Munnar
Ask any Keralite to name his/her most preferred hill station and without any moment of hesitation would come the answer - Munnar. This hill station nestled in the exquisite mountains of the Western Ghats is your ideal place to attain peace and tranquility.
This exotic hill station, located in the naturally blessed Idukki district in the Southern Indian state of Kerala, is at a height of 5,200 ft above sea level and once served as the summer retreat of the erstwhile British rulers.
The place got its name as the confluence of three streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala - which have their origins from the nearby mountains, transpire in this little piece of heaven on earth.
As this popular resort town tops in the list of many who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Munnar hotels also vary from resorts to smaller accommodations from which you can pick one according to your budget.
Those who plan on Munnar sightseeing can start with taking a stroll among any of the tea plantations in and around the hill station. Muunar, Kerala, produces a plethora of fresh tea varities available in the market. Visit one of the tea manufacturing units here and you could learn the various steps involved in the process.
Watching Neelakurinji, the exotic flower which blooms in once in every 12 years, in its full bloom is one of the high points in Munnar tourism.
The above mentioned Neelakurinji, which last bloomed in 2006, covering the mist-clad hills of Munnar, including that of Eravikulam National Park, with enthralling carpets of blue is a mesmerizing spectacle. It is an ethereal experience which is a privilege to those who visit Munnar at the time. The flower usually blossoms from August to October every 12 years.
The most famous Munnar places to visit include Anamudi, the highest peak in South India, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Eco-Point, Devikulam Lake and Top Station.
Eravikulam National Park is one of the most famous of all the Munnar tourist places. The park, which houses many endangered flora and fauna, is also the home to the largest population of Nilgiri Tahr. The place is also famous for trekking, and its rare butterfly species. Anamudi - the highest peak in South India - is inside the national park.
Mattupetty located about 13 km from Munnar town is another major attraction. The place also offers boat rides, which is a satisfying experience.
Tourists who visit Munnar should also visit Top Station, which is about 32 km from Munnar, to enjoy the panoramic view of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar where Neelakurinji flowers bloom.
Not just the hills, Muunar tourist places also include many gurgling streams and rivulets.
