Lush Tea Plantations of Munnar: A Tranquil Retreat in the Western Ghats of Kerala
Introduction
Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a beautiful hill station known for its picturesque tea plantations. Known for its tranquil beauty and pleasant climate, Munnar attracts tourists from all over the world. But beyond the common tourist attractions, Munnar offers hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you\’re a tea enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking relaxation, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Munnar. ### Munnard and its tea gardens
Munnard’s history is deeply linked to tea. It was the end of the 19th century that British people began to grow tea in this area. Founded in 1877, Kannan Devan Tea Estate is still operational today and plays a vital role in Munnar’s tea industry. A visit to the Tata Tea Museum gives a fascinating insight into the history of Munnar tea and how it is processed. ### Overview of Access and Map
Munnar is well-connected by road and the nearest airport is *Cochin International Airport, about 110 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport to Munnar, which will cost around ₹3,500 to ₹4,000. Another way is to travel by train * aluva ** station near Munnal. The ALUVA bus costs about 150-250 pounds, but you can feel about 3,000 pounds for taxis.
Where to go: Top attractions in Munnar
- Tea Gardens: The rolling hills covered with lush tea plantations are a breathtaking sight. You can also stroll through the farm, talk to the tea pickers, and take part in a tea tasting.
- Attukal Falls: One of the hidden gems of Munnar, this waterfall is located between Munnar and Pallivasal and offers a spectacular view especially during the monsoon season. It is a great place for taking photos and having a picnic. 3. Echo Point: Known for its natural echo phenomenon, this destination is popular for boating and hiking.
- Eravikulam National Park: Famous for housing the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park offers beautiful landscapes and trekking opportunities. The entry fee is ₹90 for Indian citizens and ₹360 for foreign citizens.
- Top Station: Located at a high altitude, the top station offers panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below. The viewpoint is 32 km from Munnar and you can hire a cab to get there (approximately 30 minutes). 1000 to 1500 rupees).
- Hidden Gems:
- Lockhart Gap Viewpoint: A lesser-known but incredibly scenic spot where you can enjoy the majestic view of clouds enveloping the lush green mountains.
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate: One of the highest tea plantations in the world, offering a unique experience. It’s a little off the beaten path, but the breathtaking views are worth the drive (or hike) and you can book a jeep ride (about an hour). ₹1,500) to reach the estate.
Where to Stay: Accommodations in Munnar
Munnar offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets:
- Luxury Stay:
- Scenic Getaway: Known for modern amenities and stunning views. Rates start from ₹8,000 per night. – * Winddamia Manner: * This gorgeous complex, surrounded by tea gardens, offers a peaceful pension of 10,000 pounds per night.
2 Medium Distance Stay:
- Munnarti District: KTDC Hotels offer comfortable stay with panoramic views. Prices range from 4,500 JPY to 6,000 JPY. – * Abad Copper Castle: * Beginning with 3,500 pounds, this hotel offers a mixture of comfort and nature.
3 Budget stay:
– Zostel Munnar: is perfect for providing tourists, inns and individual rooms. The price starts with 1000 pounds per night. – * Misty Mountain Resort: * offering a budget stay with fantastic views, starting with £ 2,500.
What Munnar is famous for
Munnar is known for its tea plantations, but it is also known for its biodiversity, pristine waterfalls and adventure activities like trekking and paragliding. The city’s cool climate makes it a popular holiday destination for those looking to escape the heat of the Kerala lowlands. The flowering of Neelakurinji is a rare event that occurs once in 12 years, and these unique flowers turn the hills blue, adding to the charm of Munnar.
Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Munnar
Kerala is famous for its spices and Munnar cuisine reflects this rich culinary tradition. Must-try dishes include:
- Stew Appam: A traditional Kerala breakfast served with tender vegetable and meat stew.
- Kerala Sadhya: A feast of rice, curry, pickle and payasam served on a banana leaf. – Fish Curry: Fresh river fish cooked in a tangy spicy sauce with coconut milk.
Recommended Restaurants:
- Rapsy Restaurant: Known for its authentic Kerala cuisine and affordable prices (Rs 150-300 per meal). – *Saravana Bhavan: A popular vegetarian restaurant with dishes starting from ₹ 200.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Munnar enjoys pleasant weather all year round, but the best time to visit is September to March. The temperature during this period varies from 10° C to 25° C. Monsoon lovers can visit between June and August when the rains bring the tea plantations to life, but the risk of landslides increases during this time.
Estimated cost for a 3-day trip
- Accommodation: RUR 3,000-10,000 per night (depending on accommodation option).
- Food: RUR 500-1000 per day for local cuisine. – Transportation Cost: Taxi fare ranges from ₹4000-5000 for a full day tour. Public bus fare ranges from ₹50-₹150 per trip. – Entrance Fees and Excursions: Expect to pay between Rs 500 – 1,500 for entrance to various attractions and excursions.
- General Estimate: Rp 15,000 – 30,000 for a 3-day trip including accommodation, food and entertainment.
- Conclusion
Munnard is an ideal mixture of painting, adventure, and relaxation. This attractive mountain station offers many kinds of travelers, as it discovers a waterfall hidden from tea garden research. With a rich history, delicious cuisine and comfortable accommodation, Munnar promises an unforgettable holiday. Whether you are travelling solo or planning a family trip, Munnar is a destination worth exploring. So pack your bags, book your tickets and welcome the fragrant breeze of Munnar.
Who owns Munnar tea plantation?
2005: Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Company Private Limited (KDHP) takes over the majority of tea plantations in Munnar from Tata Tea Limited. Tata Tea would hold a 19 percent stake in the new company.
Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation
Which is the highest tea plantation? One of the Kerala tea plantations, Kolukkumalai Tea Plantation at Idukki, is located at a height of 7900 feet above sea level and is the highest tea plantation in the world. Visiting this plantation, you can enjoy a captivating view of the surrounding areas.
Which is the oldest tea plantation in Kerala?
Seven mallay Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea plantations in Kerala. Located in the scenic region of Munnar, this estate is known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
Kolukkumalai
Kolukkumalai is the world’s highest elevation tea plantation at 7900 feet msl. Kolukkumalai is without argument one of the world’s most beautiful scenic destinations. Started in the early 1900s the estate produces tea using the orthodox method in the time-tested tea factory.
Is Kanan Devan owned by Tata?
Tata Tea Ltd restructured and transferred its holdings to the Kanan Devan Hills village under participatory management. The company retails its products under the RippleTea brand name.
Munnar
Munnar is always synonymous to tea plantation. A trip to Munnar will be incomplete without having a visit to these tea plantations. Munnar is a place known for its beautiful tea estates and tea cultivation. No one will return home without tasting or shopping the tea essence of Munnar.
Dibrugarh
Dibrugarh, is a city and is the headquarters of the Dibrugarh district in the state of Assam in India. Well known as the Tea City of India, Dibrugarh is a major city in eastern India in line with Guwahati and Bhubaneswar and is the emerging communication and industrial hub of North East India.https://www.vibemunnar.com/kerala-tea-plantation-paradise.php.
2. Top Tea Gardens in Kerala
2.1 Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
One of the most famous Munnar tea plantations in Kerala is Kolukkumalai Tea Estate. This estate is not only one of the highest tea plantations in Kerala but also one of the highest in the world. Situated at an elevation of about 7,900 feet above sea level, Kolukkumalai is renowned for its organic tea plantations of Kerala and breathtaking views.
The tea here is grown without any chemical fertilisers or pesticides, making it exceptionally pure and healthy. Visitors to Kolukkumalai can enjoy a guided tour of tea plantations in Kerala, where they can witness the entire tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to the final packaging.
The estate offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, providing a serene and refreshing environment. The fresh mountain air and the lush green landscape make Kolukkumalai one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. This unique experience is complemented by the chance to taste some of the finest organic teas produced on-site.
Highlights:
- One of the highest tea plantations in the world
- Organic tea production
- Stunning mountain views
Also Read: Best Guide To Snorkeling In Kerala: Discover Underwater Beauty
2.2 Kannan Devan Hills Plantation
Kannan Devan Hills Plantation is a gem among the Munnar tea plantations in Kerala. Managed by the Tata Tea Company, this plantation is famous for its high-quality tea. The estate covers a vast area, providing visitors with extensive tea gardens to explore.
A visit to Kannan Devan includes a tour of the tea factory, where you can see the intricate process of tea production, from the initial plucking to the final packaging. The estate also houses a tea museum, which offers a deep dive into the history and evolution of tea cultivation in Kerala.
The museum displays old machinery, photographs, and artefacts that narrate the story of tea in the region. This combination of historical insight and practical demonstration makes Kannan Devan Hills Plantation one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. The guided tours and the tea tasting sessions here provide a comprehensive understanding of the tea industry in Kerala.
Highlights:
- Managed by Tata Tea Company
- High-quality tea production
- On-site tea museum
2.3 Sevenmallay Tea Estate
Sevenmallay Tea Estate is one of the oldest tea plantations in Kerala. Located in the scenic region of Munnar, this estate is known for its historical significance and natural beauty. Established many years ago, Sevenmallay offers a glimpse into the traditional methods of tea cultivation and production and makes it one of the best things to do in Munnar.
Visitors can take guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala at this estate, where they can see firsthand how tea leaves are harvested, processed, and packed. The estate is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
The serene environment and the well-maintained tea gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Sevenmallay Tea Estate is definitely one of the best tea plantations in Kerala, offering an enriching experience for those interested in the history and production of tea.For more information check out Munnar Travel Guide.
Highlights:
- One of the oldest tea plantations in Kerala
- Located in the scenic Munnar region
- Guided tours available
2.4 Lockhart Tea Estate
Lockhart Tea Estate is another beautiful tea garden in Munnar. This estate is known for its stunning views of the tea fields and the surrounding mountains. Visitors to Lockhart can take a guided tour of tea plantations in Kerala, where they can learn about the different types of tea produced here.
The estate offers a comprehensive tour that includes a visit to the tea factory, allowing visitors to see the various stages of tea processing. Additionally, Lockhart Tea Estate features a tea museum that showcases the history and development of tea cultivation in the region.
The museum also houses old photographs and equipment used in the early days of tea production. There is a shop on-site where visitors can purchase fresh tea directly from the estate. This combination of beautiful scenery, educational tours, and the availability of fresh tea makes Lockhart one of the best tea plantations in Kerala.
Highlights:
- Beautiful views of tea fields and mountains
- On-site tea museum and shop
- Variety of tea types produced
2.5 Elstone Tea Estate
Elstone Tea Estate is known for its unique tea varieties and calm environment. Located in Wayanad, this plantation offers visitors a peaceful and serene experience. The estate is famous for its high-quality tea, which is produced using traditional methods.
One of the best things to do in Wayanad is Visitors can walk through the tea gardens and see the entire tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to drying and packing. The estate is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The serene environment, coupled with the rich aroma of freshly made tea, makes Elstone Tea Estate one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. Whether you are a tea enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet place to relax, a visit to Elstone Tea Estate is sure to be a memorable experience.
Highlights:
- Unique tea varieties
- Located in Wayanad
- Peaceful and serene environment
2.6 Harrisons Malayalam Tea Estate
Harrisons Malayalam Tea Estate is one of the most popular tea estates in Kerala. Located in the high ranges of Wayanad, this estate is known for producing high-quality tea. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the tea gardens and participate in tea tasting tours in Kerala.
The estate also offers tea factory visits in Kerala where you can learn about the tea processing methods. These tours provide a detailed insight into how tea is cultivated, harvested, and processed.
The guided tours at Harrisons Malayalam Tea Estate also include a visit to the tea museum, where visitors can learn about the history and significance of tea plantations in Kerala. The combination of beautiful landscapes, educational tours, and the opportunity to taste fresh tea makes Harrisons Malayalam Tea Estate a must-visit for tea lovers and tourists alike.
Highlights:
- High-quality tea production
- Located in Wayanad
- Tea tasting tours and tea factory visits
2.7 Glenburn Tea Estate
Glenburn Tea Estate, situated in Munnar, is renowned for its lush green landscapes and premium tea. The estate offers guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala where visitors can see the entire tea-making process. The picturesque setting and the rich aroma of tea make it one of the top tea gardens in Kerala.
During the tour, visitors can learn about the different stages of tea production and see the traditional methods used in cultivating and processing tea leaves. The estate also provides tea tasting sessions, allowing visitors to sample various types of tea produced on-site. The serene environment and the opportunity to learn about tea production make Glenburn Tea Estate a popular destination for tourists and tea enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Premium tea production
- Guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala
- Beautiful landscapes
2.8 Bonacaud Tea Estate
Located in the Western Ghats, Bonacaud Tea Estate is a hidden gem among the tea plantations in Kerala. It is known for its calm environment and high-quality organic tea. Visitors can enjoy tea tasting tours in Kerala and learn about the traditional methods of tea cultivation.
The estate offers guided tours that provide a comprehensive understanding of the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to processing and packaging. The lush green surroundings and the fresh mountain air make Bonacaud Tea Estate a perfect spot for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
The estate’s commitment to organic farming practices ensures that the tea produced here is not only delicious but also healthy and environmentally friendly.
Highlights:
- High-quality organic tea
- calm environment
- Tea tasting tours
2.9 Woodbriar Tea Estate
Woodbriar Tea Estate, situated in Valparai, offers a unique experience with its tea factory visits in Kerala and guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala. The estate is famous for its scenic beauty and the variety of teas produced. Visitors can explore the tea gardens and learn about the different types of tea grown here.
The tea factory visits provide an in-depth look at the processing techniques used to produce high-quality tea. The estate also offers tea tasting sessions, allowing visitors to sample the various teas produced on-site.
The combination of beautiful landscapes, educational tours, and the chance to taste fresh tea makes Woodbriar Tea Estate one of the popular tea estates in Kerala.
Highlights:
- Variety of tea types
- Tea factory visits and guided tours
- Scenic beauty
2.10 Talayar Valley Tea Estate
Talayar Valley Tea Estate in Munnar is known for its picturesque tea gardens and high-quality tea. The estate provides guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala where visitors can see how tea is harvested and processed.
The beautiful surroundings and fresh mountain air make it one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. During the tour, visitors can learn about the different stages of tea production, from plucking the leaves to drying and packing.
The estate also offers tea tasting sessions, allowing visitors to sample various types of tea produced on-site. The serene environment and the opportunity to learn about tea production make Talayar Valley Tea Estate a popular destination for tourists and tea enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- High-quality tea production
- Guided tours of tea plantations in Kerala
- Beautiful surroundings
2.11 Parry Agro Tea Estate
Parry Agro Tea Estate, located in Vandiperiyar, is another top tea garden in Kerala. It is known for its excellent tea and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can take guided tours and participate in tea tasting sessions to experience the different flavours of tea.
The estate offers a comprehensive tour that includes a visit to the tea factory, allowing visitors to see the various stages of tea processing. The lush green surroundings and the fresh mountain air make Parry Agro Tea Estate a perfect spot for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
The estate’s commitment to eco-friendly practices ensures that the tea produced here is not only delicious but also healthy and environmentally friendly.
Highlights:
- Excellent tea production
- Eco-friendly practices
- Guided tours and tea tasting sessions
2.12 Aranamala Tea Estate
Aranamala Tea Estate, situated in Idukki, is known for its lush green tea gardens and high-quality tea. The estate offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the scenic beauty. The estate is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The serene environment, coupled with the rich aroma of freshly made tea, makes Aranamala Tea Estate one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. Whether you are a tea enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet place to relax, a visit to Aranamala Tea Estate is sure to be a memorable experience.
Highlights:
- High-quality tea production
- Guided tours
- Scenic beauty
2.13 Pattumalay Tea Estate
Pattumalay Tea Estate, located in the picturesque hills of Munnar, is famous for its serene environment and high-quality tea. Visitors can take guided tours and see the entire tea-making process, from picking the leaves to packing the tea.
The estate also offers tea tasting tours, allowing visitors to sample various types of tea produced on-site. The beautiful surroundings and the rich aroma of freshly made tea make Pattumalay Tea Estate one of the best tea plantations in Kerala. Whether you are a tea enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet place to relax, a visit to Pattumalay Tea Estate is sure to be a memorable experience.
Highlights:
- High-quality tea production
- Serene environment
- Guided tours and tea tasting tours
2.14 Carady Goody Tea Estate
Carady Goody Tea Estate, situated in Vandiperiyar, is known for its rich history and excellent tea. The estate offers guided tours and tea factory visits in Kerala where visitors can learn about the traditional methods of tea production. The beautiful surroundings and fresh tea make it one of the popular tea estates in Kerala.
Visitors can explore the tea gardens and learn about the different types of tea grown here. The tea factory visits provide an in-depth look at the processing techniques used to produce high-quality tea.
The estate also offers tea tasting sessions, allowing visitors to sample the various teas produced on-site. The combination of beautiful landscapes, educational tours, and the chance to taste fresh tea makes Carady Goody Tea Estate a must-visit for tea lovers and tourists alike.
Highlights:
- Rich history and excellent tea
- Guided tours and tea factory visits
- Beautiful surroundings
These tea gardens are not only beautiful but also offer a rich experience in learning about tea production. They are some of the best tea plantations in Kerala and are a must-visit for anyone travelling to Kerala. Don’t miss out on exploring these wonderful tea estates during your trip. For more adventures, you can also check out the Best Places To Visit In Thrissur and Places To Visit In Thekkady.