Located at the Western Ghats with an average elevation of 1700 meters above sea level, Munnar is a famous hill station in Kerala. The hill station enjoys a favorable and pleasant climate all year round and is famous for its lush green hills and tea plantations. Being located in the Western Ghats, Munnar is also home to several protected areas which house some of the most rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. Listed below are the best places you can visit in Munnar.
1. Atukkad Waterfalls
Located on the way to Pallivasal amidst dense vegetation, the Atukkad Waterfalls are one of the major tourist attractions in Munnar. The water is cold and is also known as a great trekking hotspot in Munnar. The romantic and secluded cascades of Atukkad are visited by several tourists throughout the year.
2. Muniyara Dolmens
The Neolithic dolmens of Muniyara are located in a village called Marayur and can easily be reached through a taxi or a car. The Neolithic burial chambers are a famous archeological site in Kerala and are frequented by several tourists. One can also experience some great views of the mountains covered in lush green vegetation.
3. Echo Point
Home to the rare Kurunji flower, the Echo point is named after the enchanting echo phenomenon that occurs at the spot. The spot is characterized by a picturesque lake situated beside a hillock. The Echo Point is a famous destination for the young tourists and a great picnic spot for camping and photography.
4. Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park
The protected forest is located at an average elevation of 2000 meters above sea level and is home to several endemic and rare species of flora, fauna, reptiles and avifauna totaling at a whopping 750 species. The Eravikulam National Park is a home to rare and endangered species like Tiger, Leopard, Nilgiri Tahr, Gaur, Indian Muntjac and Sambar Deer, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Wild dog and Dhole.
5. Mattupetty Dam
Constructed to conserve water to generate hydroelectricity, the Mattupetty Dam is one of the famous picnic spots in Munnar. The dam is built on the Mattupetty Lake which is home to several species of birds and animals due to the perennial supply of water through the reservoir. One can enjoy a nice stroll by the lake or can try boating.
6. Chithirapuram
Famous for its enormous and lush green tea plantations, Chithirapuram is characterized by old bungalows and cottages and playgrounds. Located at a short distance of 10 kilometers from Munnar, the town is visited by several tourists who visit in order to experience the old worldly charm of the place.
7. Top Station
Located at a distance of approximately 40 Kilometers from Munnar, Top Station is one of the well frequented tourist hotspots in Kerala. The place is located at an average elevation of 1800 meters above sea levels in the Western Ghats. The tourists can experience breathtaking views of the mountains and walk among the clouds for an out-worldly experience.
8. Marayur
Also mentioned in the Hindu epic Mahabharatha, Marayur is said to have been visited by the Pandavas during their exile and is famous for its Neolithic era rock paintings and dolmens. Marayur is also home to the only natural sandalwood forests in Kerala. The place is also famous for its medicinal plants and herbs.
Being one of the major hill stations in Kerala, Munnar is blessed with the fruits of nature. The several hills, tea plantations, National Parks, Rivers and lakes have made Munnar an essential tourist destination in India. The aforementioned places are like none other you can ever find in India and must be visited on your trip to Munnar.
Other Major Tourist Destinations In Kerala:
Eravikulam National Park is a must-see place. I think it is open only during certain months or seasons. It take a whole day to see the place.