Trip to Munnar – The Paradise of South India

Situated in Kerala’s Idukki district, Munnar is often referred to as the paradise of South India. It is the finest hill station in Kerala. Munnar is counted among the most beautiful tourist destinations in India. The tea gardens, dense forests, and high mountains here transport you to a different world.

During your trip to Munnar, you experience true tranquility. The serene atmosphere and cool climate here provide you with peace and happiness along with scenic beauty. During a trip to Munnar, tourists get the opportunity to explore tea gardens, go trekking, and experience wildlife.

I am sharing my wonderful experience of visiting Munnar with you so that you can learn about its important places –

➥Munnar Tea Gardens
Munnar is world-renowned for its tea gardens. These tea gardens span hundreds of acres, with tea leaves waving on the lush green hills. Established during the British era, the quality of tea from these gardens is still famous worldwide.

While strolling through these gardens, tourists can enjoy the beauty of the tea plants and also get an up-close view of the tea cultivation and production process. The tea gardens of Munnar are places where you can experience peace and tranquillity amidst the lush greenery of nature. This place is not only a paradise for tea lovers but also for nature enthusiasts.

Although there are tea gardens all around Munnar, the most beautiful and scenic tea garden is on the way to Thekkady from Munnar. Spread across the valley of the hills, this tea garden looks very lush and beautiful.

You can also see a large number of foreign tourists here. Many tourists can be seen cycling through this tea garden. We spent a wonderful time in this tea garden and took some excellent photos.

➥Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls
Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls are located on the way from Kochi to Munnar. Both are incredibly beautiful waterfalls. At Cheeyappara Waterfall, water cascades down from a very high point in seven levels, enhancing its beauty. Valara Waterfall, surrounded by dense forests and greenery, presents a picturesque view.

Here, the water falls from a height into a deep reservoir, creating a stunning sight for visitors. During the monsoon season, these waterfalls become even more magnificent as the streams of water grow stronger and more voluminous.

➥Eravikulam National Park
Established in 1978, Eravikulam National Park is famous for being the sanctuary of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. These mountain goats can easily climb steep mountains and rocks in search of salt. Visitors enter the park via a special bus service from the main gate.

Along the way, the tea plantations on the hills look stunning. After getting off the bus, we enjoyed hiking through the park. The surrounding views were captivating.

We were eager to see the Nilgiri Tahr, but they were nowhere in sight. As we continued exploring the park, suddenly, a Nilgiri Tahr emerged from the forest bushes onto the road right in front of us. We were astonished. Our curiosity to see the Nilgiri Tahr was finally satisfied. We also took some photos to capture the moment.

➥Martial Art Kalaripayattu
Kalaripayattu is an ancient Indian martial art. The term ‘Kalari’ means the place of training for combat, and ‘Payattu’ means the skill of combat. We went to witness this martial art training in Munnar. The techniques of Kalaripayattu are based on physical and mental discipline. It is not just a martial art but also represents a complete lifestyle. It requires physical strength, endurance, flexibility, and quick reflexes.

The training involves not only hand and foot techniques but also the use of various weapons such as swords, daggers, spears, shields, and staffs. Additionally, warriors fearlessly showcased their skills by jumping through rings of fire. Our experience of watching the martial art of Kalaripayattu was truly amazing.

➥Traditional Classical Dance Kathakali
Kathakali is a prominent and ancient dance-drama form from the state of Kerala. It is famous for its unique performances, colorful costumes, and expressive emotions. The term Kathakali literally means “katha” (story) and “kali” (dance), which translates to “dance through stories.” This art form presents religious and historical tales through dance, music, and acting, primarily based on Indian epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

There are three main elements in Kathakali performances: dance, drama, and music. The intricate makeup, vibrant costumes, and rigorous training of the artists make this art form distinctive. In addition to music and dance, specific instruments like drums and the shehnai are used in Kathakali.

This art form is not only a source of entertainment but also an integral part of Kerala’s cultural and religious traditions. We attended a classical dance show where we witnessed Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Theyyam, and other dances. The enactment of scenes from the Ramayana and the playful leelas of Lord Krishna in Kathakali was particularly impressive. We even took photos with the artists, making the experience even more memorable.

➥Spice Gardens
In Kerala, the land and climate are highly favorable for spice cultivation. The main spices found in this region include black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, coriander, ginger, and turmeric. On our journey from Kochi to Munnar, we visited a spice garden.

The Tata Tea Museum, established by Tata in 2005, offers insights into the history of tea plantations in Kerala and related information. It features an exhibition of old machinery used in tea production, allowing visitors to easily understand the processing techniques.

The photographs displayed on the museum walls reflect the rich history and progress of tea cultivation in India. The museum also presents a short film that effectively showcases the development of tea farming and production. Additionally, there is a tea canteen where you can sample a variety of teas.

The handwoven Kasavu saree is an essential part of Kerala’s culture and artistry. Typically available in white or cream with a golden border, Kasavu sarees are famous worldwide. We visited a showroom dedicated to these sarees, where artisans were hand-weaving them.

These skilled craftsmen worked meticulously, creating beautiful pieces with great attention to detail. The sarees incorporate gold and silver threads, along with silk and cotton fabrics. Natural dyes are used to color the Kasavu sarees, enhancing their traditional appeal.