The majestic hill station of Munnar is located in the Idukki district of the southwestern Indian state of Kerala. Munnar is situated at a height of 1,600 meters above sea level resting in the Western Ghats range of mountains. Munnar, in its literal sense, means 'three rivers'. The nomenclature makes perfect sense as the beautiful hill station is located at the point of convergence of the Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundaly rivers. Munnar, thanks to its lush green picturesque appearance, attracts hundreds and thousands of tourists each year.
Munnar is mainly known for its widespread tea plantations. Tourists generally treat themselves to relaxing plantation walks which are perhaps the best way of discovering Munnar. These tea plantations are in fact the country's highest tea plantations offering cinematic vantage points and tons of fresh air. Also, plantation walks bring you close to the wide variety of flora and fauna which add to the beauty of the hill station. There are layers of plantations with waterfalls and sanctuaries dotting the region. Upon ending your plantation walk, you can treat yourself to some of the finest tea flavours in the world at one of the many tea estates welcoming the tourists.
Besides offering a one of a kind tea experience, Munnar is home to the Eravikulam National Park which houses some of the most exquisite species of rare butterflies, animals, and birds. The misty mountains are perfect for a romantic stroll or a fun-filled gathering underneath a clear blue sky. The Anamudi Peak, located within the Eravikulam National Park, also awaits the wandering tourists. This happens to be a major attraction as the peak is the highest peak in South India touching a height of 2700 m. Once can even plan a trek to the peak after seeking approval from local authorities. Lastly, the Neelakurinji flower is another reason to plan a trip to Munnar. The flower blooms only once in twelve years and it is expected to bloom in 2018 next.
In addition to all this, Munnar also features an exclusive Tea Museum where tourists can trace the origins and evolution of tea plantation. The museum is home to photographs, machines, info-graphics and a lot more. Another important tourist destination is the Top Station which offers panoramic views to its visitors. The Top Station is just 32 km away from Munnar and is totally worth the ride. Tourists in Munnar must also visit the Chinnakanal region which is known as the Power House Waterfalls. Furthermore, the Anayirangal dam is another added attraction with tea plantations, heavenly green forests, and the scenic Western Ghats surrounding the dam.
Thus Munnar finds a spot in every traveller's list of 'must visits' quite easily. Not only this, a single visit to the magical hill station is never enough. Accommodation is not a worry as Munnar is home to several resorts and hotels. However, reservation is highly recommended. The best time to visit Munnar is between the months of December and March with several adventure activities like rock climbing, trekking, and rappelling under way. Though honestly speaking, tourists hardly miss a chance to visit Munnar with every season offering a somewhat unique experience. So go ahead, discover the most happening hill-station in God's own country; Kerala, go ahead and discover Munnar!
