1. Eravikulam National Park
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Eravikulam National Park is a protected area located along the Western Ghats, famous for its high-altitude grasslands and the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The park spreads across 97 sq. km and offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, shola forests, and valleys. A key highlight is the blooming of Neelakurinji flowers that happens once every 12 years, turning the hills blue. Visitors can walk along a designated path and enjoy wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and panoramic photography. It’s one of the best places to experience Munnar’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
2. Mattupetty Dam
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Built amidst the hills, Mattupetty Dam is a serene water reservoir that reflects the surrounding tea plantations and dense forests. It’s a great spot for boating, especially pedal and speed boats managed by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC). The calm waters also attract a variety of birds and elephants that come to drink. Located around 13 km from Munnar town, it is ideal for family outings, picnics, and scenic photography. The misty backdrop and peaceful ambiance make it a must-visit destination.
3. Kundala Lake
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Kundala Lake is a beautiful artificial reservoir located about 20 km from Munnar, known for its tranquil waters and surrounding cherry blossom trees. It offers boating experiences, including pedal boating, row boating, and traditional Kashmiri shikara rides. The lake is flanked by rolling hills and tea plantations, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers. Early mornings are especially magical here with mist hovering over the water. The nearby Aruvikkad Waterfall and the Kundala Dam further enhance the charm of this peaceful spot.
4. Tea Museum (KDHP Museum)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
The Tea Museum, operated by the Kanan Devan Hills Plantations Company, is a fascinating place for anyone interested in the history and culture of tea in Munnar. Located near Nallathanni Estate, it showcases antique tea rollers, old photographs, and equipment tracing the evolution of tea processing. Visitors can watch a live demonstration of tea making, from leaf plucking to final packaging. The museum also offers a tasting section to try various tea blends. It’s an educational and sensory experience that highlights Munnar’s colonial past and its transformation into a world-renowned tea hub.
5. Top Station
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
Top Station is the highest point in Munnar, located on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It offers unmatched views of the Western Ghats and the Theni valley below. The spot was once part of the Kottagudi-Munnar ropeway station, used for transporting tea. On clear days, you can witness layers of mountain ridges, while during the blooming of Neelakurinji, the hills turn a rare shade of blue. It’s ideal for sunrise views, photography, and peaceful moments away from the bustle. The mist-covered landscapes make Top Station feel like a dream.
6. Echo Point
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
Echo Point is a scenic spot where the surrounding hills send your voice back in a clear echo. Located 15 km from Munnar, it lies along the banks of a calm lake framed by lush green hills and spice plantations. The area is a favorite among families and kids, especially for its natural echo phenomenon. You can enjoy boating, short nature walks, and tea from nearby stalls. The road to Echo Point is equally picturesque, making it a popular stop on Munnar sightseeing routes. It’s a playful yet serene place to pause and unwind.
7. Attukad Waterfalls
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Attukal Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Munnar, located between Munnar and Pallivasal. Nestled amidst hills and lush forests, the waterfall cascades down rugged terrain and forms a misty, white stream. It is particularly magnificent during the monsoon when the water flow is stronger. This place is ideal for trekkers, couples, and nature enthusiasts. Though the terrain is a bit rough, the walk to the viewing point is rewarding. The surrounding tea plantations and mist-covered hills make it a photographer’s delight and a must-visit nature escape.
8. Anamudi Peak
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
Anamudi is the highest peak in South India, rising to 2,695 meters above sea level. It lies within Eravikulam National Park and is often referred to as the “Everest of South India.” The mountain is home to rich biodiversity including Asian elephants, Nilgiri Tahrs, and exotic butterflies. Though full-scale trekking is restricted, visitors can view the peak from designated areas. The climate here is cool and misty, and the peak is often shrouded in clouds. Adventurers and photographers alike admire Anamudi’s commanding presence and the tranquility of its natural surroundings.
9. Blossom Hydel Park
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
Blossom Hydel Park is a beautifully landscaped garden located near the Muthirappuzha River, just 3 km from Munnar town. Spread over 16 acres, it features well-maintained flower beds, walking trails, and recreational areas for families and kids. Visitors can enjoy activities like cycling, skating, boating, and birdwatching. The park is ideal for a relaxing picnic amidst nature, with seating areas under shady trees and vibrant seasonal flowers. It’s particularly appealing to couples and families who want a calm atmosphere. With cool weather and scenic surroundings, it offers a peaceful escape from city life.
10. Photo Point
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
Photo Point is one of the most photogenic spots in Munnar, known for its rolling hills blanketed with emerald tea gardens and tall eucalyptus trees. Located just 3 km from the town, it’s a perfect place for capturing memories with scenic backdrops. The light mist, soft sunlight, and greenery create a dreamy atmosphere ideal for photography enthusiasts and honeymooners. Local vendors offer tea and souvenirs, and traditional Kerala costumes are available for themed photoshoots. It’s a quick yet rewarding stop for anyone exploring the beauty of Munnar’s countryside.
11. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 60 km from Munnar and offers a dry deciduous ecosystem distinct from Munnar’s usual greenery. This sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife such as Indian elephants, spotted deer, giant grizzled squirrels, and leopards. The sanctuary is also inhabited by tribal communities, and eco-tourism programs offer trekking, camping, and guided safaris. The Thoovanam Waterfalls inside the sanctuary is a major highlight. If you are looking for offbeat, adventurous experiences and close encounters with untouched nature, Chinnar provides both ecological richness and cultural depth.
12. Lakkam Waterfalls
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
Lakkam Waterfalls is a hidden natural gem located on the Munnar–Marayoor route, about 25 km from Munnar town. Cascading from a height amidst dense forests and rocky terrain, it’s a favorite for nature walks, short hikes, and photography. During the monsoon and early winter, the waterfall is at its best, creating a refreshing misty atmosphere. You can take a dip in the shallow pool below or simply relax with the sounds of rushing water and birds. The place is less crowded than more commercial spots, offering peace and scenic beauty.
13. Pothamedu View Point
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Pothamedu View Point offers panoramic views of Munnar’s tea, coffee, and cardamom plantations, nestled among misty mountains. Located about 6 km from the town, it’s a favorite among trekkers and photographers. The early morning view with mist rolling over the hills is absolutely magical. On clear days, one can see Idukki Arch Dam far away. It’s also a romantic spot ideal for couples and those seeking solitude. Small roadside tea stalls near the viewpoint add to the charm, making it a peaceful, scenic retreat you’ll want to revisit.
14. Meesapulimala
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
Meesapulimala is the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats at 2,640 meters and a haven for adventure lovers. The name means “moustache-like hill,” due to its ridge shape. The trek to the summit begins from the Rhodo Valley, offering breathtaking views of rhododendron forests, grasslands, and cloud-covered peaks. It’s one of the most scenic and peaceful trekking routes in South India. The Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) organizes eco-friendly trekking and overnight camping. The climb is moderate to challenging, making it ideal for experienced trekkers. At the summit, you’ll witness layers of hills vanishing into the mist—an unforgettable sight.
15. Lockhart Gap
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
Lockhart Gap is a mountain viewpoint located about 13 km from Munnar, named after the heart-shaped gap between two mountains. The place is known for its dramatic scenery, fresh mountain air, and great sunset views. It’s also a perfect stopover for those who enjoy nature walks or wish to capture panoramic photographs of tea plantations and deep valleys. The area is often covered in mist, especially in the early mornings and evenings, giving it a mysterious allure. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, this peaceful location will leave you spellbound.
16. Nyayamakad Waterfalls
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.1/5)
Located about 10 km from Munnar, Nyayamakad Waterfalls is a lovely cascade that tumbles down from 1,600 meters amidst verdant forest cover. The falls are ideal for a refreshing nature walk and serve as a quiet retreat away from the crowds. The trail leading to the waterfalls passes through spice plantations and lush greenery, making it perfect for birdwatching and photography. While not as famous as Attukal or Lakkam, Nyayamakad offers solitude and serenity, especially for those seeking offbeat natural spots. It’s a peaceful destination ideal for couples, hikers, and explorers.
17. Marayoor Sandalwood Forests
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.4/5)
Marayoor, located about 40 km from Munnar, is Kerala’s only natural sandalwood forest. Spread across the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, the forest exudes a rich, natural aroma and is protected by the Forest Department. Visitors can explore government-managed sandalwood plantations, ancient dolmens (stone burial chambers), and rock paintings that date back to the Stone Age. Marayoor blends natural beauty with historical and cultural significance, making it unique among tourist spots near Munnar. A visit here offers both scenic views and an insightful experience into Kerala’s lesser-known heritage.
18. Chokramudi Peak
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5)
Chokramudi Peak is an isolated peak located inside the Eravikulam National Park area, offering a moderately difficult trek with rewarding views. It stands at about 2,100 meters above sea level and is perfect for trekkers who enjoy solitude. The hike takes you through dense shola forests, mist-covered meadows, and rocky paths, with a chance to spot native wildlife and exotic flora. The summit offers panoramic views of nearby peaks, tea estates, and valleys. It’s one of the lesser-known trekking spots in Munnar, ideal for those seeking an adventurous and peaceful escape into nature.
19. Kolukkumalai
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, located at an altitude of over 7,900 feet, is the highest tea plantation in the world. Accessible only by rugged jeep rides, the journey itself is thrilling and filled with panoramic mountain views. The estate still uses traditional tea-processing methods in its century-old factory. Visitors can tour the factory, taste freshly brewed organic tea, and explore the plantation trails. The viewpoint near Kolukkumalai offers one of the best sunrise experiences in Munnar, with golden light flooding the misty hills. For tea lovers and adventurers, this is a must-visit destination.
20. Devikulam
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
Devikulam Lake, also known as Sita Devi Lake, is a serene and sacred water body located about 5 km from Munnar. Legend says that Sita, wife of Lord Rama, bathed in this lake, giving it a spiritual aura. Surrounded by rolling hills, pine trees, and tea gardens, the lake is known for its crystal-clear, mineral-rich waters and cool climate. Though entry is restricted due to it being part of a protected area, the surroundings offer quiet spots for relaxation and photography. It’s an enchanting place for those who love solitude, mythology, and scenic beauty.