Munnar is a quaint hill station in Kerala’s western ghats in the Idduki district. Located at an altitude of 1,600 meters (6,000 feet), Munnar is one of the top hill stations in South India and was once a summer retreat for the British during colonial times. Here is a Munnar Travel Guide which will make it easy for anyone visiting Munnar.
Munnar Travel Guide-The Comprehensive List
Munnar is synonymous with evergreen tea plantations, spice gardens, and lush woods. The hill station is also home to certain endangered species of animals, such as the Neelakurinji and Nilgiri Tahr. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in South India due to its clean valleys, mountains, and diverse flora and wildlife.
Munnar travel guide in this blog provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip.
Ideal time to visit Munnar
It is important to know the best time to travel to Munnar, when finalizing your Munnar trip plan. The ideal time to visit Munnar is between September and March. The weather is pleasant, and you will enjoy sightseeing.
Munnar has pleasant weather throughout the year. The weather remains cool during the summer because of its high elevation and lush garden.
Monsoon in Munnar
The monsoon in Munnar lasts from June to October. Munnar receives heavy rains during monsoon. Munnar looks stunningly beautiful in this period. If you like outdoor activities and adventure, it may depend upon the rains of the day which is unpredictable.
The mountains, forests, and waterfalls are its lushest best. It is a great time to see wildlife. If you want a quiet holiday, head to Munnar during the monsoon, as crowd levels are low. You may get a good deal since it is off-season.
Winter Season in Munnar
The weather is cooler and drier from October to February. It is an excellent time for outdoor activities and sports.Winter is a call to adventure for those who enjoy sports such as trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, and others.
Summer in Munnar
Summer in Munnar is from March to May. The temperature is pleasant than the rest of Kerala, hovering between 19 and 25 degrees Celsius, with occasional rain showers. It is a great time to visit the tea estate.
ALSO SEE- Best time to Visit Munnar- Munnar Weather, Season and Climate for each month
How to reach Munnar?
You can reach Munnar by air, road, or rail.

By Air
Munnar does not have its own airport. The closest airport is Cochin International Airport, is around 125 km from Munnar. The airport is well connected to major cities in the country, and You can book a taxi service to Munnar, and the journey takes around 3 hours.
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Alternatively you can travel to Munnar from Madhuria International Airport (Tamil Nadu), is around 140 km from Munnar.
By Rail
The closest railway station to Munnar is Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is 130 km away. Erakulam Junction is one of the largest railway stations in Kerala, and trains come from all over the country.
Aluva Railway Station is closer to Munnar, around 120 km from Munnar, but is smaller than Ernakulam. You can take taxis from either stations, and takes 2 hours and 2.3 hours respectively.
ALSO SEE – Nearest Railway Station to Munnar in Kerala
Even though there have been plans to resurrect the mono rail system that existed in Munnar before floods, it has not been put to action till now.
By Road
The drive to Munnar is a scenic journey through the towering peaks of the Western Ghats. There are several bus operators that ply between Munnar and major cities in Kerala. The bus journey takes roughly 4-5 hours from Kochi and 6-7 hours from Thiruvananthapuram and Coimbatore.
You can also take direct buses to Munnar from practically every major city in South India.
Munnar Trip Plan tip: Make your bookings well in advance during peak season
ALSO SEE – Kochi To Munnar- Sightseeing, Distance, Travel Time & Tips
Best places to visit in Munnar
There are several places you can visit in Munnar during your holiday. Here are our top recommendation from Munnar Travel Guide.
Chokramudi Peak
At an altitude of 2,100 meters above sea level, the view from Chokramudi Peak is breathtaking. You can walk up to the peak through beautiful Shoal forest. The trek to the peak takes 4 to 6 hours.

Eravikulam National Park
Your visit to Munnar will be incomplete without visiting the Eravikulam National Park. Eravikulam National Park, or Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, is located around 45 minutes from Munnar and covers an area of 97 square kilometers.
The sanctuary is best known for the Nilgiri Tahr, a native mammal of the Western Ghats. Other animals you can spot here are elephants, Nilgiri langurs, Nilgiri martens, Atlas moths (the largest in the world), lion-tailed macaques, small-clawed otters, and a rare tiger or leopard.

Another highlight of this park, is located atop the 2,700-meter-high Anamudi hill, are the Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once every 12 years!
Kundala Lake
Kundala lake is an artificial lake around 20 km from Munnar. The lake has stunning backdrops of lush green slopes filled with unparalleled cherry blossoms. The lake is a sight for sore eyes and radiates a sense of calm. The lake overlooks the Kundala dam. When you visit, you can go boating in traditional rowboats, modern pedal boats, and Kashmiri Shikaras!

Mattupetty Dam
The Mattupetty Dam is near Anamudi Peak is approximately 13 km from Munnar. The dam is a gravity dam and is used for power generation and water conservation. It has a beautiful emerald lake in the center. Everything about the Mattupetty Dam is memorable, from the quiet water to the lovely gardens on the outskirts.
ALSO SEE-Mattupetty Dam – Best Time to Visit, Timings and Fare
Top Station
Top Station, located 32 kilometers from Munnar, offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats andTheni District of Tamil Nadu. Top Station, located 32 kilometers from Munnar, offers a panoramic view of the Western Ghats and Theni District of Tamil Nadu. It was once the highest railway station in the Kundala Valley, and was used as a transhipment point. Top Station is also famous for its tea gardens and tea pickers, offering a taste of regional culture and lifestyle.

Lockhart Gap
If you wish to experience running through the mist, you must head to Lockhart Gap. The heart-shaped gap that naturally formed between two mountains gave rise to the name of this lovely location. Not only will the presence of clouds in this valley surprise you, but so will the soothing quiet, complemented by the faint aroma of new tea!
ALSO SEE- Gap Road Munnar- Photos of Most Scenic Drive in Kerala

Echo Point
Echo Point, located at 600 ft. and 15 km from Munnar, is a unique beauty showcasing the echoing phenomenon. It is situated on the banks of a lake and offers serene surroundings for peaceful walks and boating. Echo Point is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous native birds spotted. Local shops selling hill station items and rare Neelakurinji flowers or Strobilanthes enhance its beauty. It is also famous for its trek routes due to its favorable climate and terrain.
ALSO SEE – Echo Point Munnar – Top Things to do & Activities
Atukkad Waterfalls
Atukkad Waterfalls is just 9 km from Munnar. The view from waterfalls is mesmerizing, the cascading water, rolling hills, and surrounding greenery. The sound of water gushing down the rocks is soothing. There is pool at the bottom of falls and visitors can enjoy a refereshing shower.

If you are adventurous, you can trek deep into the woods. Alternatively, you can sit back and enjoy the view. Visitors can explore the area during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
ALSO SEE-Top 8 Munnar Waterfalls
Tata Tea Musem
Tata Tea Museum or Kannan Devan Tea Museum is a must-visit during your trip to Munnar. The Museum offers a unique experience for tea lovers, showcasing the history of the tea plantation industry and the daily preparation of tea leaves.

Rose Garden Munnar
The Rose Gardens of Munnar, located near National Highway 49, is a stunning 2,2 acres of land filled with various plants, including flowering plant, spices, cardamom, vanilla, and fruit trees. The garden is around 3,500 feet above sea level and offers a breathtaking view.
Seasonal tropical fruits are grown year-round. You can get fresh vegetables and fruits like cabbage, potato, cauliflower, bananas, and beans from the plantations farm. Visitors can also purchase seeds for future cultivation.
ALSO SEE – Rose Garden Munnar-Entry Fee, Timings, Images & Best Time to Visit (Updated)
It provides a peaceful retreat from the hectic city life. Visitors may enjoy leisurely strolls, snap beautiful pictures, and gaze at the immaculately kept flower gardens. It’s the ideal place to unwind and take in the calm beauty of Munnar’s vegetation.
Things to do
There are several things a tourists can do in Munnar. Here are top things to do Munnar:
Nature Trials
Munnar is a true paradise for nature lovers. Nestled among rolling hills and gorgeous meadows, it provides breathtaking views and endless opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore. Plantation walks, guided walking excursions, and waterfall tours are popular activities for nature enthusiasts visiting Munnar. The nature trails of Munnar provide a welcome getaway into the heart of Kerala’s natural splendor, whether you’re looking for adventure or calm.
Adventure Activities

Munnar is the ultimate adrenaline rush destination for adrenaline enthusiasts! There are many activities to choose from::
- Mountain biking: Take a thrilling ride through Munnar’s breathtaking scenery on a mountain bike.
- Trekking: Munnar is a trekker’s heaven, with a variety of pathways that can accommodate hikers of all ability levels. Popular hikes that give breathtaking views of the surrounding area are the Anamudi Peak, Meesapulimala, and Chokramudi treks.
- Rock climbing: Try your fitness levels and stamina by climbing rocks in Munnar.
- Wildlife spotting: Munnar has two parks : Eravikulam National Park and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Camping: Set up camp amidst the natural beauty of Munnar. There are several camping sites in and around Munnar where you can spend the night in the lap of nature
- Elephant Safari: Experience the thrill of riding an elephant through the lush forests of Munnar. This is a unique way to explore the region and get up close with nature.
Other adventure sport activities in Munnar include paragliding, trout fishing, and boating.
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Leisure Activities
If you enjoy slower-paced activities, you can enjoy sightseeing around town, soaking in the beautiful views, or having a cup of tea in the various cafes around Munnar. Alternatively, you can try shopping for spices and tea around town. If you enjoy photography, you can take beautiful pictures of the stunning scenery. You can get a relaxing massage at the various spas around town.
- Tea Garden Tours: The lush tea estates in Munnar are well known. Visit tea gardens like the Tata Tea Museum, the KDHP Tea Museum, or the Lockhart Tea Museum. Many of them have guided tours where you can discover more about tea production and preparation.
- Spice Plantation Tours: Kerala is referred to be the “Land of Spices,” and Munnar is no different. Learn more about the different spices farmed in the area, such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon, by taking a guided tour of a spice plantation.
- Ayurvedic Spa & Wellness: Munnar is a fantastic location for relaxation and renewal. Ayurvedic spa services and health programs are widely available at resorts. Relax your body and mind by treating yourself to massages and other spa treatments.
- Shopping: Look through the neighborhood markets and stores to buy souvenirs like tea, spices, handicrafts, and traditional Kerala apparel. Popular shopping locations include the Mattupetty Dam Market and the Munnar Market.
- Cultural Experiences: watch a Kalaripayattu martial arts demonstration, or watch traditional Kathakali dance performances to fully immerse yourself in Kerala culture.
- Relaxation: Sometimes the finest pastime is to unwind and take in Munnar’s peacefulness. Find a quiet area, relax with a book, or have a picnic amidst the breathtaking scenery.
Munnar is the perfect vacation spot for lovers of the outdoors, thrill-seekers, and those looking to unwind since it provides a wide variety of recreational pursuits. Munnar offers it everything, whether you want to go hiking, taste the regional cuisine, or just relax in the great outdoors.
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