3 DAY GUIDE TO BEAUTIFUL THINGS TO DO IN MUNNAR

Where Is Munnar Located?

Munnar is known as a hill station and located in the Western Ghats mountain range in the state of Kerala in South India. It sits 1,532 metres above sea level. The hill station and former resort during the British Raj, is encapsulated with lush green rolling hills, tea plantations and was established in the late 19th century. Munnar has come a long way since then, the railway left when the British did, incase you intend on seeing one! We were also under the impression that there would be an actual hill station here! Munnar is now one of the top destinations for locals and tourists to visit in Kerala and a particularly popular honeymoon spot for Indian nationals.

Map of Munnar

How to use Map: Click the map image below to reveal an interactive Google Map with locations of hotels, points of interest and attractions.

When is the Best Time to Visit Munnar?

December and January are definite peak times and very busy with the locals, as well as Indians holidaying here due to national leave too. Hotel prices tend to skyrocket and the availability will also be low, unless you’ve booked at least 8-10 months in advance. During festivals in India such as Navratri, Diwali, Christmas and New Year, Kerala does get pretty busy and attractions and destinations do get very busy with crowds, which can take away from the enjoyment of visiting a place in a relaxed fashion.

The peak season to visit Kerala is September to March to make the most of the best weather in each area but prepare yourself for it to be busier. 

• April – June is classed as the summer season and it is pretty hot but you will see a lot of wildlife but again expect it to be busier. Munnar is a little cooler due to its altitude so expect to see visitors in the summer months seeking solace here.
• To get  a lush green perspective of Munnar, visiting  between July and September can be a great experience of the monsoon. The waterfalls will be filled to the brim with water and a must for those wanting to chase waterfalls and don’t mind the rain. Do remember that certain attractions may be closed as often heavy rains can cause mud slides.
• If on. budget, our recommendation would be to stay during low season,  which would be the end of March to the end of September. Hotels will be significantly better value for money and attractions will be less populated. However we went during Christmas and it was quite busy with attractions being filled up and some accommodations were prcied pretty steep.

How to get to Munnar

By far, our recommendation would be to travel by car and drive from Kochi (as we did) or Alleppey. This option most certainly allows for more flexibility, there are some well known tourist spots en route that you can enjoy at your own leisure.

Travelling by Car

With driving you have two options, hiring a car and self-drive or hire a driver. The latter by far is better. As discussed in our How to plan a 10 day itinerary to Kerala article, if booking your itinerary through an agent, many will include transportation in the form of a private driver, who will take you form destination to destination as per pre-planned itinerary.

It is possible to hire a private taxi or to share a taxi from Fort Kochi to Munnar, especially if your itinerary aligns with any fellow travellers that you may have met.

The best thing about either hiring a driver, a car or even having a driver with you throughout your itinerary is that you will save  a lot of time. Drivers in Kerala are very good at traversing the chaotic roads, knowing shortcuts and can show you so many of the extra sights and hidden gems you may not see on your own.

Other Transport To Munnar

As mentioned previously, Munnar is not an actual running hill station. In the past there was one train that went upto Munnar and ‘Top Station’ however these services were stopped a very long time ago. The trains themselves have been moved to nearby museums now. The old Munnar Station is now a local Tea Bazaar.

You can take the bus to Munnar but the journey will be a lot longer, although you will see a more remote journey route. We wouldn’t recommend this option after trying buses in India in the past. They can be very crowded and uncomfortable.

Be-lavie Tip: If you are prone to travel sickness, take the necessary medication with you as the winding roads and higher altitude can induce nausea in some cases.

How Can I Plan a One Day Trip to Munnar?

For those who don;t have the means to transport, are on a backpacking holiday or just simply do not have the time to, these Munnar day trips will most certainly give a taste of the area in an express tour .

How Many Days are Ideal to Stay in Munnar?

It is possible to explore in two days but things may be a little rushed and tight, so three days is absolutely perfect. If you are traveling up from Fort Kochi then it can take as much as four hours to arrive in Munnar and if the traffic is pretty bad then add on an extra couple of hours. Of course stops en route can also eat into your three days but with careful planning its all possible!

An important point to note is that Munnar is reached by winding roads and exploring the surrounding areas that are en route. Generally we were told that we would be only able to explore one route per day due to logistics. 

If like us you aren’t a fan of crowds then avoid some of the very busy spots such as Top Station as this does take a while to travel to (we didn’t visit on the advice of our driver and the time of year we went). You could easily exchange this for spending more time in nature, tea plantations or spotting wildlife. This three day guide to beautiful things in Munnar certainly contains many things to do that will leave you with lasting memories of this stunning area.

A 3 Day Guide To Beautiful Things To Do In Munnar

Munnar’s stunning cloud filled, lush green rolling hills are filled with a plethora of things to do, from heritage, culture, awe inspiring viewpoints, wildlife, tea gardens as well as activities like hiking, off road jeeps and spotting endangered animals.

Make A Roadside Stop At Cheerappaya Falls

En route from Fort Kochi to Munnar, on the Kochi to Madurai Highway, this will be the first waterfall you will see by the roadside. The majority of people will stop here and take a few photos but be aware it is crowded at certain times. 

You’ll  see buses, cars and vans full of locals as well as  international tourists getting off to capture that photo and it can be quite tricky to get a shot of yourself minus the crowds. Just look confident and people will move out of the way but not entirely so be quick!

Be-lavie Tip: Politely asking people to nudge over a tiny bit doesn’t work. It’s each man out for himself here! The platform-style wall beside you will be packed so maybe think of an alternative shot and get creative if you don’t want the crowds in your frame!

The Cheerappaya Falls is also known as the ‘seven steps waterfall’ as it flows down seven levels of a rocky cavities. The falls are 300 metres  high and during the rainy season they are pretty spectacular. with lots of fast flowing water. There is a small viewing platform at the base however we didn’t go down as most people take a photos from the road side level as. You’ll know it’s a tourist stop as you’ll see a bunch of stalls selling drinks and street food to the side of the falls.

• Location: NH 85, Kochi-Madurai-Tondi Point Rd, Chillithodu, Kerala 685561. I Tel. +91 1800 425 4747 I Map Location 
• Hours: Night visited not recommended due to roadside location

Admire Valara Falls

Personally, we found Valara Falls to be a little more spectacular than the former falls! It’s literally down the road from Cheerappaya falls and is 1000 metres in height surrounded by dense jungle. It’s not accessible but can be viewed from a walled barrier from the main road. You can take photos from this point too. The waterfall originated in the Western Ghats of the Deviyar River. During Monsoon the waterfall is overflowing, although it didn’t appear overflowing in December. Our driver waited in the car across the road whilst we

Be-lavie Tip: Be very careful when you head over to take photos of the waterfall as there are cars coming from both sides of the winding road of the Madurai Highway from Cochin.

• Location: NH 49, Chillithodu, Kerala 685561 I Tel.+91 1800 42 5474 I Map Location 
• Hours: Open 24 hours (night visits not recommended due to low light and winding road

Take a Pit Stop at Kallar Waterfalls

Another roadside stop option is Kallar Waterfalls.

 The Kellar waterfalls are another great photo opportunity. They are positioned under a bridge and it’s not possible to get up close and personal here. It’s another quite photo stop, but if you are waterfall chaser then it’s a good one to include. We didn’t get out of the car for thsi one as we were running a little late on our way to Munnar.

• Location: Kallar Meenmutty Falls Road, Kallar, Kerala I Map Location 
• Hours: Mon-Sun: 09:00-17:00

Catch the Awe Inspiring Vista from the Karidipara Viewpoint.

This is a restaurant located on the roadside on the Madurai Highway between Cochin and Munnar. It’s possible to have lunch here or even a cup of traditional Indian chai in the restaurant. Alternatively you can pay a small fee to stand on the viewing platform below.. The view consists a horizon full of lush green hills and is especially beautiful at either sunset or sunrise. 

• Location: Kochi – Madurai – Dhanushkodi Road, Kallar Vattiyar, Kerala I Tel. +91 1800 425 4747 I Map Location 
• Entrance Fee: To viewing platform : 10 INR per person (10p).

Learn About Ayurvedic Medicine at Indian Spices & Herbal Gardens in Valara

Along the Kochi to Madurai Highway there are a number of Ayurvedic gardens, we were recommended to visit Indian Spices & Herbal gardens. It was an interesting experience, being shown around an ayurvedic garden and formally being talked through the benefits of certain herbs and plants. 

Unfortunately at times at Indian Spices & Herbal Gardens, it seemed a little like we were being rushed through the garden and ushered into the sales office as it was clear that the focus was on making sales. Towards the end you are shown different Ayurvedic potions and lotions for specific concerns you may have. It does feel a little pressured to make a purchase but you just have to be firm if you don’t want the items and decline.

• Location: Valara – Vadakkechal Rd, Chillithodu, Kerala 685561 I Tel. +91 996 1918 752 I Map Location 
• Hours Monday-Sunday: 08:00-21:00

The Kannan Devan Tea Museum 

In 2005, Tata Tea Museum with archived photography as well as machinery, which documents the journey of tea in India. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea, ensuring the legacy of the men and women who worked tirelessly to ensure tea plantations survived as long as this are publicly recognised and appreciated.

For anyone who has an interest in tea, the museum is fascinating. Firstly you learn about the history in a traditional museum format, where you see the photography and infographics. There is even a short video in a small auditorium to watch a film of the history of tea growing. After which you can visit the machinery or factory portion, where you learn just how the tea is separated, sorted and graded and then packaged. There are tastings at the end of the tour and a shop where visitors  can purchases of tea.

During the tour illustrating the various processes of making black tea, visitors can also see a sun dial, on  a granite rock which was made in 1913 by the Art Industrial School of Nazareth, Tamil Nadu. 

The demonstration room for tea tasting is another interesting part of the museum, which has some pretty exotic varieties of teas to try from around the world.

• Location: KDHP House, NH 49, Nullatanni Estate, Munnar, Idukki District. Kerala 685612 l Tel.  +91 4865 230561 l Website I Map Location 
• Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 09:00-16:00, Closed on Monday
• Entrance Fee: 75 INR (adultsI 25 INR (children)

Have a Little Photo Shoot in Tea Gardens

Munnar is the absolute home of tea plantations and one of the absolute best things to do in Munnar is to visit one so that you can take an iconic photo. 

You may well be able to stop at a tea plantation whilst you’re driving around Munnar, or there are many estates where it’s possible to book a tour. This involves a walk around the plantation itself, where you can see the tea pickers, take some photos and then head into the tea factory, where you can witness how the leaves are separated and learn about the process of tea making. Often there is the opportunity to do some tastings too and even purchase some tea to take back home with you.

A lot of the tea plantations in Munnar are owned by Tata Tea. One of the most famous tea gardens in Kerala is Kolukkumalai. Kolukkumalai is a small village located on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and sits at an altitude of 7130 feet or 2170 metres above sea level. The Kolukkumalai tea plantation is known to be the highest in the world with the tea having a very distinct taste. Map Location. 

Munnar Rose Garden 

Pretty gardens and rose lovers in particular, should add The Munnar Rose Garden to your itinerary. 

Spot blankets of hundreds upon hundreds of flowers, plants and of course roses. Located at a height of 3.500 feet  above sea level, and is the perfect spot for those with an interest in learning about the rare species of flora. Many locals hang out here, especially in the evenings so it does get busy very quickly, especially in the holiday season.

At the rose garden, it’s possible to see vanilla, cardamom as well as fruits, namely strawberries, amla, litchi and rumbuta. They also have seasonally offerings such as bananas, potatoes, cabbage, beans and cauliflower. There is also the possibility to buy seeds for those with green fingers so you can grow some of the varieties of flowers, fruit and vegetables at home.

Be-lavie Tip: The rose garden can become uncomfortably crowded during holiday periods so for a more relaxed time, try and go as early in the day as possible.

The rose gardens are a lovely place for a picnic lunch, birdwatching and there is also a homestay there, should you wish to spend the night.

• Location: Aluva – Munnar Rd, Rose Nagar, Mattupetty, Munnar, Kerala 685612 I Tel. +914865230332 I Map Location 
• Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Daily)
• Entrance Fee: INR 20 + additional camera fee of INR 10 

Experience 4WD Jeep Off-roading 

It is possible to see a lot of Munnar in a car but the way to get to the lush green jungle, access the stunning views, spot wildlife and see sites like the Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point are by taking a 4WD jeep, its possible to reach the more remote spots like tea plantations and small farms.

It is a bit of a thrilling ride on the bumpy roads in Munnar but it is definitely a lot of fun and a great way to see the area from a different perspective.

There are many companies you can book with but we went with Idukki Riders, located in Chithirapuram, Idduki and can be contacted via their numbers: 9496822212 or 9847843533. It’s best to do arrange this once you are in Munnar as they can be quite difficult to get hold of.

Be-lavie Tip: for comfort ladies, you may want to put on a supportive sports bra for the trip. If you do get car sickness, the best seat in the house is the passenger seat next to the driver. 

Highly recommended 4WD jeep Safari in the Munnar Mountains

Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Parks is one of the oldest national parks in Kerala and is great to spot wildlife. It is easily accessed by 4WD jeep and most  4WD companies include the the Eravikulam National Park as part of their three to four hour off road tour.

This national park has some incredible panoramas including Anamudi, which is the highest peak. Also the park is home to the one endangered Nilgiri Tahr deer which you will hear a lot about when you visit.

Image Courtesy: Pavan Kumar Nagenda Nilgiri Langur (Unsplash) & Nandhu Kumar Nilgiri Tahr (Unsplash)

Back in the times of the Raj, Eravikulam National Park was a game reserve, a place to hunt wild animals such as the Nilgiri deer. Now thankfully, the park works to protect the deer and through their efforts have enabled the park to have the highest population of this species of deer in the wild. 

Be-lavie Tip: A permit is required to enter the park but if you really want to spot a Nilgiri deer, it will be worth it. You do have to walk a little for sightings so please bear that in mind.

• Location: Munnar, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685612 I Tel. +91 4865 231 587 I Website I Map Location 
• Hours: 08:00-16:00 daily.
• Permit Price: 425 INR for foreign nationals

Paddle In Lakkam Falls

One of the most interesting things about Lakkam Falls is that, swimming is allowed in the lagoon beneath it which we didn’t expect. If you didn’t want to pay to enter Eravikulam National Park and skip the Nilgiri deer, you only need to pay 20 INR to see the falls even though they are in the park.

Be-lavie Tip: bikinis and revealing swimsuits are a no no. The local culture is to wear something modest. Longer Shorts and a T-shirt are perfect. 

• Location:  Udumalpet Road, near Eravikulam National Park, Marayoor, Kerala 685620, India I Tel. +91 1800 425 4747 Map Location 
• Hours: 08:00-16:00 daily
• Entrance Fee: 20 INR

View Ripple Waterfalls From The Adventure Park.

The Ripple Waterfalls are formed by the Muthirapuzha River and is set amidst dense forests at a height of 1,600 metres. The Ripple Waterfalls got its name from the rippling sound that it creates as the water flows down from the rocks. This destination is extremely popular amongst photographers, nature lovers, and adventure enthusiasts.

The surrounding area is great for adventure lovers, with zip lining being particularly popular. There is a cafe onsite as well as conveniences, 

• Location: Unnamed Road, Sree Narayanapuram, Kerala 685563 I Tel. +91 9562 194 232 I Map Location
• Hours: 07:30-18:00
• Entrance Fee 20 INR

Take to the Waters With a Boat at  Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is well-known for being the first concrete storage gravity dam in the state of Kerala. It had two purposes, one was to help prevent flooding and the other was to generate power in the 1940s.

However today, it does neither of those and has instead become quite a popular tourist haunt. You can walk over the dam itself to get some fantastic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.

If you are visiting as part of the 4WD tour of the area then, you will most probably be driving over the dam in order to park. There is a lot of things to do around the dam including boating, speed boating, paddle boarding as well as zorbing. It’s very busy at holiday periods with families enjoying time together having a picnic and taking part in the activities onsite.

Mattupetty is also referred to as ‘cattle village’. This name comes from an Indo-Swiss farm in the vicinity, where there are many different cows including the black and white fresians. 

Location: Top Station Highway, Mattupetty, Kerala 685616 I tel. +91 1800 425 4747 I Map Location 

Try Making Echo’s at Echo Point

Most peopel will stop here if they are going to Top Station. We gave it a miss as the drive is long and our driver advised us it is very crowded, plus the view is virtually always blocked with clouds so it’s hard to see Tamil Nadu,

But Echo Point is a must. It’s a peaceful reservoir that appears to be sitting in the hills. As the name suggests, Echo Point is where you can make an echo and here it travel for miles. You have to give this a go when visiting. ALthough I don’t think mine went very far!

If you drive a little further up from the actual Echo Point, where you’ll see lots of families and visitors having a picnic and making a lot of echos, you will come to a more quieter location. Yes you can have this place all to yourself as there will be no one there but you! Our 4WD jeep driver took us here and you will definitely here your echo back without any other noises. You may even spot the odd monkey! The views are epic so take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the nature all around you.

• Location: Top Station Hwy, Kannan Devan Hills, Kerala 685616 I Tel. +91 471 232 1132 I Map Location 

Look Out for Elephants at the Side of the Roads & Plantations

We loved how you can spot an elephant or two in the wild. You may see them whilst driving around the national parks or deep in tea plantations located in some of the remote hill areas. Stay away from them as they are wild animals, admire them from afar. Remember you are in their habitat, not the other way around. 

Be-lavie Tip: There are many elephant camps in Munnar. They pose as sanctuaries but elephants are mistreated and used for the tourism industry. These camps are not ethical, they use a process called ‘pajaan’ to ‘break’ an elephant to make them submissive and are manipulated into being ridden. The submission process involves withholding food, beatings with bull hooks and whips. Elephants’ backs are not made for riding. Less demands means these kind of places will be shut down. Be a responsible tourist/traveller, please do not partake in these activities.

Visit The Oldest Church in Munnar, CSI Christ Church

This cute church built in 1910 from stone features pretty stained glass windows,  chandeliers and London exchequer stamps decorating the walls. 

The history of this church began with an evening walk of Sir Henry Mansfield hight and his wife Eleanor Isabel May in November 1894. Eleanor liked this place very much and expressed her wish to be buried on this hilltop after her death. Unfortunately she died on 23rd December 1894, at the age of 24, after contracting Cholera. The family wanted her body to be sent to England but Henry stood strongly to fulfill her wish and buried her on top of this hill where Christ Church sits today.

The church is very much active today with timed services in the morning and evenings. An interesting fact about Christ Church is that many British men who worked here have their names on the walls as well as being buried in the graveyard. People from England often the third or fourth generation, come here to search for the names of their fathers or uncles who worked in the area. 

Be-lavie Tip: Take your shoes off before entering the church.

• Location: Kochi – Madurai – Dhanushkodi Rd, Moolakadai, Munnar, Kerala 685612 I +91 486 5230 614 I Map Location

Do Not Leave Munnar Without Trying Banana Fry 

One thing that goes very well with a traditional cup of chai is the local banana fry. These are sliced bananas which are dipped in a gram flour batter and deep fried. They are delicious and the perfect tea time snack. They are a often sold at Thattukadas, which are roadside tea stalls. 

The gram flour can either contain cardamom or can have a little more heat to it with other spices such as chili powder, a bit like a pakora of bananas. Either way, banana fry is definitely a must-try.

Where To Stay In Munnar

We would personally recommend two options in Munnar, which differ in style as well as location. Both place a big focus on sustainability and the local environment as well as the surrounding community.

Related Article: Eco-friendly Hotels in Kerala & Their Sustainability Practices

The Leaf Resort, Munnar

Located 12 km from Munnar town, The Leaf is nestled in a nature filled oasis in Aanachal. 

The accommodation is cottage style which are dotted around the beautifully landscaped grounds, which come with calm and retreat vibes. It’s a  sanctuary with views of misty mountains and tea plantations. 

Rooms are spacious and come in an array of categories from The Green Leaf deluxe room cottages which are perfect for couples, to family villas with pools as well as the most luxurious of all, the Honeymoon villas, Almost all have stunning nature and garden views of the surrounding lush green mountainous vistas. 

The Bouquet Garni Restaurant, serves a great dining experience with buffet style food, carefully curated to reduce waste, Expect Indian, Chinese, Arabic, Italian and Continental dishes with local delicacies  available on request.

The resort has extensive gardens, nature trails as well as an impressive infinity pool.

• Location: Chithirapuram PO, Anachal – Aamakandam, Munnar, Kerala 685565 I Tel. +917510344111 I Map Location
• Resort Rating: 5 Star
• Details: 13:00 Check-out time: 11:00.
• Booking Packages Includes: Breakfast, hikes and tea stand are included in room rates.
• Perfect For: couples, families, Honeymoons and special occasion stays.

Nature Zone Jungle Resort, Munnar

It’s easy to see why Nature Zone Jungle Resoort is one of Kerala’s most sustainable places to stay. It’s  location is 5,700 feet above sea level. Elephants are often seen on the narrow winding roads leading up to the property as well as wild boar. 

Guests can opt for safari style tents or tree houses and we’d definitely recommend these, and it does feel like you’re there amongst the clouds. There are only 15 residences at the resort in total.

There is a dining area where food is served at breakfast and dinner, these are on a buffet style basis and food is only replenished as and when required. 

Nature Zone is a very special location and has 180 and 360 degree views over Munnar, it’s a beautiful view once the mist lifts.

Activities at Nature Zone Jungle resort include jungle trekking, lush tea plantation walks, hiking to the Pulippara view point, bird watching, sunrise and sunset viewpoints as well as plantation viewpoints. There’s even a view of the city lights beneath in Munnar. 

Nature Zone Jungle resort’s remote location, is only accessible by private jeep and takes around 30 minutes from  a specified pick up and drop off point in Munnar.

• Location: Pulippara, Near KSRTC Bus Stand, Nullatanni, Munnar, Kerala 685612 I Tel, +91 9745433330. Map Location 

• Resort Rating: 3 Star Tree Houses and safari tents.
• Details: Check-in time: 12:00. Check-out time: 11:00.
• Booking Packages Includes: Breakfast and dinner are all included due to the remote location of the resort.
• Perfect For: Couples, Solo travellers, families who may prefer safari tents if they have babies.

Things To Do In Munnar FAQS

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