Tea Routes: A Guide for First-Time Visitors to Munnar

Tea Routes: A Guide for First Time Visitors to Munnar. Credit: Canva

This year, after the mandatory electronic pass disrupted travel plans for OotyMany turned their gaze towards the pearl of southern India, Munnara town so idyllic it looks like something out of a postcard. Even a decade ago, you’d occasionally bump into intrepid travellers looking for a cup of filter coffee on the streets. But today, Munnar has risen so high on travellers’ bucket lists that it’s bursting at the seams, just a hair away from being overcrowded.

While the town is still underdeveloped and unable to accommodate peak season times, you can surely plan a trip to Munnar during the next few months, before winter takes hold of the state. Below are the best sights in the town for your itinerary.

Eravikulam National Park

Established in 1978, Eravikulam National Park is home to the endangered Nilgiri ibex as well as a variety of flora and fauna. Spread across 97 sq km, the park offers stunning trekking trails and a chance to see the mesmerising Neelakurinji flowers, which bloom once in twelve years.

Anamudi Peak

Anamudi Peak, the highest in South India, rises to 2,695 metres. With proper permits from the forest and wildlife authorities, you can undertake a challenging but rewarding trek to its summit. The peak and the surrounding Eravikulam National Park are home to the largest surviving populations of Asian elephants, gaurs (wild cattle) and Nilgiri tahrs.

Matupetty

Mattupetty is an ideal place for honeymooners and allows them to enjoy the best of Munnar’s scenery and experiences like picnics and boat rides. The best time to visit is around sunset when the orange light of the sun reflects on the waters of the dam, a real sight to behold. The area is also ideal for trekking and boat rides. The Mattupetty Dam, managed by the Idukki District Tourism Promotion Board, offers boat ride facilities.

Palivasal

Pallivasal is a historic site known for its pioneering hydroelectric project. This 37.50 MW power plant, built decades ago, continues to meet the state’s electricity needs. With the necessary permits, you can visit the power plant and explore the surrounding mountainous terrain.

Tea Museum

The Tea Museum, established by Tata Tea in 2005, offers a fascinating insight into the history of tea production. Located at the Nallathanni Estate, the museum showcases the evolution of tea making machinery and processes. You can learn about different types of tea, taste various infusions and experience the rich heritage of tea growing in the region. The museum is open daily except Mondays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.