There are lot of places to visit in Munnar that can cater to every traveller’s need. Factors such as time of the year, your cultural background, company you’re travelling with, the weather, your personal interests, budget, etc. play a vital role when you start to plan a trip. But nature at its glory is evergreen and doesn’t come with a “terms and conditions applied” disclaimer. It contains in itself the power to impress any being and overcome their internal barriers.
Munnar, a town in Idukki district of Kerala, is one such rare place which will make anyone catch their breath and behold its beauty. Whether you’re planning a trip with your friends, a honeymoon with your spouse, a family outing or even a quiet getaway to spend some time by yourself, Munnar has got you covered. The hill station is easily accessible to anyone from Kochi and Coimbatore. Being placed in the western ghats makes it an ideal destination at anytime of the year. Let’s go through some the best places to visit in Munnar.
Best Places To Visit In Munnar
There are many scenic beauties and places to visit in Munnar that it is surely not a place for a weekend trip. Starting from waterfalls, lakes, dams, villages, peaks, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, tea estates, the list is never ending. The Munnar tourist places are put in each of the respective categories:
A. Waterfalls to visit in Munnar
(visit during the monsoon for the best experience)
1. Attukal falls
One the most famous places to visit in Munnar, Attukal is located between Munnar and Pallivasal. You’ll have to cross a wooden bridge to reach it. It is known for its picturesque beauty. If you’re looking for an adventure filled fulfilling trek, the path through the forest on the mountain towards the falls shouldn’t be missed. You can take a refreshing dip at the bottom of the falls.
Timings: 10:00AM to 06:00PM
2. Lakkom Waterfall
Originating from Eravimala Plateau, Lakkom falls is a feast to the eye. It is part of Eravikulam National Park. It is a small waterfall but has a captivating charm about it.
Timings: 07:00AM to 07:00PM
3. Nyayamakad Waterfall
Nyayamakad Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Munnar and is hidden under mist as the water falls from a great height. It provides the most adorable scenic view of long stretches of tea estates. You will get to see the daily activities of tea pickers from a distance. If you’re lucky you might spot some Nilgiri Tahrs.
Timings: 6 AM onwards, till sunset
4. Chinnakanal or power house Waterfalls
It is situated 18 km from the main city and accessible on the way to Periyar wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady (Checkout the Top Places to visit in Thekkady). Chinnakanal is a beautiful waterfall to the right on the side of the road and among the best Munnar tourist places. It originates from the river Devikulam and is a heavy waterfall which will look like a thick gallon of milk during the monsoon. You can take a dip and play in the water at the bottom of the falls.
Timings: 6 AM onwards
5. Kuthumkal Waterfalls
Kuthumkal waterfalls is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and also a very good picnic spot if you are looking for places to visit in Munnar to spend time with family or friends. It is located 28 km away from the main city.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
6. Cheeyappara waterfalls
Located on the Kochi-Madurai highway, Cheeyappara falls is a mesmerising Munnar Tourist place in the stretch of evergreen forests. The rocky mountain is ideal for trekkers. It can get a little difficult to access during the monsoons.
Timings: All day
7. Pallivasal falls
Situated 8 km from the city center, Pallivasal falls in the Pallivasal village is a famous picnic spot. It is also a perfect place for a peaceful walk around the untouched beauty of the falls.
Timings: All day
8. Valara falls
Situated between Neriamangalam and Adimali, Valara falls is on the Kochi-Munnar highway, 12 km from the city. This is one of the best places for a trek through the thick forest on slanting hills.
Timings: All day
B. Wildlife Parks, Sanctuaries and Farms in Munnar
1. Mattupetty Dairy Farm
Ever wondered how dairy products are manufactured? Pay a visit to the Mattupetty dairy farm to find out. It is also known as the Indo-Swiss dairy farm. It is located 3 km from Mattupetty Dam. The farm has the best view of beautiful gardens and vast green lands. You get a chance to interact with the cattle breeds. The farm collects an entry fee of Rs. 5.
Timings: 9 AM to 11 AM and 2 PM to 3:30 PM
2. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Grizzled giant squirrel, an endangered specie of squirrels are found in Chinnar wildlife sanctuary. Many other animals like tufted grey langur, Gaurs, tigers, leopards, elephants etc also call the sanctuary home. A variety of birds and plants can also be spotted in this Munnar tourist place.
Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
3. Eravikulam National Park
Declared as a UNESCO world heritage site, Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri tahrs and undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Munnar. It is around 15 km from the city and is located at the brink of the western ghats. Anamudi peak is a part of Eravikulam National Park. Golden jackals, tigers, nilgiri langurs, Indian muntjac, leopards are a few other animals you can come across in the park. An entry fee of Rs 65 for Indian visitors and Rs 245 for foreign visitors is collected by the park.
Timings: 08:00AM to 04:30PM
4. Carmelagiri Elephant Park
Carmelagiri Elephant Park tour itself would take half a day to fully enjoy the authentic wilderness of the park. Climb on to the back of an elephant and have a journey you’ll never forget. Rs 400 is cost per head for a 15-minute ride.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
C. Lakes / Dams to visit in Munnar
1. Kundala lake
Kundala lake is an artificial lake 20 km from the city. The scenery around the lake is like a lovely movie location with cherry blossoms all around it, if you’re there at the right time the neelakurinji flowers adds to the decoration. Boating in different kinds of boats is a relaxing leisure activity you can indulge in. It is among the lovely places to visit in Munnar which should not be missed.
Timings: 09:00AM to 05:00PM
2. Mattupetty Dam
Located 13 km from the city, Mattupetty dam is a primary source of hydroelectricity in the region. It is one of the best places to visit in Munnar for bird watching and to spot an exotic range of flora and fauna. The entry fee is Rs 10 to visit the dam.
Timings: 09:30AM to 05:00PM
3. Sita devi lake
Located in Devikulam village, Sita Devi Lake is a famous attraction in Kerala. You can visit the lake on a day trip to the village from Munnar. Tea and spice plantations are found in this area.
Timings: All day
4. Anayirankal Dam
Located almost 22km away from the city, Anayirankal dam is a unique Munnar tourist place where elephants come down to drink water ( ‘Aana’ meaning ‘elephants’ and ‘irankal’ meaning ‘coming down’). You can have a picnic or go boating to spend time in the dam. The tickets for adults cost Rs 20 and for children cost Rs 10.
Timings: All day
D. Viewpoints / Peaks in Munnar
1. Echopoint
Echo Point is around 15 km away from the city centre and is a meeting point of three mountains – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala, it is at 600 ft above sea level. People of all ages find it fascinating and enjoy screaming to hear their voices echo back to them from the mountains. The view from up here is astonishing as you will see milky clouds floating, greenery that will refresh your eyes and lakes that will calm you down. You can trek or take a walk around the hills and go boating on the lakes. An entry fee of Rs 10 per adult and Rs 5 per child is collected for the sight.
Timings: 07:00AM to 06:00PM
2. Pothamedu Viewpoint
Pothamedu is 3 km away from the city centre and it is one of the most famous places to visit in Munnar as the view from up here is incomparable to any other. Trekking to the Pothamedu viewpoint is the most fulfilling experience as it is submerged in serenity. The way up is covered with lush greenery and the hills are covered with plantations of various spices.
Timings: 9 AM to 7:30 PM
3. Lockhart gap
Lockhart gap is 13 km away from the city center and is truly among the magical places to visit in Munnar. Also referred to as Lock Heart Gap because of its heart shaped gap between two mountains, it can make anyone fall in love with its spectacular view of the skyline, the clouds and the green slopes of hills. It is the best Munnar tourist place for some silent peaceful moments.
Timings: 06:00AM to 06:00PM
4. Anamudi Peak
8842 ft tall, Anamudi peak is the highest peak of South India. The most sought out destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, mountaineers, hikers, trekkers, and photographers, Anamudi is a gigantic peak in the western ghats. It resembles an elephant’s head giving rise to its name. Black wood, Teak and uniques varieties of bamboo are some of the most found trees.
If you’re planning to trek to the top make sure you get permission from Eravikulam National Park authorities.
Timings: All day
5. Top station
Top station lies at the confluence of three mountains- Mudrapuzha, Kundala, and Nallathanni and is situated 40km from the city. It is a major tourist spot in Kerala and Tamil Nadu as it is a part of both states. Its name is derived from its history of being the highest point with a railway station. It contributes to Kannan Devan hill station and provides a panoramic view of the western ghats. The path leading up to the top of the station is covered with colourful exotic flowers with various fragrances in the air intoxicating the visitors with freshness and the inexplicable beauty makes it one of the best places to visit in Munnar.
Timings: 06:00AM to 07:00PM
6. Meesapulimala
The second highest peak in south india, Meesapulimala peak is 8,661ft high and is placed between the Anamalai Hills. It is 20 km away from the city. Its name comes from its resemblance to the shape of a moustache. It is covered with Rhododendron trees and provides an 8km trekking trail from Rhodovalley. This is more accessible and easier trek than Anamudi peak as it doesn’t require a permit and can be covered in a day.
Timings: 07:00AM – 07:00PM
7. Chokramudi Peak
Part of Eravikulam National Park, Chokramudi Peak is 7,200 ft above sea level and is an hour away from the city. It is one the great places to see in Munnar to catch the sunrise after a 5 hours morning trek. If you’re lucky you can find herds of Nilgiri Tahrs.
Timings: All day
8. Photopoint
Photo point is 3 km away from the city and is on the way to top station through nilgiri slopes. The photogenicity of the place gives it its name. You will see green valleys, tea plantations, hills, streams of rivers and misty clouds all around. It is one of the scenic places to visit in Munnar to get an incredible picture for your Instagram.
Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM
E. Villages in Munnar
1. Devikulam
Devikulam which means “Lake of the Devi” is a village close to the city ideal for a one day trip. The village is known for its variety in flora and fauna.
2. Chithirapuram
Chithirapuram is a hill-side village 10 km away from the city. It is the best remedy for people who are looking for a peaceful experience away from the city life and look back in time. Chithirapuram hasn’t lost its cultural charm of the olden days and is known for its palaces, tea plantations, many outdoor activities like paragliding, hiking, trekking, boating, parasailing, mountaineering, etc. Best Munnar tourist places to experience the olden culture and spend some peaceful time.
F. Tea estates of Munnar
1. Sevenmallay
Sevenmallay tea estate is owned by Tata Tea Company since 1900 and is located very close to Kanan Devan hills. Sevenmallay (seven meaning shiva, mallay meaning hill) is named after lord shiva and takes pride in its divine beauty.
2. Kollukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is the highest tea estate in munnar placed at the height of 8,100ft above sea level. It is situated close to the Tamil Nadu border and is picture perfect. The estate costs you entry fees of Rs 75.
Timings: 7 AM to 6 PM
G. Rocks of Munnar
1. Marayoor dolmens
Marayoor dolmens are located 55 km from the city and are a treat by nature to the history geeks. You will be surprised by the stories these gigantic rocks structures, dolmens, can tell. They are more than a thousand years’ old and there are 15 different types of Dolmens belonging to the Neolithic age and the Iron age. Other than the rich history Muniyara is also known for thick sandalwood forests and prehistoric paintings.
2. Rock Cave
Rock cave also known as Malayil Kallan Guha which means “the thief who lives on the mountain or rock, in the cave” tells the story of a thief in the earlier times who lived in the cave and robbed people who came on those roads. The caves provide one of the best views of the town.
H. Gardens And Parks in Munnar
1. Rose garden
The rose garden is not just a garden of roses but a 2 acre land of a rainbow of colors and a rush of fragrances constituted by a variety of flowers like Dahlias, Roses, Chrysanthemums,etc, many fruits and spices. One of the beautiful places to visit in Munnar for colourful views and good fragrance .The entry tickets cost Rs 20 per person.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
2. Muunnar floriculture centre/ Munnar rose garden
Floriculture Centre is managed by the forest department in Munnar. Hundreds of flowers and plants like cacti, herbs, shrubs, and creepers can be found here. Tickets cost Rs 10 and Rs 50 for adults and cameras respectively.
Timings:10 AM – 5 PM
3. Blossom International park
Ideal for activities such as boating, nature walks, birdwatching, adventure trails, roller skating, etc, Blossom International park is spread across 16 acres of land covered with green plants, colourful blossoms. It is the best suited place to visit in Munnar when you want to unwind from a long day and recharge. An entry fee of Rs 10 per adult and Rs 2 per child is collected.
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
4. Hydel park
Hydel park is spread across 16 acres of land is open to activities such as boating, walking, cycling the path, roller skating, bird watching, campfires and photography. It is ideal Munnar tourist place for relaxing. An entry fee of Rs 10 per adult and Rs 2 per child is collected.
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM
I. Cultural visits of Munnar
1. Tata tea museum
Being known for its tea culture, Munnar not only provides a pleasurable scenic beauty of the plantations but also a glimpse of how the culture was cultivated in south India through the Tata tea museum. The knowledge of the process of manufacturing tea in industries is imparted to common people through shows, the timings of which you will have to keep in mind if you are planning to catch them. Historical documentaries on how the British developed the tea culture in India are played here. You can gain an insight into the minds of the people who worked in the industry in the early days, the tools they used and everything else about the process they followed. The entry fee per adult is Rs 75 per head and for children Rs 35.
Timings: 9 AM till 5 PM, closed on Mondays.
2. Thirumeni cultural centre
The best way to spend an evening in Munnar would be to watch the Kalaripayattu and Kathakali performances at Thirumeni cultural centre. Kalaripayattu is a martial art form with quick gymnastic movements using knives and swords. Kathakali is a traditional Indian dance which originated in Kerala. Elaborate costumes and colorful makeup is the signature of Kathakali. The artists at the centre are highly trained and use their dance to and expressions to tell stories. Visit the green rooms if you get a chance and interact with the artists. One the best places to visit in Munnar is you are a art lover. The tickets for the shows are Rs 300 per head.
Timings: Kathakali shows from 5 to 6 PM and Kalaripayattu shows at 7 to 8 PM, 6 to 7 PM & 8 to 9 PM
3. S.I christ church
Placed on a small hill, C.S.I christ church was built in the year 1910 during the British rule and still stands brand new today thanks to the maintenance team. History is preserved in its brick walls, glass windows, European style architecture, granite floors, and brass plaques. Visit to the church can soothe and calm your mind. Portions of the movie Life of Pie was shot at this church.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
It is impossible to cover all the best places to visit in Munnar on a small trip. If you’re in Munnar for a couple of days then pick through the list depending on which places you want to visit the most. If you want to explore the town then make sure you give it at least a week to cover all the Munnar Tourist places at a smooth pace to appreciate and savour the hill station.
You can checkout the blog on Tourist Places in Kerala and get more insights.
If you are planning a trip to Kerala, have look at these Kerala Tour Packages.
What you need to know about places to visit in Munnar
Munnar stands for “moonu aar” which means “three rivers” as the rivers Madupetti, Nallathanni and Periavaru rivers flow through the town. Munnar is most famous for its vast tea plantations, many of which were started when it was the summer capital for the south by the British during their rule in India. It is covered by pristine valleys and mountains. Many exotic species of flora and fauna are found here. One of the rarest sights in the world can be witnessed in Munnar when the mountains turn blue with the neelakurinji flowers. These flowers bloom once every 12 years. The next bloom is expected in the year 2030. Anamudi (at 2,695 m) in Munnar is the highest peak in South India.
Altitude: 1600-1800 m above sea level
Temperature: 14 – 25 degrees in the summer, 7 – 17degrees in winter
Local languages: Malayalam and Tamil. One can easily communicate with the locals in English.
How to reach:
By air – Cochin International Airport (COK IATA) or Nedumbassery Airport is the closest at 125 km from Munnar by road and it is well connected to major cities.Taxi services are easily available from the airport.
By train – Aluva is the nearest railway station at a distance of 110 km from Munnar. There are many buses from the station to Munnar at regular intervals. Shared taxis are another cheaper option.
By bus – There are regular buses from Kochi, Aluva, Coimbatore and Pollachi. Check with the locals for directions and timings as there are chances of the schedule not being displayed at the stations.
By road – If you’re not familiar with driving on narrow and curved roads with many turns then hire a driver with local experience to be safe. The roads get extremely misty with fog so it is recommended to start early.
Frequently Asked Questions On Places To Visit In Munnar
1. Which is the best time to go to Munnar?
One can visit Munnar throughout the year. September to March is popular among tourists. Summers are warmer and monsoons can have heavy rainfalls, this can impact travel plans.
2. Which is the best place for a one day trip in Munnar?
Munnar has many waterfalls, lakes, dams, villages, peaks, wildlife sanctuaries, museums and the famous tea estates. One can plan a specific one day itinerary depending on their personal preference. Popular must visits include Top Station, Lakkam Waterfalls, Echo Point, Tea Museum, Eravikulam National Park, Attukad Waterfalls, Mattupetty Dam, Kundala Lake, Pothamedu View Point, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
3. Which is the most beautiful place in Munnar?
It’s hard to pick one single place in Munnar as the most beautiful. Top Station, Echo Point and Pothamedu View Point arguably have the most breathtaking views of Munnar.
4. Is Munnar worth visiting?
Munnar is mostly known for its tea plantations but that’s not what it’s all about. It has locations that can cater to every traveller’s need. It is a hill station holding a variety of experiences that are definitely worth a visit.
5. How many days should you spend in Munnar?
A minimum of 3 days is needed to cover the popular places in Munnar. But if you have more time on your hands then there many activities you can indulge in that will keep you occupied and entertained.
6. How much does it cost to visit Munnar?
One can plan a trip specific to a budget by tweaking travel and stay choices. It also depends on the duration of the trip. Sightseeing around in Munnar is what will cost you the most if you choose to take rental car options.Rs. 10000 is a sufficient amount for a comfortable stay, travel and cover all the places in Munnar.
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