Nature Lover's Itinerary for Munnar in July 2023

1. Day 1: Eravikulam National Park
   30 minutes (10 miles) from Munnar Town

   Start your trip with a visit to Eravikulam National Park, famous for its endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The morning is the perfect time to explore the park, as the animals are most active then. Take a guided trek to the top of Anamudi Peak for amazing views of the surrounding valleys and hills. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch at the beautiful Lakkom Waterfalls. In the evening, head back to Munnar and explore the local shops and markets.

2. Day 2: Top Station
   1 hour (22 miles) from Munnar Town

   Start your day early and head to Top Station, the highest point of Munnar. Enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills and tea plantations. Once you reach Top Station, take in the panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu. In the afternoon, visit the Kundala Dam and take a boat ride on the serene Kundala Lake. In the evening, relax and enjoy a cup of local tea while watching the sunset over the hills.

3. Day 3: Mattupetty Dam and Echo Point
   35 minutes (11 miles) from Munnar Town

   Start your day with a visit to the Mattupetty Dam, a popular spot for boating and picnicking. Take a boat ride and enjoy the breathtaking views of the tea plantations and the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, visit the Echo Point, located close to the dam. Yell out your name and hear it echo back several times! In the evening, head to the Pothamedu Viewpoint for a stunning view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations at sunset.

4. Day 4: Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
   2 hours (57 miles) from Munnar Town

   Start your day early and head to the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, a unique protected area in the Western Ghats that is home to several endangered species of flora and fauna. Take a guided trek through the sanctuary and spot the Nilgiri Tahr, the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, and the Indian Star Tortoise. In the afternoon, visit the Thoovanam Waterfalls, located inside the sanctuary. In the evening, head back to Munnar Town and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider visiting the Tea Museum and the Tea Gardens in Munnar Town. You can also take a day trip to the nearby hill stations of Thekkady and Vagamon. To maximize your fun, hire a local guide who can take you off the beaten path and show you hidden gems in the area. Don't forget to carry a raincoat or an umbrella, as it can rain unexpectedly in July.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Eravikulam National Park (3 hours, INR 400)
• Top Station (4 hours, INR 500)
• Mattupetty Dam (2 hours, INR 300)
• Echo Point (1 hour, INR 50)
• Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, INR 1000)
• Dinner at local restaurant (1.5 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2750