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NDTV
22-05-2025
- NDTV
Munnar Travel Guide: Where To Go, Eat, Stay, And Shop In Kerala's Best Mountain Escape
Tucked away in the lush folds of the Western Ghats, Munnar is the kind of place that manages to be both wildly scenic and delightfully simple. The hills roll in waves of emerald, the scent of cardamom lingers in the air, and there's always a distant echo of a waterfall somewhere. While it's known for tea, Munnar isn't just a backdrop for your next Instagram reel-it's a place with actual things to do, places to stay, and food worth writing home about. Whether you're showing up with a rucksack or a suitcase on wheels, this handy Munnar travel guide has everything you need to know before heading to this dreamy hill station. Here's A No-Fluff, Super-Detailed Munnar Travel Guide: Where To Go In Munnar: 1. Mattupetty Dam Perfect for a lazy afternoon or a spontaneous paddle-boat ride, Mattupetty Dam is one of those spots where you end up staying longer than planned. The lake formed by the dam is surrounded by forested hills, and if you're lucky, you might catch a herd of elephants coming down to drink. It's also a popular picnic spot, especially with families and couples doing the pedal-boat circuit. 2. Anamudi Peak Standing at over 2,695 metres, Anamudi Peak is the highest point in South India. But you don't need to be a hardcore trekker to enjoy it — the surrounding Eravikulam National Park offers great viewpoints and walking trails. The peak itself is protected, but even being in its shadow is enough to make you feel like you're somewhere epic. 3. Eravikulam National Park Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the dramatic Neelakurinji bloom (which happens once every 12 years), this national park is basically Munnar's green lung. The park is well-maintained and easy to walk through, making it ideal for both seasoned wildlife lovers and casual hikers. The panoramic views from the Rajamalai area are next-level. 4. Top Station View Point If you want that classic Munnar view — the kind with rolling mist and ridgelines that look like they go on forever — Top Station is where you'll find it. It's the highest point in Munnar accessible by road, and the viewpoint sits right on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Come early in the morning to beat the fog and the crowds. 5. Lakkam Waterfalls Hidden in plain sight along the Munnar-Marayoor road, Lakkam Waterfalls are a must if you're the type who chases waterfalls instead of sticking to the rivers and the lakes. It's an easy walk from the road, and while the falls themselves aren't massive, the surrounding forest and shallow pools make it worth a pit stop. 6. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate This isn't just another tea estate — it's the world's highest tea plantation. And yes, the ride up is bumpy, but that's half the fun. The factory tour feels like a time warp, with vintage equipment still being used to process tea. Plus, the views from the top are hands down some of the best in Munnar. Where To Stay In Munnar: 1. Luxury Hotels Scenic Munnar - IHCL SeleQtions brings that classic Taj touch to the hills. Expect polished service, mountain-facing rooms, and food that rivals anything in the metros. It's the kind of place where you'll want to linger over breakfast just to watch the morning mist clear. Eden Woods Resorts & Spa is all about those quiet luxury vibes. Private villas, infinity views, and a spa that actually delivers on the promise of relaxation — it's great for couples and solo travellers wanting a slower pace. 2. Boutique Resorts Elakai Munnar keeps things intimate with just a handful of rooms, each designed with a Scandinavian-meets-Kerala aesthetic. Think wood, glass fittings, and uninterrupted views. It's ideal if you want a unique stay — the boutique villa is nestled inside an aromatic cardamom plantation! Elixir Hills, on the other hand, gives you rainforest energy with a side of creature comforts. Set right next to a forest reserve, this boutique spot is spacious without being over the top. There's also a great pool, which is a bonus in a hill station. 3. Budget Stays The Hosteller Munnar is great for solo travellers or digital nomads. It's got fast WiFi, a fun crowd, and clean dorms as well as private rooms. The vibe is more "traveller" than "tourist," which can be refreshing. Zostel Munnar offers postcard views and a social atmosphere. With campfires, board games, and shared meals, it's ideal if you like your travel with a side of community. It also has some of the best budget-friendly private rooms in town. Where To Eat In Munnar: 1. Regional Cuisine Rapsy Restaurant is a no-fuss spot tucked inside the market, known for serving authentic Kerala meals that taste like they came out of someone's home kitchen. Don't miss the Kerala parotta and mutton fry combo — it's a local favourite for a reason. Saravana Bhawan (not to be confused with the global chain) in Munnar serves up pure veg South Indian thalis that are generous, affordable, and super flavourful. Great spot for breakfast or a light lunch between sightseeing. 2. Cosy Cafes Tea Tales Cafe has a bit of a European vibe with its warm lighting and great tea menu. They serve everything from masala chai to herbal blends, plus waffles and sandwiches if you're hungry. Perfect for a mid-day break. Planter's Cafe sits on the grounds of the Tea County Resort but is open to outsiders. The coffee is strong, the sandwiches are fresh, and the open seating area offers a great view of the town centre without the noise. 3. Fine-Dining Restaurants The Hornbill Restaurant inside the Windermere Estate offers fine-dining without the pretense. Dishes lean heavily into Kerala flavours, with the pepper chicken and appam being standouts. Barbeque Bay by Club Mahindra brings grilled meats, seafood, and smoky vegetarian options to the table. The setting is elegant but laid-back, and it's one of the few places in Munnar where the bar menu is as good as the food. Where To Shop In Munnar: 1. Local Markets Chinnakanal Market is small but mighty, especially if you're after locally produced tea, spices, handicrafts, and homemade chocolates. Head here early in the day to avoid the crowds and score the freshest finds. 2. Souvenirs & Handicrafts Kerala's famed sandalwood, rosewood carvings, and banana fibre products can all be found at government-run shops like Kairali Handicrafts. These places are reliable for fair pricing and authentic goods. 3. Personalised Picks Look for tea boutiques near KDHP (Kannan Devan Hills Plantation) that offer custom blends. Some even let you name your blend, which makes for a pretty cool gift. There are also handmade soap and essential oil stores that use local herbs like eucalyptus and lemongrass. Weather In Munnar (The Best Time To Visit Munnar): The best time to visit Munnar is from October to March, when the weather is cool and crisp, making it perfect for sightseeing and long walks. April and May can be slightly warmer, but still comfortable. June to September sees heavy monsoon rains, which bring out Munnar's greenest side, but it's not ideal for trekking or outdoor plans. How To Reach Munnar: By Air The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), around 110 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a pre-booked transfer. The drive takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, winding through scenic ghats. By Rail The closest railway station is Aluva, about 110 km from Munnar. While not a major hub, it connects to several South Indian cities. Coimbatore and Ernakulam are other good options with more train choices. By Road Buses from Kochi, Madurai, and Coimbatore run daily. Driving up to Munnar is an experience in itself-twisty roads, tea estates, and cloud-hugging turns included. Just be ready for a few honks and hairpin bends. Getting Around In Munnar: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available, though they can get pricey over longer distances. If you're planning on visiting multiple viewpoints and waterfalls, hiring a cab for the day is the easiest way to go. For shorter trips within the town, local autos do the job. Some hotels also offer bicycles or scooters, which are a fun way to see the surrounding area at your own pace-just be prepared for some uphill pedalling.
Time of India
03-05-2025
- Time of India
Munnar's magic in May: Kerala's coolest escape
Located within the dense green valley of Kerala, Munnar is an ideal summer retreat for vacationers. A hill station that has been a perpetual favorite with travellers for so many reasons. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Also May is the time when southern India prepares for the onset of the monsoons, but it only adds to Munnar's uniqueness and natural beauty. Let's check out why you should visit Munnar in May: Weather in May During May, Munnar has cool weather, ranging between 20 degrees and 35 degrees. Although in the lower levels individuals may feel slightly warmer, the higher slopes of Munnar remain refreshingly cool, particularly in the mornings and evenings. With the advancement of the monsoon, sporadic pre-monsoon drizzles begin gracing the hills, imparting the area a lush, lively appearance. These rains complement the dreamy and romantic weather of Munnar's already scenic landscapes. May is a beautiful month when nature is in full bloom in Munnar. Its tea plantations and spice gardens might not be visible throughout the year, but definitely during this month. In addition, May is also a great time for trekking and wildlife watching. Eravikulam National Park remains open during this period, which is otherwise shut because of the breeding season of the Nilgiri Tahr. Things to do in Munnar in May Tour Tea Estates: Munnar is renowned for its expansive tea estates. Take a tour of the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate for breathtaking views and fresh brews. Eravikulam National Park: Observe threatened species such as the Nilgiri Tahr and witness breathtaking mountain vistas. Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake: Perfect for a relaxing boat tour or picnic in nature Top Station and Echo Point: These mountain locations have panoramic views and refreshing breezes. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Spice Garden Tours: Experience Kerala's scented spice heritage through conducted tours across local gardens. Local cuisine to try When in Munnar, do not miss out on trying these some lip-smacking traditional Kerala cuisine, such as appam with stew, Kerala-style fish curry, Malabar Parotta with spicy egg roast along with freshly brewed cardamom or ginger tea. Travel tips Keep light woolens ready for cold nights. Carry a raincoat or an umbrella if it rains suddenly. Book your hotel in advance, as May is also a peak tourist season. Wear comfortable shoes if you are going to hike or walk through plantations. Munnar in May is a lovely combination of gentle weather and misty rains that virtually feel like heaven on Earth. The panoramic view of the green tea estates adds beauty to this hill station. Whether you are running after tea-scented breezes or trekking along cloudy trails, Munnar in May guarantees a peaceful experience.
