Munnar, nestled in Kerala’s Western Ghats, is a dreamy hill station known for its misty hills, sprawling tea estates, waterfalls, and abundant natural beauty. This picturesque destination attracts travellers looking for peace, photography escapes, romantic holidays, and nature walks. If you are planning your trip, here is a guide to the Best Tourist Places in Munnar, covering its famous tea gardens, refreshing waterfalls, and other breathtaking spots.
1. Lush Tea Gardens and Tata Tea Museum
The first image that comes to mind when thinking of Munnar is its endless rolling tea gardens. These emerald-green plantations stretch across hillsides, offering mesmerising views at every turn. Among them, the Tata Tea Museum near KDHP (Kannan Devan Hills Plantation) is a must-visit. Here, you can learn about the history of tea cultivation in Munnar, watch the tea processing stages, and taste fresh local tea. Walking through the mist-covered tea estates in the early morning is an experience that fills your soul with calmness.
2. Eravikulam National Park
One of the Best Tourist Places in Munnar, Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park’s rolling grasslands and shola forests create a stunning landscape. A short trek leads to Rajamalai Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. If you visit during the Neelakurinji bloom (once every 12 years), the hills turn blue with flowers, creating a magical sight. Even without the bloom, Eravikulam’s biodiversity and scenic beauty are reasons enough for nature lovers to visit.
3. Mattupetty Dam
Located 13 km from Munnar town, Mattupetty Dam is surrounded by tea gardens and forests, making it ideal for boating, photography, and birdwatching. The still waters of the reservoir reflect the surrounding greenery, creating postcard-perfect views. Speed boating is popular here for those looking to add a bit of thrill to their peaceful Munnar trip.
4. Top Station
Top Station is among the highest viewpoints near Munnar, located about 32 km away on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. It offers spectacular views of the Western Ghats and the valley below, often filled with floating clouds. On clear days, the vast tea plantations and mountain ranges are visible far into Tamil Nadu, making it one of the Best Tourist Places in Munnar for panoramic photography and quiet reflection.
5. Kundala Lake
Kundala Lake, an artificial reservoir surrounded by misty hills and forests, is famous for shikara boat rides, pedal boating, and row boating. Early mornings at Kundala Lake are dreamy, with fog floating above the waters and cherry blossoms blooming along its banks twice a year, adding to its charm. It is an ideal spot for couples and photographers seeking peaceful scenic frames.
6. Echo Point
Situated about 15 km from Munnar, Echo Point is known for its natural echo phenomenon. Shout out your name and hear it bounce back from the hills around – a fun experience for families and friends. Surrounded by serene waters and lush green hills, Echo Point is a perfect place to relax, click pictures, and enjoy steaming hot corn sold by local vendors.
7. Attukad Waterfalls
Attukad Waterfalls is one of the most refreshing and scenic waterfalls in Munnar, located between Munnar and Pallivasal. The waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs amidst dense greenery, creating a dreamy landscape ideal for short treks, nature walks, and photography. During monsoons, Attukad becomes a gushing white beauty, making it one of the Best Tourist Places in Munnar for monsoon travellers.
8. Anamudi Peak
Anamudi Peak, at 2,695 metres, is the highest peak in South India and a paradise for trekkers and adventure lovers. With permission from the forest department, trekking up its slopes offers views of rare flora and fauna including the Nilgiri Tahr, evergreen forests, and misty valleys. The cool breeze and panoramic views from the top make it an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
9. Blossom International Park
Blossom Park, located near Munnar town, is a beautifully landscaped park featuring colourful flower gardens, tree houses, cycling tracks, and boating facilities. It is ideal for families, couples, and travellers looking to spend a peaceful evening surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
10. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 60 km from Munnar, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is an offbeat destination that offers a unique mix of wildlife, trekking trails, and rugged landscapes. Home to the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India, elephants, langurs, and various birds, it is ideal for wildlife photographers and adventure seekers who wish to explore beyond typical tourist spots.
Why Munnar is the Perfect Hill Station Escape
The Best Tourist Places in Munnar cater to all kinds of travellers – whether you seek the calming silence of tea plantations, the thrill of trekking to Anamudi Peak, peaceful boat rides on Kundala Lake, or simply sipping fresh tea overlooking mist-covered valleys. Munnar’s pristine beauty, pleasant climate, and tranquil ambience make it a timeless destination for a hill station getaway.
So, pack your bags, keep your camera ready, and set out to explore Munnar’s tea gardens, waterfalls, lakes, and national parks for a memorable journey close to nature.
