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Things to Do in Munnar

Things to Do in Munnar

Munnar Kerala, India Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Munnar provides various hiking and trekking routes with different difficulty levels, catering to both casual walkers and experienced adventurers.

Hiking & Trekking

Eravikulam National Park

Offers a short, relatively easy paved walk to the Nilgiri Tahr habitat. An early morning visit increases wildlife spotting chances.

Meesapulimala & Chokramudi

Meesapulimala, Kerala's second highest peak, offers a challenging trek often done overnight. Chokramudi Peak is a moderate to challenging trek with panoramic views.

Anamudi Peak

The highest peak in South India, usually requires special permission from forest authorities for trekking and is often restricted.

Other Adventures

  • Water Sports: Boating at Mattupetty Dam and Kundala Lake offers pedal boats, speed boats, and Shikara rides.
  • Soft Adventure: Rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining may be available from local operators (seasonal).
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot Nilgiri Tahr at Eravikulam, or wild elephants near Anaerangal Lake. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is good for grizzled giant squirrels.
  • Birdwatching: Munnar is a good spot for birdwatching with many endemic species. A compact pair of Binoculars can enhance the experience.

Hiking Essentials

  • Good hiking shoes
  • Daypack for water and snacks
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Cycling

  • Limited dedicated infrastructure
  • Some resorts offer bikes within property
  • Main roads are challenging due to traffic
  • Steep gradients require fitness

Jeep Safaris

  • Ideal for reaching remote viewpoints
  • Often include tea estate visits
  • Experience off-road terrain
  • Connect with local drivers

Safety Advisory

Always engage with certified guides for challenging treks. Maintain a safe distance from wild animals during encounters.

Cultural Immersion

Munnar offers opportunities for cultural immersion, allowing visitors to connect with local traditions and community life.

Local Interactions

  • Cooking Classes: Some homestays or specialized local operators offer Kerala cooking classes, teaching traditional recipes.
  • Language Learning: Casually learn basic Malayalam phrases from locals to enhance interactions.
  • Cultural Centers: Check local schedules for evening performances showing traditional Kerala art forms like Kathakali (classical dance-drama) and Kalaripayattu (ancient martial art).
  • Festival Participation: If your timing aligns, participation in local festivals offers cultural insight (Onam in Aug/Sep, Vishu in Apr).

Community Engagement

Local Market Visits

Visit the local market to observe daily commerce, interact with vendors, and discover fresh produce and local goods.

Tea Plantation Walks

Join guided walks through tea plantations to understand the tea-making process and the lives of tea pickers.

Relaxation & Wellness

Munnar's tranquil environment supports various wellness activities, including spa treatments and yoga.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Evenings are generally peaceful. Entertainment options are limited to cultural shows or resort activities.

Shopping & Markets

Explore local markets for spices, tea, homemade chocolates, and handicrafts, focusing on authentic regional products.

Relaxation & Wellness

Munnar's serene environment and natural beauty provide an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Holistic Treatments

  • Spa Facilities: Many luxury resorts offer comprehensive spa facilities with traditional Ayurvedic treatments and Western therapies.
  • Ayurvedic Treatments: Ayurveda is widely practiced in Kerala. Many resorts provide authentic Ayurvedic treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Natural Healing: Experience traditional massages and therapies that draw on natural herbs and oils.
  • Herbal Remedies: Discover local herbal remedies used for wellness.

Mind & Body Harmony

Yoga and Meditation

Some resorts or dedicated wellness centers may offer yoga and meditation sessions or retreats, leveraging Munnar's tranquil environment.

Nature Walks

Peaceful walks through tea plantations and forests promote mental well-being and a connection with nature.

Scenic Views

The beautiful vistas of mist-covered hills and lush valleys contribute to a calming and relaxing atmosphere.

Evening & Nightlife

Peaceful Evenings

Evenings are generally peaceful, offering a quiet retreat from daily hustle.

Limited Venues

Live music venues are very limited, usually confined to specific resorts offering in-house entertainment for guests.

Cultural Shows

The main form of evening entertainment beyond resort offerings is cultural shows like Kathakali or Kalaripayattu.

Shopping & Markets

Explore shopping opportunities and markets in Munnar to find local products and unique souvenirs to bring home.

Local Products

  • Local Market: The market in Munnar town offers fresh produce, spices, and everyday items.
  • Artisan Workshops: Limited but some shops sell wooden handicrafts, locally made soaps, and small decorative items.
  • Munnar Tea: Freshly processed tea from tea factories like the Tata Tea Museum or local specialty shops, available in various grades and flavors.
  • High-Quality Spices: Cardamom, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla directly from spice plantations or designated spice shops.

Souvenir Recommendations

Homemade Chocolates

Many shops in Munnar sell various locally-made chocolates, perfect for gifts or personal indulgence.

Essential Oils

Eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, and other aromatic oils derived from local plants are available for therapeutic or aromatic use.

Banana Chips

Crispy chips made from unripe bananas, often fried in coconut oil, a popular local snack and easy-to-carry souvenir.

Quality & Authenticity

Focus on local products and avoid items from endangered species to support ethical tourism.

Supporting Local

Purchase directly from local businesses and artisans to contribute to the community's economy.

Travel Considerations

For large purchases, enquire about shipping services. Be aware of your home country's customs regulations regarding agricultural products.

Shopping Tips

Tea Varieties
  • Explore different grades like Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP) and Flowery Orange Pekoe (FOP).
  • Look for organic and single-origin teas directly from estates for premium quality.
  • Consider beautifully packaged tea sets as gifts.
Spice Shopping
  • Visit a spice plantation for educational tours and direct purchases.
  • Buy whole spices for maximum freshness and aroma.
  • Bargaining may be possible in smaller local shops, but less so in larger established stores.

Final Thought on Activities

Munnar's allure extends beyond its visual splendor to the rich array of experiences it offers, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to diverse interests.

Activity Planning Summary

Maximize Your Day

  • Start early for iconic landmarks to avoid crowds and morning mist.
  • Group nearby attractions to optimize travel time and convenience.
  • Allocate full days for treks or nature explorations to fully immerse yourself.
  • Consider hiring a local taxi for flexible transportation to remote areas.

Enhance Your Experience

  • Include a tea factory visit for insight into Munnar's main industry.
  • Engage with locals or take a cooking class for cultural exchange.
  • Dedicate time for wellness activities like Ayurvedic massages for relaxation.
  • Explore local markets for unique souvenirs and regional products.