Munnar is a hill stationed town in the southwestern state of Kerala, India. It is situated along the Western Ghats range of mountains. This hill station was once the summer capital of British Government in South India.
Vast stretched tea plantation, picture-perfect towns and gushing breeze of refreshing fresh air makes this place a fascination. Munnar has been named after the confluence of “three rivers” , i.e Madhurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly rivers.
Fascinations
- Richness of Flora and Fauna-Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands, the most fascinating is the Neelakurinji. It blooms once in every twelve years and covers the entire hill station in a blue colored shawl which is a treat to devour with your eyes. It is expected to bloom gloriously again in 2018.
- Protected species- The natural site of Munnar has protected in its caring embrace many a species that are endangered now. While some of the species of plants and animals still face the threat of extinction due to growing plantations, yet others have been protected in the various sanctuaries in this town. Some of them are Kurinjimala Sanctuary to the east, Chinnar wildlife Sanctuary, Manjampatti Valley and the Amravati reserve forest of Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary to the north east, Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Shoal National Park, etc. The mammals that remain protected in and around Munnar are Nilgiri Thar, the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, the Nilgiri Wood-pigeon, Elephant, the Guar, the Nilgiri Langur, the Sambar and Neelakurinji.
- Trekking- Munnar boasts of having the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695m. It is an ideal spot for trekking. Trekking enthusiasts fancy this place and are pulled towards the exquisite natural beauty and thrill offered by it.Mesmerizing places that you must not miss…
- Eravikulam National Park- Spread over an area of 97 sq km, this park is famous for its endangered inhabitant- the Nilgiri Thar. It is a wonderful place for trekking. The picturesque beauty of this place is impeccable. The lush green beauty of tea plantations are brimming here, which can be devoured on and on.This park is one of the treasured places in Munnar because of its exquisite natural beauty.
- Anamudi Peak- Located inside the Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi peak is 2700 m high. Trekking enthusiasts come here with a sense of thrill and adventure.
- Mattupetty- Another place of interest, at a distance of 13km from Munnar town is Mattupetty. It is famous for its storage masonry dam and the mesmerizing lake, which offers enticing boat rides. The immense beauty of the surrounding hills and landscape is like icing on the cake.
- Pallivasal- Located at a distance of 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venus of the first hydro-electric project in Kerala. It has been blessed by the abundant natural beauty and the view is extremely exquisite and breath taking. Due to its magnificent grace, this place is preferred as a picnic spot by most of the people.
- Chinnakanal and Anayirangal- Near the town of Munnar is Chinnaikanal. The waterfalls here, better known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the mesmerizing view of Western Ghats that are a treat to look and admire. The Anatirangal in the vicinity is a lush green carpet of tea plants. The overall beauty of this place is extremely rejuvenating
- Top Station- At a distance of 32 km from Munnar, Top Station is a place that displays exquisite abundant beauty of nature, a panoramic view of Tamil Nadu and the best place to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of blooming blue Nilakurinji plants.
- Tea Museum- Munnar has a legacy of tea plantations. To protect and savor it glorious past regarding tea, its origin and evolution. Tata Tea in Munnar has opened a museum to showcase the intriguing facts about tea making. The museum displays photographs of machinery, tea plantations and other related things.Munnar is a green land that can be devoured by the eyes and felt by the heart. The immense beauty of this place is inexplicable. One can only feel the lovely soothing atmosphere, closeness to the roots of nature and tranquilizing spell it casts on you. Munnar is a place worth visiting!
How to reach Munnar :-
By Air-Munnar does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is 110 kilometres away by road. From Cochin, you can hire a cab to get to Munnar. The Madurai International Airport is 140 kilometres away from Munnar. In case you deboard at the Madurai International Airport, you can hire a cab or board the state transport or private buses to get to Munnar.
By Bus-State-run or private buses, plying from various towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are the best way to get to Munnar by road. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation provides bus services to Munnar from all major cities in Kerala.
By Train-The nearest railway station from Munnar is at Aluva, which is at a distance of 110 kilometres from Munnar. The Ernakulam Railway Station is 130 kilometres away while the Madurai Railway Station is at a distance of 135 kilometres. From these points, you can either hire a cab or board the state transport or private buses wherever available.Accommodation at Munnar:-There are hundreds of hotels both budget and luxury class for all kinds of visitors. There are both Government and corporate guest houses available as well. Several lodges and dharmasala are available at a very affordable price. Food is very affordable for all kinds of visitors.