Munnar, nestled amidst the lush greenery of Kerala, is a gem of South India. It is cool climate, breathtaking landscapes, and abundance of flora and fauna make it a magnet for travellers seeking solace in nature's embrace. As you traverse the winding roads, you'll be greeted by cascading waterfalls, meandering rivers, and the verdant expanse of tea gardens that paint the hills in shades of emerald. The tranquil atmosphere and crisp mountain air make Munnar an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. This makes Munnar one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
Before you embark on your journey to this scenic paradise, it is crucial to ensure a secure trip with travel insurance. With a comprehensive coverage, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the place with peace of mind. Let us delve into the wonders that await you in Munnar and why safeguarding your trip is essential. This article highlights the popular Munnar tourist attractions, which is the best time to visit Munnar, and more.
Top must-visit places to go in Munnar
Here are the top places to visit in Munnar:
Tata Tea Museum: Learn about the history and production of tea in Munnar at this museum, which is located at Nallathanni Estate. The Tata Tea Museum offers an insightful journey into the history of tea production in Munnar, showcasing antique machinery and tea processing techniques.
- Entry fee: Rs. 75 for adults, Rs. 35 for children.
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
- Best time to visit: November to March.
- Distance: 2 km from Munnar town.
Pothamedu Viewpoint: Enjoy the panoramic views of tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations from this viewpoint, ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
- Distance: 3 km from Munnar town.
Attukal Waterfalls: Attukal Waterfalls is a picturesque spot for trekking and picnics, surrounded by lush greenery and flowing streams.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: June to September, during the monsoon.
- Distance: 9 km from Munnar town.
Top Station: Experience the breathtaking view of the Western Ghats and the valley of Theni from this highest point in Munnar.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: April to May and September to November.
- Distance: 32 km from Munnar town.
Kundala Lake: Kundala Lake, known for its pedal boating and row boating activities, is surrounded by lush forests and hills. Enjoy a Shikara boat ride at this beautiful lake, which is situated 25 km from Munnar.
- Entry fee: Free (boating charges extra).
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: April to June.
- Distance: 20 km from Munnar town.
Echo Point: Echo Point is famous for its natural echo phenomenon, where you can hear your voice reverberate across the lake.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.
- Distance: 15 km from Munnar town.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore this wildlife sanctuary, which is home to various species like grizzled giant squirrel, gaur, spotted deer, and many birds.
- Entry fee: Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 100 for foreigners.
- Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: December to April.
- Distance: 60 km from Munnar town.
Sevenmallay Tea Estate: Visit this tea estate, which is owned by the Tata Tea Company and is spread over hundreds of acres of land. Sevenmallay Tea Estate offers guided tours where visitors can learn about tea cultivation and processing.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: November to March.
- Distance: 10 km from Munnar town.
Marayoor: Explore this sandalwood forest, which is famous for its naturally growing sandalwood trees and dolmens from the Stone Age Civilisation.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: December to March.
- Distance: 40 km from Munnar town.
Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy various activities like speed boating and horse riding at this picnic spot, which is situated 13 km off Munnar, offering scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding hills.
- Entry fee: Free (boating charges extra).
- Timings: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: September to May.
- Distance: 13 km from Munnar town.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: At 7,900 feet, it is the world's highest tea plantation, offering breathtaking views and traditional tea-making tours.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to November.
- Distance: 35 km from Munnar town.
Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park boasts rolling grasslands, shola forests, and trekking trails to Anamudi Peak.
- Entry fee: Rs. 125 for Indians, Rs. 420 for foreigners.
- Timings: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM, closed in February and March.
- Best time to visit: September to November and April to June.
- Distance: 10 km from Munnar town.
Lakkom Waterfalls: Located 25 km from Munnar, this beautiful cascade flows into the Pambar River, ideal for picnics and nature walks.
- Entry fee: Rs. 20.
- Timings: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: June to September.
- Distance: 25 km from Munnar town.
Munnar Rose Garden: Spanning two acres, this garden features a variety of roses, spices, and fruit trees, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Entry fee: Rs. 30.
- Timings: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
- Best time to visit: October to March.
- Distance: 3 km from Munnar town.
Munnar Hill Station: Known for its cool climate, scenic beauty, tea plantations, and adventure activities like trekking and boating.
- Entry fee: Free.
- Timings: Open all day.
- Best time to visit: September to May.
- Distance: In the heart of Munnar.
Also, read: Places to visit in Kochi
Which is the best time to visit Munnar?
Munnar is one of the best places to visit in June in India, but the ideal time to visit depends on your preferences. The monsoon season (June to September) transforms the landscape into a verdant paradise, with lush greenery and gushing waterfalls at their peak. The post-monsoon season (October to November) offers clear skies and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The winter season (December to February) blankets Munnar in a cool mist, adding to its ethereal charm. March to May marks the summer season, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an excellent time for nature walks and exploration.
Also, explore: Places to visit in Chikmagalur