Munnar is a hill station in the southern part of the country in the Indian state of Kerala. Kerala is known for its lush greenery and amazing landscapes and is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations. The name of the place literally means ‘ Three Rivers’ because this town is situated at the interjection of the following three rivers- Nallathanni, Madhura Puzha and Kundaly rivers.
Munnar is a part of the Kannan Devan Hills Village which is also a part of the largest Panchayat in Idukki district. Munnar is a part of the Western Ghats and therefore the landscapes are extremely picturesque. Munnar doesn’t really have a railway station of its own.
Ernakulam and Aluva are situated 140 kms away from this region have their own railway stations and one can reach these stations and take a bus or cab from there to the beautiful hill station. Cochin International Airport is located at a distance of 105 kms from Munnar. Therefore, one can even take a flight from any other part of the country and take a cab or bus from this airport in order to reach Munnar.
Munnar is well known for its tea plantations that produce one of the best varieties of tea in the world. This is even exported to other parts of the globe. The landscape of Munnar comprises the mountain mist, beautiful green valleys, low floating clouds, waterfalls and tea estates. All these things taken together give us a picture of what Munnar looks like.
The flora and fauna of this part of the country are really rich and includes endangered species as well such as the rare breed of mountain goat also known as Nilagiri Tahr. You can also locate many species of rare birds that would be extinct if care is not taken to preserve them.
The rare flower of Neelakurinchi can be spotted in this place as well. These blossom once in twelve years and turn the valley into a blue carpet when they bloom. The sight is a heavenly one with a light shade of blue everywhere all around. It had last blossomed in the year 2006 and is expected to blossom again in the year 2018. During the rule of the British, this region was named the Summer Capital of the country because of its amazing climate here almost throughout the year. Munnar is located at a height of 1500 meters above sea level. The hill station also includes the tallest hill in the southern section of the country.
Efforts are being taken to protect certain endangered species of animals and birds from extinction. Certain wildlife sanctuaries have been established for this purpose. Examples of some are Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary.
