ANAMUDI
The highest peak of Kerala located at an elevation of 2,695 mtrs in Western Ghats. ‘Anamudi’- literally means Elephant’s brow in Tamil and Malayalam. Anamudi is situated in the southern landscapes of Eravikulam National Park is bordered with Cardamom Hills, Anaimalai Hills and Palani Hills. It is the utmost pinnacle of the Indian Mountains outside the Himalaya-Karakoram range. The charismatic view of ground from the peak is unforgettable to anyone. We can call Anamudi as trekkers’ paradise because of its easy grassland hikes. Easiest hikes are the North and South slopes with less steeps and deep gorges, while the difficult treks are those of the East and West with even deeper gorge and valleys as well as rock faces. Trekkers/visitors/ adventure freaks can take the easier side to unearth the flora and fauna in the dense forest of Anamudi. Many animal species that can be spotted here are Nilgiri languor, leopards, tigers, macaques and so on. Facilities are offered here and tourists are permitted to go on foot up to Anamudi.
DEVIKULAM
Devikulam with its green velvety lawns, cool and crispy mountain air provides an exquisite tourist destination. Devikulam is unique for its exotic flora and fauna. Devikulam is sited at a distance of approximately 7km from Munnar. Devikulam marks its place in the tourism with the verdant hills, gushing streams and pleasurable climate. According to the legends, Goddess Sita had bathed in the waters of Devikulam Lake thus the name Devikulam. The Sita Devi Lake with its clear and pure waters and picturesque surroundings provide a charming picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing. One can plan a trip to the fascinating Pallivasal Waterfalls which is nearer to Devikulam. Amidst lush greenery, the waterfall offers a cool respite to the discerning travelers.
ERAVIKULAM NATIONAL PARK
Located in the scenic hill station of Munnar(16km), Kerala, the Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary was set up to protect the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, one of the major species of wild goat. Earlier it was a hunting preserve during British rule. Later in 1978, the park was notified as a national park. The sanctuary comes under the Idukki district of Kerala and extends to Tamil Nadu in the North. The entire landscape of the park is divided into three regions- the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are only allowed in the tourism area of Rajamallay region on the south-west of the park. This place is noted for its unique flora and fauna. The main vegetation of the park includes tropical evergreen forest with grass lands and shrub land. The major inhabitant of the park is the Nilgiri Tahr but one can also find several other animals such as the Atlas Moth, elephant, sambhar, gaurs, nilgiri langur, tiger and elephant.
CHITHIRAPURAM
The colonial air of Chithirapuram exudes old world warmth to the tourists coming to this small hill station. Situated at a distance of around 10km from Munnar Chithirapuram is home to Pallivasal hydel power project. Untouched by the passage of time, Chithirapuram hill station beckons you to immerse yourself in its exotic charm and sylvan surroundings. Chithirapuram hill station is blessed with full of verdant hills, tumbling mountain streams and vast tea plantations. This hill station provides an occasion to embark on a journey to explore the unexplored. Relish the unspoilt beauty of lofty hills and sparkling brooks on your Chithirapuram tour. Enjoy hiking along the tea plantations and savor its lush green scenic beauty.
KUNDALE TEA PLANTATION
At Kundale Tea plantation one can have a captivating insight into the manufacturing of one of the world’s most popular drinks. Watch and learn the process of how tea is made starting from the plant you see covering the landscape all the way to the tea cup. The charming environ filled with the aroma of fresh coffee gives you an ever remaining memory. The local gathering of people on the weekends is another attraction of this place. The lake located on the plantation is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic and calming rest.
NAYAMAKAD
The revitalizing waterfalls crammed between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is much eulogized for its enchanting surroundings. The gushing stream that is formed out of the water cascading down the hill at a height of the about 1600mts arranges for a horde of water activities. The adjoining environs are truly magical that one might think of not returning home once been affected by the charm of the land. The place is also an ideal trekking point.
POTHAMEDU
One of the major plantation hubs of Munnar, Pothamedu is situated at a distance of around 6 km from the town. Views of coffee, tea, and cardamom plantations are excellent from this place. It is an ideal place for trekking and hiking amidst lush mountains, rolling hills, and breathtaking scenery. The view of the surrounding areas from Pothamedu is an enchanting one. The calm and harmonized environ of Pothamedu gives a charming atmosphere for celebrating the honeymoon.
CHEEYAPPARA
The Cheeyappara Waterfalls is one of the beautiful waterfalls of evergreen Kerala. It is located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi-Madurai National Highway, 10km away from Ernakulam Railway station. The awesome scene of white waters cascading down from the top of a peak will remain forever in your heart as one of your most precious memories. You can see water cascading down here over seven steps, providing a truly fantastic spectacle for you to behold!
MARAYOOR
Marayoor, as the name implies ‘The Hidden Village’ or a rain-shadow village lies on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. It is 40 kms from Munnar on the Udumalapet road, half way between Munnar and Udumalpet. Marayoor surrounded by tall Rocky Mountains. It is surrounded by Shola forests. It is a place not to be missed for its combination of ancient caves, sandalwood trees and souvenirs from ancient civilization and more. Marayur famous for its sandal forest is indeed the most fascinating place for nature enthusiast persons. No wonder if the pervading scent of sandal trees make you fall in love with your beloved again and again. Marayoor has a sandalwood factory owned by the Forest Department of Kerala, where attractive objects are crafted from the precious wood. The other significant site here is a series of muniyaras (caves) dating back to the megalithic age. The muniyaras contain rock paintings of considerable archeological significance, also part of the pre-historic excavations at Marayoor. There are dolmenoid burial chambers consisting of four erect stones covered by a horizontal capstone. Other popular attractions at Marayoor include a children’s park that lies under a banayan tree extending over a hector of land, and the Thoovanam waterfall.
NADUKANI
Nadukani- the mesmerizing destination offers a spectacular view of the vast country side. Nadukani is noted for its Nadukani Pavilion which is elevated by 12 hairpin curves. This place is an ideal choice for one day picnic. A breathtaking view of the westward valley from the pavilion is supposed to take you as far as the city of Cochin on clear days without mist/cloud. The northern side is filled with blue hills vying to touch the sky. It is about 35 kms from Thodupuzha on the way to Painvu and is in close proximity to Kulamavu. From Paramada Echo point you can get a scenic view of Thodupuzha Taluk, Thumbichi Mount, Uppukunni, Nallikani tribal village and the meandering Thodupuzha River. Situated at an altitude of 3,000 ft. above sea level, Nadukani offers excellent views of the Moolamattam town, Malankara Lake, etc. It is a natural dream heaven covered with green-clad hills, silvery streams, valleys and paddy fields. You will encounter many rare species here like the hornbill, wild rabbits, spotted sambhar, jungle mainah and elephants, to name a few.
TOP STATION
True to its name, Top station has some of the highest tea plantations in India. Located on the border between the states of Kerala and Tamilnadu, it promises a panoramic view of the spectacular scenery of the plantations and the rolling valleys around. The highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road, from the Top station you get a distant view of the Arabian Sea on sunny and clear days. This spot is well known for the fabled flowers of Neelakurinji, which blooms only once in 12 years. According to a local belief, the place derived its name from Middle Station and Lower Station, both lying down the valley, which were once connected to this place via a ropeway.
ECHO POINT
On the way to top station, at a spot on the lake embankment, amid some hills, every loud sound is echoed manifold by the surrounding hills— the spot is called Echo point which also presents panoramic views. It is just 15 km from Munnar. An excellent place, especially for young travelers to disembark for a while, yells out — and listens to your voice coming back to you!
THINGS TO DO AT MUNNAR
One can find a lot of things to do in Munnar the picturesque valley in Kerala. Munnar lies at the confluence of three-river systems- Mudrapuzha, Nallathani and Kundala. This region is doted with lakes, mountains and wooded valleys. Tea plantations and the factory are popular sightseeing in Munnar. There's a guide and tea tasting is available. Christ Church, built in 1910 is known for its fine stained glass and on inside the brass plaques honor the memory of the tea planters. One can also go for excursions from Munnar where there are popular sites to see like Thettekkad Bird Sanctuary that is home to over 270 bird species and a nature lover's paradise. The Anaimudi Peak is the highest in Kerala (2695 m) the view from the peak is breathtaking. Devikulam is hill station and the Sita Devi Lake here is an ideal picnic spot. Those who like to go for trekking in Munnar can go to the Attukal, Anamudi and the Rajamala. The places have the pleasant views like waterfalls and the hills. You can go for boating in Mattupetty Lake. Do a jeep safari to koluthumalai and enjoy the mountain heights. Go for shopping in Munnar includes the famous tea and the spices. There are several outlets in Munnar form where you can buy the fresh tea and spices. The tour to Munnar would time to spend holidays with the beauty of the nature especially the tea plantations and the spice gardens. The Sita Devi Lake is particularly well-liked among tourists for its overwhelming sense of calm. Due to its unruffled beauty, the place lures visitors who come here to enjoy picnics and honeymooners who come to steal moments of romantic glory. Moreover, trout-fishing conveniences in this lake draw many anglers as well. However, they need to obtain a sanction from the Honorable Secretary, High Range Angling Association before they go fishing with their rod and reel.
