Incredible India! Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar, Kerala

The highest tea estate in the world at 8,000 feet, Munnar, Kerala

Thirty-five km outside of Munnar, India, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is built high atop the precipitous ridge that rises above the plains. Known for its excellent, flavorsome teas, this estate is also known for its panoramic views and the for the rugged mountains that surround it.

It's remote - it takes about 90 minutes to reach Kolukkumalai from Munnar - but on clear nights, you can see Kodaikanal from the estate because of its height. The factory at the center of the estate has stood for several generations, having been built more than 70 years ago. It uses traditional techniques even today that serve as a draw for tea enthusiasts. Orthodox tea-making is a seven-step process that includes withering, rolling, sieving, fermenting, drying, fiber extraction, and grading. All of this work happens in the small factory that has not been changed since the British constructed it in the 1930s.

The estate was the 2005 Southern Tea Competition winner of the Golden Leaf India Awards.

Munnar - the land of tea plantations

Brief Overview
Situated in: Kerala
Popular As: Hill Station
Major Attractions: Devikulam, Attukal, Mattupetty, Lock Heart Gap, Eravikulam National Park
Best Season to Visit: October to March

Munnar is a one of the famous hill stations of India situated approximately 130 kms from Kochi in Kerala. The undulating terrain of Munnar is enchanting, boasts of low lying hills covered with bright flower meadows and lush tea plantations. Munnar used to serve as summer resort for the British. The hill station lies at an average altitude of about 1600 metres and contains one of the highest peaks in South India, Anamudi.

Munnar Valley was developed by the Scottish planters in the early 20th century. The tea plantation is an important feature of Munnar, sprawling at variable heights from 4300 ft to 6100 ft above sea level. Another famous hill station Kodaikanal, lies nearby, around 90 kms from Munnar.

Excellent accommodation is provided by a range of hotels including expensive hotels and low budget lodges. Some of the famous hotels are Windermere Resort, Mahindra Resorts, Sterling Resorts, Hi-range Club, Issac's Residency, Edassery Eastend Hotel, Holiday Inn, Hill View and Marthoma Rest House.

The nearest railway station and airport to Munnar are situated at Kochi, about 130 kms from the place. The nearest bus terminals are located at Pothmedu (3 km), Pallivasal (6 Km) and Mattupety (13 km).


Major Attractions in Munnar
Devikulam: Devikulam is a famous hill station, just 7 km from Munnar. The hill station boasts of satin green lawns and rare species of flora and fauna. From the hill station one can enjoy some exquisite scenes of nature surrounding the place. Another highlight of the place is a mineral water lake called Sita Devi Lake, famous for trout fishing.

Attukal: Attukal is located some 9 km away from Munnar. The place features cascaded waterfalls and hills and a fantastic trekking routes.


Mattupetty: Situated at a distance of around 13 km from Munnar, Mattupetty is famous for its cattle rearing farm and quality bred live stock. The farm is located at a height of about 1700 metres and serves a popular picnic spot. Besides, a dam and a beautiful lake add more to the beauty of place.

Lock Heart Gap: Located at a distance of 13 km from Munnar, Lock Heart Gap is known for trekking. From here one can enjoy splendid Mountain View and feel on top of the world.


Eravikulam National Park: Eravikulam National Park is located 15 km from Munnar known for natural beauty and home to Nilgiri Tahr. The park spreading over an area of 97 sq kms was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975 and later on in 1978 as a national park. One can go up to Anamudi Peak, on foot from here.


Chithirapuram: Chithirapuram is a small town with sprawling tea plantations all around. There are several tourist cottages and bungalows at Chithirapuram, which make a visit worth it.


Echo Point: Echo Point is about 15 kms from Munnar. The place is very popular for the natural phenomenon. The echo that reverberates after hitting the distant hills is fascinating.