Kolukkumalai Tea Estate near Munnar is the highest tea plantation in the world, located at an altitude of 7,130 feet in the Western Ghats. Famous for its breathtaking sunrise views, thrilling jeep safari, and colonial-era tea factory, Kolukkumalai attracts thousands of travellers every year. From trekking routes to tea factory tours, this guide covers everything you need to plan a visit.
Kolukkumalai is in Theni District. Tourists are mesmerized by the sunrise over Palani Hills. The breeze in the hill station has a distinct and fresh aroma as it is situated in Munnar at 8,000 feet above sea level, drawing visitors for both its uniqueness and panoramic views?
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Why is Kolukkumalai Famous?
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is located at an altitude of 7,130 feet (2,170 meters) above sea level, making it the highest tea plantation in the world and there are many ways in which Kolukkumalai is famous
- Sunrise views: Watch the sunrise like never before. The place is located above the layer of clouds. You’ll get to see different shades of sky all at once— straight out of a dream.
- India’s highest organic tea plantation: Get the chance to explore the Kolukkumalai tea plantation, which is the oldest and highest tea factory in India. You can also get a freshly made organic cup of tea.
- Thrilling and refreshing jeep safari: Tourists love to experience this exhilarating jeep safari. With the 4X4 jeep, you’ll get the chance to explore many natural sights.
- Trekking: If you’re a travel enthusiast, go trekking. You may also start the trek from Kurangani.
Quick Facts about Kolukkumalai
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Kolukkumalai, near Suryanelli village, Idukki district, Kerala, India |
| How to Reach (By Air) | Cochin International Airport – approx. 108 km. Take a cab or bus to reach Munnar first. You can take another cab or bus to Suryanelli from there. |
| How to Reach (By Train) | Aluva Railway Station – approx. 108 km. Take a cab or bus to reach Munnar first, then to Suryanelli. |
| How to Reach (By Bus) | Take KSRTC buses to Munnar from Kochi, Aluva, and other major cities. From Munnar, you can get local buses or jeeps to Suryanelli. |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
| Opening Hours | Open all days.
Sunrise jeep tours start between 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM. |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee to the peak.
Jeep safari costs approximately. ₹2,000–₹3,000 per jeep (6-7 people per jeep) + GST (₹500) Tea factory entry: ₹100/ person |
How to reach Kolukkumalai?
It just takes about 90 minutes to reach Kolukkumalai from Munnar and it is a 35 KM journey . Munnar is well-connected by a network of highways to major cities in South India. The tea estate is accessible by jeep only.
If you are already in Munnar, then take the Gap Road from your hotel, and you will reach it easily.
In case you are specifically travelling from another town, then here’s how far it will be:
- From Flight: The closest is Cochin International Airport, approximately 108 km away.
- From Train: The closest station is Angamaly Railway Station, around 109 km from the tea estate.
- From Cab: You can reach the city via expressway, and the exact time depends on your source city.
The highway is smooth throughout, but the last few kilometers to the hill station are bumpy. The road is picturesque. You can take a break and soak in the view of mist-covered hills, tea shrubs, and numerous waterfalls.
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What is the Entry Fee and Best Time to Visit?
The entry fee for Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is ₹100 and you will easily spend 3 to 4 hours to get the complete tour of it.
If you want, you can book a guided tour to learn about the factory history and current working. But reach it between 7 am and 6 pm to enjoy your time here.
If you are wondering when is the best time to visit the estate, then we would recommend winter. Many people have shared their experiences of how summer may not be the most ideal time due to heat. Even if the estate is open throughout the year, the summer is dreadful and visibility is low during monsoon.
What makes Kolukkumalai special?
Kottagudi Plantations manages Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and was awarded the Golden Leaf Award by the Tea Boards of India and the USA for its excellent quality of tea way back in 2005. Be it a family trip, a school friends’ reunion or solo bag packing, Kolukkumalai never fails you. With nature’s unparallel beauty and views, Kolukkumalai offers the best travelling and tripping experience of all time. Relax, enjoy, have fun and have lots of entertainment at Kolukkumalai.
1. The highest organic tea estate in the world
What makes Kolukkumalai unique and famous is its tea estate and the quality of tea and the highest organic tea plantations in the world, Kolukkumalai tea estate is one of the oldest tea plantations producing signature tea using orthodox methods. This tea estate is one of the few places in the world where leaves handpicked early in the morning are rolled, cooled, fermented, dried in the machines that display the labels of British Manufactures in the 1940s and then hand-packaged for distribution.
Remarkable, the tea of the Kolukkumalai estate, puts light on the traditional method of tea production; taking you back to the 1900s when colonial planters started the estate. The quality of the tea increases as the altitude increases. No better reasons can be given as to why this tea is the best in kolukkumalai tea estate. Being the highest tea plantation in the world, Kolukkumalai estate delivers the best tea of all times as no chemical fertilizer is used. The waste generated from processing the tea leaves is recycled as fertilizer. The wet fog which engulfs the region provides enough moisture for the plants to thrive and rain is not needed, unlike other tea plantations.
The estate is established during the colonial period. Located at Kottagudi Village, in Tamil Nadu at the Bodinayakkanur Taluk, Theni District, the total extent of the Estate is 220 hectares. In these 220 acres, tea plantation is done in 81 hectares and the remaining is rocky and barren lands. The culture of tea picking and processing was found during the colonial period and still continues to be a masterpiece in tea production.
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2. The natural view is absolutely stunning and beautiful
With breathtaking views and an unbeatable climate, Kolukkumalai offers the best experience for travellers and visitors. Kolukkumalai is best known for its diverse variety of flora and fauna. The scenic beauty and the views are mesmerizing along with the wonders of nature. The estate provides eye captivating view of the Nilgiris. It is a delight to a nature lover. The waterfall adds to the beauty of the place and gives scenic pleasure to the visitors.
Kolukkumalai is definitely one of those places in Kerala that leaves a long-lasting experience. A year-round visit is ideal for Kolukkumalai as the place calms the eyes and soul and it has a captivating beauty all year long. Known for its scenic views and fresh air, Kolukkumalai is one of the most unexplored places in Kerala and is a real eye captivator and breathtaking place Peace is guaranteed for your body and soul with the lush green tea estates spread across igniting mesmerizing views for the eyes.
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3. Have adventures with nature
Visiting Kolukkumalai offers wonderful experiences and the tour packages available are exactly what you are looking for. From off-road jeeping to campfire, the Kolukkumalai offers wonderful entertainment choices. The destination is famous for trekking and other adventure sports. The climb and ride are bumpy but it is worth the while. Some of the famous activities at Kolukkumalai are rock climbing, trekking and rappelling.
With bumpy rides and hard roads, Kolukkumalai offers the best spot for travellers who love adventure and sports. Trigger up and amplify your trip at Kolukkumalai with three-day trekking. Trekking from Kolukkumalai to Meesapulimala and then down to Munnar. This will beat your adrenaline rush and guarantee you the adventure you have been looking for. You can also hire tents at Silent Valley from KFDC.
The trekking to Kolukkumalai starts from the Kurangani Village. Hiking past the Kurangani hills from the Kurangani village gives you spectacular views and surrounds you with a cold breeze. Entering the forest, you will be covered with a jungle canopy and it is going to be green all around until you reach Kolukkumalai. Around 50 hairpin bends have to be crossed to reach the destination. No, there are no shortcuts! By the end of the trail, you can witness a unique altitude of pine trees, portraying nature beautiful as ever. As you reach the destination, relax and enjoy the wonderful tea of Kolukkumalai and the warmth of the place with birds chirping all around.
4. Never miss the sunrise at Kolukkumalai
Being at Kolukkumalai offers the best benefit of Sunrise. It is magnificent and breathtaking and it leaves you in a wonderland. Watching the sunrise at such a high altitude gives a different and heartwarming feeling for the viewers and is a total pleasure to your eyes. If at Kolukkumalai, never ever miss out on the sunrise. Start your day with the mesmerizing Sunrise at Kolukkumalai and ensure that your day is as lit as the sunrise. It is the perfect treat for your mind and soul.
Look at this view and you already want to pack your bags! This picture was taken by Thomas Mathew (source: India Hikes). To capture a scene like this, make sure your trek starts before sunrise.
The super early morning in the dark may be difficult for a few travellers, but it is completely worth it. Make sure to get a guide for this trek.
Best season to visit Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
If you are planning to visit Kolukkumalai, it is always necessary to go at the best season. Though it is a year-round visiting area, certain weathers make the place even more beautiful! The best time to visit Kolukkumalai is from September to November and December to February.
September to November is the exclusive season because Neelakurinji blooms at this time of year. Neelakurunji blooms once in 12 years and it is dominant in Munnar. Visiting Kolukkumalai during dawn is ideal as you can witness the scenic beauty of nature and the land transformed into a carpet of beautiful flowers. The most covered morning in the valley makes it an absolute paradise and is a delight to the viewers’ eyes.
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While travelling in this season, if you’re allergic to pollen or bees, make sure to take necessary precautions and medications. When you are at Kolukkumalai, be careful not to damage the plants or the biodiversity. Harsh consequences will be faced by people who violate the rules and tend to harm or disturb the flora and fauna. Do not pick flowers.
Visiting Kolukkumalai from December to February will let you feel the coolness and chill of Munnar. The winter dips the temperature of the place below zero and it is the coldest at Kolukkumalai from December to February.
If you have made up your mind to visit Kolukkumalai during the winter, do not forget to take heavy woollen clothes, scarves and mittens. It is a basic necessity. You need to protect yourself from the cold to enjoy the place. Preparing yourself for the bone-chilling cold lets you enjoy the beauty and the climate of Munnar the most. The cold encourages adventures and adrenaline rushing activities. To enjoy nature at most beauty and fun, make sure you pack up all the necessary outfits and accessories.
Things to do in Kolukkumalai Tea Estate Munnar
When exploring the top attractions in Munnar, you wouldn’t want to miss Kolukkumalai, an estate that people often rave about. When actually going there, here are the activities that you would enjoy:
1. Tea Plantation Visit
Explore the traditional, 7-step tea processing techniques that have been used for ages and are relevant till today. The estate specialises in preparing broken orange, black tea, and flowery orange pekoe. Visit and explore:
- The farms where plucking and processing happens.
- A 100-year-old factory with vintage machines that craft fresh tea leaves.
- Try out the freshly brewed tea to know why it is so popular.
- Take back a packet for your friends and family.
2. Jeep Safari
Book your slot for a thrilling, off-road jeep safari which will give you a tour of the place. The driver will take you through the mountainous regions and green pathways, making every second of your trip blissful. They will also talk about the history of the place so you know why Kolukkamalai is as special as everyone says. You can stop at different points and take pictures, as every mile is scenic here.
3. Trekking in Kolukkumalai
Whether you are a beginner or a trek junkie, you can easily cover the 1.5 to 7 km Kolukkumalai Tea Estate trek. It starts from Suryanelli and reaches Tiger-Faced Rock. Some of the popular trekking options you can choose from:
- Top Station View Point
- Kolukkumalai Spring Water Source
- Garudamalai Trekking
- Arahara Mountain Climb
- Tea Estate Nature Walk
Guided treks are also available upon request, and while you are there, you can enjoy:
- The view of mountains
- A pure spring water stream
- Glory of the untouched nature
- Flora and fauna views
4. Sunrise in Kolukkumalai
When speaking with travellers, they have shared how beautiful the sunrise over the misty mountains is. It is a sight that you wouldn’t want to miss, even if that’s the only thing you will be going for. When you are at the place, you will understand that every second is like a dream come true. As the wind settles, you will find peace.
Make sure you arrive between 5:30 am and 6 am to catch the sunrise. Book a jeep, which will cost you ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 for a round trip.
5. Kolukkumalai Camping
Tent camping has always been one of the most popular ways for people to spend a night close to the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. The team generally charges around ₹2,100 per person and is free for kids up to 10 years. Dinner and breakfast are included in those charges, so you don’t have to worry about your meals. You can also enjoy:
- A tea estate factory visit
- Campfire, if the weather is pleasant
- A walk in the nature
ALSO SEE-The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Munnar- Experience the Best of Nature
Kolukkumalai Trekking- Popular Routes
The Kolukkumalai sunrise trek is divided into two parts:
- Jeep Drop-Off Point to the Kolukkumalai Sunrise Viewpoint
Trek duration: 30 minutes
Trek distance: 1.25 km
- After you reach Suryanelli via cab/ bus or private car from Munnar, you’ll reach the base camp in Upper Suryanelli Estate.
- Book the Jeep from here. There are many services available starting from ₹2000-₹3000. You’ll have to pay additional GST charges as well.
- One jeep can accommodate around 8 tourists.
Additional tips:
- Manage to reach Suryanelli by 4 AM so that the jeep drops off by sunrise. You’ve to trek in the dark for about 1.5 km to reach the top.
- Book your camping services available in Kolukkumalai if you want to stay for a night and catch the sunrise the next morning.
The sunrise viewpoint above the cloud farm will look nothing but straight out of heaven. Here’s one captured by Joseph Mathew:
(source: India Hikes)
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- Kolukkumalai Sunrise Viewpoint To The Tiger-Faced Rock
Trek duration: 15 min
Trek distance: 280 m
- It is the downward trek of 280 m. The Tiger-Faced Rock is sculpted by the hands of nature, with the rock shaped like a tiger.
- Spot the sunrise and Meesapulimala Peak in the front. It is the most surreal view.
- The wonderful curves of hills in the morning mist on the trek are a must-watch too!
- Trace back your trail and get back to the jeep. Witness the lush tea gardens all along the Jeep ride. See picture:
Source: India Hikes
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate- History
What makes Kolukkumalai special and famous is its tea estate. Established during the colonial period, the estate still has the legacy of the founders. In 1838, the British started the cultivation of tea in Kolukkumalai using the seeds imported from China. The tea plantation in India was developed with the help of the British between 1893 and 1945. The estate was built up from 1920 to 1927 by the British. From 1927 to 1932, the planting of tea was done. By 1936, the tea factory was completed.
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The tea cultivation in India rapidly grew after the Independence. The tea plantation developed to equal up to the plantations in Kenya, Sri Lanka and China. Today, South India is one of the pre-eminent tea industries in the world. India is the 4th largest exporter of tea in the world and the 5th largest producer of tea. The contribution of the Kolukkumalai tea estate in making India into the top list of tea manufacturers is great. The legacy of tea production during the colonial period remains.
Taste the Best Tea in the world
This is an unavoidable destination on the bucket list of tea lovers. The best thing about visiting Kolukkumalai is the tasting of the estate’s tea. The tea of Kolukkumalai estate is well known for its traditional methods of tea production which is timed back to the 1900s.
The quality of the tea increases as the altitude increases. No better reasons can be given as to why this tea is the best. Being the highest tea plantation in the world, Kolukkumalai estate definitely delivers the best tea of all time.
Make your Tea
The Kolukkumalai tea estate lays out an excellent programme for the visitors, named “Make Your Tea”. It gives them the opportunity to pick, select and process their own cup of tea.
The visitors can also buy fresh packets of tea from the estate, like the Flowery Orange Pekoe and the Broken Orange Pekoe.
Enjoy the Tea Collection Process
Tea lovers, it’s that one place you should not miss out! Well known for the tea and the estate, Kolukkumalai has its own traditional and orthodox method of tea production and collection. The old and unique process of tea collection and tea leaves production is what makes the Kolukkumalai tea a signature one. Being here, you can see and enjoy the traditional methods of tea collection and making.
From withering to fibre extraction, the process was developed during the colonial period. The legacy remains. The tea leaves are dried partially, allowing the walls of the leaf to break and wither. About 50% of the leaf walls are withered in this process. In a rolling device, the tea leaves are then broken up. This facilitates the collection of smaller particles to be collected and sieved. The larger particles are broken and rolled until the acquirement of the desired size.
The tea leaves are then allowed to oxidize on a clean cement floor. The process removes the green colour of the leaves. The shade of the tea leaf becomes coppery and the leaves become aromatic. Once the oxidation process is done, a heated conveyor belt is used to dry the leaves. The tea is ready for consumption at this stage. The final step is fibre extraction. This is performed to remove small debris and sort the tea leaves into different grades based on their size.
The tea collected from the processes is then packaged and ready for sale all over the world. You can clearly understand the step by step process of traditional tea making by visiting Kolukkumalai. It is one of the unique opportunities travellers can get.
Neelakurunji is a flower that blooms once in 12 years and is found in the Munnar region, the flower blooms from September to November. The hill station looks spectacular at dawn as you witness the terrain transforming into a carpet of colorful flowers. The mist-covered valley looks picturesque.
Winters are cold at Kolukamalai, and temperatures can fall below zero. Do not forget heavy woolens, mittens, and scarf. You can enjoy exploring the beauty and weather of the hill station.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate Entry Fees and Timing
Touring companies offer a host of adventure activities like camping, trekking, and safari, and costs can vary.
A visit to the tea factory costs Rs. 100. It is open from 7 AM to 6 PM. The factory is closed on Sunday. There are no restrictions on visiting the tea plantation.
It takes 3 to 4 hours to visit the tea estate completely. You can explore the estate, visit the factory, and take pictures from various viewpoints. If you plan an overnight stay, you will witness the spectacular sunrise and sunset.
The hills offer a unique view as clouds and mist shift in and out of the valley. You can trek along with the plantation and enjoy the majestic sights from the viewpoints.
You can take some magnificent photographs while you explore the estate.
Learn more about tea plantations. The tea estate still uses traditional methods to produce tea instead of the mechanized CTC methods. Tea leaves go through a withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying process. After fiber extraction, the tea leaves are sorted and packed. A guided tour of the organic tea factory will take you back in time.
Kolukkamalai Tea Estate offers visitors a unique program called Make your Tea. You get an opportunity to pick, select, and process your cup of tea. You can sample different types of tea at the tea tasting center and buy a variety of exotic teas at the factory outlet.
Tips while trekking in Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- Avoid the visit if you or someone in the group has back pain or any health issues. Pregnant women and the elderly should avoid it.
- Carry toiletries, medicines, and touch if you plan to camp or stay.
- Carry bottled water and snacks.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Wear warm clothes.
- Do not damage plants and local biodiversity. There are heavy fines involved.
Traveller Essentials for Kolukkumalai Trekking
Make sure to keep these travel essentials for your trek:
- Basic first aid kit
- Water (min 2 water bottles)
- Identity card
- Sunglasses/scarf
- Electrolyte drink or lemon water
- High-calorie snacks like nuts, dry fruits, etc.
Note: Make sure to travel during the non-monsoon season. The trek in the monsoon is slippery and prone to casualties. Also, wear comfortable clothing with trekking shoes to ease the journey.
Tips from Trekkers in Kolukkumalai
- Many travellers who’ve been to the Kolukkumalai sunrise viewpoint described the place as ‘heaven on Earth’.
- Most recommend reaching early and booking the Jeep ride in advance. You can’t go via private car due to the rough, steep & off-road terrain.
- The road may be bumpy and thrilling, and isn’t suitable for elderly passengers or those with mobility issues. Plan your visit during the weekdays over weekends to avoid crowds.
(Source: TripAdvisor)
Kolukkumalai is absolutely worth the cost of the visit!
Family trips, School or College excursions, Friend’s reunions, honeymoon, solo rides- let it be anything. But Kolukkumalai serves the purpose cost-effectively. Getting away and travelling is what people love the most and it is sometimes quite expensive but Kolukkumalai packages and tours are affordable and you definitely get to enjoy the place and its features. Live to the most with a budget trip to Kolukkumalai and get the best experiences.
Adventure, fun and relaxing, it is all easy and affordable at Kolukkumalai. With no compromise on the experience, you get your tour done right at least cost. You can get a great experience starting from a budget of INR 2000 and above. It is always a delight at Kolukkumalai that the reward outweighs the expense. Yes! The experience and beauty of Kolukkumalai are worth the money and more. Like it is said, life is a climb, but the view is great!
FAQs about Kolukkumalai Tea Estate and Trekking
- Is any permit needed before the trek?
No, you don’t require any permit for the Kolukkumalai sunrise trek. The base village at Suryanelli handles all the bookings. Make sure to book the camp & jeep ride in advance online.
- Where can I stay overnight in Kolukkumalai?
There are many camping and hotel options available in Kolukkumalai.
Here are some popular camping sites:
- Kolukkumalai Trekking Camping
- Camp Jaguar Hideout/ Vattavada Camping & Glamping (via Google)
- Chillalo Getaways Kolukkumalai
- Munnar Adventures Camp Tea Forest
Hotels, homestays and cottages:
- Is food and water easily available in the Kolukkumalai sunrise viewpoint?
Yes, food and water are available at the Kolukkumalai Tea Factory and nearby stalls. However, during the trek, make sure to carry your snacks.
- What are the Kolukkumalai sunrise trek timings?
There are no fixed timings for the trek. But if you want to catch the sunrise, start as early as 4:30 AM.
- Is the mobile network easily available at the Kolukkumalai sunrise viewpoint?
Mobile network doesn’t come from the viewpoint. It gets weak as you trek upwards.
Pro tip: Carry cash for this trek, don’t rely on online modes of payment.
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