Munnar
Known for its beautiful tea plantations and mist clad hills, Munnar has been attracting visitors since the time of British Raj. Apart from numerous varieties of tea that is produced here, it also takes pride in having the Neelakurinji flowers (Stobilanthes Kunthianus) that bloom once in 12 years, which is considered a natural wonder. This hill station also boasts of rich biodiversity. The everyday tea will not remain the same after you visit the Tea Land and get to experience tea processing.
The Tea Land has a magical beauty that leaves its visitors in awe. The sudden mist that covers the otherwise green-carpeted hills is surreal beauty. Getting to visit the tea plantations villages and interacting with the villagers gives an insight on their lives and the tea that they produce. Munnar has few beautiful waterfalls like Lakkam , Viripara and Thoovanam which add more character to this hill station. Each location here is unique in its own way.
Among the unique bio-diversity found here are the ‘Niligri Tahrs’ found in Eravikulam National Park of Munnar. This National Park is also one of the major locations to spot ‘Strobilanthes Kunthianus’ or the ‘Neelakurinji’ flowers that bloom once in twelve years. This natural wonder is a major attraction in Munnar as it turns the hills into blue with its mast- blooming.
Munnar claims to be a popular romantic destination with its cool climate round the year and breath-taking landscape all over. On the other hand, it also attracts trekkers and nature enthusiasts with the numerous trekking options, adventure activities, birding and herping options as well. Meesapulimala, the second highest peak of South India is found here and also Kolukkumalai, one on the highest organic tea plantations in the World which calls in for some off-road jeep ride to see vast acres of tea plantations.
Highlights: Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point, Top Station, Lakshmi Trek, Meespulimala Trek, Kolukkumalai, Lockhart Tea Estate and Factory, Srishti, Tea Museum, Lakkam Waterfalls, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctury.
Accessible By - Bus, Car, Tempo Travellers and Vans.
Nearest Airport - Cochin International Airport - 107 kms
To Cochin - 128 kms
To Alleppey - 170 kms
To Thekkady - 92 kms