Munnar

Munnar is a haven of peace and harmony. This incredibly beautiful hill town is positioned at a height of 6000ft in the Idukki district.. Opulent with unique species of flora and fauna, the place also has an extensive stretch of tea plantations amidst the high mountains and unspoiled valleys, giving a pleasant feeling. The scented cool air is filled with the aroma of spices. The rising and falling terrain of Munnar is covered with forests and grasslands. Some of the trees found in the region are teak, red sandalwood, rose wood, jungle jack, etc. Munnar is also paradise for bird watchers as rare species of birds are found in abundance. 

Sightseeing in Munnar-

Anamudi Peak: lies to the interior of the Eravikulam National Park. This national park is at a peak of 2695 m, and it towers the sanctuary in grandiose pride. Anamudi peak shelters many animals as it resembles the original abode for the animals with its dense forests. Nilgiri languors, leopards, tigers, and macaques are found here. This is a perfect place for trekking as enough facilities are arranged here for the tourists and they are permitted to go on foot to Anamudi.

Echo Point: Echo point is situated15km away from Munnar and is an admirable adventure destination for the tourists. Some of the popular activities in this picturesque destination among the explicit views of the lush green hills are trekking and nature walks. 

Hill View Park: Hill View Park is a popular tourist attraction in Idukki and is known for offering panoramic views of the Cheruthoni and Idukki Dams. A well maintained park sprawling on an area of 8 acres, it is 1.5 Km from the Idukki town and at about 350 ft above the dam water level. 

Mattupetti Dam: Mattupetti dam is approximately 13 km from Munnar in Kerala. It is situated at an altitude of 1700m above the sea level and is highly famous for the Indo-Swiss live stock projects. The dam is the perfect spot to see hundred ranges of high yielding cattle nurtured. 

Kundala Lake: Located at a distance of 28 km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is a popular tourists attraction in the region. The main attraction here is the panoramic natural vista and shikara & boat rides . The lake is situated on the way to Top Station from Munnar and is equally popular for its serene and calm ambiance. It is ideal for picnic as well.

Sita Devi Lake: Sita Devi Lake, also known as Devikulum Lake is a must see tourist spot near Munnar. A thermal water spring is what attracts picnickers. The lake has some religious importance and is also revered by the locals.

Kalvari Mount: At a distance of 5 km from Idukki lies the Kalvari Mount, a popular destination of tourists visiting the hill retreat of Munnar. Basically a steep slope, Kalvari Mount provides a view of Reservoir from Idukki to Ayyappancovil on one side and Kamakshy as well as Mariyapuram villages on the other side.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: Located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is also referred to as Thattekad. It is a paradise for passionate bird watchers and is also a lovely abode to many animals and reptiles. Some of the rare species of birds are Malabar grey hornbill, crested serpent eagle, crimson throated barber, peninsular bay owl, rose billed roller, fairy bluebird, great Indian hornbill, and many more to captivate the visitors.

Pallivasal Falls: Pallivasal Falls is a small waterfall near Devikulum. The waterfall serves as an ideal place for picnicking and enjoying the peace & calm amid the scenic environs.

The Eravikulam National Park:  was created to preserve the Nilgiri Tahr, a rare species of the wild goats found only in the south of the Himalayas. This park is abundantly rich with shola forests and grasses, and is yet fairly new as it was after construction in 1978. The park is sited in the Idukki district. It is located on the borders of Kerala and Tamilnadu. Some of the animals spotted here are Elephant, Nilgiri langur, Nilgiri marten, small-clawed otter and a rare tiger or leopard and the Nilgiri wood pigeon.

Idduki Arch Dam: One of the most popular attractions in Idduki, the Idukki Arch Dam is a hydro electric project encompassing 20 Small and Big Dams, 5 Rivers, a handful of Underground Tunnels and an underground power generator.Lying in the heart of the district, the dam is ideally located between 2 mountains – Kuravanmala (839 meters) & Kurathimala (925 meters) and surrounded by lush natural environs. Located on Periyar River, the main attraction here is the breath taking view of the surrounding.

The Christ Church: is situated in a spectacular place in Munnar. This church is significant as it is constructed nearly 110 years. This Christ Church of Munnar is divine even today. It was built by the British tea planters. It reflects the poise of construction and the holiness is felt at the entrance of the church. It looks magnificent with stain glass windows and is very beautiful amidst the thronging natural beauty. 

How to reach:

By Air: Nearest major airport is Cochin International airport which is about 125 km away. Taxi services are available from airport to Munnar. Cochin airport is well connected to all major cities in India and many cities abroad.

By Train: Nearest rail head is at Angamaly or Alwaye, both are nearly 120 km away from Munnar. Angamaly is an important rail junction in Ernakulam – Trissur route and is well connected to all cities in India. 

By Road: Munnar is connected to other cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu by state government public transport buses, but are less frequent. Many tour providers arrange packaged bus tours to Munnar from Cochin.