Admit it, the scorching summer sun is killing you and with the schools closed, you just want to take off to some place in the hills with your family. Take a trip to Munnar through the emerald-green tea plantations draped in wafts of mist. Watch the trickle of water oozing down the hills as you drive up the winding roads through tall trees up the hill. And don't worry if you have already been to Munnar and gone to the must visit places. We give you a list of activities you can do around town – and trust us, you will not be bored.
Go on a Jeep safari
Go for a short – two-hour long jeep safari around Munnar. The first pitstop is the Sreenarayanapuram Waterfalls. It is a series of five spectacular falls – however, with the summer at its peak, the river has become a small stream cascading over the rocks. Do not be let down, you can walk across the rocks which are normally underwater come monsoons. A small temple and a pond with lilies add to the charm. There are stalls selling curios and chocolates too.
A little drive away, you reach the Hanging Bridge which dates back to the British Era and gaze up at the towering Ponmudi Dam. From here, there is a small off-road path that takes you to the top of the dam. Built across the Panniyar, this dam is a scenic spot. The next pit stop is the Echo Point at the catchment area of the dam. Howl your name – wait for the echo. It is a fun thing to do. The last pit stop is the Nadukani view-point – and yes, you can see the entire Munnar Valley and beyond from here.
Homemade chocolate factories
Don't miss this tour if you have a sweet tooth. They show you how a coco seed is processed and how chocolates are made – you can taste some and buy your favorite flavors to take home. Go in for the chili chocolates and chocolates that resemble pebbles. They are amazing gifts you can get for your friends and family back home.
Adventure Parks
If you love adventures – check out one of the adventure parks in Munnar. ATV tracks, camping in the wild, fly down a zip line – the options are limitless. Try them out while you are in this hill town.
Spices garden
The hills around Munnar is home to tea and spices. A spice garden visit is a must if you are smitten with natural cures. The tour guide will explain what each herb in the garden is used for. It is an informative trip, but there is a catch – most of these spice gardens have an outlet selling authentic medicines and you will have to restrain yourself if you do not want to blow your trip budget.
Shopping at Munnar
Munnar town is pretty small – and crowded due to the huge influx of tourists. And naturally, there are shops, more than a dozen of them that sell everything from chocolates to herbal shampoos. If you are traveling on a budget, keep away, if not – indulge. And trust us, you will not regret the decision.