Munnar Mansoon History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography

Munnar, a picturesque hill station in Kerala, India, is renowned for its lush tea gardens, scenic landscapes, and pleasant climate. The monsoon season in Munnar brings a unique charm to the region.

Weather:

• Monsoon Season: Munnar experiences monsoon from June to September. The primary monsoon months are June, July, and August, with September marking the end of the season.
• Temperature: During the monsoon, temperatures in Munnar range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making the weather cool and refreshing.
• Rainfall: Munnar receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon, averaging around 3,000 mm annually. Rain showers are frequent and can be intense, contributing to the regions lush greenery.

2. Landscape and Scenery:

• Lush Greenery: The monsoon season enhances Munnars already stunning landscape, making it even more verdant and vibrant. The tea gardens, forests, and hills are covered in a fresh green blanket.
• Waterfalls: Many of Munnars waterfalls, such as Attukal Waterfalls, Lakkam Waterfalls, and Nyayamakad Waterfalls, are in full flow and are particularly spectacular during the monsoon.
• Cloud-Covered Hills: The mist and clouds that roll over the hills create a magical and serene atmosphere, adding to the areas allure.

3. Things to Do:

• Tea Garden Tours: Visit the tea plantations to learn about tea production and enjoy the lush, mist-covered landscapes.
• Waterfalls Visits: Explore the numerous waterfalls in the region, which are at their most powerful and picturesque during the monsoon.
• Eravikulam National Park: Home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, this park is lush during the monsoon. Note that some trails may be slippery, so exercise caution.
• Boating at Mattupetty Dam: Enjoy a boat ride on the dam, where the water levels are higher during the monsoon, offering beautiful views.
• Nature Walks and Trekking: Enjoy nature walks or short treks through the rain-kissed forests and hills, but be prepared for wet and slippery conditions.

4. Travel Tips:

• Clothing: Wear waterproof clothing and carry an umbrella or raincoat. Waterproof footwear is also recommended as paths can be muddy and slippery.
• Travel Safety: Exercise caution while traveling as roads can be slippery and prone to landslides. Check weather conditions and road status before heading out.
• Accommodation: Book your stay in advance, as some accommodations may be in high demand during peak monsoon season. Many resorts offer monsoon packages and deals.
• Health Precautions: Be cautious of mosquito bites and waterborne diseases. Use mosquito repellent and drink bottled or purified water.

5. Pros of Visiting Munnar During Monsoon:

• Beauty and Serenity: The lush green landscapes and misty weather create a serene and picturesque environment.
• Fewer Crowds: Monsoon season generally sees fewer tourists compared to peak season, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
• Lower Rates: Accommodation and travel costs may be lower compared to the peak tourist season.

6. Cons of Visiting Munnar During Monsoon:

• Heavy Rainfall: Frequent and heavy rain showers can disrupt travel plans and outdoor activities.
• Slippery Roads: Roads and paths can be slippery and prone to landslides, which may pose a risk.
• Humidity: High humidity levels can be uncomfortable for some travelers.

Best Time to Visit Munnar During the Monsoon:

1. Early Monsoon (June to Early July)

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  • Greenery: This period marks the beginning of the monsoon, and the landscape starts becoming lush and vibrant. Tea plantations and forests are freshly green, offering stunning views.
  • Less Crowded: Early monsoon sees fewer tourists compared to peak travel seasons, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
  • Lower Rainfall: Rainfall is moderate during early June and July, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the region.

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  • Unpredictable Weather: Weather can be unpredictable with occasional heavy rains. Be prepared for sudden showers and plan outdoor activities with flexibility.

2. Peak Monsoon (Mid-July to August):

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  • Waterfalls: This is the best time to visit Munnars waterfalls as they are at their fullest and most spectacular. The increased water flow makes for dramatic and picturesque views.
  • Scenic Beauty: The intense green of the hills, tea gardens, and forests during peak monsoon is incredibly beautiful. The mist and clouds add to the charm and serenity of the landscape.

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  • Heavy Rainfall: Expect heavy and frequent rains, which can lead to muddy and slippery conditions. Some roads may be prone to landslides, so check local weather conditions and travel advisories.
  • Limited Outdoor Activities: Certain outdoor activities may be limited or challenging due to the heavy rains and slippery terrain. Be prepared for some activities to be disrupted.

3. Late Monsoon (September):

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  • Clearing Weather: Towards the end of the monsoon, the rains start to lessen, and the weather begins to clear up. This period offers a good balance of lush greenery and more stable weather.
  • Cool and Refreshing: The weather remains cool and pleasant, with fewer chances of heavy rainfall, making it more comfortable for travel and exploration.

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  • Residual Rain: While the rain diminishes, occasional showers can still occur. Be prepared for occasional wet conditions.

Summary:

• Best Time: Early Monsoon (June to Early July) is often considered the best time to visit Munnar during the monsoon. This period offers the beauty of the lush landscape with relatively moderate rainfall and fewer tourists.
• Peak Monsoon: Mid-July to August is ideal for experiencing the full beauty of Munnars waterfalls and green landscapes, but be prepared for heavy rains and potential travel disruptions.
• Late Monsoon: September is a good time if you prefer a balance of reduced rainfall and continued greenery, with more stable weather conditions.

Travel Tips for Munnar:

• Plan Ahead: Book accommodations in advance as some resorts offer special monsoon packages.
• Check Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on weather forecasts and local conditions to ensure safety and adjust your plans as needed.
• Prepare for Rain: Pack waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and travel essentials to handle the monsoon weather effectively.

Adventures at Munnar:

1. Trekking: Explore trails like the Anamudi Peak trek, which is the highest peak in South India.
2. Tea Plantation Tours: Visit tea estates and learn about the tea-making process.
3. Kolukkumalai Sunrise Trek: Experience breathtaking sunrises from one of the highest tea plantations.
4. Nature Walks: Discover the rich flora and fauna in the surrounding hills and valleys.
5. Waterfall Visits: Check out beautiful waterfalls like Attukal and Lakkam.

Budget for Munnar:

• Accommodation: Affordable hotels range from ?1,000 to ?3,000 per night, while luxury resorts can start from ?4,000 and go up significantly.
• Food: Expect to spend around ?200 to ?600 per meal.
• Activities: Most nature activities are free; guided treks may cost ?500-?1,500 depending on the tour.

Packing Items for Munnar:

• Clothing: Layered clothing (t-shirts, light jackets) for varying temperatures; warmer clothes for evenings.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots.
• Accessories: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A raincoat or umbrella may be handy during monsoon season.
• Hiking Gear: A small backpack, water bottle, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit.

Hidden Gems at Munnar:

1. Chokramudi Peak: Less crowded, offering stunning views and a great trekking experience.
2. Neriamangalam Bridge: A scenic spot perfect for photography and enjoying local culture.
3. Lockhart Gap: A quiet viewpoint away from the usual tourist spots, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
4. Meesapulimala: Known for its challenging trek and less tourist traffic.

Photography Tips for Munnar During the Monsoon:

1. Embrace the Mist and Clouds:

• Atmospheric Shots: The mist and clouds often create a mystical and dreamy atmosphere. Capture the layers of mist rolling over the hills and tea gardens for a dramatic effect.
• Silhouettes: Use the mist to create silhouette shots of trees, tea plants, or local structures, enhancing the mood of your photos.

2. Capture Waterfalls and Rivers:

• Dynamic Waterfalls: The monsoon season brings waterfalls to their fullest. Use a slow shutter speed to capture the flow of the water, creating a silky smooth effect.
• Reflection Shots: If the weather allows, capture reflections of waterfalls or clouds in calm water bodies like ponds or lakes.

3. Photographing Tea Gardens:

• Lush Greenery: The tea gardens become exceptionally vibrant during the monsoon. Capture the rich green hues of the tea leaves and the undulating patterns of the plantation.
• Close-Ups: Focus on close-up shots of tea leaves, raindrops on leaves, and tea pickers (if present) for detailed and intimate images.

4. Utilize the Rain:

• Rain Drops: Capture the beauty of raindrops on leaves, flowers, or surfaces. This can add a fresh and dynamic element to your photos.
• Reflections and Colors: Rain can bring out vivid colors and reflections. Look for puddles or wet surfaces that reflect the surrounding landscape.

5. Golden Hours and Lighting:

• Soft Light: The diffused light during the monsoon can create a soft, even illumination perfect for landscape photography. Early mornings and late afternoons often offer the best light.
• Overcast Skies: Overcast conditions can provide a uniform and soft light, reducing harsh shadows and enhancing the natural colors of the landscape.

6. Wide-Angle and Telephoto Lenses:

• Wide-Angle Lenses: Use wide-angle lenses to capture the expansive landscapes, rolling hills, and broad vistas of Munnar.
• Telephoto Lenses: Use telephoto lenses to capture distant details such as misty hills, wildlife, or isolated elements in the landscape.

7. Safety and Equipment Care:

• Protect Your Gear: Rain can damage your camera equipment. Use rain covers for your camera and lenses, or keep them protected in waterproof bags.
• Drying: Keep a lens cloth handy to wipe off any moisture from your lens. Ensure your gear is thoroughly dried after exposure to rain.

8. Local Attractions:

• Waterfalls: Visit Attukal Waterfalls, Lakkam Waterfalls, and Nyayamakad Waterfalls for dynamic water shots.
• Eravikulam National Park: Capture the lush greenery and any wildlife sightings, although some trails may be slippery.
• Mattupetty Dam: Photograph the dam and surrounding landscape, especially if you can capture the mist rising from the water.

Summary:

• Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light and atmospheric conditions.
• Equipment Protection: Use waterproof gear and lens covers to protect your equipment from rain.
• Composition: Use the mist, rain, and lush greenery to enhance your compositions and create captivating images.

Nearby Attractions to Munnar During Monsoon:

1. Attukal Waterfalls:

• Description: A stunning waterfall located about 9 km from Munnar. During the monsoon, the falls are at their most powerful and picturesque.
• Activities: Enjoy the view of the cascading water, take photographs, and experience the refreshing atmosphere.
• Accessibility: A short drive from Munnar, followed by a walk to the viewing area.

2. Nyayamakad Waterfalls:

• Description: Located around 10 km from Munnar, Nyayamakad is another beautiful waterfall that is particularly impressive during the monsoon.
• Activities: Ideal for photography and nature walks. The increased water flow during the monsoon makes the falls more dramatic.
• Accessibility: Accessible by road, with a short trek to the falls.

3. Lakkam Waterfalls:

• Description: Situated approximately 25 km from Munnar, Lakkam Waterfalls is known for its scenic beauty and robust water flow during the monsoon.
• Activities: Enjoy the view, take photographs, and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
• Accessibility: Requires a short trek from the nearest road access.

4. Eravikulam National Park:

• Description: About 15 km from Munnar, this park is famous for its rich biodiversity and the endangered Nilgiri Tahr. The parks lush green landscapes are especially beautiful during the monsoon.
• Activities: Enjoy nature walks, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views of the Western Ghats. Note that some trails may be slippery due to rain.
• Accessibility: Accessible by road; park visits require permission and may be limited during heavy rains.

5. Mattupetty Dam:

• Description: Located around 13 km from Munnar, Mattupetty Dam is a popular spot for boating and enjoying scenic views of the surrounding hills and waters.
• Activities: Go for a boat ride, enjoy the mist-covered landscape, and take in the serene environment.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible by road, with boating facilities available.

6. Top Station:

• Description: Approximately 40 km from Munnar, Top Station offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Western Ghats and the valley below.
• Activities: Enjoy the misty views, take photographs, and experience the high-altitude atmosphere.
• Accessibility: A scenic drive from Munnar, with some road conditions to be cautious about during the monsoon.

7. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Description: Located about 60 km from Munnar, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its unique dry deciduous forests and rich wildlife.
• Activities: Explore the sanctuarys diverse flora and fauna, go on a wildlife safari, and enjoy the lush landscapes enhanced by the monsoon rains.
• Accessibility: A longer drive from Munnar, suitable for a day trip.

8. Vattavada:

• Description: Situated about 35 km from Munnar, Vattavada is a small village known for its vegetable farms and scenic beauty.
• Activities: Explore the terraced fields, enjoy the cool climate, and take in the natural beauty of the area.
• Accessibility: Accessible by road from Munnar, offering a serene and picturesque setting.

Travel Tips for Munnar:

• Road Conditions: Be cautious of road conditions during the monsoon as they can be slippery and prone to landslides. Always check local advisories before traveling.
• Weather: Prepare for sudden showers and bring waterproof clothing and gear for your camera.
• Safety: Ensure you have proper footwear for wet and slippery paths, especially if you plan to visit waterfalls and trekking areas.

Restaurants at Munnar

• Vegan/Vegetarian:
  • Rapsy Restaurant: Popular for its vegetarian options, including local Kerala dishes.
  • Hotel Hillview: Offers a variety of vegetarian meals and snacks.
• Non-Vegetarian:
  • The Spice Tree: Known for its fresh local seafood and grilled meats.
  • Aaryas: A good spot for traditional Kerala non-veg dishes, including fish curry and biryani.