Munnar is a prominent hill station in Kerala, situated around 1600 metres above sea level (5,200 ft above sea level). Munnar is often known as “South India’s Kashmir.” Munnar’s Tea Plantations and Tea Bungalows are unquestionably one of the city’s most popular attractions. It’s a new honeymoon hotspot with lovely tea bungalows and an exceptionally serene setting. Also, the tourists are always delighted by the lovely weather.
Munnar is named from the ‘three rivers’ that keep the land fertile always. In addition, Munnar is surrounded by seven wildlife sanctuaries and national parks which highlight the regions diverse flora and fauna. In the midst of Munnar’s tea estates, every sunrise and sunset are unique, resembling a golden rain shower on the lush green beds of the tea bushes. Undoubtedly, the foundation of tourism in Munnar is its charming climate and the tea Bungalows. Munnar tea bungalows are one of the major attractions of Munnar.
A trip to Munnar would be incomplete without having a visit to these stunning tea plantations and Tea Bungalows in Munnar. No one will return home without tasting or shopping the tea essence of Munnar. The tea bungalows in Munnar amidst tea gardens offer spectacular views of the mountains. The tea garden set close to the forest make it a good option for nature based tourism such as wildlife and birding.
Back in history, the British colonials used to come to Munnar to escape from the Indian heat. Even today, this is an ideal location for doing so. This fascinating tourist destination is famous for having some of the world’s highest tea plantations and its soothing climate. You can relax while enjoying the mesmerizing vistas of the valleys and tea plantations in Munnar which offers a refreshing break for everyone.
History Of Munnar Tea Plantations
Munnar was a thickly forested region found by the Duke of Wellington till 1790. J.D. Munro, a Scottish tea planter and barrister, was awarded 588 sq km of land on lease by a subordinate of Travancore’s monarch in 1870. Because of Munnar’s wonderful picturesque views and breathtaking flora, Britishers were drawn to the hill station and began cultivating tea there. The highland station now boasts more than 50 tea gardens and huge estates.
Lockhart is Munnar’s first tea estate, believed to have been established in 1879 by Scottish planter Baron Von Rosenberg. Malaria had hit Munnar, killing workers and planters, therefore this was first planted with cinchona, a medicinal tree. Munnar’s first plantation was started by A W Turnor. But it was A H Sharp, a European planter, who began tea planting in Munnar in 1880, not Munro or Turnor. He began growing tea on a 50-acre plot of land in Parvathi, which is now part of the Sevenmallay Estate.
The Kannan Devan Hills is steeped in Munnar’s history and have played a significant part in the region’s socio-economic growth. The flagship firm, Kannan Devan Hill Plantations (KDHP), was founded, and its two subsidiaries, the Anglo-American Direct Tea Trading Company and the Amalgamated Tea Estates Company, were formed afterwards. Both companies focused their efforts on tea cultivation and development. By 1900, the Concession region had been handed to the Kannan Devan Hills Produce Company Limited, in which Finlay Muir had a significant stake. And the area had begun to expand fast along more commercial lines, with tea as the principal crop.
Munnar Tea Plantations (KDHP & TATA)
Kannan Devan is a name that is associated with Munnar and teetotalers all over the world. It’s a name with a lengthy and beautiful history. This interesting narrative is a true testament to how ethical corporate policy can assist in the preservation of a community, a region, and a legacy. The company’s 12,700+ employees became shareholders, accounting for roughly 69 % of the Rs. 13.94 crore equity capital. TTL owns 18 percent of the company, while the rest 7% and 6% are held by a trust and ex-TTL workers and business acquaintances, respectively.
Formerly, the area now covered with the gorgeous lush green tea plantations was completely virgin area of land that was covered in dense forest. As a result of FERA, the James Finlay Group of Enterprises entered into an arrangement with the Tatas of India, forming the Tata-Finlay Limited. After India gained her independence, the James Finlay Group of Enterprises entered into an agreement with the Tatas of India, forming the Tata-Finlay Limited, as a result of FERA, which was later entirely bought by the Tatas in 1983, giving rise to one of India’s largest tea companies, with roughly 33 tea estates.
Undoubtedly, Tata the major business house played an important role in the economic and social development of Munnar. Their activities have created a culture and revolution that is a fiery flame for institutions and companies striving to become change agents in the society to which they belong. These tea estates established in the last decades made Munnar one of the top tea plantation locations and best tourist destinations in India.
Best 4 Tea Plantations in Munnar
Munnar, Kerala’s most popular tourist destination, is home to more than 50 tea farms, the most of which are owned by the Tata Group. Even though it may not appear to be a large number, picturing and realising the 1500 acres of tea-covered land in Munnar is rather overpowering. More than anything else, the process of producing and learning how to make tea is exhilarating. It would be a disgrace to leave coffee out of a tea for lovers. In Munnar, visitors can tour the huge expanse of coffee and tea plantations and learn about the manufacture of the world’s most aromatic and addicting beverage.
Harrisons Malayalam Limited Tea Estates
The most successful integrated agricultural operation in South India, and the second largest tea cultivator. Harrisons Malayalam Limited cultivates tea at high altitudes as well as in low-lying areas around the world. As a result, they produce a diverse range of teas. The company now produces almost 20 million kg of tea each year, making it the largest tea manufacturer in South India. They produces almost equal amounts of CTC and Orthodox teas, and it can change production from one to the other depending on market demand.
The firm presently cultivates over 14,000 hectares and purchases produce from other local farms. The company’s main products are rubber, tea, and pineapple, which they grow on their own farms covering 7,400, 6,000, and 1000 hectares, respectively. Munnar is like a paradise on the earth, the estate spreads over hundreds of acres of land. The colonial old beautiful tea estate bungalow located in the heart of the estate makes the place more beautiful. Tourists can visit the tea estate and can also purchase tea produced from the outlet in the estate.
TATA Tea or Kannan Devan Hills Plantations
The Tata Tea Museum on the Nallathanni Estate tells the narrative of Munnar’s transformation from a remote forest to a bustling plantation town. The Tata-owned Kannan Devan Tea Estate in Munnar is home to the majority of Munnar’s tea estates. The Tata Tea Museum, also known as the KDHP Museum, is located 2 kilometres from Munnar’s centre. It is a part of Tata Tea’s Nallathanni Estate. Old machinery used for tea processing, photographs, various antiquites and some other interesting exhibits are the highlights of the museum.Iron age burial urn excavated from the vicinity of Periankal Estate used during the 2nd century BC is displayed in one of the rooms here.
Interestingly an important highlight that you can find is the presence of the original tea roller produced during 1905 in this authentic museum and large sunlight built during 1913. The museum’s 30-minute documentary feature will take you through the museum’s historic stay. The factory welcomes visitors who want to learn about the tea-making process. Also, one has the chance to taste all types and flavors of tea once you visit the demonstration room of this tea museum with a minimal charge. Other tea estates owned bythem include Letchmi Tea Estate, TalayarTea plantations, etc.
- Address: KDHP House, NH 49, Nallathanni, Munnar, Kerala 685612, India
- Timings: 9:00 am- 4: 00 pm
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar
Kolukkumali is the tallest tea garden in the world and South India’s one of the premium tea is Kolukkumalai tea. Kolukkumala Tea Estate is at an elevation of 8000 ft above sea level and a distance of 35 km from Munnar. From Munnar, it takes around 52 minutes to reach this estate by jeep.The estate, which dates back to the early 1900s, produces tea using the traditional method in a time-honored tea factory. Little has changed since the British planters left, leaving behind a legacy of some of the highest-quality tea in South India.
Tourists come here to see the view because it is similar to the gorgeous vista of Kodaikanal, and it is even more stunning at sunset. . The panoramic vista and steep mountains that surround Kolukkumala Tea Estate are well-known.
- Address: Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Suryanelli, Munnar,Kerala 685612, India
- Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Time Required: 3-4 hours
- Entry Fee: Rs. 75 – 100
- Open : Monday – Saturday
- The best time to visit : September – March, gives you a sense of pleasant winter.
- How to Reach :The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 133 km away. The closest railway station is in Bodinayakkanur, 50 km away while the closest major railway station is in Sivakasi, 86km away. Munnar, located at a distance of about 110 km from Kolukkumalai, is the nearest town by road.
Talayar Tea Estates, Munnar
From Munnar town, Talayar Valley is easily approachable.Talayar Estate was established over a century ago amid the Kanan Devan Hills. Every morning in the Talayar estate is a golden rain shower on the emerald green beds of the tea bushes. Munnar’s tourism is built around the plantation and its pleasant climate. Talayar, one of Munnar’s major plantations, offers breathtaking scenery and exceptional hospitality to its visitors.The teas offer a natural blend of high-quality flavour and balanced strength, with elevations ranging from 3500 to 6000 feet.
Tea Bungalows In Munnar
Nestled amidst of the amazing tea plantations in Munnar, tea bungalows in munnar offers you the mesmerizing mountain views and lush green tea plantation views. Munnar Tea Bungalows overlooking the majestic Munnar hills has 360-degree view which is simply picture perfect.
Harrisons Heritage Bungalows by VOYE HOMES
Manale Tea Bungalow Munnar
Colonial luxurious bungalow with two bedrooms located in the Lockhart Estate, Munnar. With unique characters and decorations, the rooms in bungalow vary completely in look. Antique furnishings, such as inlay woodwork on the large beds, teak wood dressing tables, and simple cane couches, are featured in these luxurious apartments. Also, paintings, murals, and handicrafts play with the contrast and colour of the 100-year-old stone walls and wooden floors of the bungalow. Well! With all of this, you will get a wide lawn at your border, where you can try against your partner and the strong Chokarmudy wind.
The unique landscape and altitude of 7500 to 8000 feet make high altitude trekking through tea bushes an excellent option. Views of the Mount Chokarmudy Range, rolling valleys, rivers, and woodlands are common sights on treks. You’ll get a direct experience of the best Lockhart tea from the estate’s top tea lovers. You’ll also have the opportunity to take a guided tea factory tour to observe how the best Lockhart tea is manufactured.. You can have a riverside picnic or request a cultural evening with local musicians and villagers from the manager.
KDHP Bungalows In Munnar
1. CKD Luxury Tea Bungalow
The century old Bristish tea Bungalow built in 1917 offers the experience of reviving the life of pioneer planters.CKD Luxury Tea Bungalow is a 2 bedrooms luxury bungalow located in the eastern division of Madupatti Estate – Chokkanad. Area is famous for regular elephant sightings too. Mountain View Munnar Resort is located at a distance of 6 km from Munnar town. The place and surroundings are ideal for a quiet and serene Munnar stay, which offers a unique mix of relaxation and adventure. On a small hilltop with a tea garden, facing the Munnar Hills, offers a 360-degree view, which is great for the picture.
To cater to the needs and tastes of foreign and domestic tourists the CKD Tea Bungalow has been renovated. Each of these tea bungalows in Munnar has its own distinct personality and is almost a century old, but they still have a colonial feel to them. For ultimate relaxation, there are no appliances or sound systems in the rooms. In tea gardens, food is a unique experience. The use of fresh, home-grown herbs, vegetables, and teas from the surrounding areas is one of the cuisine’s hallmarks. Your favourite and most comfortable dinner will be served to you by a personal butler.
The country’s first tea museum and the only museum where you can see the famous 2nd century AD burial mound is also worth a visit. Although there are numerous possibilities for Munnar lodging, this tea garden accommodation will be a destination, and a stay at Munnar tea bungalows will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.Your visit to Munnar will be incomplete without these experiences. In Munnar, this is the greatest resort for honeymooners and families.
2: Lake Side Tea Estate Cottage
Tea gardens and tea estate bungalows are remnants of the colonial era. The old courtyards feature traditional red oxide flooring, centuries-old trees, green lawns, and capture the beauty of the old world. These places are ideal for attracting tourists. The Lake Side Tea Estate Cottage , an ancient 2-bedroom cottage with a view of the lake is located on the Madupatti Estate facing the Madupatti Dam.
The cottage’s magnificent beauty and peacefulness, with panoramic lake and hill views, will undoubtedly enchant you. Mountain view from the balcony facing the dam and wildlife, especially the elephants can often be seen swimming through the water. Prepare to view Indian gourds, elephants, and Malabar antelopes while listening to the calls of wild birds, Malabar thrush, and barking deer.
Anamudi Peak, part of the Munnar Hills, is located near Mattupetty. This hill station is 13 km from Munnar and is at 1700 metres above sea level. Mattupetty’s most popular attractions are the dam and lake. Mattupetty Dam is a gravity-storage concrete dam. The dam was constructed in the late 1940s for water conservation and power generation by the Pallivasal Hydro-Electric Project. The dam is now a key source of energy in Munnar and a habitat for a variety of species and birds due to its water supply.
The name Mattupetty comes from the famous Indo-Swiss Farm Project, or Livestock Project, which began in 1963 as part of a bilateral agreement between the Indian and Swiss governments. It’s in honour of the Swiss Government’s Livestock Development and Research Center. The best time to visit Mattupetty is from August to May, which is easily accessible from Munnar. You can visit the dam during the winter months from October to February.
3: VRP Tea Plantation Bungalow
This British Tea Garden Bungalow in Munnar is a low-rise tea estate bungalow with 3 bedrooms located in Viriparai Division of Letchmi Estate on Mankulam Road. The VRP Tea Plantation bungalow is airy and bright – opposite a check dam, near Viriparai waterfalls. It is located in the middle of the new colonial tea garden with orange trees, pepper and coffee. It’s a great spot to relax and unwind because it’s quiet and warm. It is recommended that visitors travel to this Bungalow in an SUV.
It is one of the best resorts in Munnar. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the hills and waterfalls and be a part of this eco-friendly Munnar resort. We strive to provide the best experience of Munnar tourism at every Munnar stay. Experience the culturally rich British Bungalow that lasts a lifetime. The delicately designed drapes and chambers that maintain the original luxury will transport you to a realm of endless serenity and tranquility. Take in the breathtaking view of the tea gardens from the top of the beautiful hill. It is so soothing and calming. The unique surroundings of the tea gardens and the adjoining Viriparai Falls make for a perfect romantic escape. The elevation is 1600 metres above sea level.
Whenever you visit here remember to choose the most suitable place to stay in Munnar as it will be a destination. If you are looking for the right place to enjoy your vacation with friends or family, choose to stay here once and you will definitely visit this place in future. One of the best resorts in Munnar for honeymoon couples.
4: Camellia Tea Estate Bungalow
Camellia Hill Top Tea Plantation Bungalow, located in Old Munnar, is a tea estate bungalow with 4 bedrooms. This British bungalow is airy and bright – near the town of Munnar without seeing the lush green tea estates. Situated amidst tall trees, pepper and coffee in the middle of the new Colonial Tea. This place is quiet and warm, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind. It is located on the top of a hill near the town of Munnar and is easily accessible from the Munnar town.
Together for years, the cool and beautiful city of Munnar was the summer residence of the British, which still retains the charm of a colonial past. This destination is the only sandalwood forest in Kerala. Also, it is famous for its exotic flora and fauna. Nilgiri Tahar (Mountain Goat), Shiny Giant Annan, Neelakurinji Flower (Strobilantheskunthiana) that blooms once in twelve years are unique to Munnar.
This is your official host in Munnar Kerala. Here, each room offers attractive views. You can enjoy the fog in the heat of Munnar resorts. It is literally a honeymoon paradise, offering the perfect setting of blooming nature with the natural beauty of Munnar blooming. This guest house, nestled amid the hills, offers stunning views of the misty landscape. It is close to the delightful town of Munnar and provides the ideal setting for a lovely family vacation. Receive the warm hospitality and wonderful service combined with the excellent atmosphere of happy solitude in Munnar. If you’re looking for resorts in Munnar for your honeymoon, friends, or family, don’t miss a tranquil retreat to our tea villas, where you can watch the gorgeous sunsets.
5: TML Tea Plantation Cottage
TML Tea Plantation Cottage – a British colonial bungalow built in 1921, provides the possibility to relive the lifestyle of pioneer planter’s. This 3 bedroom cottage is located in the East Division of Gundumala Estate in Thenmala, Munnar. It is a tea estate bungalow located amidst the tea gardens and at a distance of 17 km from Munnar town. The place and surroundings are ideal for a quiet and serene stay that offers a unique mix of relaxation and adventure.
On a small hilltop with a tea garden, facing the Munnar Hills, provides a 360-degree vista that is ideal for photography. The area is home to endemic birds in addition to elephants, wild buffaloes, sambars, barking deer, and Malabar snakes. The woodlands and meadows are just stunning. Neelakurinji, one of Munnar’s main attractions, bathes in the blue highlands once every twelve years.
If you visit Munnar, never hesitate to visit the Tea Museum in Munnar. It is the first tea museum in India and is located at KDHP, Nallathanni Estate in Munnar. Here you can travel through the tea history of Munnar. An unforgettable trip to the Tea Valley of Kashmir in South India. There are many accommodation options available ranging in price from affordable to luxury. Stay in Munnar and enjoy Munnar tourism with a cup of tea in the middle of the tea gardens. This cottage stands alone in the middle of the tea gardens so it is a great choice for those who want to escape to nature with your friends or family.
6: AVD Tea Plantation Bungalow
Situated against the backdrop of the beautiful rural mountain valleys of the Arivikadu Division. This stunning Tea Garden Bungalow is an ideal base for a great vacation with lochs and wildlife. AVD Tea Plantation bungalow in Munnar with 2 bedroom built in 1920s is ideally located to enjoy the natural surroundings to the fullest. Lean back and kick off your shoes for ultimate mind and body relaxation. Each room has a colonial feel to it when you go in. Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of a trip to the Colonial Tea Estate Bungalow and immerse yourself in an extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experience.
A completely isolated resort providing peace and calm feeling. Awake to the sights of Malabar Annan and bird song. If you are looking for peace and quiet, this is the best place to spend your time. Just 16 km from Munnar town, the place and surroundings are ideal for a quiet and peaceful stay. Thus, offering a unique mix of comfort and adventure. These tea bungalows themselves are the destination so choose your accommodation wisely. In a quiet space with panoramic landscapes, the buildings are a symbol of the colonial heritage of British Indian architecture. Also, fully furnished with furniture from the colonial period and create innumerable memories.
Stay close to the wildlife in Munnar and still feel safe and cared at these garden resorts in Munnar. The novelty of seeing multiple shades of green is endless. This green velvet earth never goes out of style. Tea forests are waiting to tell their story. This is one of the best resorts in Munnar for honeymoon couples, family and friends.
7: Kalaar bungalow Munnar
Kalaar Bungalow is one of the tea house Bungalow of KDHP, built in 1936. It is one of the 3 largest bedroom bungalows in Munnar town. It is located about 10 km away from Munnar town in Nallathanni road on the top of Kalaar Hill with a stream flowing next to it. The calm and classiness of this bungalow will linger in your memory forever, with a big lawn, a wooden house. The rooms are highly spacious and it can accommodate 4-5 people. Also, the extended veranda in the bungalow provides a good view of the tea gardens and hill slopes. The complete furnishing of Bungalow with red oxide and wooden floorings make it more attractive.
One can truly immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature once you visit Munnar and explore the best places that you can. Choosing the best stay, especially if it’s an old bungalow surrounded by green lush tea garden and steep mountains will make it more exciting. With the extreme ambience and calmness this bungalow offers the best vacation for the tourists.
TATA High Range Club Munnar
The Heritage Colonial British Bungalow is located less than 2 km from Munnar town. Have you ever visited this heritage resorts in Munnar? If not choose to stay once. Re-live the charm of an era by gone, the classical colonial ambience nurtured and preserved for more than a century. Unwind with family to a treasure trove of activities. Laze away your vacation and wake up to the call of the Whistling School Boy. Come and experience the most serene stay in Munnar, at the High Range club, your home away from home.
Named as The Gymkhana Club, a Planter’s Club was started in the year 1905, with a loan of Rs.2500/- from the erstwhile Kannan Devan Hills Produce Co. Ltd., for the gentlemen planters of the High Range in Kerala. It was located on the present Golf Course with a small pavilion built on the grounds. It was here the first coolie gymkhana for the workers of the Company was held. In the year 1909, the High Range Club was formally set up with furniture and fixtures and was completed in 1910.
It was one of the first planter’s clubs to be electrified and one of the few to be established as a residential club, making it the best of Munnar Resorts. Telephones were introduced at the Club in 1916. After the floods that wrecked havoc on the High Range, changing the face of the slopes and dales, the Library was disassembled in 1925 near the current Nursery. The current nursery and Ladies Room are on the same property.
Tea Trials Or Plantation visit in Munnar
The aroma of the tea defines the air of Munnar. The lush greenery and expansive belts of the tea gardens envelop the landscape of Munnar. Take a day out to explore the tea gardens of Munnar and enjoy the stunning beauty.
Refresh yourself when you visit a place with an amazing atmosphere and feel your lungs fill with fresh air. Learn about the different aspects of tea gardens and enjoy the unparalleled experience of walking through the tea estates between the mountains of Munnar.
Conclusion on Munnar Tea Tourism
Munnar is one of the favourite places in Kerala! In fact, if ‘favourites’ were a word, you would use it in all the amazing places to visit in Munnar! Journey to Kerala would be incomplete without a visit to Munnar. No matter how many hill stations you visit, nothing matches the pristine beauty of the tea plantations and tea bungalows in Munnar ! It is impossible to explain the splendour of this place in words.
Munnar Kerala, blessed with lush green hills, valleys, waterfalls and scenic beauty, is a must visit tourist designation. The views of the flowing clouds and snow-capped surroundings give this place a heavenly view and experience. The layers of tea gardens, hills and snow-capped peaks add to the beauty and charm of Munnar.
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