, Mangalore and Bangalore. Ernakulam is 130kms and Madurai is 135kms away from Munnar

Food to eat in Munnar

Food is a major part of everyday life and it's fun to try the local food of the places. Munnar is famopus for fish and rice cooked in coconut oil which is totally Kerala style. You can taste coconut in almost everything you eat as most of the food is cooked in coconut oil. Apart from the regular meals at restaurants, delicious street food can be savored at one of the Thattukadas or fast food stalls.

For the vegetarians try the Dosa, Vada, Idli, Appam and Thali meals on a banana leaf which are really yummy.

Places of Attraction

Photo point: Photo point is next to Floriculture centre and actually located at a pictursque bend. There are many vendors here selling boiled or roasted American Corn, Childern Toys, tender coconut Juice etc.

Spice Plantation: The spice plantation in Munnar is one of the major spice plantations in Kerala. The spice plantations in Kerala are captivating farms to wander in, t is believed that the spice trade dates back to three thousand years. Pepper still remains the king of Kerala's spices, but the state also rich in cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and turmeric. As in the past , the state continues to be the spice capital of the world. Allowing tourists to visit the campus also helps them sell spices processed at their garden from a shop located in the premises. If I am not wrong, it is not only Munnar but many other hill stations across South India which offer such tours as the climate is suitable to grow a wide range of spices

Elephant Lake: Elephant Lake or Elephant Arrival Lake or Anayirangal is a place frequented by tourists visiting Munnar. Elephant Lake or Anayirangal is an idyllic picnic location which has a dam and a reservoir. Elephant Lake or Anayirangal is located nearby Tata Tea Plantations in Munnar, at a distance of about 22 km from Munnar. The Elephant Lake or Anayirangal is named so since herds of wild elephants arrive here from the dense forests of Munnar to drink water. Tourists maintain a safe distance from the elephants as it is very dangerous to disturb them.

Kundala dam: Situated in the laps of lush jungle is Kundala Dam & Lake laying 23 km off Munnar. This arch dam is famous for its Kashmiri-Shikara boat rides and pedal boat rides. the Kundala Dam was constructed for Pallivasal Hydro Electric Project in 1946 and is considered to be Asia’s first arch dam. From its top, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green surroundings. Adjoining to this magnificent dam is the beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy a Kashmiri-Shikara or pedal boat ride.

Echo Point: This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point, situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar is a stop over for tourists visiting Top Station. Echo Point's scenic gorgeousness owing to clustered tea plantations and spice and coffee gardens resulted in its popularity amongst trekkers and nature strollers. In a completely tranquil and rejuvenating environment, strollers and trekkers can move along the velvety slopes and photograph moments of serenity and bounteous natural beauty. Nature walks at Echo Point is a popular activity. Also, tourists can go for trekking through the nearby coffee, tea and spice plantations and grasslands. Cool breeze along with calm serene surroundings make Echo Point a favourite place among wayfarers.

Eravikulam National Park: Eravikulam National Park, spread over an area of 97 sq km, lies along the crest of the Western Ghats in the Idukki district. Owing to its enormous ecological value, the park was upgraded from a sanctuary to a national park in the year 1978. Tourists are allowed only in the tourism area, which can be conveniently explored by either a trek or a safari in the forest department vehicles The park is home to the largest population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat). It is also inhabited by other rare animal species like Nilgiri Marten, Dusky Striped Squirrel, Small-Clawed Otter, Ruddy Mongoose, Leopard, Tiger and Indian Bison.