Top 20 Tourist Places in Munnar – Second Among the Top 500 Places to Visit in India Series
Munnar, often called the “Kashmir of South India,” is a charming hill station in Kerala’s Western Ghats. Known for its rolling tea gardens, misty mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife, it attracts both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here are the top 20 tourist places in Munnar with highlights and the best time to visit.
1. Eravikulam National Park
Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and the rare Neelakurinji flowers that bloom once in 12 years. It also offers views of Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India.
Highlight: Wildlife, trekking, Anamudi views.
Best Time: Sep–Feb.
2. Mattupetty Dam
A scenic dam surrounded by tea gardens, perfect for boating and photography. Don’t miss the nearby Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm.
Highlight: Boating, nature walks.
Best Time: Oct–Mar.
3. Tea Plantations & Tea Museum
Munnar is famed for its tea estates. The Tata Tea Museum showcases tea history and processing. Plantation walks and tea tasting are a must.
Highlight: Tea tasting, colonial charm.
Best Time: Year-round (best Sep–May).
4. Anamudi Peak
At 2,695 m, it is South India’s tallest peak, popular with trekkers and photographers.
Highlight: Trekking, panoramic views.
Best Time: Nov–Feb.
5. Kundala Lake
A peaceful lake known for Shikara rides and cherry blossoms. The nearby dam adds to its charm.
Highlight: Boating, cherry blossoms.
Best Time: Apr–Jun.
6. Echo Point
A fun spot where voices echo naturally. Surrounded by misty hills, it’s good for trekking and birdwatching.
Highlight: Echo phenomenon.
Best Time: Sep–Feb.
7. Top Station
At 1,700 m, it offers panoramic views of the Theni Valley and is a prime spot for the Neelakurinji bloom.
Highlight: Valley views.
Best Time: Sep–Mar.
8. Pothamedu View Point
Known for sunrise and sunset over vast tea and cardamom plantations.
Highlight: Plantation views, photography.
Best Time: Sep–Feb.
9. Attukal Waterfalls
A scenic cascade ideal for treks and picnics, especially beautiful during monsoon.
Highlight: Trekking, picnic spot.
Best Time: Jun–Sep (full flow); Oct–Feb (trekking).
10. Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Unique for its natural sandalwood trees, plus prehistoric dolmens and cave paintings.
Highlight: Sandalwood, heritage sites.
Best Time: Oct–Mar.
11. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to elephants, leopards, and the rare grizzled giant squirrel. Trekking here is thrilling.
Highlight: Wildlife treks.
Best Time: Dec–Apr.
12. Lockhart Gap
A viewpoint offering sweeping mist-covered valley views, great for photography.
Highlight: Cloudscapes.
Best Time: Sep–Mar.
13. Rose Garden
A colorful garden with roses, spices, and medicinal plants spread over acres.
Highlight: Exotic flowers.
Best Time: Nov–Apr.
14. Devikulam
A peaceful hill station known for Sita Devi Lake, linked with mythology, and trout fishing.
Highlight: Calm retreat.
Best Time: Nov–Mar.
15. Meesapulimala
The second highest peak in the Western Ghats, reached via treks through grasslands and forests.
Highlight: Trekking adventure.
Best Time: Nov–Feb.
16. Chithirapuram
A quaint village with colonial-era bungalows and serene tea estates.
Highlight: Old-world charm.
Best Time: Sep–May.
17. Thoovanam Waterfalls
Located inside Chinnar Sanctuary, accessible after a short trek.
Highlight: Untouched waterfall.
Best Time: Jun–Sep.
18. Nyayamakad Waterfalls
A tall, gushing fall between Munnar and Rajamala, good for treks and picnics.
Highlight: Scenic cascade.
Best Time: Sep–Feb.
19. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
At nearly 8,000 ft, it’s the world’s highest tea estate. Famous for sunrise views and fresh organic tea.
Highlight: Tea, jeep ride, sunrise.
Best Time: Nov–Mar.
20. Blossom Hydel Park
A family-friendly park with boating, cycling tracks, and flower gardens near town.
Highlight: Leisure and flowers.
Best Time: Oct–Apr.
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