subject: Munnar - More Than A Hill Station [print this page] Munnar hill station, situated at the confluence of three mountain streams of Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, has waterfalls, rivulets, winding lines and sprawling tea plantations. Munnar was the summer resort of the Britishers. They preferred to stay in the cool climate in the hill station to escape the hot conditions in the plains.
The Munnar hills are situated at an altitude of 1500 metres to 2700 metres above the sea level. Anamudi (Elephant peak in the local dialect Malayalam) in Munnar with an altitude of 2700 metres is the highest peak in South India. Munnar is famous for the blooming of the unique blue flower Neelakurinji. The flower blooms only once in every 12 years. The next blooming of the flower is expected in 2018.
The word Munnar in local Malayalam dialect means three rivers. Three rivers-Mattupetty, Nallathanni and Periavaru - pass through the hill station.
Besides offering a comfortable stay in the cool climate of the hill station, Munnar has several tourist attractions. Eravikulam National Park is situated 15 km from Munnar. It is famous for its endangered inhabitant, the mountain goat. This National Park, located at an area of 97 sq. km, is also home to several species of rare birds, butterflies and animals.
A trek to Rajamala in the morning may enable one to spot a few friendly mountain goats besides gaur, langur, lion-tailed macaque and even elephants. In fact half the world population of the mountain goat is found here. Anamudi Peak is situated within the National Park. This peak is suitable for trekking also.
Mattupetty, situated at an altitude of 1700 metres above sea level, is known for its storage masonry. This place has a beautiful lake. There is facility for boating in the lake. Mattupetty has a dairy farm run by Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. There are several tea and coffee plantations in Munnar.
The waterfall in Chinnakanal is a major attraction for the visitors. This place offers the tourists a scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges. Pallivasal is also a place to view the scenic beauty of the hills. Tea Museum, located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea, is worth a visit.
The nearest airport is Cochin International airport. It is 110 km away from the Munnar by road. The nearest railway station is Aluva (110 km). Taxis are available in Kochi and Aluva to take travellers to Munnar. The temperature in the hill station ranges from a minimum of zero degree centigrade to a maximum of 28 degree centigrade. The main tourist season is from August to March.
Munnar has several luxury, medium range and budget hotels. These hotels provide modern amenities. They also offer package to take the travellers to various places of interest.
