Start your nature adventure in Munnar with a visit to the Eravikulam National Park, located just a short drive from Munnar town. The park is renowned for its endangered inhabitant, the Nilgiri Tahr. Take a guided nature walk to explore the park's grasslands, sholas, and rocky terrain. Keep an eye out for other endemic species like Nilgiri Langurs and Indian Muntjacs. If you're lucky, you might spot a leopard or a tiger. The trek to the Anamudi Peak, the highest summit in South India, is a must-do for adventurers. Nature lovers can also spend time admiring the Neelakurinji blooms, which flower here every 12 years.
Next, drive to the scenic Mattupetty Dam, nestled amidst lush greenery. From here, take a boat ride to enjoy the serene waterscape or hike up to the Shola forest to get close to nature. If you're a birdwatcher, you may catch sight of varied species like the Blue-winged Parakeet, Lineated Barbet, and Little Cormorant. The dam is also a perfect spot for a picnic amidst the picturesque landscape.
After a long day in the wilderness, visit the TATA Tea Museum to learn about Munnar's tea heritage. The museum gives you a glimpse into the history of tea cultivation and how tea is processed. Observe old tea-making machinery, and indulge in a tea-tasting session with fresh brews that will leave you craving for more.
Begin your second day in Munnar at the Kundala Lake, nestled in a valley surrounded by rolling hills and eucalyptus trees. Try your hand at boating and pedal boating, or simply take a stroll along the shores. The lake is also a favorite picnic spot. Horse riding and camel safaris around the lake can be exciting too. For the more adventurous, there's a golf course and a trout fishing facility that are sure to delight.
Next on your itinerary is the picturesque Echo Point, so-named because of the echoes that reverberate off the surrounding hills. Located close to the dam of the same name, this scenic spot offers breathtaking views of the misty mountains and the placid lake's reflection. Capture the beauty of your surroundings in your camera lens and spend some time soaking in the tranquility of nature.
End your Munnar adventure with a sunset stroll through the lush Tea Gardens. Watch the tea pluckers at work and try it yourself. The sprawling tea estates are a feast to the eyes with the aroma of the tea leaves filling the air. The plantations look stunning against the backdrop of the hills and the sunset. Take a relaxed walk through the greenery, collect some souvenirs from the local shops, and rejuvenate in the beauty of nature.
If you have more time in Munnar, you can visit other notable spots like the Anayirankal Dam, Top Station, and Chokramudi Peak. But plan ahead as these places might be closed during the monsoon season. In case you have lesser time, skip the TATA Tea Museum or the Tea Gardens, especially if you have visited such places in the past. And to fully enjoy Munnar's scenic beauty, avoid visiting during the rainy season. The best time to visit Munnar is from October to March.