MUNNAR - the queen of hill stations is located at the confluence of three mountain streams namely, Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, and Kundala. The region in and around Munnar varies in height from 1,450 meters (4,760 ft) to 2,695 meters (8,842 ft) above mean sea level. Munnar has the highest peak in South India - Anamudi - which towers 2695 meters above sea level.
In the year 1790, the Duke of Wellington became the first European to visit these hills. Later in 1870, the Poonjar Chief leased out 588 sq. km. to J D Munro, a Scottish tea planter. Munnarbecame the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days. Today's Munnar has an unending expanse of tea plantations - pristine valleys and mountains- exotic species of flora and fauna in its wild sanctuaries and forests - the aroma of spice scented cool air. Munnar has all these and more.
This flourishing national park is home to the Nilgiri Tahr and also to the Anamudi Peak, which is located in the Southern region of the park. It was initially established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex) and was recognized as a national park in the year 1978. It is spread over an area of 97 sq km and is one of the most sought-after among the tourist attractions of Munnar.
Visit several neighboring spice and tea plantation as well as smaller-scale spice gardens whose owners pride themselves on their adaptation of organic farming methods, including the use of methane gas produced from cow dung to provide energy for their household needs. A must for anyone who cares for taste and flavors, the spice plantation visit enables you to get a deeper understanding of how the spice used in everyday cooking throughout the world are grown, harvested, and processed before they find their way to your local supermarket. The visit also provides you with a first-hand idea of the wonderful world of spices and its history, cultivation, medicinal values, economics, etc.
Munnar - breathtakingly beautiful - a haven of peace and tranquility - the idyllic tourist destination in God's own country. Set at an altitude of 6000 ft in Idukki district, Munnar was the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days. Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, trekking, and holiday facilities make Munnar a unique experience. Munnar is essentially a tea town. The tea plantations have now been taken over by the Tata Tea Company. The visitor is greeted with miles and miles of unending tea plantations on entry into Munnar. There are several tea factories in Munnar and the vicinity that can be explored. Visit a tea factory. See how tea is prepared in the factory and know about the complexities of tea processing. You will surely love the taste of Munnar tea. It's an aromatic experience. And also visit Munnar Tea Museum - the fist of its kind in India.