Munnar: Paradise for Nature worshippers
What else could be more relaxing than spending few days in the tranquility of nature? One such place is Munnar, located 131 kilometers from Kochin on the Western Ghats where nature displays various hues of blossoming greenery. Munnar means three rivers, derives its name from its unique location at the confluence of three rivers- Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. The land is not only filled with natural scenic beauty but also is a commercial hub for tea production.
The remarkable growth in Tea production in Munnar is the result of a joint venture of Tata-Finley groups. In 2005, Tata tea authorized Kannan Devan Hill Plantation company for the entire tea plantation on the land, since then, Munnar has been a titanic land in tea production. Apart from tea gardens and the scenic beauty of rolling hills carpeted tea gardens artistically clipped and contoured, there are many places that attract thousands of visitors every year.
The city center in Munnar is the busiest place, undulating ways clogged with traffic, number of shops selling goods, spices, and clothes grab tourists’ attention.
The Eravikulam National Park, sprawled across the ninety-seven-kilometer square area is a land of typical flora and fauna. It includes many precious species of animals such as Nigiri Tahr, Nilgiri Marten, Indian elephant, leopard cat, Nilgiri langur, and Hairy bat. One wonderful feature is the blooming of the Neelkurinji flower every twelve years. Anamudi, the highest peak in south India is a part of Eravaikulam National Park. Surrounded by green forests, the peak is paradise to trekking lovers who can have a closer look at the wildlife and nature’s grand display.
Another major attraction is Kundala Dam also known as the Sethuparvathi dam, located twenty-five kilometers from Munnar. It is Asia’s first arch dam which is unique because of its arch form. Nearly twelve kilometers away there is Mattupetty dam which has been a source of hydroelectricity generation.
The most exciting place to visit in Munnar is Echo Point, twelve kilometers away from Munnar town. People of all ages enjoy making loud sounds and hearing echoing sounds among surrounding hills. Munnar displays the spectacular views of waterfalls where one can get enticed by their rhythmic sounds and cascading views. One can spend a great deal of time around Lakkam waterfall, Nyayamkaddu fall, Thoovanam fall, and Pallivasal fall, they are wonderful places to have a picnic or quiet walk by solitude-seekers. Keezarkuthu waterfall, also called a Rainbow waterfall, is surrounded by green rolling hills and magnificent views. The best time to visit Munnar depends upon the visitor’s purpose as in the Winters, the temperature drops up to eleven degrees which is suitable for heavy activities like- trekking, climbing, and hiking. During Spring/Summers in Munnar, temperatures go between twenty to thirty degrees, cordial to visiting tea and spice gardens. During the Monsoon season, the town experiences intermittent rain-fall which is an ideal time for peace lovers as the town is comparatively less crowded. One thing that goes without saying about Munnar is that people cannot escape falling in love with its natural habitat and carry wonderful memories.