Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar stands as an idyllic haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With its lush tea gardens, misty hills, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, Munnar offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travellers. If you are planning to trip to this hill station, you will be interested in knowing about the best things to do in Munnar.
Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a photography buff, or someone seeking a serene escape, this list of the top 15 things to do in Munnar will help you make the most of your trip to this captivating hill station. Munnar is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore, as you know. So, get ready to get the following exciting experiences when you are at Munnar from Bangalore or elsewhere:
Top 15 Things to Do in Munnar:
1. Explore the Tea Gardens:
Munnar is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations that stretch as far as the eye can see. Take a guided tour through tea gardens like the Tata Tea Museum and learn about the tea-making process from plucking the leaves to brewing the perfect cup.
Trying out a perfect cup of tea right amidst the tea museum is one of the best things to do in Munnar.
2. Visit Eravikulam National Park:
Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers a unique opportunity to witness these rare creatures in their natural habitat. The park’s undulating terrain and lush grasslands make it a great spot for trekking as well.
If you wish to engage in wildlife exploration as one of the best things to do in Munnar, you can take your family to this national park.
3. Witness the Blossoming Neelakurinji:
Every twelve years, the hills of Munnar come alive with the vibrant purple blooms of the Neelakurinji flower. Plan your visit during the blooming season to witness this natural phenomenon.
If your visit to Munnar falls during the blooming season, enthralling at the beauty of these flowers is one of the best things to do in Munnar.
4. Experience Anamudi Peak:
The highest peak in South India, Anamudi offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. While climbing the peak requires a permit, the drive to the base of the peak is an adventure in itself.
If you are thinking about the best things to do in Munnar with friends, you can get the required permit to trek to the Anamudi Peak. It is one of the best places to visit near Munnar. The distance is not too much from Munnar as you can reach the base of Anamudi within a 15 km drive.
5. Indulge in Adventure Activities:
Munnar isn’t just about tranquillity; it’s also a hub for adventure seekers. Engage in activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and paragliding to add a dose of adrenaline to your trip.
If you are thinking about exciting things to do in Munnar with friends, you can indulge in a lot of adrenalin-rushing activities at the hill station.
6. Take a Shikara Ride in Kundala Lake:
Serene and picturesque, Kundala Lake offers shikara (traditional wooden boat) rides that let you soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings and enjoy the panoramic views.
If you are thinking about exciting things to do in Munnar, you can take a ride with your family on Kundala Lake.
7. Marvel at Attukal Waterfalls:
Cascading down the lush hills, Attukal Waterfalls is a sight to behold during monsoon. A short trek leading to the falls makes the journey even more memorable.
If you are looking for exciting things to do in Munnar with friends, together you can trek to the waterfalls. It will be an exciting experience for sure.
8. Go Wildlife Spotting in Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Embark on a safari through Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary to encounter a variety of wildlife including spotted deer, leopards and elephants. The sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna are a treat for nature enthusiasts.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Munnar with kids, you can take them to the wildlife sanctuary and can take a safari trip. Do not forget to grab your video camera as you can come across wildlife at any instance during your safari trip inside the national park.
9. Discover the Beauty of Mattupetty Dam:
Offering a serene ambience and spectacular views of the hills, Mattupetty Dam is a perfect spot for picnics and boat rides. The dam is surrounded by lush tea gardens that enhance the charm of the location.
If you are thinking about the best things to do in Munnar with kids, you can take them to this dam site. You can take them on boat rides when at this dam.
10. Admire the Blossoming Florals at Rose Garden:
With a kaleidoscope of vibrant blooms, the Rose Garden is a treat for flower enthusiasts. Take a stroll amidst the fragrant flowers and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Munnar with your family, taking them to the rose garden will be an excellent idea.
11. Get Lost in the Aromatic Spice Gardens:
Kerala is known for its rich spices, and Munnar is no exception. Take a guided tour through spice gardens to learn about various spices and their culinary uses.
The aroma of spices at this place will motivate you to shop for some aromatic spices for your home. A visit to this place is one of the wonderful things to do in Munnar.
12. Rejuvenate with Ayurvedic Treatments:
Unwind and rejuvenate your senses with traditional Ayurvedic treatments offered by various resorts and wellness centres in Munnar. Pamper yourself with massages, herbal baths, and more.
A few hotels in Munnar offer this facility via an attached spa. Even if your accommodation does not have this facility, you can choose ayurvedic spa separately. So, if you are thinking about one of the rejuvenating things to do in Munnar, you can choose to do this.
13. Explore the Pothamedu Viewpoint:
For breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, head to the Pothamedu Viewpoint. The panoramic vistas of the lush valleys and rolling hills are truly awe-inspiring.
If you are looking for satisfying things to do in Munnar, you can take your family to the sunrise and sunset views from this viewpoint. Make sure not to miss out on a visit to this spot during your 5-day Munnar itinerary.
14. Savour Local Cuisine:
Don’t miss the opportunity to savour authentic Kerala cuisine. Munnar’s restaurants and eateries offer a variety of flavoursome dishes, including appam, puttu, and fish curry.
When you are in Munnar, which belongs to the state of Kerala, trying out local cuisine is one of the best things to do in Munnar.
15. Stay in a Tea Estate Bungalow:
Experience the charm of Munnar up close by staying in a tea estate bungalow. Wake up to the aroma of fresh tea leaves and enjoy the tranquil ambience of the plantations.
If you are thinking about the best things to do in Munnar, staying in a tea estate bungalow is an experience that you should not miss out on.
Conclusion:
Munnar’s unparalleled beauty and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an escape into nature’s lap. From exploring tea gardens to embarking on thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque hill station. The top 15 things to do in Munnar provide a comprehensive guide to help you create unforgettable memories amidst the verdant landscapes and serene atmosphere of this paradise in Kerala. Do you wish to know how to reach Munnar? You can find the answer from my post.