Munnar is a little piece of paradise that draws you in with its lush greenery, cool climate, and the lurking aroma of tea across the beautiful hills that dot the entire landscape. Did that sound like a piece straight out of a fairy tale? Munnar is definitely a place you should visit to experience an almost unreal bliss.
Munnar, in the native language Malayalam, translates to ‘three rivers’. As the name suggests, this beautiful hill station is home to the confluence of three rivers. Munnar is a 3-hour drive from the Cochin International Airport, just over a hundred km away. As you drive up the winding roads, prepare to be whisked off your feet with the cool breeze in your hair. The fresh smell of tea from the infinite green canvas of tea plantations lingers in the air and lulls you into complete relaxation.
The story doesn't end here. The charm of Munnar is not just limited to its tea plantations and tea-loving people. This popular tourist spot also houses several other breathtaking attractions and activities.
Places to visit
Eravikulam National Park
Spanning about 100 sq. km, this eco-tourism spot is home to more than 300 species of flora and fauna, including the exotic Nilgiri Tahr found only on the Western & Eastern Ghats of South India. The National Park also encompasses Anamudi, commonly known as ‘The Himalayas of the South’, which is the highest peak in the Western Ghats scaling 2,695 m above sea level.
Rajamala Hills
A popular hill station among tourists who visit Munnar, Rajamala Hills in the Eravikulam National Park is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr, is marked with some of the finest trekking trails in the area.
Blossom Hydel Park
Expanding around 16 acres, the Hydel Park is a scenic area with nature trails and bird watching points, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of God’s Own Country.
Echo Point
Echo Point is famous for its fascinating natural echo phenomenon making it a popular picnic spot.
Kundala Lake
Kundala Lake is a remarkable lagoon at a height of 1700 m above sea level. You can indulge in a joyous lagoon boating experience and see exquisite sites. The Kundala Dam is Asia’s first arch-shaped dam that makes for a simply spectacular view.
Devikulam Lake
An ideal place for trout fishing, this ‘Pond of the Goddess’ is named after Goddess Sita, who is believed to have bathed here.
Muniyara Dolmens
Muniyara Dolmens of Marayoor is a testament to human heritage, with dolmens (megalithic tombs) and rock paintings that date back to the stone age.
Things to do
Mountain Biking
With winding roads and hairpin bends along the hilly roads, mountain biking is surely a much sought after rush for thrill-seekers.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling
The National Adventure Foundation organize rock climbing and rappelling, in the hills of Munnar. The picturesque views from the top and rush of adrenaline make it an unparalleled experience.
Neelakurinji Blooming
Neelakurinji is an asynchronous flowering plant that blossoms once in 12 years. Witnessing the stunning beauty of the purple-blue flowers blooming on the hills of Munnar is a rare spectacle indeed.
Boating
Pedal boating, row boating, and shikara rides are a popular tourist attraction at Kundala Lake. If motorboating is more your speed, you can indulge in a fun session of speed boating at Mattupetty Dam as well.
Elephant Safari
Carmelagiri Elephant Park is an appealing attraction in Munnar. They offer 10 to 15-minute Elephant Safari rides through the park where patrons are greeted by elephants, that you can even ride on.
Ayurvedic Spa
Ayurveda is a specialty in Kerala and Munnar is no exception. Most resorts offer various ayurvedic treatments, to rejuvenate your body and mind, ranging from authentic Shirodhara, Balinese massage, classical deep tissue massage, and more.
Life of Pi Church
Mount Carmel Church in Munnar was the first Catholic church located in the high-ranges. It is more famously known as the ‘Life of Pi Church’ from being the main setting for the famous movie.
Punarjani Traditional Village
Punarjani Traditional Village is a performing arts theatre in Munnar famous for Kathakali. Witness the ‘story play’ genre of the art form and be mesmerized by the gamut of colorful make-up and costumes.
Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is a traditional form of martial arts that originated in Kerala, also believed to be the oldest surviving martial art in India. You can witness a martial art performance at Kalari Kshethra in Munnar.
There is no dearth to the wide variety of experiences that Munnar offers to its visitors. To enjoy these while understanding the subtle nuances of the region and its history, tourists will have to stay for at least 3 days to take in a fair share of Munnar’s vast culture and beauty. But once you witness them, it’s guaranteed to be one of the dearest travel memories that you will cherish forever.
Come along, witness the beauty that is Munnar at Abad Copper Castle. With a variety of spacious and lavish rooms and luxurious amenities, treat yourself to the perfect Munnar escapade.