Munnar, a town in Kerala is quite popular among all types of tourists. Munnar has waterfalls, lush green mountains, hiking trails, and nature parks to cater for all ranges of tourists. Here, we will discuss the best places to visit in Munnar for various types of tourists like couples, families and friends.
Located in the lovely and poetic grounds of Kerala, Munnar is like a fantasy. It is not just as beautiful as it is shown in the videos or pictures. It is even more.
As Munnar is so beautiful, it becomes even harder to prepare a list of the best places suitable for yourself. Even I had to research a lot to decide the same. I was visiting Munnar with my friends. It was easy for us to prioritize our list of the best places in Munnar which are best for a group of friends.
From that experience, I took inspiration to create this blog. After reading this article you will be able to prioritize the list of places to visit in Munnar for yourself.
Best Places to Visit in Munnar
Munnar itself is one of the best places to visit in India. It is filled with scenic views, mystic mountains, adventurous terrains and whatnot. No wonder why it is known as the Kashmir of South India. The Neelkurinji Flowers blooming once in 12 years are wonders of the world.
While we try to categorize the popular tourist spots in Munnar as per the type of visitors. please note that these can vary from person to person and their personal preferences.
Also, some of the tourist places are so amazing that you must visit there regardless of your purpose of visit to Munnar. We will discuss them in the end.
Best Places to Visit in Munnar for Couples
Some tourist spots in Munnar are a must for every couple to visit. These are quite romantic, cosy and amorous.
These places are easy to reach, safe and peaceful. They are located in a very serene location filled with charm and are alluring.
1. Neelakurinji Bloom
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Well, it is not a place but it is something which comes to every mind when we talk about Munnar. The only drawback is that they bloom only in 12 years. The next bloom is going to be in 2030. It is going to be a very special year indeed. The last blooms happened in 2018, 2006 and so on.
Although, we need to wait till 2030 to witness its bloom. Yet, you can explore the fields of Neelakurinji.
Here are some of the best places in Munnar to witness the Neelakurinji Bloom
- Top Station
- Kallipara Hills
- Vattavada Village
2. Anamudi Viewpoint
Would you like to see the actual Munnar unfiltered and uncensored? Come to Anamudi Viewpoint. Immerse in the overwhelming views from this viewpoint and enjoy the calm and quiet atmosphere. It is easily accessible from Eravikulam National Park. Visit Anamudi and you will consider your visit fulfilled.
Many tour packages taking people to Munnar don’t include this place often. Make sure to talk to them and sort it out. The unimaginable beauty from the Anamudi Viewpoint is very hard to describe in words. Don’t even think twice before visiting Anamudi.
3. Sita Devi Lake
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Locals refer to the story of Devi Sita who once bathed at this lake. Historically, Lord Rama, his wife Goddess Sita, and his younger brother Lakshmana were residing nearby. Ever since Devi Sita bathed in this graceful lake of Devikulam, it is considered sacred.
Located amidst lush green hills and mesmerising locations, it is quite popular among tourists. Not only famous for its sacredness but also for its curative properties, this lake is a must to visit for everyone.
4. Lockhart Tea Park
Tea Park Timings and Entry Cost:
- Open – 8:30 am to 8 pm all days of the week
- Entry Ticket: 20rs/person
Lockhart Tea Park is a very beautiful tea estate. Walking through the tea plantations will bring you ecstasy and comfort. You can have some fantastic family moments in the tea garden.
5. Kannan Devan Tea Factory
Kannan Devan Tea Factory is another great place for tea lovers. You get to see an amazing 30 mins show on the history of tea origin. They elaborate you the exact process during that show. You must visit once if you are a tea lover.
After the show, they take you inside the factory. Although, what you get to see is not exactly the main factory as many people say. It is a smaller one just to give an idea to the visitors of the real machinery. Moreover, you get to know the benefits of tea. They do have a stall outside where you can buy different types of tea, coffee and much more.
Overall, Kannan Devan Tea Factory is a good place if you are curious about the varieties of tea and its making.
6. Christ Church
The Christ Church was built in 1910 with just stone and wood. Even today its architecture looks pristine. It has a very brilliant interior. Glass windows are one of the best attractions. people love to celebrate Christmas here.
You can visit this Church with your family. Enjoy appreciating the spectacular interiors of this Church.
Best Places to Visit in Munnar for Families
You must include these places for your family vacation to Munnar. These are at amazing locations and quite engaging.
These places are easily accessible even by a four-wheeler. You can even bring elders with you. These have parking areas and some of them are also wheelchair accessible.
There is a lot to do so the kids will enjoy the trip even more. They can do various recreational activities as well.
1. Attukal Waterfall
Attukal Waterfall is the most famous and fabulous waterfall in Munnar. No way you can skip this place. During Monsoon, the water flow is huge and looks very giant and mesmerizing.
Many tour operators fail to add this gem to their package so make sure to check your package before booking. This off-road waterfall is hard to reach. The condition of the road leading to the fall is not very good.
You might need to hire a jeep or auto as cars won’t go there. Yet, once you reach there you feel that was worth it.
Surrounded by hiking trails, and panoramic views, this Attukal Waterfall consists of multiple waterfalls cascading amid rolling hills.
The view from the bridge is magnificent. Attukal Waterfall is one of the best places for couples to hang out.
2. Echo Point
Entry and Activities Cost at Echo Point:
- Entry Ticket: 10rs
- Lakeside Entry Ticket: 20rs
- Paddle boat: 600rs for 30mins for 4 people
This place goes by its name. It echoes anything you say out loud. Visitors just shout here to hear their echo; seems funny and childish yet enjoyable. Apart from the echo part, this place is really peaceful. Tea plantations are spread all over the area creating a very pleasant view.
Echo Point is almost 15 km from Munnar. You can spend some time shouting, whistling or even sitting peacefully somewhere on the rocks.
There is a lake nearby where visitors can enjoy boating as well. Boating near Echo Point is a little costly compared to other places. There are a lot of other things that you might try at Echo Point like shooting balloons or buying handicrafts.
3. Kundala Lake
Kundala Lake Parking Fees:
- Entry Fee for Car: 20rs
Located 27km from Munnar, Kundala Lake is surrounded by green mountains. An amazing location to experience a boat ride very similar to the Shikara boats of Kashmir. The insanely beautiful artificial dam built at the Lake is also the oldest arc dam in Asia.
Situated in the Idukki district of Kerala, India, it is a must to visit the place. You can stop by this amazing destination while going to Mattupetty Dam from Munnar.
I will advise you to take the rowing boat rather than the motor boat. This peaceful and very serene location is best to be visited with your partner or family.
I recommend this place, especially for nature lovers, couples, families and photography enthusiasts.
4. Mattupetty Dam
Famous for the clean and pure water lake in Munnar, Mattupetty Dam is a must-visit for everyone. A very popular tourist spot surrounded by luscious green peaks.
Some scenic trails near the dam allure you to hike. It would be best if you explore nearby to get absorbed in the lush greenery of the area.
No matter how much time you spend at Mattupetty Dam, you never get bored. Activities like boating, hiking, cruising, fishing or birdwatching keep you engaged all the time.
It is one of the best places in Munnar to enjoy boating. Located 11 km from Munnar, its charm is good enough to attract almost all the tourists visiting Munnar.
5. Pothamedu View Point
A mesmerizing viewpoint within 5 km of Munnar. Witness a bewitching sundown from the Pothamedu viewpoint. Amidst the tea gardens and lush green mountains, the views make it a must-visit place in Munnar especially for couples. Wait why? Because it is captivating.
The panoramic views of the Kannan Devan Hills of the Munnar region are very rare to witness. If you are able to witness the clear views of the surroundings consider your partner to be very lucky for you. Yes, both of you.
Views of the coffee, tea and cardamon plantations are remarkably refreshing.
If you are lucky enough to get clear views. You can even get to see the beautiful Muthizapuzha River and Idukki Arch Dam.
Easily accessible by road, Pothamedu Viewpoint is open throughout the day. As it is situated amidst dense forests and tea gardens, you may not be able to visit after sunset. So the best time to visit the Pothamedu viewpoint.
6. Devi Kulam Factory
This is another good place for tea lovers. If you had to skip the other tea factories for any reason, you can include this one in your itinerary.
7. CSI Church
A very unique architecture to examine in Munnar. CSI church is one of the oldest churches in India. The architecture is really beautiful and the atmosphere here is cool. You can stop by here for a while to visit with your family.
8. Lockhart Tea Tourism Munnar
Lockhart Tea Tourism Munnar Entry Cost and Tour Timings:
- Entry Ticket: 250rs
- Tour Time: 40-45 minutes
- Accepts Google pay
Best place for tea lovers, Lockhart tea tourism offers an engaging tour of the tea factory for everyone. Families can have a great time here. This place has wheelchair assistance as well which allows even elderly or physically challenged people to enjoy the tour. Kids are welcome and hence you can create many family moments here.
They show you exactly how the tea leaves are processed and reach your local market. You will also see the machinery used for the processing of tea leaves. If you are a tea lover, I am sure you will enjoy it.
Best Places to Visit in Munnar for Friends
Finally. I know you might be wondering why the friends list is in the end. You know, the best part always comes in the end.
These tourist spots in Munnar are known for hiking, adventurous activities, off-roading and so on. In this list, you have mountain peaks, hiking trails, forgotten caves and mountain cracks.
Shows of world-famous Kalaripayattu Martial art is something awaiting you guys in Munnar.
1. Meesapulimala
The 2nd highest peak in the Southern part of India is made with 8 mountain ranges. Meesapulimala is known for scenic views, rich biodiversity and adventurous terrain. Meesapulimala is often referred to as a hikers’ paradise.
Due to its rich biodiversity and adventuresome province, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The mountain peaks at Meesapulimala are more than 8,600 ft above sea level. The trails are quite famous for licensed treks to the summit.
Hiking to Meesapulimala in Munnar with your friends is worth trying once in your lifetime. Trek difficulty is medium and is not recommended for elderly people or kids. So, it’s best to go in groups.
Although, you can even reach the peak by jeep. Campfires are one of the great attractions at Meesapulimala Peak.
You should remember that exploring Meesapulimala at its best will take 1 full day and night if you wish to camp.
2. Anamudi Peak
Anamudi translates to an elephant’s head. This very popular location in Munnar is because of its height primarily. With a height of 2,695 m above sea level, Anamudi Peak is the highest peak in the Western Ghats.
Anamudi is home to Asian elephants, Gaur, Nilgiri Langur and lion-tailed macaque. Visitors are amazed to know that its shape is like a broad forehead of an elephant. Nature lovers, hikers, and photography addicts must visit this place at least once.
3. Swiftlet Cave Munnar
Swiftlet Cave Munnar Timings and Location:
- Open: 6 am to 5:30 pm on all days of the week
- Location: 24VF+6V7, Devikulam Circular Road, Devikulam, Kerala
685613
For some visitors, it is the best place they have ever seen in Munnar. No literally. I have met people reciting again and again that it was so impressive, peaceful and natural that they forgot to move on to the next location. And it indeed is.
Entering the cave using a rope is a thrilling task to do here. Once you are inside it, you start to experience how calm this place is. Watching Swiftlet birds inside the cave in their natural habitat is a wonderful experience.
It is a must-visit place in Munnar, especially with friends.
These were some of the best locations to explore in Devikulam Village. Devikulam is defeinetely a gem in Munnar. It surely has something special for everyone.
4. Kolukkumalai
A dreamy village amidst the mystic mountains located 35km from Munnar. Filled with a fascinating tea garden at the highest altitude in the entire world. That’s true. The Tea plantation at Kolukkumalai in Munnar is the highest tea plantation in the world.
It is a must-visit place for every passionate tea lover. Here you not only get to taste the amorous tea prepared using freshly plucked tea leaves. You can also get to know more about the tea-making and cultivating process. You can go on an exotic journey to the tea gardens of Munnar.
Here also resides the very tea factory where tea is prepared by the old conventional method even today.
Well, the best part is yet to come. Witness the sunset from Kolukkumalai sipping the freshly prepared tea. This can be one of your best experiences in Munnar.
While you take a sip of tea or coffee whichever you like, we step down to the next place on our list.
You need to take an adventurous jeep safari to reach the viewpoint. If you guys are a trekker then it is no less than an unexpected treat to you.
5. Top Station
With an amazing atmosphere and cool vibe, Top Station is an offbeat location near Munnar. 32km from Munnar, Top Station is a viewpoint at a height of 1700m above sea level.
Roadside Car parking makes this place a little less tourist friendly. Hiking to the viewpoint off-road after parking makes it difficult for elderly people. Yet, for hikers, it is no less than bliss.
Top Station is quite popular for its Sunrise views. Enjoy a light breakfast at Top Station witnessing the fabulous sunrise. You can have noodles, fresh fruits, Maggi, etc.
There are two viewpoints here. One is when you go upstairs and the other is when you go down. A quick suggestion is to go downstairs. You need to pay 25rs but the views are fascinating.
6. Lockhart Gap View
Timings:
- Open: All days of the week
Lockhart Gap View is a roadside viewpoint with misty and scenic views. It’s a very cool place to stop by with friends. You can enjoy breathtaking views with a pinch of hiking adventures.
Tea plantations in a mystic and cold atmosphere with some easy hikes make it a must-visit location with friends.
It is a great picnic spot with amazing hiking trails. There is an observation point nearby as well.
7. Kalari Kshetra
Kalari Kshetra Entry Cost, Timings and Location:
- Kochi Road, Chithirapuram South, Munnar, Kerala 685655
- Open: 8 am to 8 pm on all days of the week
- Ticket: 200rs
Observe the richness, diversity and heritage of Kerala’s Culture at Kalari Kshetra. There are two main things to witness here. One is the Kathakali dance and the other is the Kalari Fight show based on the ancient Kalaripayattu.
Kalaripayattu is known as the mother of all forms of martial arts. Even the famous Shaolin Martial Arts is just a part of Kalaripayattu.
Currently, Vidhyut Jamwal is one of the best practitioners of Kalaripayattu whom most of us know as an actor. The 1 hr show of Kalari Fights gives you many goosebumps moments. It is fascinating to see how they fight.
Some Evergreen Tourist Spots to Visit in Munnar for Everyone
There are some very beautiful and alluring sites to explore in Munnar. Anamudi is home to Asian elephants, Gaur, Nilgiri Langur and lion-tailed macaque.
1. Neelakurinji Bloom
The Neelkurinji Flowers bloom only after 12 years. The next bloom is going to be in the year 2030. In case, you are reading this article in 2030 by any chance, don’t miss to visit this place.
2. Sita Devi Lake
This lake is said to possess medicinal properties. It is easily accessible and hence you should visit this place once.
3. Attukal Waterfall
This is the most beautiful waterfall in Munnar and one of the best tourist spots to visit.
It is best for every type of visitor. Families, couples and even a group of friends would enjoy a lot at this place.
4. Kundala Lake
This is one of the most peaceful and serene locations in Munnar. This is one of the most visited tourist places in Munnar. You should plan a visit here regardless of your purpose of visiting Munnar.
5. Meesapulimala
The biodiversity of flora and fauna is so extensive and due to its adventurous terrain, it is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
6. Anamudi Peak
It offers breathtaking views and is the highest summit in the Western Ghats at 2,695m above sea level. Explore the allure of wildlife and the artistic beauty of nature, which draws adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
7. Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is a village, situated amidst the mystic mountains filled with tea gardens. The sunset views from the viewpoints in Kolukkumalai are breathtaking. It attracts every tourist regardless of their aspiration to travel to Munnar.
8. Kalari Kshetra
I guess, everyone visiting Munnar would like to know at least a little bit about the rich culture of Kerala. Kalari Kshetra provides you with that opportunity.
Experience the authentic folk dance of Kerala that is Kathakali at Kalari Kshetra. If you are interested in martial arts you should not miss the Kalaripayattu fight show. It is stunning to watch their brave moves during the performance.
Takeaways
Why are some tourist spots best for families and not for others and vice versa?
We saw that some places are best for families but not that great for couples or friends. Here is why.
Although Swiftlet Cave in Munnar is a great location, it is not suitable for families. Because it’s hard to access the place for elderly people.
Even though it’s amazing, it’s very hard for elderly people to reach here. So, rather than wasting your time and struggling to reach here. Why not just skip it and jump over to another better place which is easily accessible?
Similarly, Lockhart Tea Tourism in Munnar is great for families. There is a lot to do for kids in this area. Elderly people can enjoy the show very much. But, this place won’t have a cool vibe to attract couples. It neither has something fun which can charm a group of friends.
Lockhart Tea Tourism is great for families to get engaged.
While the Lockhart Tea Park is great for couples to enjoy the peaceful tea valleys and have a great time together.
It’s not that they can’t visit this place. In fact, they all should. But, considering the time constraint we all have while travelling we tend to choose the best for us.
This article helps you to find the best places that you must visit in Munnar just for yourself. I hope this answers the question.
Why you should plan your Munnar trip according to your preference?
While planning for a trip to Munnar, preplan the list of places you wish to visit. As we have already shared the best places for couples, families and friends. plan accordingly.
Munnar is full of picturesque locations so just jumping from one location to another won’t make any sense. So, try to cover as many places as you can but first prioritise a few places to spend some time at.
This will make your trip memorable and a lot more enjoyable. It will also put your mind at ease during your trip as you already know which is going to be your next destination.
Enjoy planning a trip to Munnar. We are always open to your comments. If you are planning with your friends, share this article with them to make their task a lot easier.
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