Things To Do
in Munnar
Munnar is a hill station in Kerala set among rolling tea plantations, misty valleys and shola forests at the southern end of the Western Ghats. The town is a relaxed base for wildlife spotting, trekking and exploring colonial-era bungalows and tea estates. Cool temperatures, frequent mist and dramatic viewpoints make it a photographer’s dream.
Munnar blends local Kerala culture with a small-town mountain vibe that feels far removed from Kerala’s coastline.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the sprawling tea plantations of Munnar, where the verdant hills are carpeted in lush green tea bushes. Take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process, from plucking leaves to brewing the perfect cup. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you sip freshly brewed tea while overlooking the scenic landscape.
After lunch, take a hike through the tea estates, breathing in the fragrant air filled with the scent of tea leaves and wildflowers. Stop by the TATA Tea Museum to delve deeper into the history and significance of tea production in Munnar. You may even have the opportunity to taste different varieties of tea and purchase some to take home.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a cup of local tea. The cool evening breeze and stunning views make for a perfect backdrop to relax. You might also consider taking a leisurely stroll along the roads lined with glowing street lamps, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with an early morning visit to Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and breathtaking landscapes. As you enter the park, be greeted by the chirping of birds and the sound of rustling leaves as you embark on a guided nature walk. The morning light enhances the beauty of rolling hills and vibrant flora, making it an unforgettable experience.
After exploring the park, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene surroundings, feeling the cool mountain breeze. Spend the afternoon birdwatching and spotting unique wildlife, all while surrounded by the spectacular Western Ghats. The diverse ecosystem here provides numerous opportunities for photography and appreciating nature’s beauty.
Return to Munnar in the evening and visit a local restaurant to savor traditional Kerala cuisine, such as appam and stew. The delightful flavors will add a perfect conclusion to your day amidst nature. Wind down by visiting the local markets to shop for handicrafts and spices, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Tea / Coffee at a café | $0.5-2 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride / per 5–10 km) | $3-10 |
| 🛏Budget hotel / guesthouse (per night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning tea plantation landscapes and cool climate.
- Great opportunities for photography, trekking and birdwatching.
- Relaxed small-town atmosphere away from coastal heat.
- Weather can be unpredictable (heavy monsoon rains and fog).
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Roads are narrow and can be challenging, especially in bad weather.
- "Namaskaram" - Hello / Greetings
- "Nanni" - Thank you
- "Sukhamalle?" - How are you?
- "Evide?" - Where?
- "Ivide toilet unda?" - Is there a toilet here?
- "Kurachu kammi cheyyamo?" - Can you make it a little cheaper?
Places to Visit in Munnar
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous viewpoint offering sweeping vistas over the Western Ghats and the Theni valley; best at sunrise or during post-monsoon clear days for dramatic clouds and layered hills.
High-altitude park with endemic flora and Nilgiri tahr; rolling grasslands, shola trees and rugged peaks provide excellent wildlife and landscape shots (follow park rules).
Neatly trimmed tea rows, mist-filled mornings and estate workers create quintessential Munnar images — ideal for wide-angle and detail shots.
Calm reservoir reflections, boat activity and distant hills; Echo Point offers fun shots with the natural echo effect and wider valley scenes.
Serene lake settings with pedal-boats, manicured banks and tree-lined shores; quiet early mornings offer soft light and mist.
Food in Munnar
Munnar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Soft lacy rice pancakes (appam) served with a mild coconut milk-based vegetable or chicken stew; commonly found at local restaurants and breakfast cafés.
Must-Try!
Steamed rice flour cylinders (puttu) paired with black chickpea (kadala) curry — a classic Kerala breakfast dish popular at Munnar eateries and roadside stalls.
Tangy, spiced coconut-based fish curry usually made with local freshwater or coastal fish; best at local non-vegetarian restaurants.
Sweet fried banana slices dipped in batter — a common snack sold by street vendors and tea shops.
Fresh estate-grown tea available at plantations, tea shops and cafes; try different grades and flavored blends in the town and at estate stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small bustling market near bus stand where you can buy spices (pepper, cardamom), homemade preserves, fresh vegetables and simple snacks; great for trying local banana chips and buying edible souvenirs.
Roadside stalls near tea gardens selling hot tea, biscuits, packaged estate-tea and quick snacks — ideal for a refreshing stop during plantation walks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in temples and when interacting with older locals.
Take off shoes before entering temples and some homes or traditional homestays; follow posted signs and host instructions.
Use a polite greeting (Namaskaram) and avoid loud behavior in public areas. Always ask before photographing people, particularly workers in tea estates or members of indigenous communities.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon in many places; when greeting, a nod or joined palms is often preferred over hugs.
Safety
Tipping in Munnar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated: round up bills or leave 5–10% at sit-down restaurants if service is good, give small tips (₹20–100) to drivers or porters, and a modest tip to guides after treks. Housekeeping tips in hotels are common when receiving personalized service.
Credit/debit cards and UPI mobile payments are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants and shops; small vendors and tea stalls prefer cash. ATMs are available in Munnar town but can run low on cash during peak season, so carry sufficient Indian rupees for remote excursions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Munnar remains pleasantly cool compared with the plains, with daytime temperatures around 20–25°C and chilly mornings — ideal for walks and sightseeing without intense heat.
Heavy, regular rains make the landscape intensely green and dramatic but can disrupt travel and trekking; expect slippery trails, leeches in some areas and occasional road closures.
Clear, lush landscapes with reduced rain and comfortable temperatures — one of the best times for photography, trekking and visiting tea estates.
Cool to chilly nights (sometimes near freezing at higher elevations) and crisp days — pack warm layers; mornings can have heavy mist and frost in low temperatures.
Munnar at Night
Hiking in Munnar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Well-known protected area trails offering views of rolling grasslands, shola forests and chances to see the Nilgiri tahr; guided walks required in some zones and seasonal closures may apply.
A challenging multi-hour trek (often started from near Munnar or nearby base camps) with excellent ridgeline views; suitable for fit hikers and often done with guides.
Trails near the highest peak in South India (Anamudi) with alpine-like vistas — permits and guidance are often needed for longer routes.
Shorter, scenic treks and walks between lakes and viewpoints that pass through tea gardens and forest edges; good for morning photography and gentle hiking.
Airports
How to reach Munnar by plane.
The closest major airport (approx. 110–140 km / 3.5–4.5 hours by road depending on route and traffic). Regular car, taxi and bus transfers are available; many travelers hire private cabs or take organized transfers to Munnar.
A secondary option roughly 150–170 km away; useful if combining with travel in Tamil Nadu, but the drive is longer and routes are hillier. Car/taxi transfers are available from the airport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Native Malayalam-speaking Keralites form the majority, with local culture, festivals and food rooted in Kerala traditions.
Significant numbers of plantation workers (including communities with Tamil and indigenous backgrounds) live around the estates; some indigenous communities maintain distinct cultural practices.
A steady flow of domestic tourists from across India and some international visitors supports local hospitality and transport services, particularly in peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in the region; you'll see informal matches on flat grounds and village pitches.
Football is also widely played at school and club levels, particularly among youth in the area.
Given the hilly terrain, trekking and trail running are popular recreational activities among visitors and locals who enjoy the outdoors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Munnar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerala is friendly to vegetarians: many dishes are coconut-based, and South Indian staples (dosa, idli, appam, vegetable curries) are widely available. Always confirm that gravies are vegetarian and ask about ghee or fish-based stocks in some local curries.
Vegan options exist but are less obvious; ask for meals without ghee or yogurt, and choose coconut-oil-based preparations. Fresh fruits, vegetable curries and many breakfast items can be made vegan on request.
Rice-based dishes (appam, puttu, idli, rice and curries) are naturally gluten-free, but be cautious with fried snacks and breads that may include wheat. Communicate clearly about cross-contamination in small kitchens.