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02
May 2025
Munnar’s Best-Kept Secrets: Hidden Spots You Must Visit
Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is known for its lush tea plantations, misty hills, and serene landscapes. While popular spots like Eravikulam National Park and Mattupetty Dam are often crowded with tourists, Munnar hides several untouched gems that offer peace, beauty, and a deeper connection with nature. If you're seeking an offbeat experience, here's your guide to the hidden places in Munnar that promise a unique journey into the hills.
1. Meesapulimala—The Second Highest Peak in the Western Ghats
Often overshadowed by Anamudi, Meesapulimala is a haven for trekkers and nature lovers. Located around 20 km from Munnar, the trek to Meesapulimala takes you through the Rhodo Valley, filled with blooming rhododendron flowers. The view from the top is breathtaking, with clouds drifting below and a panoramic view of the Western Ghats.
Why it's a hidden gem: Limited permits keep crowds away, making it a peaceful retreat.
Tip: Book your trekking permit through the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) website.
2. Vattavada—The Vegetable Village
About 45 km from Munnar lies Vattavada, a tranquil village known for its terraced farms and cool climate. Unlike the tea-covered hills of Munnar, Vattavada is famous for its organic vegetable cultivation, from carrots and cabbage to strawberries.
Why it's a hidden gem: Its distance from the town center keeps it off typical tourist itineraries.
Tip: Visit during the harvesting season for the freshest produce and picturesque views.
3. Chinnakanal Waterfalls—A Quiet Cascade
Tucked away near Chinnakanal village, this waterfall is often missed by tourists rushing to see the more popular Attukad or Lakkam waterfalls. The sight of water cascading down against a backdrop of dense greenery is soothing and perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Why it's a hidden gem: Less commercialized and ideal for solitude seekers.
Tip: Visit early in the morning for misty views and fewer crowds.
4. Kolukkumalai Tea Estate—The World’s Highest Tea Plantation
Accessible only via a bumpy jeep ride, Kolukkumalai is located on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. This tea estate is set at over 7,900 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of the sunrise.
Why it's a hidden gem: Its remote location keeps mass tourism away.
Tip: Start your journey before dawn to witness the magical sunrise above the clouds.
5. Lockhart Gap Viewpoint—For the Fog Lovers
A lesser-known viewpoint, Lockhart Gap gets its name from a heart-shaped gap between two mountains. The viewpoint offers a spectacular look into Munnar's natural valleys and cloud formations.
Why it's a hidden gem: A favorite among photographers but often missed by casual tourists.
Tip: Ideal for early morning or late afternoon visits.
6. Anayirankal Dam—Elephant's Paradise
Located around 22 km from Munnar, Anayirankal Dam is a serene reservoir surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests. The name Anayirankal literally means "where elephants come down," and if you're lucky, you might spot wild elephants near the dam.
Why it's a hidden gem: A perfect blend of nature and wildlife.
Tip: Take a boat ride for a unique view of the forested hills.
7. Mathikettan Shola National Park—The Forgotten Forest
This less-explored national park is a biodiversity hotspot and part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage site. Home to unique flora and fauna, it's ideal for ecotourists and wildlife photographers.
Why it's a hidden gem: Less footfall compared to Eravikulam or Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Tip: Go with a registered guide to learn about rare species and hidden trails.
8. Silent Valley View Point—Not to Be Confused with Silent Valley National Park
On the way to Top Station lies this viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of Munnar’s deep valleys and distant hilltops. Despite its location on a tourist route, it remains largely overlooked.
Why it's a hidden gem: Quiet, with panoramic views that rival Top Station.
Tip: Carry a light jacket—it gets chilly and windy, especially in the evenings.
9. Sevenmalai—The Lesser-Known Trek
Sevenmalai, or "Seven Hills," is a trail known mostly to locals. Offering moderate difficulty, this trek rewards you with undisturbed nature and wide-angle views of Munnar's undulating landscapes.
Why it's a hidden gem: Rarely found on commercial maps or guidebooks.
Tip: Hire a local guide to explore safely.
10. Pothamedu Viewpoint—Hidden in Plain Sight
Just 5 km from Munnar town, this viewpoint is surprisingly quiet. It offers a panoramic view of Munnar’s rolling hills, tea gardens, and occasional misty blankets.
Why it's a hidden gem: Most tourists head to Echo Point or Top Station, skipping this peaceful spot.
Tip: Perfect for a relaxed evening with a hot cup of local tea.
Final Thoughts
While the beauty of Munnar is no secret, discovering Munnar's natural beauty often means going beyond the beaten path. These hidden places in Munnar offer a quiet, untouched version of the hill station that's increasingly rare. Whether you're a trekker, nature lover, photographer, or simply someone seeking peace, these spots invite you to experience Munnar in a more intimate and rewarding way.
So the next time you're planning a trip to this green paradise, ditch the usual and explore the unusual. The real magic of Munnar often lies where the crowd doesn’t go.
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