The journey to Kerela was a long and exhausting one that too in not so good weather but the experience was worth it. The beautiful little tea estate never fails to mesmerize anyone visiting this quaint and laid back town.Since I had only four days at hand it was not possible to cover some other parts of Kerela. Nevertheless, here are few interesting things to do while you are in Munnar;

ERAVIKULAM NATIONAL PARK

This national park is situated very close to the city of Munnar and is a must visit place for wildlife lovers. One can enjoy diverse flora and fauna within the park and in the buffer area. However the park remains closed during the months of February and March.

The Kannan Devan Hills tea estates near Eravikulam National park

BIRD WATCHING

For bird lovers, Munnar is a paradise with about 200 species. One can constantly hear the calls of the elusive White cheeked barbet and Red whiskered Bulbuls everywhere.

White cheeked Barbet

Jungle Myna

Southern Hill myna

White browed wagtail

Red whiskered Bulbul

MATTUPETTY DAM

Situated only a few kms from Munnar, one can visit this place for a long scenic drive along the dam road.

KATHAKALI

While in Munnar,don't forget to immerse yourself in the splendor of Kathakali. 

The dance form combines devotion, drama, dance,music,costume and convert it into a divine experience for the viewers.

RELAXING AND LOCAL SIGHTSEEING

For tea lovers, there are many tea factories where one can get an insight into the process of tea making and purchase some local manufactured tea. Also, there are delicious mouth watering home made chocolates sold everywhere at Munnar which does not match the taste of chocolates found anywhere in India.

The scenic route to munnar

STAYING OPTIONS

One can find many cheap and good staying options in hotels and home stays and if one wants is looking for a peaceful stay then it is better to stay on the outskirts of Munnar town. Ours was a homestay , the Winter Gardens located at a few kilometers from Munnar in Anachal. The home is situated in an idyllic setting on top of a hill and offers breathtaking views of the tea estates. The cute little balcony is the highlight of the place. However, I would suggest this homestay only when you are visiting in good weather because it involves a steep climb up the hill!

 It is very budget friendly also and the host takes care of everything you need.

Winter Gardens Homestay Anachal

View from the balcony

The room

GETTING AROUND 

Although most tourists use taxi for local sightseeing but these prove expensive and one can easily hire scooter or bike from the old Munnar town which cost around Rs 500- Rs 750 per day. Exploring Munnar on a two wheeler is a wonderful experience and those with excellent driving skills should definitely go for it.

BEST SEASON

Ideal season would be the winter months of December and January when the weather is pleasant and the monsoon months when all the waterfalls are in spate and the town is covered in lush greenery. During the hot summer months, the days become very hot and it becomes difficult to step outside in the afternoon.