FAMOUS INFORMATION ABOUT MUNNAR

Munnar is a picturesque hill station located in the Idukki district of Kerala, India. It's famous for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and lush landscapes. Here are some key highlights about Munnar:

1. Tea Plantations

Munnar is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations that cover the hillsides. The town is known as the "Tea Garden of Kerala," producing some of the finest tea in India.The lush, green tea estates, particularly around the areas of Kolukkumalai, Mattupetty, and Nimmanpara, are popular tourist attractions.

2. Eravikulam National Park

Located near Munnar, this national park is famous for its Nilgiri Tahr, a rare mountain goat found only in the Western Ghats. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.The park also features the Anamudi Peak, the highest point in South India at 2,695 meters (8,842 feet).

3. Top Station

Top Station is a viewpoint situated at an elevation of 1,700 meters, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the Tamil Nadu border. It is also famous for the Neelakurinji flower that blooms once every 12 years, turning the landscape into a blanket of blue.

4. Mattupetty Dam

The Mattupetty Dam, located about 13 km from Munnar, is a popular tourist spot. The dam offers boating experiences in its reservoir, surrounded by tea plantations and forests.The area is also known for the Mattupetty Indo-Swiss Farm, where high-yielding dairy cattle are bred.

5. Tea Museum

Munnar is home to the Tea Museum, which is located in the Nallathanni Estate. The museum showcases the history of tea cultivation in the region, offering insights into the tea-making process, and displays old machinery used in the production of tea.

6. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated about 60 km from Munnar, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and Indian elephants. The sanctuary is also known for its dry deciduous forest and the Thorny scrub.

7. Attukal Waterfalls

Located between Munnar and Pallivasal, Attukal Waterfalls offers a serene and scenic spot for visitors. It is an ideal place for trekking and photography.

8. Kundala Lake

A serene lake known for its lush green surroundings and a peaceful boat ride. It is also famous for the Kundala Boat Ride, where tourists can take pedal boats in the calm waters of the lake.

9. Spice Gardens

Munnar is also known for its spice gardens, where visitors can experience the cultivation of spices such as cardamom, black pepper, vanilla, and cloves. Several spice plantations offer tours for those interested in learning about spice farming.

10. Neelakurinji Flower

As mentioned, the Neelakurinji flower blooms once every 12 years, painting the hills of Munnar in a stunning shade of blue. The next bloom is expected in 2030, and the event attracts thousands of tourists.

11. Climate

Munnar has a cool and pleasant climate, making it a popular destination year-round. The best time to visit is from September to May, with a peak during the winter months of November to January.

12. Cultural Significance

Munnar has a strong history connected to tea cultivation, especially during the colonial era when the British established large tea estates in the region. It's also known for its local Kerala culture, including traditional dances, cuisine, and festivals.

Munnar is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat amidst the hills and tea gardens.

 

FAMOUS FOOD IN MUNNAR

Munnar, being a popular hill station in Kerala, offers a delightful variety of traditional Kerala cuisine along with some unique local dishes. Here's a list of the famous food you must try when visiting Munnar:

1.Appam with Stew

Appam is a soft, bowl-shaped rice pancake that is a staple in Kerala cuisine. It is usually paired with a flavorful vegetable stew or chicken stew. The stew is made with coconut milk, mixed vegetables, and mild spices.

2. Puttu and Kadala Curry

Puttu is a steamed rice cake made with rice flour and grated coconut, often served with Kadala curry (black chickpea curry). This dish is a popular breakfast choice in Munnar.

3. Karimeen Pollichathu

Karimeen (Pearl Spot fish) is a delicacy in Kerala, especially in Munnar's hill station area. The fish is marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then grilled or cooked, giving it a rich, smoky flavor.

4. Kerala Sadya

Sadya is a traditional Kerala feast that consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf. Some of the items you'll find in a Sadya include avial, sambar, thoran, olan, rasam, and payasam (a sweet dessert).

5. Banana Fritters (Pazham Pori)

A popular snack in Kerala, Pazham Pori is made by frying ripe bananas dipped in a light batter. The crispy and sweet fritters are perfect for a quick snack during your sightseeing.

6. Fish Curry with Rice

Kerala's famous fish curry made with fresh, locally sourced fish like Karimeen or Tilapia is a must-try. It's cooked with tamarind for a tangy flavor and served with boiled rice.

7. Malabar Parotta with Beef or Chicken Curry

Malabar Parotta is a flaky, layered flatbread that's often paired with a rich, spicy curry like beef or chicken curry. The soft texture of the parotta complements the flavorful curry perfectly.

8. Kappa and Meen Curry

Kappa (tapioca) is boiled and mashed and often served with spicy Meen Curry (fish curry). This traditional combination is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

9. Sadhya Desserts (Payasam)

The Payasam is a sweet dessert that's commonly served at the end of a Sadya. Palada Payasam (made with rice ada and milk) and Parippu Payasam (made with lentils and jaggery) are two famous types of payasam in Kerala.

10. Chukka Curry (Dry Spicy Curry)

Chukka Curry is a dry, spicy curry often made with chicken or mutton. It’s a rich, flavorful dish that combines a variety of spices like black pepper and turmeric, giving it a deep taste.

11. Spiced Tea

Being famous for its tea plantations, Munnar is the perfect place to try spiced tea or masala chai. Tea leaves from Munnar are used to make aromatic tea, often flavored with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.

12. Vegetable Stew

A mild curry made with coconut milk and a variety of fresh, locally grown vegetables, the vegetable stew is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with appam or bread. 

13. Jackfruit Dishes

Jackfruit is a versatile fruit used in Kerala to make several dishes, including jackfruit curry and jackfruit chips. It can also be used in sweet preparations like  jackfruit halwa.

14. Kochi Ice Cream

A popular treat during the warmer months, Kochi Ice Cream is a smooth, creamy dessert often served with a variety of toppings. You can find it in several local stalls in munnar.

These dishes highlight the unique flavors of Kerala’s cuisine, incorporating ingredients like coconut, rice, and locally sourced spices. Enjoying these flavors while surrounded by the natural beauty of Munnar adds to the experience!

 

 

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