Munnar

Munnar is a hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of India, known for its stunning scenery, sprawling tea plantations, and cool climate. Here are some off-the-beaten-path places you can visit in Munnar, apart from the usual tourist spots:

• Echo Point: This spot is famous for the natural echo phenomenon. Stand at a specific point and call out your name, and it will echo back several times. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys.

  

  Echo Point Munnar

• Photo Point: Aptly named Photo Point offers breathtaking views of the lush green hills and valleys dotted with tea plantations. Capture panoramic pictures of the mesmerizing landscape.

  

  Photo Point Munnar

• Lockhart Gap: This scenic spot offers stunning views of the valley below. It’s a popular spot for trekking and enjoying the beauty of nature.

  

  Lockhart Gap Munnar

• Mattupetty Dam: This dam is surrounded by beautiful hills and offers boating facilities in its reservoir. Enjoy a scenic boat ride amidst the serene ambiance.

  

  Mattupetty Dam Munnar

• National Tea Research Institute: Learn about the history and cultivation of tea at this research institute. They offer tours and workshops where you can understand the process of tea making.

  

  National Tea Research Institute Munnar

• Pothamedu Viewpoint: Located at an altitude of 1800 meters, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the Devikulam Lake. Enjoy the view of the sunrise or sunset from here.

  

  Pothamedu Viewpoint Munnar

• Thoovanam Falls: This seasonal waterfall is surrounded by dense forests and offers a refreshing escape during the monsoon season. Enjoy a short trek to the base of the falls.

  

  Thoovanam Falls Munnar

• Chinnakkanal Waterfalls: Another seasonal waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, Chinnakkanal offers a chance to spot rare birds and enjoy the beauty of nature.

  

  Chinnakkanal Waterfalls Munnar

• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: Known as the highest tea estate in Munnar, Kolukkumalai offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Enjoy a cup of tea amidst the scenic beauty and learn about the tea-making process here.

  

  Kolukkumalai Tea Estate Munnar

In addition to these offbeat places, here are some popular tourist destinations you might want to include in your Munnar itinerary:

• Eravikulam National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri tahr. You can spot this rare mountain goat here with permission.
  

  Eravikulam National Park Munnar
• Kundala Lake: Enjoy boating or Shikara ride in this scenic lake surrounded by rolling hills.
  

  Kundala Lake Munnar
• Top Station: This highest point in Munnar offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats. You can also enjoy horse riding here.
  

  Top Station Munnar
• Tata Tea Museum: Learn about the history and process of tea production at this museum.
  

  Tata Tea Museum Munna

Nature and Waterfalls:

• • Eravikulam National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri tahr (mountain goat). You might even spot the elusive Nilgiri langur (monkey). A special permit is required to enter the park’s core area, where you can see the Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once every 12 years.

    

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    Eravikulam National Park, Munnar

• Attukal Waterfalls: A series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the cool mist.
  

  Attukal Waterfalls, Munnar

Tea Plantations and History:

• Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: The highest tea estate in Munnar, offering stunning views of the rolling hills covered in tea bushes. You can also take a tour of the tea factory and learn about the tea-making process.
  

  Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar
• Tata Tea Museum (KDHP Museum): Showcases the history of tea plantation in Munnar and the surrounding region. You can learn about the different types of tea, the processing methods, and the importance of tea in the local economy.
  

  Tata Tea Museum (KDHP Museum), Munnar

Other Interesting Places:

• Mattupetty Dam: A beautiful dam surrounded by hills, offering boating facilities and scenic views. You can also visit the nearby Indo-Swiss Live Stock Project, a dairy farm where you can learn about cattle breeding and see different breeds of cows.

  

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  IndoSwiss Live Stock Project, Munnar
• Shivmudra: A natural rock formation resembling a Shiva lingam, a Hindu religious symbol. It’s a popular spot for pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.

Munnar offers a variety of experiences for visitors, from trekking and exploring nature to relaxing amidst the serene hills and enjoying the breathtaking views. With its pleasant weather, stunning scenery, and rich biodiversity, Munnar is sure to be a memorable destination.