MUNNAR - THEKKADI GIFTS OF KERALA

Munnar

Munnar - one of the best hill stations of South India - is situated at a height of 1600 m from Sea Level. Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams, this hill station was once the summer capital of the British Government in South India. Sprawling Tea Plantations, small towns and beautiful houses make this a popular hill station. Munnar is also famous for exotic flora - like Neelakurunji, which blooms once in 12 years. Anamudi, the highest peak of south India is situated in this area and is an ideal place for Trekking.

Places to see

Mattupetty

Is famous for its highly specialized Diary Farm - the Indo-Swiss live stock project.

Devikulam

This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air offer a unique experience to visitors. The sita devi lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot.

Rajamala

2695 mt. above sea level this place is a natural habitat of the rare species - Niligiri Thar.

Top Station

This is the highest Point on the Munnar - Kodaikanal route and one gets good view of the nearby towns from this peak.

How to reach

Nearest airport is Cochin, which is 140 Kms from Munnar. No rail head to Munnar. Roads are well connected.

Thekkady

Periyar Tiger Reserve, one of the famous Wildlife Sanctuaries in India, spread across 777 Sq. Kms out of which 360 Sq. Kms is thick forest, is one of the best places for viewing wild elephants. There is a 26 Sq. Km. artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river. A boat cruise on the lake is a great way to watch the wildlife.

Wild animals like the Elephant, Gaur, Sambar Deer and wild boar, which can be easily seen from close quarters during the serene boat ride. Other Mammals like the Nilgiri Thar, the lion tailed macaque, the bonnet macaque, the Malabar giant Squirrel, the flying Squirrel, the Tiger, the jungle cat and the sloth bear are seen only once in a while. Around 265 different species of birds like the Hornbill, stork, woodpecker, kingfisher, raptor, cormorant, grackle, darter etc. can also be seen.

How to reach

The nearest airport is Cochin, which is 192 kms [5 hrs drive] away. Nearest Rail head is Kottayam which is approx. 120 kms away. Periyar is well connected by road.

Places to see

Periyar National Park

National Park is open from morning 0600 hrs to 1800 hrs daily. Boating is the only way to view the wildlife in Periyar National Park.

Boating

Timing: From 07:00 hrs to 11:00 hrs
From 14:00 hrs. to 16:00hrs.

Trekking

Trekking is another wonderful way to view the wildlife from close quarters. Early morning trekking to the jungles can be arranged. It will be good if you can carry your trekking boots and gear. 4 days trekking into the Periyar jungles with overnight tent camping can also be arranged.

Plantation Tours

Spices are found in abundance in Periyar. A guided Plantation tour to familiarize you with different spices and plantations like cardamom, pepper, tea, coffee, cloves, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, cumin seed, garlic etc. is a main attraction of Thekkady.

Accommodations