Table of Contents
Munnar Kerala: 5-Day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Vacation with Adventure, Culture, and Culinary Experiences
3. Introduction
Munnar, Kerala, is a lush paradise offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities. In this 5-day itinerary, you’ll explore stunning locations, including Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Anamudi Peak, and the famous Tea Museum. Dive into the vibrant markets, savor local flavors, enjoy adventurous activities, and experience cultural gems that make Munnar a top travel destination in India.
4. History of Munnar
Nestled in the Western Ghats, Munnar boasts a rich colonial history as a former British summer resort. Known for its sprawling tea estates established in the late 19th century, Munnar’s historical ties with the British have left behind iconic bungalows, lush tea gardens, and a legacy that draws visitors to this day.
Day 1: Nature & Wildlife Exploration
Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan (₹100-₹200) – Start the day with South Indian specialties like dosa and idli.
- 9:00 AM – Eravikulam National Park (3 hours) – Experience the beauty of Kerala’s unique wildlife sanctuary. Look out for the Nilgiri Tahr, hike along trails, and soak in scenic views.
Afternoon
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Rapsy Restaurant (₹200-₹300) – Try local dishes like Kerala biryani and vegetarian thali.
- 2:00 PM – Tea Museum (1.5 hours) – Dive into Munnar’s tea history with guided tours, exhibits, and tea tasting.
Evening
- 4:00 PM – Mattupetty Dam (2 hours) – Enjoy boating, relaxing walks, and scenic photos.
- 7:00 PM – Dinner at Hotel Sri Nivas (₹250-₹400) – End the day with flavorful Kerala-style dinner options like appam with stew.
Day 2: Adventure & Scenic Views
Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Hotel Sri Nivas (₹100-₹200) – Enjoy a hearty meal to prepare for trekking.
- 9:00 AM – Anamudi Peak Trek (4 hours) – Trek to the highest peak in South India. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers seeking panoramic views.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM – Lunch at Hill View Restaurant (₹200-₹300) – Try Munnar’s local flavors with a traditional lunch.
- 3:00 PM – Blossom Park (1 hour) – Relax with family-friendly activities and enjoy beautiful flower gardens and nature walks.
Evening
- 5:00 PM – Top Station (2 hours) – Capture incredible views of the valleys bordering Tamil Nadu. A must-visit for sunset photography.
- 7:30 PM – Dinner at Alibaba & 41 Dishes (₹250-₹400) – Taste popular Indian and Continental dishes in a cozy ambiance.
Day 3: Waterfalls & Lakes
Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Green Leaf Restaurant (₹100-₹200) – Fuel up with local breakfast specialties.
- 9:00 AM – Kundala Lake (3 hours) – Enjoy a serene boat ride on the lake and a visit to the charming Kundala dam area.
Afternoon
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Sree Mahaveer Bhojanalaya (₹200-₹300) – A vegetarian spot for traditional South Indian meals.
- 2:00 PM – Attukad Waterfalls (1.5 hours) – A breathtaking waterfall, perfect for nature photography and short hikes around the area.
Evening
- 4:00 PM – Pothamedu Viewpoint (1.5 hours) – A beautiful vantage point with scenic views of tea estates and misty hills.
- 7:00 PM – Dinner at Gurubhavan (₹250-₹400) – End the day with classic Kerala dishes and flavorful seafood options.
Day 4: Cultural & Eco-Tourism
Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Hill View Restaurant (₹100-₹200) – Start with a healthy breakfast before a day of exploration.
- 9:00 AM – Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (3 hours) – Enjoy a guided tour to see elephants, leopards, and rich biodiversity. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the unique flora and fauna.
Afternoon
- 12:30 PM – Lunch at Bamboo Hut Restaurant (₹200-₹300) – Relax with authentic Kerala lunch options in a cozy setting.
- 2:00 PM – Marayoor Sandalwood Forest (2 hours) – Take a guided tour to learn about sandalwood production and the history of the forest.
Evening
- 5:00 PM – Local Market Visit (1.5 hours) – Explore handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs to take a piece of Munnar home.
- 7:00 PM – Dinner at Eastend Munnar’s Multicuisine Restaurant (₹250-₹400) – A perfect spot for a diverse culinary experience.
Day 5: Relaxation & Leisure
Morning
- 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan (₹100-₹200) – Enjoy a final South Indian breakfast before winding down.
- 9:00 AM – Echo Point (2 hours) – Known for its unique echo phenomenon, this spot is ideal for relaxing by the water and scenic walks.
Afternoon
- 11:30 AM – Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Dairy Farm (1.5 hours) – Visit this unique farm to learn about hybrid cattle and enjoy the lush surrounding area.
- 1:00 PM – Lunch at Tea Tales Café (₹200-₹300) – A casual café with a menu featuring Kerala’s signature tea blends and snacks.
Evening
- 3:00 PM – Final Shopping at Munnar Town – Pick up last-minute souvenirs, tea, and spices from local markets.
- 6:00 PM – Farewell Dinner at Rapsy Restaurant (₹250-₹400) – Conclude your journey with Munnar’s finest flavors in a casual, welcoming ambiance.
6. Street Food Guides
- Parippu Vada
- Pazhampori (Banana Fritters)
- Appam with Stew
- Kerala-style beef fry
- Puttu with Kadala Curry
7. Vegan/Vegetarian Travel Tips
Top spots include Saravana Bhavan, Green Leaf Restaurant, and Gurubhavan. Most restaurants in Munnar offer vegan-friendly dishes like vegetable curries, idlis, and dosa.
8. Top Local Foods to Try in Different Cities
- Sadya
- Kerala Fish Curry
- Appam and Stew
- Kappa (Tapioca) and Fish Curry
- Kerala Chicken Fry
9. Recommended Restaurants
- Breakfast: Saravana Bhavan (₹100-₹200)
- Lunch: Hill View Restaurant (₹200-₹300)
- Dinner: Alibaba & 41 Dishes (₹250-₹400)
10. Best Hotels for Stay
- 3-Star: Olive Brook, Grand Plaza, Hill View Munnar
- 4-Star: Devonshire Greens, Fragrant Nature Munnar, Eastend Munnar
- 5-Star: The Tall Trees, Chandys Windy Woods, Elixir Hills
11. Top Best Cafes and Estimated Price
- Rapsy Restaurant (₹200)
- Café Paprika (₹150)
- Tea Tales Café (₹100)
- Taste The Brew (₹200)
- Alankar Restaurant (₹300)
12. Best Ways to Reach
- Train: Closest station – Aluva (110 km)
- Bus: Frequent buses from Kochi
- Car: Self-drive for flexibility
- Flight: Closest airport – Cochin International (110 km)
13. Cultural Tourism
Munnar is known for Onam Festival, featuring folk dances, rituals, and feasts. The Kathakali and Mohiniyattam performances showcase Kerala’s classical art forms.
14. Adventure Tourism
- Paragliding: At Chithirapuram
- Trekking: Anamudi Peak
- Camping: Near Suryanelli
- Bamboo Rafting: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
15. Travel Photography Tips
Top spots: Eravikulam National Park, Top Station, and Tea Gardens. For sunrise, head to Kolukkumalai.
16. Best Times to Visit
- Peak Season (October – March): Ideal weather, vibrant festivals.
- Moderate Season (April – June): Warmer, fewer crowds.
- Off-season (July – September): Rainy but lush scenery.
17. Nightlife
Limited but relaxing with options like Tea Valley Resort’s Bar and SN Raveendra Inn’s lounge.
18. Destination Guides
Include hidden gems like Pothamedu Viewpoint, Devikulam, and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.
19. Packing Tips
For cool weather, pack light sweaters; for treks, carry sturdy shoes. Don’t forget rain protection during monsoons.
20. Budget Travel Tips
Consider budget accommodations like homestays and local eateries for a cost-effective trip. Estimated daily expenses: ₹2000-₹2500 (per person).
21. Travel Safety Tips
Stay aware of personal belongings, avoid unmarked treks, and note emergency contact numbers.
22. Eco-Tourism
Opt for eco-friendly accommodations and limit plastic use. Support local businesses to encourage sustainable tourism.
23. Luxury Travel
High-end stays like Chandys Windy Woods and Fragrant Nature provide luxury services, spa treatments, and fine dining.
24. Shopping Suggestions
Best buys include handmade chocolates, spices, tea varieties, and bamboo handicrafts.
25. Local Transportation Options
- Auto-rickshaws: ₹50-₹150 per ride.
- Taxis: Starting from ₹1500/day for sightseeing.
- Bike Rentals: ₹500/day, ideal for exploring hills.
26. Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly in temples; use “Namaste” as a greeting. Respect local customs, especially at religious sites.
27. Emergency Contacts
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 108
- Tourist Helpline: 1800-123-5555
28. Local Language Phrases
- Hello – Namaskaram (na-ma-ska-ram)
- Thank you – Nandi (nan-dee)
29. Photography Restrictions
Avoid photographing within temples without permission.
30. Sustainability Tips
Bring reusable bags, avoid plastic, and stay in eco-lodges. Be mindful of littering.
31. Weather Considerations
- Winter (Oct-Mar): Cool, ideal for trekking.
- Summer (Apr-Jun): Warm, pleasant for sightseeing.
- Monsoon (Jul-Sep): Wet, but beautiful landscapes.
32. User Question
How can we make this itinerary even more exciting? Share your ideas below!
