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India.com
a day ago
- India.com
Experience The Ultimate Summer Vacation With These Stunning Locations In Munnar
Munnar is a beautiful holiday destination in India's south-western state of Kerala. This place has lovely tea estates, breathtakingly beautiful greenery and cascading waterfalls, and much more. The summers are the best season to go there, as it is the time to get away from the high temperatures of other cities and towns. Here are some of the places you should not miss visiting when you are in Munnar during the summer season: 1. Mattupetty Dam The Mattupetty Dam is located at a distance of approximately 13 kilometers from Munnar town. The dam is surrounded by hills with dense populations of trees that give tourists an amazing view of a lake that sits still most of the time and makes one feel as if they have entered into a paradise. 2. Eravikulam National Park (Eravikulam National Park) In summertime, Eravikulam National Park becomes a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike with its rolling greens against sunny skies framing the endangered Nilgiri Tahr which freely roam this area due to its large collection or biodiversity in terms of flora coupled with scenic beauty along Western Ghats where many rare species can be spotted. 3. Tea Gardens You cannot afford to miss out on visiting the sprawling tea gardens that Munnar boasts about whenever you decide to visit this place. Leisurely stroll through these luscious gardens with their freshly cut scents filling your lungs will take all stress away from body while giving you great views over hills covered by well-trimmed hedges only found here where tour guides are also available providing insight into process making this world famous drink before going home satisfied after tasting pure fresh brews. 4. Attukal Waterfalls Nestled amidst lush vegetation, Attukal Waterfalls present themselves as a delightful secret that adventurous tourists should discover. Water flowing down these rocks on a hot summer day when there is not much water in it makes for an awesome sight. Guests can take part in nature walks, trekking and photography at places like this. 5. Top Station At an elevation of around 1,700 meters above sea level, Top Station offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. In summer, dark hills covered with misty atmosphere and green fields create beautiful backdrops where people go to watch sunrises or sunsets. In addition to this; some of those who love adventure may be involved in activities such as hiking through wild forests. 6. Kundala Lake Kundala Lake is located amidst rolling hills and dense woods, making it an ideal place to find solitude close to nature. The tranquil waters are surrounded by green valleys and flowering plants whose beauty is enhanced during summers when everything seems more peaceful than ever before; you can simply row out into the middle or just sit along its banks basking under sunshine while taking pleasure watching splendid natural sights around them. Conclusion Munnar attracts visitors through its matchless natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere and numerous attractions. Thus, Munnar is an alluring destination for those who want to experience wilderness adventures or peace amongst expanses of tea plantations during summer months that leave tourists completely overwhelmed by its agelessness and stunning sceneries.
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.
Indian Express
15-05-2025
- Business
- Indian Express
Environment ministry panel grants preliminary nod to pumped hydropower project in eco-sensitive Nilgiris
An expert panel of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has granted preliminary permissions to carry out an environmental impact assessment (EIA) study for a proposed 1,000 MW Upper Bhavani pumped hydropower project in the Nilgiri Hills, located in the ecologically fragile Western Ghats. Developed by NTPC Tamil Nadu Energy Company Limited, a joint venture of National Thermal Power Corporation Limited and Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO), the pumped hydropower or pumped storage project aims to harness the waters of the Upper Bhavani Dam and Avalanche-Emerald reservoirs in the Nilgiris to generate 1,000 MW of power. The project will require 167.85 hectares of land, of which 56.35 hectares is forest land, while 111.50 hectares is non-forest land, and it is located within a 1 km distance from Mukurthi National Park. The national park is known for the flagship Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered species endemic to this part of the Western Ghats. The ministry's expert appraisal committee (EAC) on river valley and hydroelectric projects – one of the 11 sectoral panels that scrutinise projects before granting prior environmental clearances – granted the preliminary approval on April 15, minutes of the meeting show. The preliminary permission, technically known as a grant of terms of reference (ToR), spells out the scope of an EIA study and forms the basis for a public hearing and the eventual environmental clearance. While granting the ToR, the EAC has specified that the company should assess the project's impact on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, and noted in its minutes that a site visit shall be carried out by a subcommittee before granting final environmental clearance. The EAC granted the preliminary permission even though it had in February expressed concerns regarding the 'ecological and environmental sensitivity of the region, emphasising that it forms part of the Western Ghats, a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot'. Given the area's rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystem, the EAC had stressed on conducting comprehensive environmental assessments and had asked the developers to find alternative sites. During the meeting on April 15, the developers provided an alternative layout. They justified it on the grounds that the project's water conductor system and other key components would be underground, thus 'minimizing environmental impact'. The developers also argued that this layout required the least extent of forest land, avoiding the sensitive Shola forests as well as resettlement concerns. Pumped storage or pumped hydropower projects typically involve the utilisation of the elevation difference between two large reservoirs, one at a higher elevation and the other at a lower elevation. Water is pumped up from the lower reservoir and released back through turbines to generate electricity. Central and state governments have promoted pumped hydropower projects as part of India's plans to achieve its non-fossil fuel energy targets. TANGEDCO has also proposed the Kundah and Sillahalla pumped hydro projects in the Nilgiris, and the latter has faced protests by locals for the environmental harm it may potentially cause in the region. Earlier in October, the Centre's EAC on river valley and hydroelectric projects had expressed concern about another pumped hydropower project proposed in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. It had noted that 15 such projects had been granted ToRs or preliminary permissions in the Western Ghats and that site visits would be important to make project-specific assessments before granting final environmental clearances. An award-winning journalist with 14 years of experience, Nikhil Ghanekar is an Assistant Editor with the National Bureau [Government] of The Indian Express in New Delhi. He primarily covers environmental policy matters which involve tracking key decisions and inner workings of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. He also covers the functioning of the National Green Tribunal and writes on the impact of environmental policies on wildlife conservation, forestry issues and climate change. Nikhil joined The Indian Express in 2024. Originally from Mumbai, he has worked in publications such as Tehelka, Hindustan Times, DNA Newspaper, News18 and Indiaspend. In the past 14 years, he has written on a range of subjects such as sports, current affairs, civic issues, city centric environment news, central government policies and politics. ... Read More
India.com
14-05-2025
- India.com
5 Ultimate Wildlife Safari Experience Near Kochi
The town of Kochi exists in Kerala state's southern Indian region where it attracts visitors for its celebrated cultural identity and tranquil areas and peaceful river routes. Tourists usually visit this area for its other attractions yet they would be surprised to learn that it provides exceptional wildlife safari experiences throughout India. Multiple national parks and wildlife sanctuaries together with reserves lie nearby Kochi which allows visitors to observe distinct flora and fauna in their native environments. A complete guide introduces travelers to the best wildlife safari adventure which takes place near Kochi. 1. Eravikulam National Park Nature enthusiasts should prioritize visiting Eravikulam National Park because it lies around 120 kilometers from Kochi. The UNESCO World Heritage Site draws fame from its resident endangered Nilgiri Tahr population which has made the Western Ghats their natural habitat. The vast area of 97 square kilometers features grasslands together with rolling hills and dense woods known as shola forests. Safari customers have two journey options with either experienced tour operators running jeep tours or customizable trekking experiences. The park contains the highest elevation in South India which is Anamudi Peak that provides spectacular vistas. 2. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary located 150 kilometers east of Kochi has earned its place as Kerala's most celebrated wildlife refuge. The sanctuary spreads across 925 square kilometers through which Periyar Lake runs as the primary water source for various animals. The park resides in two neighboring districts in Kerala and shelters Bengal tigers together with Indian elephants and leopards and sambar deer and gaur (Indian bison). Boat safaris on the lake give tourists the chance to witness wild animals who come down to drink water. Visitors can enjoy deep jungle walks and raft through bamboo floats as two main activities which enable them to explore the untouched wilderness. 3. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary The 180 kilometer distance from Kochi defines Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary as a sanctuary with its own distinct dry deciduous forest ecosystem. The lower rainfall amounts during the year turn Chinnar into a prime destination for observing rare creatures such as the grizzled giant squirrel and star tortoise. Visitors to the sanctuary can observe three important species which include elephants and spotted deer and leopards. Travellers who enjoy outdoor activities can choose trekking trails that lead through rocky areas with thorny scrublands to witness exclusive elements of Kerala's biodiversity. 4. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Birdwatchers find Thattekad Bird Sanctuary situated northeast of Kochi at 60 kilometers to be their ultimate destination. Dr. Salim Ali established this sanctuary known as the 'bird paradise' to Kerala through his established ornithological standing. The sanctuary attracts more than 280 bird species with Malabar grey hornbill among its inhabitants as well as Sri Lanka frogmouth and Indian pitta. Those wanting to see the various birds in Thattekad Bird Sanctuary should join the morning tours because this time period offers optimal viewing conditions within its evergreen forest and wetland areas. 5. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve: Untouched Wilderness The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve exists about 200 kilometers beyond Kochi within the Western Ghats region. Tourists can find the UNESCO World Heritage Site at this reserve which holds the Anamalai Sub-Cluster because it supports an active tiger population. Visitors at this location have the chance to see all types of animals from tigers through elephants to guard and sloth bears and numerous reptile species. Tourists engaging in eco-tourism at the reserve can take advantage of night safaris combined with treehouse accommodation and opportunities to visit tribal villages. Conclusion People visiting Kochi will find remarkable adventures which combine experiences with ecology and local culture in the area's wildlife destinations. The journey into natural surroundings begins at Periyar where visitors encounter majestic tigers while in Thattekad visitors discover magnificent colorfully feathered birds. Take the journey into Kerala's wild territories since it delivers a natural adventure you will cherish forever.
The Hindu
05-05-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Traditional Nilgiri tahr habitats in Coimbatore Forest Division show signs of population revival
The traditional habitats of the enigmatic Nilgiri tahr in the Coimbatore Forest Division have shown signs of potential revival of their population as per the observations in the recently concluded synchronised census of the State animal. Five Nilgiri tahrs were sighted by enumerators at Periyattumalai in Madukkarai forest range limits during the estimation, after a gap of over a decade. Pellets of Nilgiri tahr were found in other traditional habitats, namely Kunjiramudi in Boluvampatti forest range and Kurudi Malai that is spread across Boluvampatti and Coimbatore ranges. For the study 'Status and Distribution of the Nilgiri Tahr in the Western Ghats' published in 2015, the WWF-India surveyed Chinnattumalai, Kunjiramudi, Vellingiri hills and Kurudi Malai in Coimbatore division. Tahr presence was observed in Chinnattumalai (two animals sighted) and Kunjra Mudi (pellets). 'The survey was conducted in 2010 and two individuals were sighted at Chinnattumalai. Though we went to the location a few more times, no direct sighting could be made as they moved to the Kerala side,' said Paul Peter Predit from WWF-India, who was part of the study. Chinnattumalai and Periyattumalai are contiguous forests and tahrs are believed to be moving between the two habitats, besides foraging in the Kerala side. 'The recent sighting at Periyattumalai is promising as tahr presence has been reconfirmed after the gap of over a decade. Frequent monitoring and use of technologies like drones will help in generating more details of their habitat and population trend,' added Mr. Predit. The tahr population in Coimbatore division is largely regarded as Siruvani hills population, which have more genetic similarities with the population that is found in the north of the Palakkad gap of the Western Ghats. M.G. Ganesan, Project Director of the government's Project Nilgiri Tahr, said that this year's survey was expected to generate more insights about the State animal as 'threats assessment' had been added as a new section. 'It will give us more inputs to understand the habitat landscapes of tahrs,' he said.
