Munnar

Get a holiday expert for this place

Destination Theme
Culinary Centers, Hill Stations, Wildlife Sanctuaries,
Best Suited For
Families, Honeymoon couples.
Recommended Duration
Two to three days.

Quick Info

Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. The evergreen town of Munnar is situated at a distance of 110 kilometres from Cochin International Airport. The hill station is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India famous for its sprawling tea plantations and picturesque locations. 

Rankings & Ratings

The best place to visit in Kerala, God's own country!

Editor's Rankings

#1 in 33 Destinations in & around Kerala
#1 in 10 Hill Stations in & around Kerala
#6 in 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries in & around Kerala
#2 in 5 Cultural & Heritage Centers in & around Kerala
#2 in 7 Culinary Centers in & around Kerala

Editor's Review

Munnar is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Kerala. It is one of the best hill stations not just in Kerala, but in the entire country. There is something ineffably special about the weather, the views and the tea plantations in Munnar. What refreshes you the most is the different flavours of tea you get here.

PROS

  • The place looks great in Monsoon season.
  • A variey of food options are available.
  • The weather is extremely pleasant throughout the year.
  • The tea you get in Munnar is fantastic.
  • Great view of tea plantations.

CONS

  • Sightseeing is difficult to do during Monsoon season.
  • Not all the restaurants in Munnar serve great food.
  • You have to take a long cab or bus ride to reach Munnar. 
  • Sudden weather change may cause slight sickness in rare cases.

Itinerary Tips

  • If you are looking for just a relaxing time instead of getting busy sightseeing, choose monsoon season.
  • Monsoon is the best time for taking Ayurvedic therapies.
  • Warm clothes must be taken along, especially for children.
  • Top station in Munnar is a place most people visit for its panoramic view.
  • Carry some basic medicines for fever and cold since you may get slightly sick because of the sudden weather change.
  • Just in case you see leeches in Munnar, don't panic because they are harmless.

Detailed Info

The name 'Munnar' is derived from the local language word that literally means 'Three Rivers'. The name perfectly describes the town since it is beautifully located at the confluence of the Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala rivers. The British used to love the pleasant town of Munnar and it was their favourite summer resort. What makes Munnar special is its sprawling tea plantations, winding roads, picturesque locations, holiday facilities and to top it all, it’s extremely pleasant weather.

The Neelakurinji is Munnar's most famous flower that blooms once in twelve years turning all the hills blue. The next time this will occur is in 2018. Munnar is home to South India's tallest peak 'Anamudi' which is 2695 metres tall. Apart from the Anamudi Peak, Munnar has some other splendid attractions. One of them is the Eravikulam National Park which is spread across an area of 97 sq. km. and is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and some rare butterflies, birds and animals. Among the other attractions are the Tea Museum, Top Station, Chinnakanal & Anayirangal and Mattupetty.

 

Altitude

The entire region of Munnar varies in height from 1,450 meters (4,760 ft) to 2,695 meters (8,842 ft) above mean sea level. 

Weather

Very Pleasant weather throughout the year, with temperatures hitting the lowest between Decembery and February. 

Best Time to Visit?

During winter season that starts from November and continues till February.

How to Get There?

By Air

There is no airport in Munnar. The nearest airport to Munnar is the Cochin International Airport. It is 110 kilometres from Munnar. From the airport, you can easily get a cab ride to Munnar.

By Train

There is no railway station in Munnar. 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.

By Bus

All the major cities in Kerala provide bus services that can help you to reach Munnar. You can take the state-run buses or private buses from various towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu to reach Munnar. The bus will drop you at the bus station in main street(bazaar).

Local Cuisines

The most sought after dish for vegetarians is the Typical Kairali Thali comprising of vegetable pickle, tender coconut kheer, mixed vegetable stir fry, mixed vegetable thoran, puli enji, rice with sambhar and rasam served on a banana leaf.

For Non vegetarians, Kerala style Malabar parotta and rice accompanied by beef, fish and meat preparations is a mouth-watering treat.