Munnar is often described as the Kashmir of South India. It is an endearing metaphor; however, Munnar has its own distinct and beautiful identity. Located in the Idukki district of Kerala, it is a breathtakingly gorgeous hill station situated 1,600 metres above the sea level. Travelers, backpackers, and jet setters, all dream of visiting this hill station for its amazing variety of fun things to do. The tranquil hill station is famous for its sprawling tea estates, aromatic spice gardens, lush green valleys, perennial rivers, thick forests, mesmerizing waterfalls, and sanctuaries. This terrain is home to endangered species like the Nilakurinji Flowering Plant and the unique mountain goat - Nilgiri Thar. The abundant variety of flora and fauna makes this an ideal destination for a holiday. Here is a carefully curated list of 20 best things to do in Munnar with your family.

  • Picturesque Chinnakanal Waterfalls
  • Mesmerizing Pothamedu View Point
  • A Quick Race to Chokramudi Peak
  • Incredible Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park
  • Magical Kundala Dam, and Lake
  • Fun at the Elephant Arrival Spot
  • One of its kind: The Lockheart Gap viewpoint
  • Glorious Top Station
  • Grand Mattupetty Dam
  • Unmissable Photo Point
  • Beautiful Lakkam Waterfalls
  • Unforgettable Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Highest Tea Estate of Kolukkumalai
  • Myriad Marvels at Marayoor
  • Trekking, Rock climbing, Rappelling, and Mountain Biking
  • Refreshing Floriculture Centre
  • Memorable Chithirapuram
  • Legendary Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
  • Homemade Chocolates in Munnar
  • Superb Shopping

Things to do in Munnar - Chinnakanal Waterfalls Things to do in Munnar - Lakkam Waterfalls

1. Picturesque Chinnakanal Waterfalls - Things to do in Munnar

A picturesque village, Chinnakanal is situated 16 km away from Munnar. The breathtakingly beautiful waterfall of Chinnakanal tops the list of some of the best things to do in Munnar. It is said that the stream originated from the sacred Devikulam Hills. The highlight is the cascading white water falling through steep rocks from a height of about 800 meters. It is one of the best waterfalls in Munnar with a natural pool at the bottom of the waterfall. The fresh air, abundant natural beauty, and proximity to unlimited water make it a lovely picnic spot, and it is a perfect place to visit with your family. Chinnakanal waterfalls are surrounded by the grand ranges of the Western Ghats with peaceful and lush green surroundings. Also known as the Power House Waterfalls, the beautiful nature and captivating waterfalls make Chinnakanal a superb picnic spot for lots of visitors from not just Kerala but from all over the world. The idyllic settings of this destination encourage tourists to unwind and lighten up.

Far away from the busy rush of the city, you can hire a large and comfortable vehicle to plan a road trip to Chinnakanal waterfalls with your family. Children will enjoy the road trip because of the beautiful view. You will see sprawling tree plantations on your way to the waterfalls. The pollution free air and the sounds created by the chirping of birds and other animals will make you forget about all your worries. Chinnakanal village is a simple village with welcoming people. The villagers are helpful and friendly. Most of the locals work in the spice and tea plantations. You can also hire a guide for your trip. The guide will give you more information about the village, the flora and fauna and the waterfalls. Natural boundaries separate the forest land and agricultural land. The fields are adequately irrigated because of the abundant supply of water throughout the year. The best time to visit this wonderful waterfall is after the monsoon.

2. Mesmerizing Pothamedu View Point - Things to do in Munnar

Pothamedu View Point is a fantastic tourist spot in Munnar. If you are wondering about what to do in Munnar, this point features on the list of top things to do in Munnar and is visited by many tourists every year. A perfect spot for someone who loves nature, it is a brilliant green paradise in Kerala. Those who love adventurous activities enjoy trekking and mountain climbing often visit Pothamedu View Point. This beautiful location is known for its lush green plantations of coffee, tea and cardamom. If you are visiting with your family, you can also take a closer look at these plantations. The children will love to study the structure of different plants of coffee, tea and cardamom. Understanding the methods of cultivating coffee, tea and cardamom can be very interesting. You will also get to know the way the plantation is maintained and taken care of. Visitors can also meet the workers and the administrative staff of the plantations. It is indeed refreshing to taste freshly brewed coffee at Pothamedu View Point. Once you reach the top, you will feel the difference in temperature. The lush green valley will make you feel truly rejuvenated. You will enjoy the view of the winding road that reaches the top. You will get to see the vehicles of other tourists driving up to the top to reach the Pothamedu View Point. This hill station is a gem in the travel trails of India and will never make you wonder what to do in Munnar.

Pothamedu View Point is located on NH 49 and is about 6 kilometres away from the main destination. It is easy to reach Pothamedu View Point after relaxing at your hotel or resort. If you are not planning to trek to Pothamedu View Point, you can hire a private taxi or cab. Located amidst the coffee, and tea plantations, the undulating landscape created by the hills will leave you speechless. Places like Pothamedu View Point makes you forget about the busy humdrum of the urbanized world, cell phones, and computers. You and your family can just take a complete break from the usual routine and soak into the untouched natural abundance of Pothamedu View Point.

Things to do in Munnar - Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Things to do in Munnar -Tea Estate of Kolukkumalai

3. A Quick Race to Chokramudi Peak - Things to do in Munnar

Situated in the world-famous Eravikulam National Park, Chokramudi peak is one of the most unbelievable places to visit. At 7,200 feet above the sea level, Chokramudi stands tall and inviting and is surrounded by the thick green Shola Forest. In case you are even wondering where to go for an adventure and what to do in Munnar then you must plan a wonderful trek to this legendary destination. Your family will thank you for planning a departure from the usual sightseeing. The trek can be completed in a day, and you will be free to return to your base well within time. The best time to visit Chokramudi is between December and February. It takes an hour from Munnar to reach Pothamedu, the trekking base. The trek distance is about 10 kilometres, and it can take anywhere between 3 to 5 hours depending on the level of expertise. You can also take the guided trek tour organised by local agencies. It is a great idea to plan an early morning trek with your family. You will get to witness the magical sunrise from the peak or on your way to the summit. Fill your lungs with the fresh air when you reach the top of the peak

The trek to Chokramudi Peak is easy, but you must exercise caution and take ample precautions. Pack the essentials like water, dry snack items and first aid kit in a comfortable bag. Do not forget to carry necessary medications along with you. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for a trek. Instruct your family members, especially the children about the trek and how do you plan to go about it. The elevated landmass in the shape of an elevated hill is a sight to behold. You will have a million opportunities to click the most amazing pictures. However, never compromise with being alert and safe. Take a break from climbing and sit at a good spot to click pictures. Do not indulge in clicking selfies at dangerous spots. Clicking selfies at the cost of your own safety must be avoided at all times. You can also see the galloping Nilgiri Tahr and might be able to catch a glimpse of Gaurs and Asian Elephants. Make some of the most beautiful memories with your loved ones at Chokramudi Peak. A short trek to the Chokramudi peak is always at the helm of the list of unforgettable things to do in Munnar.

4. Incredible Eravikulam (Rajamalai) National Park

One of the most rejuvenating things to do in Munnar is to explore the worldwide famous Eravikulam National Park. The gem of Idduki district in Kerala, Eravikulam National Park has no rivals in natural beauty. At a distance of 15 kilometres from Munnar, the Eravikulam National Park spreads over an area of 97 square kilometres and was declared as a national park in the year 1978. The Western Ghats are replete with the most amazing national parks and Eravikulam National Park is a crown jewel amongst them. You and your family will be amused, entertained and enthralled by the endless greenery and amazing wildlife. This national park is home to the endangered Nilgiritragus hylocrius i.e., Nilgiri Tahr. This fantastic animal is endemic to the Nilgiri Hills and is also the state animal of Tamil Nadu. Besides the Nilgiri Tahr, you can also spot Sambar Deer, Nilgiri Langur, and Stripe-necked Mongoose at this national park. You can also find majestic and agile predators like the Wild Dog, Leopard and Golden Jackal.

The national park is divided into 3 segments which are the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. The tourists and the visitors cannot enter the core and the buffer area. However, visitors can enjoy the view of the national park and explore the wildlife in the tourism area. You and your family members can walk into the grasslands and explore the several species of birds, insects, and reptiles. You can also learn about the plants and trees that make the thick and deep forest. The park is also famous for the Anamudi peak, which is the highest peak of South India. If at all you are thinking about what to do, then think no further and just head for this wonderland of a natural extravaganza.

It is a great idea to plan a day-long trip with your family. The park remains closed for a month or two during the peak rainy season. The best time to visit the park is from September to December and the visiting hours are from 7 am to 6 pm. A walk through the Eravikulam National Park is one of the most joyful things to do in Munnar.

5. Magical Kundala Dam, and Lake

At the height of 1700 meters above the sea level, Kundala is a beautiful place near Munnar. It is surrounded by thick forests, hills and valleys. Kundala is famous for the Kundala Dam or Sethuparvati Dam and the Kundala Lake. It is around 20 kilometres from Munnar and is in between the famous Mattupetty Dam and Top Station. The hills and valleys around Kundala Lake are also famous for the Neelakurinji flowers which bloom once in twelve years. People also love to see the cherry gardens here that blossoms twice a year. You can see a picturesque reflection of the eucalyptus and pine trees in the serene waters of the Kundala Lake. The Aruvikkad Waterfall present in the vicinity is also an additional tourist attraction once you visit the Kundala Lake. In the list of most fun things to do in Munnar, a visit to Kundala Dam is a must.

The lake leads you to the Kundala Dam or Sethuparvati Dam which is Asia’s first Arch Dam was built in 1946. The dam is in the middle of a thick green cover, and you can observe the catchment area of the dam from the top. The sight of the Kundala Tea Plantations is stunning. There is a well-maintained golf course near the dam which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. The dam, the lake, the waterfall and the tea estate make for a wonderful sight. The month from September to December is a great time to visit. Kundala Lake is open for visitors from 9 am to 5 pm. You can plan a boat ride with your family and choose from options like Pedal Boat, Row Boat and Shikara Boat. A fee ranging from Rs. 200-300 is charged for the boat rides. Please pay the required amount of fees before starting the boat ride. The boating experience will be memorable as you can also observe the abundant variety of trees and get mesmerized by the hills and the valleys. You can walk around and take loads of pictures of the stunning water body and the arched dam.

6. Fun at the Elephant Arrival Spot

One of the most joyful things to do in Munnar is to plan a visit to the Elephant Arrival Spot. Elephants are such majestic creatures, and, their presence in Kerala is celebrated as a matter of great reverence for these innocent beings. Kerala is synonymous with elephants and, the art, culture, religion and festivals of Kerala worship them. The oldest female elephant leads an elephant herd as elephants live in matriarchal groups and from deep family bonds. If you are wondering what to do in Munnar, then please visit the Elephant Arrival Spot to observe the elephants closely. It is one of the most unforgettable experiences as you get to look at the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. You can also enlighten your children about the importance of conserving natural resources.

The Elephant Arrival Spot is located 18 kilometres from Munnar, on the way to the Top Station. You and your family members can take an elephant ride which is an amazing experience. This is a fun place for children and enthusiastic adults too. Elephants are accompanied by a mahout who takes care of the safety of the elephant and the people riding. The elephants are warm and loving creatures. Please don’t feed them anything and be gentle. Elephants have a high emotional quotient and quickly understand even the slightest changes in their surroundings. Create and preserve memories of an elephant ride by clicking pictures but remember not to disturb the creatures. The elephant rides are inexpensive and it is a great idea to plan a visit to the Elephant Arrival Spot on your way to the Top Station.

7. One of its kind: The Lockheart Gap viewpoint

One of the most exciting things to do in Munnar is to visit the viewpoint more famously known as Lockhart Gap or the Lockheart Gap. They also spell it as Lock Heart as the gap between the two mountains creates the shape of a heart and looks like a locked heart. Lockhart Gap is among the prominent attractions of the Munnar trail and is situated 13 kilometres away from Munnar. Trekking in this area has become increasingly popular as the view is exceptional. A trek through the dense mist and clouds offers just what an adventure lover needs. You can plan a trek to the Lockheart Point with your family and enjoy being amidst the mist and the clouds. A trek in the backdrop of mountains, valleys and tea plantations will keep you refreshed and give a much-needed boost to your health. Many trekking trails lead to this beautiful viewpoint. Trekkers from India and abroad often plan a refreshing trek till the Lockheart Gap for the exclusive view and aroma of the tea plantations along with the mesmerising orange sunset.

Whether it is morning or evening, the trek and the view will surely be outstanding. In the morning you can witness the golden glory of the rising sun and how the light spreads through the valley. At sunset, the hues are orange and mysterious hanging low clouds make the place ethereal. The bright and twinkling lights created by human habitation and activity create a storybook-like view. If you visit during the rains, enjoy a hot snack and a cup of piping hot tea at one of the eateries. Photographers love to visit this spot to click innumerable photos of the cloud-laden surroundings and hills. The play of clouds with the hilltops creates unique moments at the Lockhart Gap in Munnar. It is advised not to travel during nighthe t as the narrow roads leading to the point are closed.

8. Glorious Top Station

If at all you are wondering what to do in Munnar, then a visit to the highest point in Munnar is a must. Amongst the most popular things to do in Munnar, visiting the Top Station tops the list. This stunning vantage point gives a panoramic view of the surroundings. Top Station is just the right spot to fill your heart and soothe your eyes with the beautiful view of the Western Ghats. Located 1700 meters above sea level, Top Station is on the Munnar - Kodaikanal Road and used to be a prominent centre of trade and commerce. It is a place of historical significance as it was a point of transhipment between Munnar and Tamil Nadu. In 1902, the first monorail in India was operative between Munnar and Top Station as part of the Kundala Valley Railway. Bullocks would pull the monorail up and down the trail. Later on, a steam locomotive engine was used for the same purpose. You can still see remnants of the historic trail. As it was the highest railway station in the Kundala valley, it came to be known as Top Station.

The inviting hills of Munnar will welcome you to Top Station with a breathtakingly beautiful view. It is about 32 kilometres away from Munnar and is located on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. The vivid view comprises tea-coffee estates, spice plantations, several water bodies, sprawling grasslands and the thick Shola Forests. On a clear day, you can also see Madurai in Tamil Nadu from the top. Top Station is home to the rare Neelakurinji plant which blooms only once in 12 years. If you are lucky, then you may land there when the rare flower blooms. The blue flowers of Neelakurinji cover the hills in deep blue and create the most magical spectacle. Besides being the highest point in Munnar, Top Station is the most visited tourist spot. The next bloom of the Neelakurinji plant will be in 2030! Top Station is truly a top destination to visit in Munnar.

9. Grand Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty is near Anamudi peak and nestled amongst the hills of Munnar at an altitude of 1700 meters. A concrete gravity dam built for storage of water, Mattupetty is one of the most popular destinations for visitors all around the year. Kerala has several dams that generate power and the Mattupetty Dam is one of the important dams and source of power. The dam is situated 13 kilometres from Munnar and is surrounded by lush green hills. In the 1940s, this dam was constructed as a part of the Pallivasal Hydro-electric project. The mountain streams of three major rivers are made to meet at Mattupetty Dam. The three rivers are Muthirappuzha River, Chanduvarai River and Kundale River. The dam is a vital source of electricity for Munnar and is also a centre of water conservation. If you are clueless about the things to do in Munnar, then it is a fantastic idea to visit this grand dam before you plan anything else. Tourists in Munnar love to visit the dam and the lake and you can see families enjoying the beautiful weather and surroundings.

The District Tourism Promotion Council has also started boating in the Mattupetty Dam. You can enjoy the view of the abundant natural beauty while boating. You can choose between speed boat, pedal boat, slow boat or motorboat. The uninterrupted water supply has created a wealth of greenery in this area. The place is also home to various birds and animals. You will be awestruck to see the variety of trees, shrubs, insects, birds, reptiles and wild animals. Children will surely enjoy and cherish the experience of a wonderful picnic at Mattupetty Dam.

Mattupetty is also known as the cattle village because of the Indo Swiss farm project. Located 3 kilometres away from the dam you can also visit the nearby Indo-Swiss Farm. Spread over an expanse of around 191 hectares, there are 11 enclosures or cattle sheds. However, you will need a permit to visit the farm along with an entry fee. The farm was created in 1963 as a part of the bilateral agreement between the Government of India and the Swiss Confederation. The farm also has cocoa plantation and an herbal garden and is currently looked after by the Milk Marketing Board and Kerala Livestock Development.

10. Unmissable Photo Point

Photo Point is a popular destination at about 3 kilometres away from the town of Munnar on the way to Mattupetty. Rolling hills, tea plantations, the dense woods and small brooks make this place ideal for photography. Photo point overflows with beauty at every turn. Being an ideal spot for taking photos behind woods and streams, Photo Point is also called the Shooting Point. Nature lovers and tourists interested in studying the habitat often visit this location regularly. The spectacular setting offers a great opportunity for a variety of memorable photographs. Honeymoon couples and families love to visit Photo Point as the silver oaks and plantations create a stunning atmosphere. The deep blue sky, vivid hues of green and fresh air makes Photo Point magical. You must visit this spot with your family to capture some lovely photographs and create memories of a lifetime. Dotted with rolling hills and gushing brooks, this region is simple, yet spectacular. The backdrop of the azure blue sky and the lush green tea gardens is a panoramic sight, while the nearby lake take the whole experience to another level. Keep your cameras ready and if at all you are wondering what to do in Munnar, then this is the place you must visit.

11. Beautiful Lakkam Waterfalls

One of the most beautiful and enchanting tourist attractions in Munnar is Lakkam Waterfalls. It is located about 24 kilometres away from Munnar on the Munnar-Udumalpet road. The adjoining Vagavurai Estate adds to the beauty of the waterfalls. As it is an idyllic location, photographers and tourists from all over the world make it a point to visit Lakkam Waterfalls for its sheer beauty and its surrounding Vaga trees. The Vagavurai Valley goes red when the Vaga trees bloom to the fullest. It is a sight to cherish, enjoy and remember forever. Capture the red valley moment if you happen to visit during the blooming season.

Located amidst a thick forest, the Lakkam Waterfalls cascade down the rocky cliffs from a height of 50 feet. The water is rich in minerals and accumulates in a small pool at the bottom. If you are travelling with children, then stop worrying about what to do in Munnar and plan a quick trip to the beautiful Lakkam Falls. You can play in the pool and also enjoy the beauty of the waterfall. The water stream that culminates into this waterfall originates in the Eravikulam Plateau. The Eravikulam water stream merges into the Pambar River which is a tributary of the Cauvery River. Get off near the main road and walk for about 10-15 minutes to reach the Lakkam Waterfalls. The best time to visit this scenic location is between the period of October and January. The waterfall has plenty of water-supply during this season.

12. Unforgettable Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

The rain shadow region in the eastern slopes of the Grand Western Ghats is home to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. If you ever get stuck with the dilemma of what to do in Munnar, then planning a long trip through this sanctuary would be a perfect thing to do. The Chinnar sanctuary has a unique location as it is covered by the Eravikulam Sanctuary on the south and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary on the north. Kerala has around 12 protected areas and this sanctuary is one of them. It is an exceptional thorny scrub forest and has a great significance in terms of its ecological heritage. The sanctuary is spread across an area of 90 square kilometres and boasts of around 1000 species of flowering plants beside a large variety of medicinal plants. Approximately 225 different species of birds are found in this sanctuary. A haven for spectacular species of animals, birds, insects, plants and trees, the diverse ecosystem of the sanctuary makes it special.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary has abundant flora and fauna along with medicinal plants and herbs. Students and researchers of wildlife, botany, zoology, environmentalists and conservationists explore this wildlife sanctuary for a variety of scientific data and observations. Each year many new species of birds and insects are found in this sanctuary. A visit to this wildlife sanctuary with your children will be an ideal thing to do as you can teach them about wildlife and protecting them in a sanctuary. Children will surely enjoy a unique and educational expedition through the sanctuary.

There are plenty of fun-filled activities to do in the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can trek along the Chinnar River, explore the deciduous forest and also visit the sandal forest for added enchantment. Try to spot a tufted grey langur, star tortoise, spotted deer, grizzled giant squirrel, tiger, crocodile, a wild elephant, leopard and several species of plants, birds and insects. Remember not to scare the animals with your camera. Sometimes some of the best memories are not the ones captured in a camera. Try to observe all the new animals, birds and plants you will spot in the wildlife sanctuary. This could just be your first ecotourism expedition with your family. The Forest Department and the Eco-Development Committees organise a fantastic Eco-tourism Expedition which includes a nature trail up to the water tank, trekking till the cultural site, a visit to the Thoovanam Falls, exploration of the medicinal garden and one of the most exciting camping adventures at Vasyappara. An entry fee of Rs.10 is charged for Indian tourists and Rs.100 for the foreigners.

13. Highest Tea Estate of Kolukkumalai

Rising above Tamil Nadu and with a wonderful view of the Munnar valley, enjoy a cup of tea at the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. This exclusive and expansive tea estate is located 7900 feet above the sea level and is the highest tea estate in the world. The tea grown at this estate is perfect with a fantastic flavour and aroma. At such an altitude where there is a considerable drop in the temperature, the view is breathtakingly beautiful. The workers at the tea estate are extremely hard working and live a simple life. The natural splendour and the simplicity of the workers create a warm vibe. The hour-long drive from Munnar to the tea estate is full of wonderful sights of the surroundings. There is a factory at the centre of the estate and it still uses traditional techniques that were used 70 years ago when it was built. Tourists enjoy witnessing the traditional method of processing the tea leaves. You can also observe the seven stages of traditional tea processing, namely withering, rolling, sieving, fermenting, drying, fibre extraction, and grading. The factory built during the colonial period and the tea making process will keep you captivated.

One of the best ways to have a memorable family holiday amidst tea plantations is by staying at Club Mahindra Munnar resort in Kerala!

14. Myriad Marvels at Marayoor Marayoor

is a rain shadow village and a natural wonderland of forests and farms. The uncountable sandalwood trees and the huge sugarcane farms make Marayoor a perfect place to visit. Located just 40 kilometres from Munnar, this lush green piece of heaven is not very far from Munnar and a drive of less than an hour will take you to the territory of aromatic sandalwood and juicy sugarcane. Your family will enjoy a visit to the sandalwood factory. If you seek adventure amidst natural abundance and are creating a list of things to do in Munnar, then Marayoor is the place you are looking for. There are over 60,000 trees in the Sandalwood Forest.

One of the main towns in the Idukki district, Marayoor is internationally famous for the pre-historic site of Muniyara Dolmens. This 2000-year-old site is a hub for history buffs, archaeology experts and anthropology researchers. The monuments belong to the megalithic era and have large burial chambers. There are 15 different types of Dolmens and trekking enthusiast love to explore them. Another fun activity in Muniyara is to taste the famous variety of jaggery or sugar known as “Marayoor Sarkara”. If your family is planning for what to do in Munnar, then visiting the pre-historic sites must be included. It is a great learning experience to observe the village life of Marayoor and Kanthalloor and the gorgeous Pamber River which flows between these two villages.

15. Trekking, Rock climbing, Rappelling and Mountain Biking

Munnar is a wonderful destination for trekking, rock climbing, rappelling and mountain biking. Usually, those who travel with the family avoid exploring adventure sports in the mountainous terrain. However, it is a great idea to plan something properly and try out something new along with your family. Trekking up the beautiful hills, valleys and waterfalls can be exhilarating. Trek up to Echo Point to hear the echo of one’s own voice, hike up to the highest tea estates and camp at the national park. The Top Station is also an excellent location for trekking and hiking. The view from the top is breath-taking. The green valleys and mountains create a mesmerising vibe for the trekkers and the hikers.

There is absolutely no shortage of spectacular things to do in Munnar. The more daring and brave ones can try climbing the Anamudi Peak which is the highest peak in South India. If you are doing this for the first time, you can also take a guided trek tour. Make sure you and your family members are medically certified to undertake adventure trekking and hiking at high altitudes. Carry a good quality trekking gear for each family member and learn about the basics of climbing activities. The winding roads running through the sprawling tea and spice gardens and forests are also perfect for a cycling tour. Many locations like Suryaneli, Anamudi Shola, Vandanmedu, Marayoor and Kundala are ideal and known for mountain biking. You can rent good quality bikes in Munnar. Before you begin your cycling tours, get complete information about the route and the stopovers. Also, factor in emergencies and accidents.

Before you embark on any adventurous activity, calculate the risks and plan carefully. Learning about the details of your trail and all the safety measure will keep you and your family in good stead. Safety is the most important concern and any activity that is not safe for your family must not be undertaken at any cost.

16. Refreshing Floriculture Centre

Popularly known as the Munnar Rose Garden, the Munnar Floriculture Centre is a magical home of a variety of beautiful roses and several other flowers. The centre also has a wide range of herbal plants. Everyone who loves flowers must pay a visit to this stunningly beautiful centre. The natural backdrop of lush green tea plantations creates a serene atmosphere. The centre is managed by Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) which is a Govt. of Kerala undertaking. The centre is located along the Munnar-Mattupetty road and has a convenience centre and sales outlet for tourists.

You will be happy to see hundreds of rare varieties of flowers, creepers cacti, shrubs, and medicinal plants. You can easily complete the tour of the garden in 30 minutes. A list of things to do in Munnar must include a visit to this garden. Horticulturists often visit this place. Children will particularly enjoy learning different names of the flowers. You will get to notice the vivid colours and shapes of the flowers along with a unique fragrance of each flower.

17. Memorable Chithirapuram

Storybooks like colonial structures, tea gardens and green valley make Chithirapuram a gorgeous hill-side village. Only 10 kilometres away from Munnar, this destination is ideal for unwinding, relaxing and rejuvenating. If you are making a list of adventurous things to do in Munnar, then a visit to Chithirapuram is a must. It is also a popular location for adventure tourism. Visitors often enjoy activities like boating, parasailing, mountaineering, hiking, trekking and paragliding. Chithirapuram is also close to some tourist attractions like Muthuapetty Reservoir, Mattupetty Dam, Eravikulam National Park, Marayoor forests, Elephant Dam and Lake, and Thoovanam waterfalls. Visiting Chithirapuram is one of the unmissable things to do in Munnar.

18. Legendary Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

The legendary ornithologist Salim Ali has described this sanctuary as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India. The amazing Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is spread across an area of around 25 square kilometres. The bird sanctuary is located between the branches of the longest river of Kerala, the Periyar River. It occupies a special place in the long list of Munnar attractions. A paradise for different birds, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is popular not only amongst the bird lovers and ornithologists but also amongst the international tourists and amateur bird watchers.

This sanctuary is home to many beautiful and unique birds like Brahminy Kite, waterfowl, heron, egrets and cormorant. Tourists also enjoy watching a variety of migratory birds like Darter, Teal, Siberian Stork and Egrets, which according to India’s passionate birdwatchers, would be among the top things to do in Munnar. If you are lucky, then you may get to see the Indian pitta which spends six months in the sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to Orange-headed thrush, Jerdon's Nightjar, Large-billed leaf-warbler, Indian cuckoo, Cormorants, Oriental Darter, Whiskered Terns, Ceylon frogmouth, Collared scops owl, Yellow-browed bulbuls, and Grey-fronted green pigeon.

The "Cuckoo Paradise" inside the sanctuary is home to various types of cuckoos. You can find the Drongo cuckoo, a highly vocal Indian hawk cuckoo, and also the Large hawk dark grey cuckoo. The Dark-fronted Babbler, Mountain Hawk Eagles, White-rumped and brown-backed needletails, brown-cheeked fulvetta, and emerald green pigeons are found in the evergreen Edamalayar forest near the bird sanctuary. A day-long exploration of the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is an answer you are looking for if you ever wonder what to do in Munnar.

19. Homemade Chocolates in Munnar

Who doesn’t enjoy eating chocolates? Here is a golden chance to eat some of the best chocolates in Munnar as it is also famous for homemade chocolates. Shopping for chocolates is one of the most fun-filled things to do in Munnar. There are several shops in the main market where you can sample and buy a variety of homemade chocolates. The purity and authenticity is guaranteed by the shop owners. You can visit chocolate shops and buy from a huge selection of delicious chocolates. Children can relish different chocolates like white, dark, milk and the ones filled with roasted nuts and dry fruits. You can also pick up a few packs of liqueur-filled chocolates. It is a great idea to buy chocolates for personal use and gifting. Check the percentage of pure cocoa and other ingredient and make sure that the chocolates are packed well for being carried in your journey.

20. Superb Shopping

This incredible destination has the best tourist attractions and superb shopping. One of the best things to do Munnar is to shop the fresh spices, chocolates, coffee, tea and souvenirs. The hill station is surrounded by unlimited and incredible natural wealth that makes it truly a green crown jewel of Kerala. Do not miss to explore the vibrant shopping options especially the range of fresh spices like fragrant cardamom, golden turmeric, and pure cumin seeds. You will instantly notice that these spices look great and have an unbeatable aroma and taste. You can use these spices for many culinary and medicinal purposes. Aromatic oils can also be bought at some exclusive shops. The oils are mainly of two types, some are used for therapeutic treatments and some are used in recipes. Make sure you buy aromatic oils as per your requirements. However, it is a great idea to pick up some amazing fragrances as gifts for your loved ones. The variety of tea and coffee is simply spectacular. Colourful natural fabrics, fresh fruits, homemade chocolates and customised blends of coffee powders are some things you can buy at Munnar. Eucalyptus oil is a speciality of Munnar and almost everyone who visits Munnar buy a few bottles. This special oil is known for its wonderful medicinal benefits.

Also, have a look at this Kerala tourism guide to experience the best of Munnar with family!

Wait no longer and plan a trip to Munnar for the most enjoyable holiday ever. There are scores of amazing things to do in Munnar. You can book a stay at the relaxing Club Mahindra Munnar Resort. Inspired by the Indo-British architecture, this luxurious resort offers comfortable and spacious rooms along with various modern amenities. Surrounded by tea plantations and beautiful waterfalls, this resort has in-house restaurants where the guests can enjoy a scrumptious meal. The in-house restaurant offers an array of cuisine and specialises in Kerala gastronomy. It is your go-to place to enjoy authentic and local Kerala cuisine with your family. You and your family will enjoy, unwind and relax at this exclusive Munnar resort in Kerala, which also happens to be the first resort by Club Mahindra.

Read these Club Mahindra reviews to get a sneak peek of what members have to say about this resort in Munnar, Kerala.

Indulge in several activities and experiences on your next stay at our Munnar resort, any of the other Club Mahindra resorts in Kerala. With several things to do at our resorts, and nearby places to visit in Munnar, and other destinations in Kerala, a magical family holiday is assured.

 

About Club Mahindra

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 250,000 members , who can holiday at 100+ resorts in India and abroad.

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