Welcome to Munnar, a charming hill station nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Start your adventure by exploring the lush tea plantations that Munnar is famous for. In the morning, visit the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the highest organic tea plantations in the world, and enjoy a refreshing cup of tea while taking in the panoramic views. In the afternoon, head to the Mattupetty Dam, where you can indulge in boating and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the Tea Museum and learn about the history and production of tea in the region.
For a hearty breakfast, head to Saravana Bhavan where you can indulge in a delicious South Indian breakfast like idli, dosa, and vada. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Rapsy Restaurant which offers a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Try their special Kerala meals or biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner, make a reservation at Copper Castle Restaurant and enjoy a candlelit dinner with stunning views of the hills. Relish their lip-smacking Kerala delicacies and enjoy a fine dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday July 30: Adventure in Munnar
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day of adventure in Munnar. In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in South India. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, head to the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided wildlife safari and spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. As the evening approaches, visit the Chokramudi Peak and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the mountains.
Eravikulam National Park: Approx. cost - INR 120, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Chokramudi Peak: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day at Café Diem, a charming breakfast spot known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. Indulge in their fluffy pancakes or hearty omelettes, with an average cost of about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to Rapsy Restaurant, a local favorite that offers a variety of Indian and international dishes. Don't miss their flavorful biryanis or the mouthwatering chicken tikka masala, with an average cost of about $12 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Silver Spoon, a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and delectable cuisine. Enjoy their succulent grilled seafood or tender lamb chops, with an average cost of about $25 per person.
Monday July 31: Journey to Vagamon
Today, bid farewell to Munnar and embark on a scenic journey to Vagamon, another picturesque hill station in Kerala. In the morning, take a drive through the winding roads and lush green valleys to reach Vagamon. Upon arrival, visit the Vagamon Pine Forest, a serene and tranquil spot perfect for nature lovers. In the afternoon, indulge in paragliding at the Vagamon Meadows and experience the thrill of soaring through the sky. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the Vagamon Lake and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Vagamon Pine Forest: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Paragliding at Vagamon Meadows: Approx. cost - INR 3000, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Vagamon Lake: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A perfect place for a hearty breakfast in Vagamon is Café Pine Forest, located near the Vagamon Pine Forest. This charming café offers a variety of options including traditional Kerala breakfast dishes such as appam and stew. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a delicious lunch, visit The Orchard Restaurant, situated in the heart of Vagamon. This restaurant specializes in Kerala cuisine, with dishes like fish curry and banana leaf meals. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Moonlight Restaurant for dinner. This rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking views of the town and serves a wide range of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Tuesday August 1: Adventurous Exploration in Vagamon
Get ready for another day of adventure in Vagamon. In the morning, embark on a trek to the Murugan Hill, a popular spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, visit the Ulipooni Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of flora and fauna. Take a jeep safari and try to spot elephants, deer, and other wildlife. As the evening approaches, head to the Thangal Para, a sacred pilgrimage site, and witness a beautiful sunset while taking in the serene atmosphere.
Murugan Hill Trek: No entry fee, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Thangal Para: No entry fee, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Vagamon is The Misty Corner, which offers a variety of hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Orchard Resort Restaurant, known for its delicious local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Monsoon Restaurant, a cozy eatery that serves a mix of Indian and continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure-seekers, a hidden gem in Munnar is the Marayoor Sandalwood Forest. Explore this unique forest and learn about the cultivation and processing of sandalwood. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Chocolate Factory in Vagamon, where you can indulge in delicious homemade chocolates and witness the chocolate-making process. Locals also love the Echo Point in Munnar, where the hills echo back your voice, creating a unique experience. Don't forget to visit the Kurisumala Ashram in Vagamon, a peaceful spiritual retreat known for its serene surroundings and meditation practices.