Munnar is one of the major centers for tea trade of Kerala, a state also called 'the Gods' own country'. Situated at an altitude of 1520 meters, in the eastern part of the state, it's a well know hill station.This hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town.Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
Tourist Attractions of Munnar
Devikulam - Its is located (7 km from Munnar) is idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Pallivasal - Its is 8 km from Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.
Mattupetty - located 13 km from Munnar is situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.
Lock Heart Gap - This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking, located about 13 kms from Munnar. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.
Nyayamakad - Located between Munnar and Rajamala, at a distance of 10 kms form Munnar, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 m. The enticing surroundings makes an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.
Eravikulam National Park - Eravikulam National Park is located at a distance of 15 km from Munnar in the state of Kerala. The 97 sq. km. park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. Originally established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), the Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District. It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, faunal, floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as a National park in 1978. The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best mountain ranges found anywhere in the world.
Attukal - Situated between Munnar and Pallivasal, the place offers picturesque waterfalls, hills and is also an ideal place for trekking.
Climate in Munnar
Except the monsoon months that fall between June and September, Munnar can be visited the whole year through. It is recommended to take along a good number of woolens if visiting Munnar during the winter season. In the summers, a light sweater would be enough to keep away the chill.
How to reach Munnar?
By Air - The nearest airport to Munnar is at Kochi, 130 km away.
By Rail - The nearest railhead from Munnar is at Kochi. The railway station can also be accessed from the town by the local modes of transport.
By Road - Munnar is accessible by road from most of the towns in Kerala. |