Munnar, the nature lovers’ paradise, is located 130 kms away from Kochi at an altitude of 1,600 mts above sea level in Idukki. This green hill station is surrounded by the country's highest tea gardens.
Unending acres of tea estates, mountain mist, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries make Munnar’s beauty almost surreal. The lofty mountain ranges with misty peaks, sprawling tea estates and serene climate provide a quiet and peaceful resort. This little sleepy village atop the Western Ghats is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.
Panoramic views of low flying clouds and mist filled valleys make it a little heaven with a cool, bracing climate. Misty mountain peaks blend harmoniously in Munnar to create a blissful atmosphere that is indescribable.
Munnar is also famous for the wild shrub, locally called Neelakurinjii, which blooms once in 12 years. During this time the entire valley turns violet. It is also home to Nilgiri tahr, a rare breed of mountain goat.
Munnar was once the summer resort of the British government in South India; it still wears the old charm of the British plantation days. Munnar has a variety of attractions to feast your eyes like placid lakes, meandering streams, mountain peaks, sylvan valleys, rare orchids and wildlife.
Plantation visits, treking, tea factory visits, cycling, boating, paragliding, day tours to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary etc add to the excitement. Here you can also have a glimpse of gaur, langur, liontailed macaque, elephants and Nilgiri tahr that roam the stretch of grasslands or are seen climbing the pinnacles of the undulating hills.
No trip to Munnar is complete without visiting the Top Station. Located in Theni District of Tami Nadu near the border of Idukki district of Kerala, Top Station offers a spectacular view of the Western Ghats.