My car has been my solo companion in some of my dream trips in life. It took me to places that will be a part of my memories for a lifetime. One such trip was from Coimbatore to Munnar. Located around 160 km from Munnar, it took me a little over 5 hours (including some breaks) to reach to this beautiful destination.
The route that I took was as follows: Coimbatore- Pollachi - Udumalapet - Chinnar - Munnar.
I started from Coimbatore at 6.30 a.m. The route between Pollachi to Udumalapet was something that I didn't want to rush because I wanted to enjoy the scenic beauty. The huge windmill farms along the way were an interesting sight. Other than that, the roads were narrow with quite a few bends and curves, so cautious driving was required from my end.
Coimbatore to Munnar Route
Day 1
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary
My first halt along the way was at Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Rich in wildlife, it's a protected area that houses many endangered species. Located within the sanctuary, Thoovanam waterfalls proved to be another fantastic attraction of this place. The view of this waterfall was breathtaking, to say the least.
It was a delight to have two famous tourist attractions in such proximity. The beauty of the fall along with greenery around makes you stay at the place for longer than your original intentions. After spending some time over there, I drove ahead.
Tata Tea Museum
Know More About Pollachi Tourism
PC : Kerala Tourism Website
At around 11.45, I finally reached Munnar. I decided to pay a visit to the Tata Tea Museum first. It's a one of a kind museum dedicated to tea and its history. Over there, they show you an entire documentary on tea. The 30-minute video clip was interesting as well as informative for me. I spent a good couple of hours over there. I couldn't resist buying some flavored teas from the tea outlets towards the end of my visit.
PC : Kerala Tourism Website
From the museum, I went to Eravikulam National Park, which is around 30 minutes from there. This place proved to be a gem. With numerous mountains and rare species of birds and animals, including the endangered "Nilgiri Tahr", I had an amazing time at this place. I was told that the park remains closed during January and February, so avoid visiting this place during these months.
PC : Official Website
Fragrant Nature Munnar Hotel
I went back to Munnar at 6.00 p.m. I had done my research online beforehand, so I decided to spend my night at Fragrant Nature Munnar Hotel. Located on a mountain, the view from the hotel rooms was great. The rooms were spacious and well furnished. The staff was welcoming and courteous at all times. I had a nice dinner before sleep.
Day 2
I woke up early to the noise of chirping birds. After a quick breakfast at the hotel, I set out to see Mattupetty Dam and Top Station on day 2.
Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary At Kannur
PC : DdraconiandevilL
Mattupetty Dam
The dam is surrounded by several mountains, and since I had visited quite early, the atmosphere was fog filled. The cool breeze added to the charm. Overall, the dam offered a mesmerizing view. Boating and shooting options were available at this place. It was a nice halting spot on the way to Top Station.
Top Station
It's said to be the highest point of Munnar. I drove to the point and then climbed the observation tower to view the beauty around. I felt so close to the clouds from this place. It was such a peaceful and beautiful sight all around the station.
It was amazing how I was able to delight my senses with so many fantastic attractions in less than two days. With a heavy lunch and heart, I started my journey back to Coimbatore.
Read in Malayalam: മൂന്നാറിലെ തേയില മ്യൂസിയം
Read in Tamil: குழந்தைகளுடன் கோடை சுற்றுலா!!