With torrential rains lashing across Kerala, the popular hill station Munnar is beckoning travellers with a misty and nippy climate. Munnar has always been one of the favourite getaways of tourists as it provided fresh vistas to the visitors. Once the tourism season is on, it seems that all roads lead to this enchanting hill station. So what’s in store at the ever-charming Munnar?
You can make a grand trip to Munnar without feeling the pinch. Nature will deck up Munnar in a captivating way during monsoon season and the waterfalls will flow with new vigour in tandem with the rhythm of rains. Numerous cascades will emerge from nowhere and the milky waters will meander through the smooth huge rocks. The green vegetation will take a brighter hue and the mist will play hide and seek with nature. To put it in a nutshell, Munnar in monsoon is simply heavenly.
Beyond Kerala’s Cherrapunji
Neriamangalam bridge, which was constructed during the reign of Travancore queen Rani Lakshmibai in 1924, could be termed the gateway of Munnar. As Neriamangalam is the wettest place in the state, it is known as the ‘Cherrapunji of Kerala’.
After you cross the Neriamangalam bridge, the trip to Munnar gets more exciting. The drive through Neriamangalam is awesome as both sides of the road are awash in green. You can stop your car and enjoy nature’s bounty to the fullest. If you are travelling by bus, make sure to occupy a seat on the right side of the bus so that you don’t miss the spectacular views of the mountains ranges and valleys. And if you are driving a car, just switch off the AC and roll down the windows for a whiff of fresh air. But while rolling down the car windows, be wary of the monkeys lurking in the vicinity.
Waterfall is here
The Cheeyappara Waterfalls is the first falls one could find on the way to Munnar. The sight of frothy waters flowing while caressing various rock formations is something extraordinary. Many people get down here to take selfies and there are also professional photographers who can give you printed photos in a few minutes. If you have a craving for salt-cured mangoes and gooseberry, then there are many small shops selling them. Troops of monkeys could be found loitering in the area near the Cheeyappara waterfalls.
Just ahead of Cheeyappara Falls is the majestic Valara waterfalls. You have to park your vehicle on the road and walk to the right to soak in the beauty of Valara falls.
Finally Munnar
The sight of misty hills will give an indication that you have finally arrived at Munnar. A huge rock on the side of the road, the cascade and the drizzle are a treat for your eyes. As the name suggests, Munnar is a confluence of three rivers. The Kanniyar flowing from Marayoor, Nallathanniyar that empties into Kanniyar and Kuttiyar coming from Mattupetty become one in Munnar and flow to the plains as Muthirapuzhayar. One could see the alluring Muthirapuzhayar first as you enter the magical world of Munnar.
It will be a tall order to enjoy the pristine beauty of Munnar in its entirety in a single day. You need at least five days to visit all the must-see spots of this mesmerizing hill station.
If you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of Munnar and curl up in a room overlooking the hills and waterfalls, then head to Abad Copper Castle Resort. There are many rooms with a view at the resort and the vistas from balconies are out-of-the-world. The retreat is the best choice if you are travelling with your kids and family members. The play area for children and the well-trimmed garden are outstanding.
Fascinating vistas galore
Rajamala is a hill in the Eravikulam National Park where the ‘neelakurinji’ flowers bloom. It is noteworthy that the purplish blue ‘neelakurinji’ flowers bloom only once in 12 years. The Mattupetty dam is the boating point for tourists. En route to the top station, the Kundala dam, the second dam in the region, and the spices garden await the travellers in Munnar.
While planning a trip to Munnar, it is better to avoid travelling to this hill station on weekends.
