Here's How You Can Explore the Magical Munnar in Under 48 Hours

Munnar is about 130 km from Kochi and it takes around four hours to reach by cab. It is advisable to land in Kochi early in the morning and then reach Munnar by noon. Mark the beginning of your journey by making a stop at the magical Cheerayappa Waterfalls. The water here cascades down seven steps, from over 1,000 feet above sea level! Located on the Kochi-Madurai highway, you'll come across this place as you are driving down to Munnar.

Entrance fee

None

Timings

Open throughout the day

Once you reach Munnar, check into your hotel and then head out to visit the Mattupetty Dam where you can relax by the water or indulge in a boating session. Located about 11 km from the town centre, the reservoir offers mesmerising views of the water surrounded by lush green hills. There are a few restaurants around the area that offer delicious South Indian food and make for a great lunch spot.

Entrance fee

Rs 10 per person (boating starts at Rs 300 per person)

Timings

9.30 am to 5.00 pm

Start the second day early and head to the Lockhart Tea Museum and Factory to get a first-hand experience of the tea manufacturing process. Established in 1936, Lockhart Estate situated about 9 km from the town centre and gives you an insight into the history of tea in India. It takes about two hours to complete the entire tour where you get a first hand experience of the tea manufacturing process and also get to taste different varieties.

Entrance fee

Rs 200 per person

Timings

8.00 am to 8.00 pm

After completing the tour of the tea factory, make your way to Meesapulimala. Located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, Meesapulimala is the second highest peak in South India. It is about two-and-a-half hour drive from Munnar. Once you reach the top, you get breathtaking views of the green valleys below as you are engulfed in clouds. The ride to the peak is an adventure in itself. Taking you through curvy roads and gushing waterfalls, it is bound to give you an adrenaline rush.

When to go

Winter months of December to February are the peak season in Munnar because of the pleasant weather and tourist activities. The monsoons from June to September are another great time to visit as Munnar looks exceptionally beautiful around this time. The surroundings are lush green and the waterfalls are full and can be witnessed in their full glory.

Accommodation

As a popular tourist hot spot, Munnar offers a number of stay options. Here are a few to choose from:

Luxury stay

Elixir Hills Suites Resort and Spa (Rs 9,000 onward)

Mid-range stay

Munnar Tea County Resort (Rs 4,100 onward)

Budget stay

Hotel Emerald Inn (Rs 1,800 onward)

Costs

Flight from Delhi to Kochi

Rs 3,500 onward

Taxi from Kochi to Munnar

Rs 2,500 onward

Hotel stay

Rs 1,000 onward

Meal for two

Rs 300 for two onward

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