What spots to visit in Munnar to enjoy winter? Pictures, timings, tips

Kerala's most-loved hill station, Munnar, is a lot colder this winter as compared to the previous years. For four consecutive days, temperatures have been dipping to minus one degree Celsius. Ooty-style pictures and reels taken in Munnar by influencers and tourists are also tempting wanderlusters to set aside some time and not miss this winter at the spot. However, it's essential to know when to reach Munnar and which of its coldest, most accessible places to visit to enjoy the chilly weather at its best. Here are the details for the best Munnar trip this winter. 

What time to reach?
Munnar in winter is best in the early mornings. The cold bites deep, sending shivers coursing through the body in these hours. Frost settles thick on the shrubs, unmistakable to the naked eye. For those arriving in Munnar to ring in the New Year, a piercing winter chill lies in wait. The cold begins to set in over Munnar by around 5 pm and continues through the night, lingering until about 7 am the next morning. 

Accessible winter locations
The most frequently asked question among tourists arriving in Munnar these days is where, along its rolling hills, they can safely experience the wintry chill. Visitors do not have access to all locations in Munnar; specific areas are under travel restrictions. Here is a look at places that can be reached safely early in the morning to watch and experience the frost-covered landscape.

Kannimala Meadows (also known as Kakkakada Meadows):
Located near Rajamala on the Munnar–Marayur route, Kannimala Kakkakada lies just three kilometres from Munnar. The grassland near the Kannimala factory junction is its main draw, where frost settles on the grass, allowing visitors to experience the winter chill at close quarters.

Gap Road: About 13 km past Devikulam along the national highway, this scenic stretch offers a refreshing drive. Early morning visuals along Gap Road are especially chilling and captivating.
Lakkad Estate: One of the coldest regions around Munnar, Lakkad Estate offers frost-lined views even along the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway.

Chokkanad: Located about 1.5 km from the Old Munnar Headworks Dam, Chokkanad attracts a surge of visitors during winter. However, as the area is prone to wildlife movement, extra caution is advised, particularly in the early morning hours.
Mattupetty: Situated 13 km from Munnar, the entire stretch leading to Mattupetty is visually stunning. It is among the most visited destinations in the region and also serves as the route to Vattavada.

Pampadum Sholai: A 36 km drive from Munnar takes visitors to Top Station on the Kerala–Tamil Nadu border. Frost is commonly seen along the stretch from Top Station towards Vattavada. Those travelling to Vattavada must register at the Pampadum Sholai National Park check post, where strict instructions are issued against stopping vehicles within the five-kilometre stretch of forest. This is the zone where snowfall occurs during intense early morning cold. The Forest Department has also arranged accommodation facilities in the area.

Lakshmi: Located eight kilometres from Old Munnar on the Mankulam route, this area attracts a large number of visitors eager to experience extreme cold. Visitors can safely park their vehicles and soak in the wintry surroundings.
Seven Mala: About five kilometres from Old Munnar on the Mankulam route, this plantation region offers the sight of tea gardens, small streams and grasslands.

Pothamedu View Point: Known for frequent mist cover, Pothamedu View Point is just 1.5 km from Munnar. Early morning visits are ideal for fully experiencing the cold and fog-draped landscape.

Locations with restricted access
Old Devikulam, Chendhuvara and Thenmala are among the locations where entry is restricted. These are also regions that experience the most intense cold.

Things visitors should know
1)To access locations with no entry restrictions, two-wheelers are recommended, as parking for other vehicles is limited.
2)The most suitable time to experience the cold is between 4 am and 7 am. During the day, temperatures in Munnar can reach around 22 degrees Celsius.

3) Frost blankets the grasslands only when temperatures drop to zero or below. Once the sun sets, the frost crystals clinging to grass and shrubs begin to melt.
4)Visitors are advised not to litter at any of the locations they visit.
5) Proper clothing to protect against the cold is essential.