Things to Do in Munnar - Exploring the Myriad Experiences on Offer

Nestled amidst the scenic Western Ghats, Munnar is a captivating town known for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene vibe. People from different parts of the country come here to get some respite from their fast-paced urban lives. However, this does not mean that this town is a suitable destination only for nature lovers. Those who want to indulge in some adventurous activities will also find plenty of things to do in Munnar.

An idyllic haven that is replete with peace and serenity, nestled in the lap of nature, Munnar is one of the most popular holiday destinations in God’s Own Country, Kerala. During colonial times, Munnar used to be the most favoured summer resort for the British Government and even today, the quaint little town remains one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in South India. With pristine valleys, tinkling streams cascading across hillsides, lush tea plantations, exotic flora and fauna, and much more, Munnar tour packages manage to attract all kinds of travellers.

Best Things to Do in Munnar

There are so many spots to visit, places to see, and things to do in Munar, that it has become one of the most visited destinations in Kerala, attracting families, honeymooners, solo travellers, adventurers, and nature lovers, alike. This quaint town of the Western Ghats has all kinds of experiences to offer, and you can find everything, from a rejuvenating spa vacation to adrenaline-pumping adventures in Munnar.

Some of the best things to do in Munnar, India are:

1. Visit the Tea Museum
2. Witness the Wonder of Echo Point
3. Take a Safari at Eravikulum National Park
4. Take a Camping Trip in Munnar
5. Enjoy an Elephant Safari at the Carmelagiri Elephant Park
6. Stay in a Treehouse at a Plantation Resort
7. Explore the Glittering Waterfalls of Munnar
8. Enjoy a Shikara Ride on Kundala Lake
9. Climb Atop Meesapulimala
10. Check Out Some of Munnar’s Best Viewpoints
11. Traverse the Biking Trails of Munnar
12. Go for a Trek or Hike
13. Visit the Adventure Parks
14. Try Your Hand at Rock Climbing
15. Walk Across Forested Trails Amidst Mesmerising Vistas

Visit the Tea Museum

One of the best things to do in Munnar for a family vacation, the Tata Tea Museum, also called the Kanandevan Hills Tea Museum, houses a number of attractions, including a sundial that was made in 1913, a ‘Pelton Wheel’, a rotor vane that was used in CTC tea processing years ago, and a rail engine wheel from the Kundale Valley Light Railway. The museum was opened in 2005 to showcase and preserve the history and evolution of Munnar and its tea plantations. A tour of the museum, which ends at a demonstration room with tea tasting, is one of the best things to do in Munnar for a family.

Witness the Wonder of Echo Point

The Kashmir of South India, Munnar has many things to do that will take you amidst the serenity of nature. Located at the confluence of three well-known South Indian Mountain Ranges, Echo Point is a very popular picnic spot, known for its echo phenomenon. Surrounded by lush forests, verdant meadows, hills, and misty clouds, the tourist spot is loved by all, adults and children alike. Echo Point is also a prime viewing spot for Neelakurinji flowers that only bloom once every 12 years, completely transforming the beauty of the valley.

Safari in Eravikulum National Park

Earlier known as the Rajamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulum used to be managed as a game reserve initially. It was taken over by the Karnataka Government in 1971 and declared as a National Park in 1978. Housing numerous endangered and nearly extinct species of flora and fauna, the park has also been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a chance to be able to spot some of the very rare species of flora and fauna, a safari of the Eravikulum National Park is one of the best things to do in Munnar. India is the only country that has populations of Nilgiri Tahr, an endangered mountain goat, and the largest can be found at this park.

Plan a Camping Trip in Munnar

Camping is another one of the best things to do in Munnar for an adventure that is suitable for the entire family. Munnar is well-known for its natural attractions and greenery and is a highly preferred camping destination in India. Scenic spots like Chokramudi Peak are among the best places to visit at night in Munnar. With many things to do in a Munnar campsite, one thing is for sure – you are in for a treat of a time that will leave you with memories of picturesque mountains on misty hillsides that you can cherish forever.

Enjoy an Elephant Safari at the Carmelagiri Elephant Park

Another one of the great things to do in Munnar is to indulge in an exhilarating excursion in Carmelagiri Elephant Park, sitting atop a magnificent elephant. Here, you can tour rolling slopes, sprawling tea plantations, and a vibrant park that is full of towering trees. The wilderness of this park also makes for some amazing photo opportunities.

Stay in a Treehouse at a Plantation Resort

There are numerous plantation resorts in Munnar where you can book a stay and experience living in a treehouse. Locally known as Erumadam, treehouses are eco-accommodation facilities that are made using natural materials like coir, bamboo, straw, and hay. The concept has recently been gaining a lot of popularity in Kerala and offers you the chance to reside amidst the tea and spice plantations of Munnar.

Explore the Glittering Waterfalls of Munnar

One of the most interesting things to do in Munnar is to plan an excursion to the many waterfalls in this stunningly beautiful destination. Surrounded by serene landscapes that include the tea and spice plantations and dense forests, these waterfalls allow you to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main city and experience peace in the midst of nature. Valara, Cheeyapara, Thoovanam, Attukal, Lakkam, Kuthumkal, Chinnakanal, Nyayamakand, Pallivasal, and Keezharkuthu waterfalls are some of the best spots that you can consider visiting.

Enjoy a Shikara Ride on Kundala Lake

For honeymooning couples, one of the best things to do in Munnar is to visit Kundala Dam and Lake. This is an artificial dam and also the first arch dam in Asia. The spot boasts of natural beauty and serene environs and is also one of the best places to spot the Neelakurinji Flowers. Against the mesmerising backdrop, taking a Shikara ride on the lake is one of the top things to do in Munnar for couples.

Climb Atop Meesapulimala

If you’re looking for adventures in Munnar, climb up to Meesapulimala, which is located at a height of 2640 meters above sea level and is the second highest peak in the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats. The mountain range is no less than a paradise for trekkers and has several trails that can be chosen from to get to the top, where you can enjoy the most amazing views of grasslands, green rainforests, and much more.

Check Out Some of Munnar’s Best Viewpoints

There is no denying the fact that Munnar is a destination that is rich in natural beauty and is home to some of the most spellbinding landscapes and vistas that will leave you speechless. One of the best things to do in Munnar is to visit all the amazing viewpoints that the city has, to get your fill of scenic beauty. You should definitely visit Top Station, Pothamedu Viewpoint, and Lokhart Gap Viewpoint when you are in Munnar.

Traverse the Biking Trails of Munnar

There is no dearth of adventure activities in Munnar either for all those looking for some adrenaline-pumping things to do in Munnar. India’s Kashmir in Southern India has the Western Ghats, which are full of the most amazing mountain biking trails that you can traverse. The roads travel across cardamom and tea plantations and through shola forests, offering awe-inspiring views of Kerala’s countryside. You can explore a range of trails, suitable for experts as well as for beginners.

Go for a Trek or Hike

Some of the best and most picturesque adventures in Munnar include trekking or hiking the many trails and paths that the mountainous terrain of the region has to offer. The many trekking trails of Munnar offer some of the most breathtakingly scenic views. One of the most preferred adventure activities in Munnar, you can choose from a number of trails, including Chokramundi, Idukki, Chummar, Kannan Devan Hills, Chithirapuram, and the most popular, Lakshmi Hill Trek

Visit the Adventure Parks

Another one of the best things to do in Munnar is to visit the water and adventure parks in the area. These parks are well suited for all kinds of travellers, including families and couples. Some of the best parks that you can consider visiting include the Fun Forest Adventure Park, CowBoy Park, Dreamland Fun and Adventure Park, and Wonder Valley Fun and Adventure Park.

Try Your Hand at Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is another one of the adventure activities in Munnar that you can consider while on a trip to Kerala. The hilly landscape makes rock climbing one of the most popular things to do in Munnar. Rock climbing and rappelling are some of the most interesting things to do in Munnar and professional guidance is available at several places where you can indulge in these activities.

Walk Across Forested Trails Amidst Mesmerising Vistas

Visiting the Blossom Park Dark Forest is also one of the popular things to do in Munnar. This is a 16 km-long trail that takes you on an adventurous journey through thick forests of dense wood. The entire trek takes around 7 to 8 hours to get to the highest peak.

Whether you are booking a Munnar honeymoon package or are planning a family vacation, there’s so much to do in Munnar, that you can rest assured of an amazing vacation for all!

How to Get Around Munnar?

Local transport in Munnar mainly consists of private taxis/jeeps for sightseeing and auto-rickshaws for short distances. There are a few specific routes where KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) buses operate. You can check the timings of these buses beforehand and plan your travel accordingly. However, hiring a private taxi or jeep is the most convenient option to explore the town and cover a few important places to visit around Munnar.

Useful Information You Must Know

• While creating your Munnar sightseeing itinerary, it is best to check the opening and closing times of popular attractions. This will help you to make the most of your time there.
• Eravikulam National Park is one of the most famous places to visit in Munnar and remains heavily crowded at most times. It is important to purchase entry tickets online in advance to skip long lines.
• In this town, the weather can change suddenly. So make sure that you pack a few warm clothes, a waterproof jacket and an umbrella, regardless of the season you are visiting in.
• If you plan to indulge in any adventure activities in Munnar, like trekking, hiking, etc., you should carry a pair of comfortable and sturdy shoes along with other essentials.
• Mobile networks can be weak in areas with higher altitudes, making digital payments slightly difficult. It is important to carry sufficient cash while heading out.

Munnar is a treasure trove of experiences that can cater to the diverse needs of travellers. From nature lovers to thrill seekers, wildlife enthusiasts to tea lovers, almost everyone will have a long list of places to visit in Munnar, as per their preferences. All you need to do is do a little research and then create an itinerary. Or, you can skip the whole planning part by choosing Veena World as your travel partner. Whether you are booking a Munnar honeymoon package or are planning a family vacation, we’ve got your back! Our dedicated team of travel experts will make sure that you have an amazing holiday.

FAQs

Q1. Is Munnar worth visiting?

Known for its stunning landscapes of rolling hills, expansive tea gardens and lush green valleys, Munnar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South India. This quaint little town not only enthrals nature lovers but has also gained equal popularity among thrill seekers and wildlife enthusiasts. No matter what your preferences are, you can choose this beautiful hill station for your next holiday.

Q2. How many days are enough for Munnar?

Generally, 4-5 days are considered enough for a trip to Munnar. This will give you enough time to visit all the major attractions of this town. However, if you are aiming for a more relaxing experience and want to cover a few nearby tourist spots as well, you can extend your stay a little. Planning a week-long trip will allow you to explore all the offbeat locations and enjoy your vacation without rushing.

Q3. Is Munnar safe for solo travellers?

Yes. Munnar is considered absolutely safe for solo travellers, which is another reason behind its popularity among tourists. The entire region has a low crime rate, and the locals are also very warm and hospitable. However, it is essential to take basic precautions to ensure a safe vacation. Some of these include staying only in reputable accommodations, avoiding going to remote areas at night, etc.

Q4. When should I avoid visiting Munnar?

While Munnar is a year-round destination, it is often recommended to avoid planning a trip during the peak monsoon season (July – August). This is the time when this town experiences heavy rainfall, and the risk for landslides increases significantly, leading to challenging road conditions.