Munnar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, is a hill station that enchants travelers with its rolling tea gardens, mist-covered valleys, and cool mountain air. This guide explores the best tourist places in Munnar, offering a mix of scenic viewpoints, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and serene escapes.Once a summer retreat for British officials, today it’s one of South India’s most beloved destinations for honeymooners, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
🐘 1. Eravikulam National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. The Rajamalai region is the most accessible part, with guided treks and wildlife spotting.
- Highlights: Nilgiri Tahr, Anamudi Peak (highest in South India), Neelakurinji blooms (once every 12 years)
- Best Time: November to April
- Entry Fee: ₹200 (Indian adults), ₹500 (foreigners)
🌊 2. Mattupetty Dam
Located 13 km from Munnar, this gravity dam is surrounded by lush hills and tea gardens. It’s a popular spot for boating and picnics.
- Activities: Pedal boating, speed boating, photography
- Nearby: Mattupetty Lake, cattle breeding center
🌄 3. Top Station
At 6,276 feet, Top Station is the highest point in Munnar and offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Theni Valley in Tamil Nadu.
- Highlights: Sunrise views, Neelakurinji flowers, trekking trails
- Distance from Munnar: 32 km
- Best Time: Early morning or sunset
🍃 4. Tea Gardens & Tea Museum
Munnar’s identity is deeply tied to its tea estates. A visit to the Tata Tea Museum offers insights into the history and process of tea production.
- Highlights: Tea tasting, antique machinery, colonial history
- Popular Estates: Kannan Devan Hills, Kolukkumalai (highest tea estate in the world)
📸 5. Photo Point
Just 2 km from Munnar, this scenic spot is surrounded by tea gardens and eucalyptus trees — perfect for quick photo ops and nature walks.
- Best For: Couples, families, Instagram-worthy shots
- Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds
🗣️ 6. Echo Point
Located on the way to Top Station, Echo Point is where your voice bounces back from the surrounding hills. It’s a fun stop for kids and a great picnic spot.
- Activities: Yelling for echoes, paddle boating, shopping for spices
- Distance from Munnar: 15 km
🏞️ 7. Kundala Lake
A serene lake surrounded by pine forests and cherry blossoms (seasonal), Kundala is ideal for pedal boating and photography.
- Highlights: Shikara rides, cherry blossoms (April), nearby tea gardens
- Distance from Munnar: 20 km
🌳 8. Blossom Park
Located near the Munnar town, this landscaped park offers walking trails, flower gardens, and recreational activities.
- Activities: Cycling, roller skating, birdwatching
- Entry Fee: ₹30 (approx.)
🐾 9. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located 60 km from Munnar, this dry deciduous forest is home to grizzled giant squirrels, elephants, and leopards.
- Activities: Guided treks, camping, wildlife spotting
- Best Time: December to April
🏔️ 10. Meesapulimala
The second-highest peak in the Western Ghats, Meesapulimala is a trekker’s paradise. The trail passes through rhodo forests, tea estates, and cloud-covered ridges.
- Trek Distance: 15 km (moderate difficulty)
- Permits: Required from Kerala Forest Department
🏞️ 11. Anamudi Peak
Standing at 8,842 feet, Anamudi is the highest peak in South India. Though direct trekking is restricted, it’s visible from Eravikulam National Park.
- Highlights: Rare flora and fauna, panoramic views
- Best For: Nature photography, wildlife enthusiasts
🏕️ 12. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Perched at 7,000 feet, this estate produces orthodox tea using traditional methods. The jeep ride to reach it is an adventure in itself.
- Activities: Tea tasting, factory tour, sunrise trek
- Distance from Munnar: 35 km (via Suryanelli)
🛕 13. Marayoor
Known for its sandalwood forests and ancient dolmens (burial chambers), Marayoor offers a mix of nature and archaeology.
- Highlights: Sandalwood factory, Muniyara caves, sugarcane farms
- Distance from Munnar: 42 km
🧘 14. Kalari Kshethra
A cultural center showcasing Kerala’s martial art Kalaripayattu and classical dance Kathakali. Evening shows are popular among tourists.
- Timings: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹300–₹500
🛍️ 15. Local Markets
Munnar’s markets are great for buying spices, handmade chocolates, essential oils, and tea. The town center is walkable and lively.
- Best Buys: Cardamom, cinnamon, lemongrass oil, handmade soaps
- Tip: Bargain politely and check for authenticity
📅 Best Time to Visit Munnar
- October to March: Cool and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and trekking
- April to June: Warmer but good for off-season deals
- July to September: Monsoon magic with misty landscapes and fewer crowds
🧭 Travel Tips
- Carry warm clothes — temperatures can drop sharply at night
- Book safaris and treks in advance during peak season
- Respect nature — avoid littering and stick to marked trails
- Try local cuisine — Kerala-style fish curry, appam, and cardamom tea
Munnar’s best tourist places offer a perfect blend of tranquility, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re sipping tea at Kolukkumalai, trekking to Meesapulimala, or watching elephants at Eravikulam, every moment in Munnar feels like a postcard come to life.
