Munnar
I've explored most of the mountains in South India. Munnar is simply the best, no question. Munnar is the best.
Still for those who want a true deep forest experience, go to Gavi. Now, let's talk about Munnar.
Being from a village near Udumalpet, I'm less than 60km from Munnar, so I've spent countless weekends exploring these hills.
Munnar consists of 4 major road directions from the town:
- One towards Udumalpet (my home route)
- One towards Vattavada (most popular tourist route)
- One towards Theni (Bodi and Kumili in Poppara junction)
- Another towards Cochin (fully damaged and nasty as of 2025)
All roads except Cochin are fantastic for travel.
Vattavada Road (Common tourist spots, the Traffic is always there)
These places are for families with big crowds, and this road will be in traffic most of the time until Top Station. Perfect for first-time visitors who want the typical Munnar experience.
- Boomer uncle tourist spots like botanical garden, elephant safari. Just skip them.
- Top Station - The highest point, great views but always crowded
- Vattavada - Small village with organic farms, less touristy
- Dams on the way - Good photo spots, especially during monsoon
- Tea estates on the road - Multiple stops for tea tasting
Theni Road (Mostly Trekking)
I highly recommend this for trekking enthusiasts. This route takes you through some of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the region.
- Chokramudi Trek - Moderate difficulty, 3-4 hours, amazing sunrise views
- Kollukumalai Trek - Starts at 5am, need to reach before sunrise, but worth it
- Mesapulimala Trek - One of the toughest, 6-8 hours, for experienced trekkers
- Tea estates on the road - Less crowded than Vattavada route, better for photography
Udumalpet Road
This is my home route - less touristy, more authentic. Perfect for those who want to experience the real Munnar without the crowds.
- Thoovanam waterfalls Trek - 2-3 hours, beautiful waterfall, good for families
- Kanthaloor half day visit - Apple orchards and spice gardens, unique to this area
- Anamudi - South India's highest peak, restricted access but worth the effort
- Chinnar forest safari - Wildlife spotting, best during early morning or late evening
- Tea estates on the road - Working plantations, not just tourist spots
Hostels
Campsites
Decent stays for family
Luxury stays
Best Airbnbs
Peak Male Experience (5 Days)
5 days for guys who want to feel themselves 100% in the forest:
- Day 1: Deep in the forest and camp, one day inside the forest, no phone, no internet, no distractions, just you and the forest
- Day 2: Hidden waterfall trek through dense forests, ending at a crystal clear natural pool
- Day 3: Off-road biking to mountain peaks, just pure one day adventure, peak male experience
- Day 4: Volunteering in Vattavada - work with locals
- Day 5: Night camping under starry skies at a secluded mountain peak
This will make you feel the forest and you.
Contact me at +91 8667322394.
Need still more of adventure? Let's talk about Gavi.
Self Drive Bikes
Self Drive Cars
- Royalpicks: +91 9629926888
Now the below items are for those who are new to Munnar
Boys Trip (New to Munnar)
4 days with trekking, volunteering, and authentic experiences for first-time visitors:
- Day 1: Rent 300cc+ bike, explore Vattavada route early morning, stay in campsites (40km from Munnar)
- Day 2: Return from Vattavada, head to Udumalpet road, stay in Marayoor, explore Kanthaloor road (60km from Munnar)
- Day 3: Start at 5am for Kollukumalai trek (reach before sunrise), return and do Chokramudi trek based on energy (both on Theni road, 30km from Munnar)
- Day 4: Thoovanam falls and Chinnar safari, volunteer in Vattavada, explore remaining spots
Family Trip Plans
3-Day Family Plan (No Trekking)
- Day 1: Vattavada route - Top Station, tea estates, dams, botanical garden
- Day 2: Udumalpet road - Kanthaloor, Thoovanam falls, Chinnar safari
- Day 3: Munnar town - Tea museum, local markets, relaxation
3-Day Family Plan (Light Trekking)
- Day 1: Vattavada route + easy trek to Top Station
- Day 2: Udumalpet road - Kanthaloor, Thoovanam falls (easy trek), Chinnar safari
- Day 3: Theni road - Chokramudi trek (moderate), tea estates
3-Day Family Plan (With Elderly)
- Day 1: Munnar town - Tea museum, local sightseeing, botanical garden
- Day 2: Vattavada route - Dams, tea estates (no trekking), comfortable stays
- Day 3: Udumalpet road - Kanthaloor (by car), Chinnar safari (comfortable vehicle)