The Land of Three Rivers

The very mention of Munnar conjures up visions of verdant carpets of tea plantation, the tingling freshness of mountain air, and the aroma of fresh spices. Referred to by many as the Switzerland of India, Munnar presents one of those unique hill station experiences that you’d never imagine discovering in South India. Literally meaning ‘three rivers,’ Munnar is named after its positioning at the confluence of three mountain rivulets — Mudrapuzha, Kundala and Nallathanni.

The picture-postcard town is famed for its tea plantations. In fact, one of Munnar’s prime attractions is the Tea Museum, which showcases Munnar’s legacy of tea cultivation through several artifacts, photographs and equipment. And for a real taste of Munnar’s tea culture, stay at a quaint British-style heritage tea bungalow overlooking the tea estates of Munnar.

Among the other jewels in Munnar’s crown are the Neelakurinji, or strobilanthus flower, which blossoms only once in 12 years; Anamudi, the highest peak in South India (2,695 meters); and the Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (mountain goat).