Tucked away in the lush Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a breathtaking hill station that offers a refreshing escape from the scorching Indian summer. While the plains sizzle in May, Munnar enjoys a cool, pleasant climate, often draped in a romantic mist that gives way to brilliant sunlight and occasional showers. This dynamic weather only adds to its charm, making it the perfect peak-season destination for travelers of all ages.
As a tropical rainforest region, Munnar is a treasure trove of accessible mountain peaks, sprawling tea estates, powerful waterfalls, rich wildlife sanctuaries, and serene dams. If you’re looking to beat the heat, here’s your curated list of the top places to visit in Munnar in May.
(H4) 1. Anamudi Peak: Touch the Roof of South India
Soaring to an impressive 8,842 feet, Anamudi Peak is the highest mountain peak in South India. Resembling an elephant’s forehead (which is what its name means), this majestic monolith is a sight to behold against May’s clear blue skies. While the summit requires a trekking permit, you can get stunning views from the nearby Eravikulam National Park. The Annamalai trek allows you to ascend to about 6,000 feet, offering breathtaking panoramas that are particularly vivid during the summer month.
(H4) 2. Chinnakanal Waterfalls: A Refreshing Mountain Shower
Located on the route to Suryanelli, the Chinnakanal Waterfalls are a spectacular natural wonder. In May, the milky white water cascading down the rocks provides a wonderfully cool respite. You can feel the spray on your face from the viewing area or the protected bathing spot. The backdrop of endless tea estates and floating mountain mist makes it a photographer’s dream and a quintessential Munnar experience.
(H4) 3. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Biodiverse Wilderness
For wildlife enthusiasts, a day trip to Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. Accessible via the Munnar-Udumalpet highway, this protected area is a unique rainforest ecosystem. A jeep safari through elevations ranging from 1,600 to 7,500 feet offers the chance to spot exotic flora and fauna, including spotted deer, endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrels, wild elephants, and even leopards. The river Pambar flows through the sanctuary, leading to the beautiful Thoovanam Waterfalls.
(H4) 4. Echo Point: Where Your Voice Comes Calling Back
True to its name, Echo Point is a fascinating natural phenomenon located about 10 km from Munnar town. Situated on the banks of a serene lake surrounded by lush hills, this spot amplifies your voice, echoing it back multiple times. It’s a fun stop for families and couples alike. You can also enjoy pedal boating on the lake while being surrounded by the cool, misty air that characterizes Munnar’s summer.
(H4) 5. Eravikulam National Park: Realm of the Nilgiri Tahr
Famous for being the primary home of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, Eravikulam National Park is a highlight of any Munnar itinerary. The park, which stretches between 6,000 and 6,500 feet, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided safari offers incredible views of the rolling shola grasslands and the park’s star residents. On a clear day in May, you can also get spectacular views of the Anamudi Peak and the Kanan Devan hills from here.
(H4) 6. KDHP Tea Museum: A Sip of History
Delve into the history of Munnar’s most famous export at the KDHP Tea Museum. Located in the heart of town, this museum showcases the legacy of tea plantations in the region through antique machinery, photographs, and informative exhibits. It’s a great indoor activity to understand the process behind your daily cup of tea. Don’t forget to visit the outlet for some tea tasting and to buy fresh, aromatic tea directly from the source.
7. Lockhart Gap: The Scenic Drive
For those who love a picturesque drive, Lockhart Gap is an unmissable route. This scenic mountain pass offers stunning vistas of deep valleys and rolling hills blanketed by the famous Lockhart Tea Estate. In May, the clear skies provide unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks, while the ever-present mist rolls through like low-flying clouds, creating a truly magical and photogenic landscape.
8. Mattupetty Dam: Serenity on the Water
A short drive from Echo Point lies the picturesque Mattupetty Dam. Known for its sprawling reservoir and lush green surroundings, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and boating. The water levels are still good in May, and the cool breeze across the lake is incredibly refreshing. Keep an eye out for wildlife; it’s not uncommon to spot elephants grazing near the catchment area. The local vendors sell fresh, delicious produce like carrots, straight from the nearby farms.
(H4) 9. Meesapulimala: A Trekker’s Paradise
For the adventurous soul, a trek to Meesapulimala—the second highest peak in the Western Ghats—is an unforgettable experience. The challenging yet rewarding trek takes you to an altitude of 8,661 feet. The summit offers arguably the best view in Kerala: a breathtaking 360-degree panorama where you can see into both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. In May, you might find yourself standing above a blanket of clouds during sunrise, a truly heavenly sight.
