A popular hill station in Kerala known for tea gardens and cool climate
Janaki Muthaiya Residency is located in Veerapandi, Theni — offering easy access to
several attractions.
Munnar is one of South India’s most celebrated hill stations, located in the Idukki
district of Kerala, close to the Tamil Nadu border near Theni. Nestled at an
altitude of approximately 1,600 meters above sea level in the Western Ghats, Munnar
is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations, cool climate, and mist-covered
mountains. This enchanting destination offers a perfect escape for honeymooners,
nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike.
Munnar’s charm is most vibrant during and after the monsoon season, when the hills
are blanketed in lush green tea gardens and the valleys come alive with cascading
streams and blooming flora. Popular viewpoints such as Top Station, Echo Point, and
Pothamedu View Point offer awe-inspiring vistas of misty peaks, valleys, and distant
plains. The surrounding forests and shola grasslands are rich in biodiversity, home
to unique species like the Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji flower, which blooms once
every 12 years.
In addition to its natural wonders, Munnar offers a variety of experiences—from tea
factory visits and spice garden tours to boating in Mattupetty Dam and exploring
Eravikulam National Park. It’s an excellent destination for leisurely vacations,
treks, and romantic getaways. The calm environment, chirping of birds, and cool
breeze make every moment in Munnar feel refreshing and serene.
Well-equipped for tourism, Munnar has a wide range of accommodations including
luxury resorts, budget hotels, cottages, and homestays. Local markets and eateries
offer delicious Kerala cuisine and fresh tea-based products. Adventure activities
like trekking, cycling, and nature walks are also available for those wanting to
explore more than just the usual scenic spots.
Located about 85 kilometers from Theni via Bodinayakkanur, Munnar is easily
accessible by road and remains one of the most sought-after hill retreats in South
India. With its mix of scenic beauty, cool weather, and diverse attractions, Munnar
is an unforgettable experience for every traveler seeking the charm of the Western
Ghats.
Munnar’s history dates back to the colonial era when British planters developed vast tea estates in the region. Originally inhabited by tribal communities, the area transformed in the late 19th century with the arrival of Scottish planters who saw potential in the region’s climate and elevation. The Kannan Devan Hills Plantation Company was established, laying the foundation for Munnar’s tea economy. Today, Munnar still retains its old-world charm with colonial architecture, heritage bungalows, and a legacy of tea cultivation.
Inhabited by local tribes like the Muthuvan community.
British planters introduced large-scale tea cultivation.
Developed as a summer retreat with colonial architecture.
Popular for tea estates, cool weather, and eco-tourism.
Munnar is open to tourists throughout the year, with most attractions accessible between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Early mornings offer misty landscapes and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and photography. Tea estates, viewpoints, and national parks operate with specific timings, so it's advisable to check before visiting. Most places do not have entry fees, though guided tours and some attractions like the Tea Museum may charge nominal fees.
Munnar is located approximately 85 km from Theni and can be reached via the Bodinayakanur–Bodi Mettu route. The drive through the Western Ghats offers breathtaking views of valleys and plantations. Regular buses, private taxis, and self-drive cars are the common modes of transport. The nearest railway stations are at Theni and Bodinayakanur, while the closest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 110 km away. Road travel is the most scenic and preferred way to reach Munnar.