Munnar
Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Idukki district of the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level and is known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and serene atmosphere. The history of Munnar is closely tied to its tea plantations and the colonial era.
The name "Munnar" is derived from the words "munu" (three) and "aar" (river), which refer to the three rivers - Mudhirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundaly - that flow through the town. Munnar was initially inhabited by tribal communities like the Muthuvan and the Malayarayan, who used to hunt and gather honey in the dense forests.
History
In the late 19th century, Munnar was discovered by the British planters, who were in search of a suitable place to cultivate tea. They were impressed by the cool climate and fertile soil of the region, and by 1895, the first tea plantation was established in Munnar by John Daniel Munro, a British planter.
The success of the tea plantations in Munnar attracted more planters, and soon, the town became a thriving center for the tea industry. The British also built roads, railways, and other infrastructure in the region to support the tea plantations. They also brought in laborers from other parts of India, like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, to work in the plantations.
The town of Munnar grew rapidly during this time, and many bungalows, churches, and other colonial-era buildings were constructed. Some of the notable landmarks of Munnar from this period include the Christ Church, which was built in 1910, and the High Range Club, which was established in 1905 as a social club for the British planters.
After India gained independence in 1947, the tea plantations in Munnar were taken over by the Indian government, and the town became part of the state of Kerala. The tea industry continued to flourish, and Munnar remained an important center for tea production.
In recent years, Munnar has become a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is home to several attractions, including the Eravikulam National Park, which is known for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr, and the Mattupetty Dam, which offers boating and other water sports.
Today, Munnar is a bustling town that attracts visitors from all over the world. Its tea plantations, colonial-era buildings, and natural beauty make it a unique and charming destination, and a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.
Climate
Here are the details of the climate of Munnar:
1.
Summer (March to May): During the summer months, the
temperature in Munnar ranges from 15°C to 25°C. The weather is generally dry
and pleasant, making it a popular tourist destination. The days are warm, and
the nights are cool, providing a perfect escape from the heat of the plains.
2.
Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season in
Munnar brings heavy rainfall, which makes the hill station lush green and
beautiful. The temperature during this season ranges from 15°C to 20°C, and the
humidity is high. The rainfall makes it difficult to indulge in outdoor
activities, but it's the best time to enjoy the beauty of nature.
3. Winter (December to February): The winter season in Munnar is the best time to visit for those who love cool and chilly weather. The temperature during this season ranges from 5°C to 15°C, and the air is crisp and refreshing. The hills are covered in mist, and the landscape is breathtakingly beautiful.
Overall, the climate of Munnar is pleasant and soothing throughout the year, making it a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers.
How to reach
1.
By Air: The nearest airport to Munnar is Cochin International
Airport, which is located around 110 km away from Munnar. You can take a flight
to Cochin from any major city in India and then hire a taxi or take a bus to
reach Munnar.
2.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Munnar is
Aluva, which is around 110 km away from Munnar. You can take a train to Aluva
from any major city in India and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach
Munnar.
3.
By Road: Munnar is well-connected to all major cities in Kerala by
road. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from any major city in Kerala to reach
Munnar.
Once you reach Munnar, you can explore the town on foot or hire a taxi or a bike. There are also local buses available that connect different parts of the town.
Places to visit
Munnar is known for its lush green tea plantations, misty mountains, and breath-taking scenery, Munnar is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Munnar is a beautiful hill station with plenty to offer for visitors of all ages. Whether you are looking for adventure or simply want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty, Munnar is definitely worth a visit. Here are some of the best places to visit in Munnar:
1. Tea Gardens: Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations that cover the hillsides as far as the eye can see. The Tata Tea Museum is a great place to learn about the history of tea in India and to take a guided tour of the gardens.
2. Eravikulam National Park: This national park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, a species of mountain goat. Visitors can take a guided trek through the park to see the Tahr and other wildlife.
3. Mattupetty Dam: This dam is a popular spot for boating and picnics. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the surrounding hills and valleys to reach the dam.
4. Top Station: This is the highest point in Munnar and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can take a guided trek to the summit or hire a jeep to drive to the top.
5. Echo Point: This is a popular spot for tourists to experience the unique echo phenomenon. Visitors can shout out and hear their voice reverberate back to them from the surrounding hills.
6. Kundala Lake: This is a beautiful lake surrounded by hills and tea plantations. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic views.
7. Attukad Waterfalls: This is a picturesque waterfall located in the midst of lush green forests. Visitors can take a short trek through the forest to reach the waterfall.
8. Anamudi Peak: This is the highest peak in South India and is a popular trekking destination. Visitors can take a guided trek to the summit to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
9. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to see the wildlife up close.
10.Pothamedu View Point: This is a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the scenic views of the tea plantations and surrounding hills. Visitors can take a short trek to reach the viewpoint.
Accommodation
Munnar offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. We will discuss the various types of accommodation available in Munnar.
1.
Resorts: Munnar has many beautiful resorts that offer a luxurious
stay amidst nature. These resorts have all modern amenities, including swimming
pools, spas, and restaurants. Some of the popular resorts in Munnar include
Club Mahindra, The Windermere Estate, and Munnar Tea Country Resort.
2.
Homestays: Homestays are a great option for those who
want to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Many families in Munnar
offer rooms in their homes for tourists to stay. These homestays offer a
comfortable and homely atmosphere and are a great way to interact with the
locals. Some popular homestays in Munnar include Sceva's Garden Homestay, Green
View Homestay, and Blue Berg Resort.
3.
Hotels: Munnar has a variety of hotels ranging from budget to
luxury. The hotels in Munnar offer comfortable rooms and all modern amenities.
Some of the popular hotels in Munnar include The Panoramic Getaway, Elixir Hills,
and The Leaf Munnar.
4.
Cottages: Cottages are a great option for those who
want a private and secluded stay. Many cottages in Munnar offer beautiful views
of the mountains and tea gardens. These cottages have all modern amenities,
including kitchenettes and living rooms. Some popular cottages in Munnar
include Dream Catcher Plantation Resort, Tea Harvester, and Tall Trees Resort.
5. Treehouses: For those who want a unique and adventurous experience, Munnar offers treehouse accommodation. These treehouses are built on tall trees and offer a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and forests. Some popular treehouses in Munnar include Nature Zone Resort, Dreamcatcher Tree House, and Jungle Jive Tree House.
Conclusion
Munnar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle and experience the tranquility of nature. With its lush green tea plantations, scenic landscapes, pleasant climate, and diverse flora and fauna, Munnar is a true gem of Kerala's Western Ghats.