Hill Stations to Beat the Heat
Munnar, Kerala
Apart from its natural beauty, Munnar offers a rich blend of biodiversity, culture, and adventure, including trekking, boating, and wildlife spotting. Its name is believed to be derived from the Malayalam words “Munnu” (three) and “Aaru” (river), referring to the confluence of three rivers: Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala.
Famous Tea Plantations in Munnar
Here are some notable tea plantations and estates you can visit:
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- World’s highest tea plantation (~7,900 feet above sea level)
- Known for organic, hand-picked tea and scenic sunrise views
- Accessible via jeep safari from Suryanelli (near Munnar)
- Tata Tea Museum (KDHP Museum)
- Located in Nallathanni Estate, Munnar
- Offers insight into the history of tea in Munnar
- Demonstrations of tea processing and tasting sessions
- Lockhart Tea Estate
- Established in the 19th century by British planters
- Offers a beautiful factory tour and panoramic valley views
- Sevenmallay Estate
- One of the oldest estates, established by the Scottish planter A.H. Sharp in 1900
- Owned by Tata Tea
🌿 What to Do in a Tea Plantation Visit
- Guided Tours: Learn about the history, cultivation, and processing of tea.
- Tea Tasting: Sample a variety of teas including black, green, and flavored ones.
- Scenic Photography: Rolling green hills provide perfect backdrops.
- Buy Fresh Tea: Direct from estate outlets or museum shops.
🗺 Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Ideal for cool weather and clear views
- June to September: Monsoon season – lush greenery but frequent rains
Thoovanam Waterfalls is a stunning cascade within Kerala’s Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Marayoor in Idukki district. Here’s an overview to help you plan a visit:
Location & Access
- Inside Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, near Marayoor on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border
- Approximately 50 km from Munnar (≈1.5‑2 hours by road) and 8 km from Marayoor, reaching the Alampetty checkpost on the Munnar–Udumalpet highway.
Trek & Waterfall Details
- Trek: 4 km moderate trail, guided by forest officials through dry deciduous and riparian forests along the Pambar River
- Duration: Around 2–3 hours round‑trip from the checkpost; plan for a half or full day including travel
- Waterfall height: 84 ft (≈26 m) falling from Pambar River
- Base pool: Visitors can swim or dip cautiously in the natural pool formed beneath the falls
Wildlife & Flora
- The trail winds through Chinnar Sanctuary’s dry forests—spot elephants, langurs, giant grizzled squirrels, deer, and abundant birdlife including hornbills and butterflies
- Unique flora includes sandalwood trees, Arjuna, Indian satinwood, Hopea parviflora, orchids, and other endemic species
Timings & Fees
- Trek schedules: 7:00–10:00 AM and 3:00–6:00 PM daily (forest department governed)
- Cost: ₹200–250 per Indian visitor, ₹600 for foreigners (guide and entry fee)
Best Time to Visit
- Post‑monsoon (October–March) is ideal—water flow is abundant, surroundings are lush, and weather is pleasant
- It’s accessible year‑round, but flow and greenery reduce during the summer dry season
🛏️ Where to Stay & Nearby Spots
- Inside sanctuary: tree houses, dormitories, log houses, jungle cottages, bookable via Kerala Forest Department or eco‑development committees
- Nearby attractions:
- Eravikulam National Park & Anamudi Peak (~36 km away)
- Lakkam Waterfalls, Marayoor sandalwood forest, Floriculture centre
🧳 Travel Tips
- Mandatory guided trek from Alampetty checkpost; guide must be booked beforehand
- Carry water, snacks, a hat or cap, and insect repellent
- Check weather and park updates—trail access may be restricted during heavy rains or dry spells
- Swimming caution: strong currents under falls, so proceed carefully around the pool
THANK YOU